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Course Report
Chicago Golf Club is recognized by the USGA as the first 18-hole course built in the United States. It was also a founding club of the United States Golf Association in 1894 and has hosted several major championships, including three U.S. Opens before 1912.
About
Chicago Golf Club, established in 1895 and designed by Charles Blair Macdonald and later renovated by Seth Raynor, is among America's most historic and exclusive courses. Renowned for its strategic Raynor greens and classic routing, the club's limited membership and tradition-rich atmosphere make it a coveted, private destination for golf purists. No photos are allowed on the golf course.
Caddie Tip
Stay below the hole on approach shots—many greens, especially Raynor’s templates like the Redan 12th, slope severely away from you. Play for the favored side to leave uphill putts, respect the deep fairway bunkering, and pay attention to wind changes on the exposed property that can impact shot selection throughout the round.
The Main Challenge
Success at Chicago Golf Club hinges on conquering the demanding Raynor green complexes, which punish poor angles and overruns. The combination of strategic bunkering, wind exposure, and subtle contouring rewards shot placement and thoughtful course management. Fast, firm conditions further intensify the difficulty, especially when pins are tucked or wind is up.
The Good
Golfers most love the purity of the architecture—Raynor’s bold greens, strategic bunkering, and the classic, uninterrupted routing through open terrain. The experience is highly exclusive: with immaculate conditioning, fast greens, and nearly unparalleled tradition, every round feels like a special event at a true American golf shrine.
The Not So Good
Some visitors note the club’s rigid traditions—including limited access, strict dress code, and lack of flexibility in tee times—can make the experience feel somewhat intimidating. Others suggest that while the land is historic and well-routed, it lacks the dramatic elevation or natural beauty of other elite courses.
Signature Hole:
#
12
The par 3 12th hole, featuring the renowned 'Redan' template, is Chicago Golf Club's standout. With a dramatically sloped green that repels approaches and a bold front bunker guarding the right, any shot not precisely struck finds trouble. Wind exposure increases the challenge, demanding perfect distance and trajectory control.
Clubhouse
The historic clubhouse features elegant dining spaces, classic locker rooms, trophy displays, and an atmosphere steeped in tradition. Members enjoy attentive service and exclusive privacy, though don’t expect modern resort-style extras—this is a traditional club emphasizing golf and camaraderie over luxury frills.
Practice Facilities
The club offers a large driving range located inside the course’s central area, short game and putting greens, all maintained to championship standards. While some modern training technologies are absent, the facilities are spacious, private, and maintained to reflect the club’s legacy.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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