What do the PGA’s BMW Championship, the LPGA UL Crown, and U.S. Women’s Open all have in common? Of course, they’re some of the world’s most prestigious golfing events, but there’s something else. All these events have brought the world’s golfing elite to Lake County. That’s a testament to the world-class standards of our more than 40 local golf courses. Thankfully you don’t have to be a world-class golfer to play them. Discover some of these high-quality courses located around Lake County.
Thunderhawk Golf Course
39700 North Lewis Avenue, Beach Park
When you really want to test your skills, head to Thunderhawk Golf Course. This 18-hole, par-72 course is reputedly one of the most challenging courses in the Chicago area. It’s the handiwork of golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., who designed leading courses in Japan, Australia, and here at home. The large, rolling greens put experienced lag putters at a real advantage.
If the game isn’t going your way, at least you can stop to admire the scenery. Thunderhawk Golf Course sits on 241 sprawling acres of forest, prairie, and marshlands. Its commitment to preservation made it the nation’s first public course with Audubon Signature Sanctuary certification.
Thunderhawk Golf Course is one of the best facilities in the area. Its banquet hall overlooking the course is perfect for weddings and milestone birthdays. Thunderhawk also has a pro shop and an on-site restaurant, Thunderhawk Grill. Reserve your tee time up to 30 days in advance via the 24-hour hotline, (847) 968-3100, or online.
Shiloh Park Golf Course
23rd and Bethesda Boulevard, Zion
Shiloh Park Golf Course is a beautiful nine-hole, par-35 course with stunning shade trees that flower pink and white in the spring. The course appeals to golfers of all abilities, from the low to the high handicappers. If you want to work on your game, lessons are available at the course. The Clubhouse opens daily during fine weather from April to November. Special events between these months, including the St. Pat’s Golf Tournament and the Gobbler Golf Tourney each November, add to the fun.
Book your tee time online or by phone at (847) 746-5502. Bring your own equipment or rent your clubs and carts from the course. Season memberships are also available for junior and adult players.
Shepherd’s Crook Golf Course
351 Green Bay Road, Zion
Shepherd’s Crook Golf Course is another Zion gem for anyone who loves the game of golf. Unlike its neighbor, Shepherd’s Crook Golf Course is a larger 18-hole, par-72 facility, so it’s ideal for days out with friends and business meetings. This links-style course is the brainchild of acclaimed Virginian course designer Keith Foster. It’s a throwback to the glory days of course design with its bentgrass fairways and greens. Don’t mistake Shepherd’s Crook for a course that’s stuck in the past, though. Its modern Full Swing indoor golf simulator is incredibly cutting edge!
Once you reach the final hole, quench your thirst or enjoy a light meal in the full-service clubhouse grill. The drinks taste even better when you’re enjoying views of the ninth and 18th holes from the veranda. Call (847) 872-2080 to reserve your tee time or book your slot online. If your schedule is flexible, look out for discounted and hot deal online slots, which can really help you and your playing group save.
Image via Flickr by Chris Urbanowicz
Countryside Golf Club
20800 West Hawley Street, Mundelein
With two unique 18-hole layouts, you’ll never get bored playing the courses at Countryside Golf Club in Mundelein. The Prairie Course features large flat greens that require long but precise strokes. There aren’t many trees, but if you don’t pay attention, your swing your ball could become lost in the tall prairie grasses. Beware of the winds, which can add an extra degree of difficulty. The Traditional Course has smaller greens lined with majestic oaks, elms, and maple trees. You’ll need a little more precision in your swing to best this technical course.
If your game needs work, Countryside Golf Club offers plenty of options. Golfers who want to work on their swing alone love the driving range. Alternatively, sign up for lessons and benefit from the wisdom of Countryside’s experienced employees. Plenty of online tee time specials help you play at Countryside Golf Club for less. You can also reserve your tee time by calling Countryside at (847) 968-3466.
Sunset Valley Golf Course
1390 Sunset Road, Highland Park
Sunset Valley Golf Course is a local institution currently celebrating its 100th anniversary. However, $7 million worth of renovations in 2018 have given it a new lease on life. These improvements have made Sunset Valley Golf Course one of the area’s most well-appointed golf facilities. The course and clubhouse both received upgrades during the development period.
It’s easy to imagine you’re putting somewhere in the British Highlands when you’re playing the refreshed 18-hole course. Every hole was rebuilt to satisfy USGA specifications. There are also new bail-out areas at every hole for conservative players and some cosmetic enhancements that improve the view.
The new golf carts also make playing Sunset Valley Golf Course something special. Their interactive touchscreen displays have high-definition hole graphics, which help you learn about the hazards before teeing off. Take advantage of on-screen pro tips and the digital scorecard, which you can email to yourself to prove you really did excel. They’re not just flashy either. Their lithium-ion motors generate zero carbon emissions to reduce pollution on the green.
The clubhouse features a pro shop and 13ninety Restaurant and Bar, the perfect place for unwinding once you finish your game. Order a cocktail, then browse the menu of American classics, including hot dogs, burgers, and hearty salads. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the course views. Call (847) 432 7140 to reserve your tee time or book a slot online.
Just like these golf courses, Overhead Garage Door serves communities around Lake County, including Gurnee, Libertyville, Mundelein, and beyond. Visit our website to discover all the locations in the Greater Chicago area we visit. If your home is within our installation area, call us at (888) 256-2306 to find out how we can enhance your garage’s safety.