Best Public Golf Courses Near Chicago For A Father’s Day Outing
Nothing says Father’s Day like teeing off with family and friends. Chicago’s public golf courses cater to every style of play, from relaxed nine-hole rounds to championship challenges. To simplify travel, many groups choose to book golf outing transportation in Chicago, making it easy to focus on drives, putts, and post-game laughs instead of parking and logistics. With transportation planned, the next step is choosing the perfect course. Here’s a closer look at some of Chicago’s top golfing destinations for a celebration.
Why Golf Makes the Perfect Father’s Day Celebration
Golf is more than just a sport—it’s an experience that blends relaxation, friendly competition, and quality time outdoors. A Father’s Day round gives dads a chance to unwind, share laughs, and create memories with loved ones. Chicago is especially appealing for golf lovers because it offers both historic courses and modern designs, all within a reasonable drive from the city. Many of these venues also feature excellent dining, scenic views, and welcoming atmospheres, making them ideal for a day-long celebration.
Best Public Golf Courses Near Chicago
Whether you’re planning a casual family round or organizing a full Father’s Day outing, these public courses around Chicago are some of the top picks for variety, scenery, and playability.
1. Harborside International Golf Center (Chicago)
Located just minutes from downtown, Harborside offers two 18-hole courses that bring a true links-style experience to the Midwest. With sweeping views of Lake Calumet and the Chicago skyline, it combines accessibility with a world-class feel.
Two championship courses: Port Course and Starboard Course, both offering unique challenges.
Links-inspired design with rolling fairways, pot bunkers, and open landscapes.
Practice facilities include a double-ended driving range and short-game area.
Clubhouse dining perfect for a celebratory Father’s Day meal.
2. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club (Lemont)
One of the most recognized names in Illinois golf, Cog Hill offers four courses, including the famous Dubsdread, which has hosted numerous PGA Tour events.
Course No. 4 Dubsdread: A challenging layout with narrow fairways and fast greens.
Courses No. 1, 2, and 3: More forgiving options, ideal for casual family rounds.
Historic legacy: Established in 1927 and beloved by generations of golfers.
Practice range and short-game area for warm-ups before the round.
3. Glen Club (Glenview)
Designed by Tom Fazio, the Glen Club is known for its rolling terrain, beautiful landscaping, and high-quality conditions. While it’s a semi-private club, public tee times are available, making it a premium choice for a special occasion.
Championship layout with wide fairways and challenging bunkering.
Scenic views created by natural elevation changes.
On-site restaurant for brunch, lunch, or post-round dinner.
Top-ranked course often considered one of the best in Illinois.
4. Cantigny Golf (Wheaton)
Cantigny Golf offers 27 holes spread across three nines—Lakeside, Woodside, and Hillside. It’s known for immaculate conditioning and a setting that feels like a retreat from the city.
Multiple nines that allow flexible 18-hole combinations.
Picturesque landscaping with lakes, woodlands, and gardens.
Beginner-friendly programs for younger family members who might want to join in.
Cantigny Park nearby for non-golf activities, making it family-friendly.
5. ThunderHawk Golf Club (Beach Park)
Located north of the city near the Wisconsin border, ThunderHawk is an environmentally friendly course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It’s a top pick for golfers who enjoy natural beauty along with a challenging round.
Prairie-style layout with wide fairways bordered by native grasses.
Certified Audubon Signature Sanctuary, highlighting its commitment to nature.
Large greens with subtle breaks that test putting skills.
Peaceful atmosphere away from city crowds, perfect for a Father’s Day escape.
6. Ruffled Feathers Golf Club (Lemont)
Ruffled Feathers is the only Pete Dye–designed golf course in Illinois, offering a unique and challenging experience. Its creative layout appeals to players who enjoy strategy and precision.
Signature Dye design with bunkers, water hazards, and risk-reward holes.
Scenic holes surrounded by mature trees and rolling landscapes.
Practice areas for short-game tuning.
Comfortable clubhouse ideal for relaxing post-round.
7. Prairie Landing Golf Club (West Chicago)
Prairie Landing, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is one of the most respected public courses in the western suburbs. It’s known for both its challenge and playability.
Strategic layout featuring water hazards and natural prairie grasses.
Excellent conditions with well-manicured fairways and greens.
Expansive practice facility, one of the best in the region.
Welcoming environment for groups celebrating special occasions.
8. Orchard Valley Golf Course (Aurora)
Orchard Valley is consistently ranked among the top public courses in Illinois, offering great value along with a memorable design.
Variety of holes including par 3s over water, strategic par 4s, and risk-reward par 5s.
Challenging yet fair layout, enjoyable for all skill levels.
On-site grill serving hearty meals and beverages.
Accessible location less than an hour from Chicago.
9. Mistwood Golf Club (Romeoville)
Mistwood has undergone major renovations in recent years, transforming it into one of the premier public courses in the state. Its Scottish-inspired design gives it a unique character.
Renovated layout with dramatic bunkering and water features.
Performance Center offering advanced practice technology.
Indoor golf dome for year-round play if weather doesn’t cooperate.
Scottish-style pub for a relaxed Father’s Day toast after the round.
10. Pine Meadow Golf Club (Mundelein)
For a course that feels secluded but is still within reach, Pine Meadow is a strong choice. Its natural beauty and tranquil setting make it popular for special outings.
Tree-lined fairways creating a traditional parkland feel.
Well-maintained greens known for their speed and consistency.
Challenging but fair design suitable for players of varying abilities.
Peaceful setting ideal for family bonding.
Creating a Memorable Father’s Day Golf Tradition
What makes a Father’s Day golf outing stand out isn’t only the course—it’s how the day is shaped around it. Small details can elevate the experience from a casual round to a cherished tradition. Bringing along old scorecards or photos can spark memories of past games, while starting a new ritual—such as gifting dad a sleeve of golf balls each year—adds a thoughtful touch.
Encouraging everyone to participate, regardless of skill level, also makes the day more inclusive. Children can ride along in carts, practice putting, or simply enjoy the scenery. Pairing the round with something extra, like a family photo on the 18th green or a surprise dessert at lunch, ensures the outing feels personal and heartfelt. These small touches transform a simple game into a Father’s Day memory that lasts well beyond the scorecard.
Father’s Day is an opportunity to show appreciation and spend meaningful time together, and Chicago’s public golf courses offer some of the best settings for just that. From championship-level layouts to scenic retreats, there’s a course for every type of golfer. By planning ahead and considering options for golf transportation in Chicago, families can focus on what truly matters—quality time, laughter, and celebrating dad with a round he’ll always remember.