Chicago and the surrounding collar counties offer 150+ public and semi-private golf courses — one of the largest public golf markets in the Midwest. The season runs April through October, with peak conditions in May, June, and September. Chicagoans play a compressed season intensely, and the region's public courses range from reasonably-priced county facilities to nationally ranked destination layouts.
Chicago Green Fees by Tier (2026)
| Course | Weekday 18 | Weekend 18 | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fox Run Golf Links | $31 | $43 | 4.3 ★ |
| Oak Brook Golf Club | $40 | $48 | 4.5 ★ |
| Midlane Country Club | $45 | $59 | 4.2 ★ |
| Woodruff Golf Course | $49 | $55 | 4.2 ★ |
| Wedgewood Golf Course | $49 | $55 | 4 ★ |
| Inwood Golf Course | $49 | $55 | 4.2 ★ |
| Arrowhead Golf Club | $125 | $145 | 4.5 ★ |
Verified from course websites · Showing 7 courses with published pricing · Verify before booking
Cog Hill: Chicago's Most Famous Public Course
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club in Lemont is the marquee public golf destination in the Chicago metro — four courses, with the Dubsdread layout (Course No. 4) being a former PGA Tour host and a genuine benchmark of Midwest public golf. It is one of the best-conditioned public courses in the region at any price point. Book weeks in advance for weekend tee times. See current rates in the pricing table above.
Stonewall Orchard: The Architectural Gem
Stonewall Orchard Golf Club in Grayslake (4.5 stars) regularly earns recognition as one of the top public courses in Illinois. The Arthur Hills design uses the natural topography of an old apple orchard — elevation changes and mature trees give it a character rare in the flat Midwest. Worth the drive for serious golfers visiting the Chicago area. Check current rates above.
The Best Budget Golf in Chicago
The Forest Preserve District of Cook Countyoperates multiple public courses — Inwood, Meadowlark, Chick Evans, Billy Caldwell — at some of the lowest rates in the metro. These are the courses Chicago-area residents play most, and they represent genuine value for anyone who doesn't need tournament-quality conditioning. Walking is permitted at all Cook County courses. See current rates in the pricing table above.
Chicago Golf by Season
- April–May: Opening season. Courses may still be recovering from winter — check conditions. Rates often at shoulder-season levels before peak pricing kicks in.
- June–August: Peak season. Best conditions, highest demand, premium pricing. Book 7+ days out at popular courses.
- September–October: The best window for Chicago golf. Cooler temps, fall colors, reduced crowds, and often lower rates than summer peak. Arguably the most enjoyable conditions of the year.
- November–March: Season closed or weather-dependent. Some courses stay open through November with significant rate cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best public golf course in Chicago?
Cog Hill Dubsdread (Course No. 4) is the most famous — a former BMW Championship PGA Tour venue. Stonewall Orchard (4.5 stars) in Grayslake is considered by many golfers to be the best pure course design in the metro. Both are genuinely excellent. See current rates above.
When is Chicago golf season?
April through October, with peak conditions in May–June and September. The fall window (September–October) is considered the best overall combination of conditions, availability, and value. Many courses close or reduce to weekends-only after mid-October.
What are the cheapest golf courses in Chicago?
Cook County Forest Preserve courses (Inwood, Meadowlark, Chick Evans, Billy Caldwell) are the most affordable public options in the metro. DuPage County and Lake County also operate affordable courses. See current verified rates in the pricing table above.
Can you walk at Chicago golf courses?
Yes — most Chicago-area public courses permit walking, including all Cook County Forest Preserve courses. Some private-style semi-private courses require carts. Walking rates are often available but not always listed online — always ask when booking.