Best Public Golf Courses in Illinois
Illinois public golf is anchored by Cog Hill Golf & Country Club — one of the most famous public facilities in the Midwest and the former host of the PGA Tour's Western Open. Wind off Lake Michigan and well-bunkered Chicago-area designs make for harder scoring than the flat terrain implies.
Annbriar Golf Course is a delightful 18-hole layout presenting a par of 72 that stretches from a manageable 5,946 yards at the forward tees to a robust 6,863 yards from the back. With options like the Yellow, Blue, White, Green Mens, and Green/White tees, players of various skill levels can find their most comfortable game. The course features a blend of challenging holes and accessible fairways, all set against well-maintained greens that encourage strategic play. The gently rolling terrain and picturesque views add to the course's charm, while the slope rating invites a thoughtful approach throughout your round.
Pine Meadow Golf Club offers an engaging golfing experience across its 18 holes, with a par of 72 and a yardage range from 5,272 yards on the forward tees to 7,310 on the back. The course features bent grass fairways and greens, ensuring a smooth roll for your putts. With multiple tee options—spanning from Gold to Ladies—golfers of various skill levels can find a suitable challenge. Expect thoughtful course design that tests your strategy while rewarding precision and shot placement.
The Den at Fox Creek presents an engaging challenge for golfers of all skill levels, with 18 holes spread across a par 72 layout. The course stretches from 5,926 yards from the forward tees to 6,926 yards from the back tees, offering flexibility depending on your experience. Golfers will appreciate the well-maintained bent grass greens and fairways, which make for a smooth playing experience. With multiple tee options—Palmer, Hitch, and Army—this course adapts to various playing styles and strategies, making every round feel fresh.