Chicago golf courses
Photography Courtesy of Evan Schiller

When you think of cities with top-tier golf courses, Scottsdale or Orlando might be the first that come to mind. But Chicago? It often gets overlooked – and it’s time to give it the attention it deserves. Amidst the Windy City’s urban sprawl lie golf courses rich in tradition and remarkable architecture, including venues that have hosted major championships. So, if you haven’t yet considered Chicago as a prime golfing destination, we ask that you reconsider. Here are five of the best Chicago golf courses that you need to check out.

Best Chicago Golf Courses

1. Medinah Country Club: Course Three

If “Medinah” sounds familiar, it’s probably because of the dramatic 2012 Ryder Cup, famously known as the “Miracle at Medinah.” And if you were cheering for Team USA, well, let’s just say the memories might be a bit bittersweet.

But Medinah Country Club is far more than just a tournament venue. Founded during the Roaring Twenties, the club quickly made a name for itself. Course No. 3, which opened in 1928, was initially designed with the ladies of Medinah in mind. Over the years, it’s transformed into a formidable test of golf, thanks to a series of renovations by top architects like Roger Packard, Roger Rulewich, Rees Jones, and the Australian firm OCM Golf.

Looking ahead, Medinah No. 3 is gearing up to host the 16th edition of the Presidents Cup in 2026, promising more exciting moments and adding to its rich legacy.

2. Chicago Golf Club

They say less is more, and nowhere does that ring truer than at Chicago Golf Club. This course continues the tradition of city-named courses being utterly exceptional, but not through flashy features or excess. It’s the understated elegance and that intangible buzz in the air that make it feel truly special.

Founded in 1892, Chicago Golf Club is the oldest 18-hole course in North America. Originally designed by the legendary Charles Blair Macdonald, it was skillfully remodeled in 1922 by another iconic architect, Seth Raynor. The result is a course that seamlessly blends historic charm with timeless design.

This exclusive club remains highly private, but those who have had the privilege to play it rave about its brilliant routing. In a nod, whether intentional or not, to Chicago’s Windy City nickname, the wind never dominates in one direction for more than a few holes at a time.

3. Shoreacres Golf

Speaking of Seth Raynor, next on our list is a design of his own. And it’s one of the best Chicago golf courses. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, which surprisingly never comes into play, Raynor’s design skillfully navigates the natural undulations and ravines of the terrain. 

The tight, tree-lined fairways demand precision, and while the course may play a bit shorter for today’s long-hitters, the real test lies on the greens. Despite their size, these greens are firm and fast, so make sure your putting and wedge skills are up to par.

4. Olympia Fields Country Club: North Course

Olympia Fields’ North Course is renowned well beyond Chicago’s city limits, consistently earning a spot on Golf Digest’s list of the nation’s top courses. Originally named Course No. 4, it was designed in 1923 by Willie Park Jr., a two-time Open Champion.

Park’s impressive portfolio includes over 100 courses worldwide, including celebrated layouts like Sunningdale and Maidstone. However, the North Course is often hailed as his crowning achievement, a sentiment shared by both critics and Park himself.

Now, this parkland layout is no walk in the park. Challenging bunkering and a thick rough ensure that every single par is earned. Beware of the Butterfield Creek, too, that comes into play on seven different holes, sometimes more than once. 

5. Butler National Golf Club

When George Fazio and his nephew Tom set out to design Butler National, their mission was clear: create a layout that would challenge even the best players. They certainly succeeded.

Butler National is a private club known for its formidable challenge. Tree-lined fairways require accuracy off the tee, while several water hazards add to the difficulty. The greens are intricately contoured, ensuring that every part of your game must be on point. Course management is crucial here – execute your shots well and make smart misses, and you’ll find success. Miss your shots or make poor decisions, and you may be drawing some squares on your scorecard. 

But it’s not all tough going! The course’s challenge is matched by its exceptional conditioning. From tee to green and beyond, everything at Butler National is maintained in immaculate shape.

As you plan your trip to the best Chicago golf courses, remember that the journey starts well before you leave home. It begins with Ship Sticks. Ship your golf clubs and luggage ahead of time and arrive at your destination to find your bags already there. After all, every great golf trip begins with smooth, hassle-free travel. Discover the difference today.

Megan Williams

Meet Megan Williams, a wordsmith with a passion for golf, travel, and the epic combination of the two! Originally from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the Golf Capital of the World, Megan has played golf since she was a child, eventually playing competitively in college. She's since swapped her golf clubs for the keyboard and skillfully translates her on-course experiences into captivating narratives and insightful stories. When she's not crafting engaging content, you can catch her enjoying the company of her energetic golden retriever or trying new culinary delights around Tampa, Florida - her current stomping grounds. Join Megan on her literary journey as she explores golf courses and resorts worldwide, shares travel knowledge and shipping tips, covers industry news, and more - all exclusively on the Ship Sticks blog.