Chicago Golf

Chicago isn’t just about deep-dish pizza, lakefront views, and cheering on the Cubs—it’s also a city with a rich golf culture. From historic public courses along the lake to high-tech indoor golf lounges in Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville, Chicago gives golfers of all levels plenty of ways to tee it up.

Classic Courses with City Views

Chicago’s park system is home to some of the most scenic municipal courses in the country. Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course in Lakeview winds right along Lake Michigan, offering stunning skyline views while you play nine challenging holes. South Shore Golf Course and Jackson Park Golf Course, both on the South Side, are historic spots that have hosted generations of Chicago golfers. For those willing to head a bit farther out, Harborside International on the South Side features two championship links-style courses and is a favorite for serious players.

Suburban Gems

Beyond the city limits, Chicagoland is dotted with top-rated public courses. Cantigny in Wheaton, Cog Hill in Lemont, and The Glen Club in Glenview are all standouts, offering championship layouts, practice facilities, and even PGA Tour history. The suburban spread means you’re never too far from a challenging round surrounded by greenery.

Indoor Golf for All Seasons

Of course, Chicago weather doesn’t always cooperate. That’s where the city’s indoor golf scene shines. Spots like Five Iron Golf in Lincoln Park and X-Golf in Wrigleyville bring the game inside with cutting-edge simulators, professional instruction, leagues, and full-service bars. These venues have quickly become popular not just with golfers but also with groups of friends looking for a fun night out.

A Social Game

What makes golf in Chicago unique is the balance between tradition and innovation. You can spend a summer afternoon walking the fairways of a historic lakefront course, then enjoy a winter evening hitting virtual drives in a simulator bay with a cocktail in hand. Golf here isn’t just a sport—it’s a community. Leagues, charity outings, and neighborhood tournaments keep the game alive year-round and create opportunities to connect on and off the course.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an experienced player chasing birdies or someone just learning how to swing a club, Chicago has a golf experience for you. Outdoor courses deliver history and beauty, while indoor golf ensures that the game doesn’t stop when the temperatures drop. In a city that loves both sports and social gatherings, golf fits right in—offering a little escape, a lot of challenge, and plenty of good times along the way.