Sangamon Sun

Golf is an important part of Illinois’ tourism economy. The state is home to some of the finest golfing destinations in the country. Illinois has also hosted many PGA, LPGA, and amateur golf tournaments over the years. The 1989 PGA Championship, the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship, the PGA Grand Slam of Golf, and the Ameritech/SBC Senior Open are notable examples.

As reported by GolfLink, there are 668 golf courses in Illinois. The oldest course is the Chicago Golf Club, designed by Charles B. MacDonald and opened in 1892. The longest course is located at the Medinah Country Club, spanning 7657 yards. The easiest course is found at the Valley Lo Club in Glenview, while Hidden Lake Golf Club in Sheffield is often considered the hardest.

Here are the top 10 golf courses in Illinois according to IllinoisGolf:

1. **Cog Hill No. 4 – Dubsdread (Lemont, IL):** Known for its demanding layout with strategic bunkers and fast greens.

2. **The Highlands of Elgin (Elgin, IL):** Celebrated for its stunning landscape and challenging design with elevation changes.

3. **TPC Deere Run (Silvis, IL):** Home to the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic with rolling terrain and natural landscape.

4. **ThunderHawk Golf Club (Beach Park, IL):** Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., known for its natural beauty and wetlands.

5. **Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa – The General (Galena, IL):** Features dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views.

6. **The Preserve at Oak Meadows (Addison, IL):** Recently renovated with a focus on environmental sustainability.

7. **Mt. Prospect Golf Club (Mount Prospect, IL):** Combines a historical layout with modern features including tree-lined fairways.

8. **Stonewall Orchard Golf Club (Grayslake, IL):** Designed by Arthur Hills with rolling terrain and natural wetlands.

9. **WeaverRidge Golf Club (Peoria, IL):** Offers a championship design with immaculate conditions and strategically placed bunkers.

10. **Mistwood Golf Club (Romeoville, IL):** Known for its Scottish-inspired design featuring deep bunkers.

Illinois offers fantastic golfing experiences from historic clubs like Chicago Golf Club to modern venues like The Preserve at Oak Meadows.