Nestled along Lake Michigan and stretching into the northern suburbs, the North Shore is a haven for golfers who value scenic layouts, well-maintained fairways, and club culture. Whether you’re seeking a public challenge, a private gem, or something in between, here are some of the top courses you’ll want to tee off at — and yes, you’ll also see why these locales are prime real estate areas.
The Glen Club — Glenview, IL
Why It’s Top Tier: Designed by Tom Fazio, The Glen Club is often heralded as one of the premier public (or semi-public) courses in the Chicago area.
-
Highlights: Rolling terrain, water features, dramatic elevation changes, and sweeping views including a glimpse of the Chicago skyline.
-
Amenities: A 48,000-square foot clubhouse, overnight lodging, restaurant, and elegant event spaces.
-
Why Locals Love It: It offers a “resort feel” without leaving the North Shore — ideal for a getaway round or corporate retreats.
Glencoe Golf Club — Glencoe, IL
Why It’s Top Tier: Known for its classic design and highly manicured conditions, Glencoe Golf Club is a local favorite among members and guests alike.
-
Course Details: 18 holes, par 72, tree-lined fairways.
-
Programs & Memberships: Offers permanent tee-time memberships, junior camps, and seasonal passes.
-
Why Locals Love It: It combines classic architecture with a strong community identity — ideal for connected families.
Heritage Oaks Golf Club — Northbrook, IL
Why It’s Top Tier: A public golf course under the Northbrook Park District, Heritage Oaks features 27 holes with a modern practice facility, TrackMan range, and active instructional programs.
-
Course Layout: The property is divided into three 9-hole courses, giving flexibility for varied routing.
-
Amenities: Indoor simulators, a full golf academy, and dining at the Acorn Grill & Terrace (though temporarily under improvement)
-
Why Locals Love It: It balances public accessibility with quality amenities and multiple routing options.
Wilmette Golf Club — Wilmette, IL
Why It’s Top Tier: One of the more challenging public courses close to the city, Wilmette Golf Club is known for its demanding layout and well-kept greens.
-
Course Specs: From the back tees it measures around 6,400+ yards and tests players across multiple tees.
-
Why Locals Love It: Offers a more serious test close to home, without the member fees of a private club.
Winnetka Golf Club — Winnetka, IL
Why It’s Top Tier: The Winnetka Golf Club offers both a full 18-hole championship course and a shorter 9-hole par-3 layout, which makes it versatile for all players.
-
Course Features: Expect challenging holes, solid course conditions, a driving range, and practice greens.
-
Why Locals Love It: Its dual layout flexibility (serious round vs. quick 9) is perfect for busy schedules or mixed-ability rounds.
Canal Shores (The Evans at Canal Shores) — Evanston / Wilmette
Why It’s Top Tier: Canal Shores is a unique 18-hole, par 60 executive layout spanning both Evanston and Wilmette, Canal Shores is being re-imagined with youth golf in mind.
-
Course Layout: 3,904 yards, narrow tree-lined fairways, and two holes with over-water carries.
-
Design & Vision: The renovation is led by architect Todd Quitno, with enhanced youth programming, caddie training, and community inclusion.
-
Why Locals Love It: It’s a gem for developing golfers, families, and those who want a challenging but manageable course close to home.
Choosing the Right North Shore Course for You
| Goal | Course(s) to Try |
|---|---|
| Championship / Resort Experience | The Glen Club, Glencoe Golf Club |
| Public Access + Quality | Heritage Oaks, Wilmette Golf Club |
| Dual Layouts or Family Flexibility | Winnetka Golf Club, Canal Shores |
| Skill Development / Youth Focus | Canal Shores, Heritage Oaks |
Are these courses private, and how pricey are they (generally)?
The Glen Club (Glenview) — Semi-private. Public tee times are available but priced at a premium (dynamic rates often ~$100–$160+). Full club memberships exist (initiation and dues).
Heritage Oaks (Northbrook) — Public (Park District). Most affordable of the list; memberships available for frequent players (savings/priority).
Wilmette Golf Club (Wilmette) — Public with optional season memberships; non-members can book tee times.
Winnetka Golf Club (Winnetka) — Public with membership/frequent-player options; versatile (18 + par-3).
Glencoe Golf Club (Glencoe) — Public municipal course; book as a non-member, with resident benefits/passes available.
Canal Shores (Evanston/Wilmette) — Public executive/Par-60. Most budget-friendly; community/youth focus.
Price Tiers (Very General):
-
💲💲💲 Premium public/semi-private: The Glen Club
-
💲💲 Solid public with memberships: Heritage Oaks, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe
-
💲 Budget-friendly: Canal Shores
Note: Exact rates can change seasonally and by time of day; think of this as the local “feel” for cost/access.
Real Estate and Lifestyle Tie-In
Golf courses often anchor premium real estate neighborhoods—homes adjacent to these courses tend to command higher values thanks to views, green space, and lifestyle appeal. Choosing to live near a top golf course adds to your curb appeal and your quality of life.
Ready to Buy or Sell in the North Shore?
Whether you're looking for a home on or near a golf course, or anywhere in Lake Forest, Wilmette, Glencoe, Northbrook or beyond, I can help you find a property that complements your lifestyle—and your love of the game.
If you're considering listing, buying, or simply exploring neighborhoods, reach out to me, Sarah Jividen, your North Shore real estate expert. Let’s tee up your next move together.
