If you’re looking for the best public golf courses in Illinois, you’re spoiled for choice.
From Chicagoland’s iconic layouts to Southern Illinois’ hidden gems, the Prairie State offers world-class golf experiences that are both challenging and scenic.
Illinois isn’t just home to private legends like Chicago Golf Club it’s packed with public access courses that rival any private venue for quality, design, and value.
This guide breaks down the top public golf courses across Illinois, their history, green fees, and what makes them stand out all ranked by real golfers and industry experts.
Why Illinois is a Premier Golf Destination
The Growth of Public Golf in the Midwest
Illinois has quietly built one of the strongest public golf scenes in the Midwest.
While nearby states like Wisconsin and Michigan often get the spotlight, Illinois’ diversity of landscapes from rolling farmland to dense forest makes it a golf paradise for all skill levels.
The Golfers’ Choice 2025 rankings by GolfPass highlighted this surge. Using the GolfPass Ratings Index, which weighs verified golfer reviews, Illinois consistently places in the top tier of U.S. golf states for course quality and player satisfaction.
Golf Culture and History in the Windy City
Chicago’s golf history runs deep.
Home to some of the oldest courses in America, including Chicago Golf Club (1892) and Beverly Country Club, the city has hosted U.S. Opens, Ryder Cups, and PGA Championships.
This long-standing heritage fuels a thriving golf culture, with passionate local players, tournaments, and a strong community of public-course enthusiasts.
Role of the Chicago District Golf Association
The Chicago District Golf Association (CDGA), founded in 1914, oversees nearly 400 clubs.
It’s been instrumental in promoting affordable, accessible golf across the state from the Quad Cities to Southern Illinois.
Alongside the Southern Illinois Golf Association and the Northern Illinois Men’s Amateur Golf Association, it ensures that golfers of all backgrounds have access to championship-level play.
Top Public Golf Courses in Illinois (2025 Rankings)
Medinah Country Club (Course No. 3) – Championship Heritage & Modern Renovation
Few names carry as much weight as Medinah.
Although its No. 3 course is often associated with private play, the club’s public events and tournament access make it a legendary Illinois experience.
After an extensive OCM Golf renovation in 2024, Medinah No. 3 introduced wider corridors, modern greens, and strategic bunkering ahead of hosting the 2026 Presidents Cup.
The course’s history includes Tiger Woods’ victories in 1999 and 2006, and the unforgettable 2012 Ryder Cup.
It’s a must-visit for anyone serious about golf history and championship design.
Olympia Fields Country Club (North) – Iconic Layout and Historic Events
Located just south of Chicago, Olympia Fields (North) is pure golf royalty.
Built in 1915, it features the largest clubhouse in the world a $1.3 million masterpiece when constructed in 1925.
The North Course is regularly featured in Golf Digest’s top 100 and has hosted USGA championships and PGA Tour events.
Expect tree-lined fairways, subtle elevation changes, and pristine greens that test even seasoned golfers.
Black Sheep Golf Club – The Private-Feel Public Experience
Nestled west of Chicago, Black Sheep Golf Club offers the feel of an elite private club without the exclusivity.
Designed for serious players seeking challenge and camaraderie, it’s known for its links-style design, firm fairways, and unpretentious vibe.
Although male-oriented in its founding, it’s open to guests and visiting players through events and reciprocal days a bucket-list stop for those who appreciate minimalist course design.
Conway Farms Golf Club – A Tom Fazio Masterpiece
In Lake Forest, Conway Farms embodies modern golf architecture at its finest.
Laid out in 1991 by Tom Fazio, it stretches across 209 acres of gently undulating terrain.
Host of the 2013 BMW Championship, the course blends strategy and beauty, rewarding precision over power.
For players who appreciate course design, Fazio’s routing and green complexes make Conway Farms an architectural study in balance and flow.
Arrowhead Golf Club – Affordable and Scenic in Wheaton
For golfers seeking value and accessibility, Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton, Illinois, hits the sweet spot.
Offering 27 holes (West, East, and South), Arrowhead’s layout provides options for every skill level.
Green fees range from $56–$99, making it a standout among the best value public golf courses in the state.
Beyond the course, its restaurant and bar have become a local favourite blending golf and hospitality perfectly.
Affordable & Scenic Golf Courses Worth Exploring
Best Value Golf Courses with Public Access
You don’t need deep pockets to play great golf in Illinois.
Courses like Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, Harborside International, and The Preserve at Oak Meadows offer championship layouts for a fraction of private club prices.
(Tip: Always check for weekday and twilight specials when booking tee times.)
Hidden Gem Courses Outside Chicago
Outside Chicagoland, Southern Illinois hides gems like Hickory Ridge (Carbondale) and Annbriar Golf Course (Waterloo) both loved for their scenery and playability.
In the Quad Cities, TPC Deere Run offers a PGA-calibre experience with full public access.
These lesser-known spots deliver five-star play without the crowds.
Green Fees, Tee Time Deals, and Twilight Specials
Most Illinois public courses now offer online booking systems through GolfPass or their own websites.
Average green fees range from $60 to $120 for top-tier public courses.
Many also run twilight deals, junior discounts, and stay-and-play offers for travelling golfers.
Planning the Perfect Illinois Golf Trip
Best Golf Packages and Stay-and-Play Resorts
For those planning a golf getaway, look to resorts like:
- Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena) – 63 holes, scenic views, and top-tier amenities.
- Grand Bear Resort (Utica) – near Starved Rock, perfect for weekend trips.
- The Glen Club (Glenview) – a luxurious option near Chicago.
Each offers stay-and-play packages that combine accommodation, meals, and golf access for maximum convenience.
Recommended Itineraries for Weekend Golf Trips
3-Day Chicagoland Trip Example:
- Day 1: Harborside International – Lakeside Course
- Day 2: Arrowhead Golf Club – Morning round + lunch
- Day 3: The Glen Club – Championship finish
Southern Illinois Getaway:
- Day 1: Annbriar Golf Course
- Day 2: Hickory Ridge Golf Center
- Day 3: Dalhousie Golf Club (near Cape Girardeau)
Golf-Friendly Accommodations in Chicagoland and Beyond
Hotels near Oak Brook, Wheaton, and Naperville cater well to golfers.
Look for properties offering club storage, early breakfast, and proximity to public courses.
For longer stays, Galena and the Quad Cities are excellent for combining golf with sightseeing.
💡 See our guide on How Much is Topgolf Per Person? Complete 2025 Pricing Guide
Understanding Golf Course Ratings and Rankings
How GolfPass and Golf Digest Rate Public Courses
GolfPass Ratings Index blends verified user reviews with subcategory averages (layout, conditions, amenities, etc.).
Meanwhile, Golf Digest’s panel evaluates architecture, challenge, and scenic value.
Courses that appear on both lists like Olympia Fields and Medinah signify elite quality.
The Importance of Reviews and User Ratings
Real golfer feedback is invaluable.
When researching where to play, prioritise courses with high volume and recency of reviews.
Platforms like GolfPass, GolfNow, and TripAdvisor reveal authentic experiences not just glossy marketing claims.
What Makes a Course “Championship Quality”?
A championship course typically features:
- Par 72 or longer layout
- Multiple tee boxes (including championship tees)
- Strategic bunkering and water hazards
- PGA or USGA event pedigree
Illinois boasts dozens of such layouts accessible to the public, blending challenge with fairness.
The Architects Behind Illinois’ Legendary Courses
Harry Colt and Donald Ross – Shaping Classic Golf in Illinois
Early golf architecture in Illinois owes much to Harry Colt and Donald Ross.
Their influence can be seen in Old Elm Club and Skokie Country Club both timeless in design and balance.
Their focus on natural routing and strategy still defines what makes Illinois golf exceptional today.
Tom Fazio’s Modern Influence on Course Design
Tom Fazio’s work at Conway Farms and The Glen Club represents a new era of design visual drama meets playability.
His ability to integrate modern technology while maintaining a natural flow has made his Illinois courses national standouts.
Preserving and Renovating Historic Courses
Many older Illinois clubs are investing in restoration and sustainability.
From Medinah’s OCM-led redesign to eco-conscious turf management at The Preserve at Oak Meadows, these projects ensure Illinois golf remains world-class for decades to come.
Upcoming Golf Events and Tournaments in Illinois
USGA and PGA Events to Watch
Illinois hosts major tournaments nearly every year.
Highlights include:
- John Deere Classic (TPC Deere Run)
- Western Amateur (hosted by CDGA clubs)
- Future Presidents Cup 2026 at Medinah
Local Amateur and Charity Tournaments
The CDGA calendar is filled with state-level amateur events, junior tournaments, and charity scrambles.
These are perfect opportunities to compete or simply enjoy the state’s golf community.
How to Participate or Attend
Most tournaments offer public spectator access and volunteer opportunities.
Visit the CDGA website or event-specific pages for registration and schedule updates.
Final Thoughts: Your Guide to Playing the Best Public Golf in Illinois
Illinois delivers something for every golfer.
From the championship challenge of Medinah to the affordable fun at Arrowhead, this state proves that public golf can rival private clubs in both experience and quality.
Before you book your next round:
- Check recent reviews on GolfPass or GolfNow.
- Plan your trip around the season – spring and autumn offer the best conditions.
- Explore beyond Chicago – Southern and Central Illinois have incredible hidden gems.
Whether you’re a casual weekend golfer or a seasoned competitor, Illinois offers some of the most memorable fairways in the Midwest.
FAQs About Public Golf in Illinois
Q1: What are the most affordable public golf courses in Illinois?
Arrowhead Golf Club, Cog Hill, and Harborside International offer top-tier experiences at accessible rates.
Q2: Which Illinois courses have hosted major championships?
Medinah (Ryder Cup, PGA, U.S. Open) and Olympia Fields (U.S. Open, BMW Championship) are historic hosts.
Q3: What’s the best time to play golf in Illinois?
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) provide the best weather and course conditions.
Q4: Are there beginner-friendly golf courses in Illinois?
Yes, courses like Village Links of Glen Ellyn and Fox Run Golf Links are great for newcomers.
Q5: Do Illinois public courses offer lessons or practice facilities?
Most major courses provide driving ranges, short-game areas, and PGA-certified instruction.
Q6: What are Illinois’ hidden gem golf courses?
Try Hickory Ridge, Annbriar, and The Preserve at Oak Meadows scenic, challenging, and less crowded.
