Top 5 Golf Courses Near Chicago
Three-time US Open host on the shores of Lake Kadijah — massive oaks line every fairway and the par-3 2nd over water is iconic.
The best public golf in Chicagoland — Dubsdread Course (No. 4) hosts PGA Tour events and is one of the toughest public tests in the Midwest.
A brilliant Tom Fazio design carved through towering hardwoods north of the city, consistently ranked among Illinois' finest private layouts.
Ryder Cup-caliber private course on sugar beet farmland — Rolling terrain, dramatic elevation changes, and pristine bent-grass greens.
Two championship courses designed by Dick Nugent along the shores of Lake Calumet — Port and Starboard offer excellent public golf near downtown.
Getting There & Planning Your Visit
Chicago is surrounded by world-class golf within a 50-mile drive. Most courses are playable May through October.
Climate & Best Time to Play Near Chicago
Lake Michigan moderates temperatures but wind is a constant factor — club selection in Chicago golf means accounting for at least 1-2 extra clubs on exposed holes.
Prepare Your Swing Before You Play Near Chicago
Chicago golfers playing Medinah-style tree-lined tracks benefit from GOATY's accuracy training — the Live Lesson gate system builds the tight, controlled ball flight that survives Chicago's tree corridors.
Start Free GOATY Lesson →More Golf Resources
Explore our complete course guide library with 100+ worldwide courses, or find the best courses in every US state. The GOATY swing analyzer gives you instant AI feedback on your swing before your next round.