GreenlitBETA
Wheaton, Illinois

Cantigny Golf Club

27 championship holes wrapped in rolling oak forests, pristine bent grass, and 12 shimmering lakes that will make your group forget Chicago exists.

About the Course

Cantigny Golf Club ranks among the Midwest's finest public-access courses, offering 27 holes of championship caliber golf split into three distinct nine-hole layouts—Woodside, Lakeside, and Hillside—that can be combined for three completely different 18-hole experiences. Set on 300 acres of beautifully manicured grounds within the historic McCormick estate, the course flows through rolling terrain dotted with mature oaks, hardwood forests, and strategic water features that demand precision without punishing your scorecard. The course was named Golf Digest's Best New Public Course in America when it opened in 1989 and has since earned a reputation as a "private club experience" for public golfers—immaculate conditioning, exceptional staff hospitality, and tournament-caliber facilities create an atmosphere typically reserved for members-only clubs. Your group will experience three distinct personalities across the nines: Woodside is the most wooded and longest (3,612 yards), demanding placement off the tee; Lakeside surprises with four separate lakes coming into play on six different holes, plus a memorable Dick Tracy-shaped bunker on the 9th; and Hillside, though the shortest nine, features some of the course's toughest greens, including a par 3 completely surrounded by water. Beyond the routing variety, Cantigny's exceptional caddie program—one of the finest in the country—with over 75 trained caddies aged 13-21 can elevate your group's experience with inside knowledge and memorable moments on the course.

Why It's Great for Groups
  • Play three completely different 18-hole combinations across one property—mix and match Woodside, Lakeside, and Hillside nines for variety that keeps your group engaged across multiple rounds
  • Exceptional caddie program with over 75 trained young caddies (13-21 years old) creates a one-of-a-kind group golf experience and personal touch unavailable at most public courses
  • Championship-caliber conditioning and amenities rival private clubs at public green fees—bent grass tees/fairways/greens, immaculate maintenance, and award-winning hospitality
  • Five-time host of the Illinois State Amateur Championship with frequent USGA regional qualifiers—proof the routing and design challenge every skill level without being unfair
  • Stunning natural setting on the historic McCormick estate with 12 lakes, wandering creeks, 70+ strategically placed bunkers, and more than 100,000 flowers creating a resort-like atmosphere
Courses on Property
Woodside9 holes · Par 36

The longest and most heavily wooded nine, featuring 3,612 yards of tight corridor golf with two risk/reward par 5s and par 3s exceeding 200 yards.

Lakeside9 holes · Par 36

Opens up with four distinct lakes in play on six different holes, including a memorable Dick Tracy-shaped bunker on the finishing hole.

Hillside9 holes · Par 36

The shortest nine but home to some of Cantigny's toughest greens, including a completely water-surrounded par 3 and a tricky two-tiered green.

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Key Details
💰
Green Fees
$65–$100/person est.
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Walking Friendly
Cart recommended
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Caddies Available
Yes
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Best Time to Visit
Late April through early November is prime season when the course is open and conditions are optimal. Spring (May-June) and fall (September-October) offer perfect temperatures and dramatic landscaping. Avoid November through March when the course is typically closed due to weather. Peak pricing applies May-August and September; best value comes early spring (April-May) and late fall (October). Weekday play Monday-Thursday is significantly cheaper than weekends.
ParklandChampionshipCaddies AvailableValue PlayBucket ListCart RequiredHidden Gem
Nearby Lodging