Located on Chicago's North Shore, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago, Wilmette Golf Club is the best public golf course challenge in town!
While Wilmette Golf Club's total yardage is only 6,400 from the back tees, it plays to much greater length. The short par 4's and the fact that there are only two par 5's in this par 70 track make Wilmette play like a 7,000 yard layout.
Add to that the narrow fairways and the quick doglegs throughout the course and you're facing a real challenge of skill and an even more daunting challenge of golf course management. Nowhere is that more evident than on 14, a very short par 4.
With OB and tight trees right and strategically placed bunkering, 14 could--and should--be played long-iron wedge! But feed the ego, pull the driver, and let her rip and you're soon hitting three from the tee with a good chance at double.
The entire golf course is set up to be a test in patience and decision-making ability. There’s just enough water and bunkering to force some honest approach shots which means intelligent club selection from the tee is a must.
Stray just a bit from the fairway and Wilmette can stymie you. The very mature, stately oak and elm trees encroach very close to the narrow fairways. The mammoth shot-blocker on 15 will definitely get you aiming for daylight from the tee!
If you give yourself the chance and reach in regulation, birdies can be had! These are some of the most receptive, truest and fastest greens in the area and could be one of the most distinguishing aspects of golf at Wilmette. Once you get your ball rolling on line here, it stays on line making putting Wilmette greens an absolute joy!
Wilmette does offer four different sets of tees to test all abilities. The black tees measure 6,400 yards and carry a 70.9 rating with a slope of 130. For those of us who play in the real world, the gold tees measure 6,051 yards with a rating of 69.3 and a slope of 126. It’s easy to see that Wilmette Golf Club adjusts to fit all players.
While the course is playable for all skill levels, what sets Wilmette Golf Club apart from other public courses in the Chicago area is its availability to the general public. Wilmette does offer resident and nonresident membership programs. Members do get an edge on the general public when it comes to booking tee times, but there is almost always ample public play availability and there is always a game to be had.
And at $46, daily fee players will be hard-pressed to find a better deal or more available course on the entire North Shore. Nor will they find a more receptive and friendly local membership.
The regulars at Wilmette come to play golf and make friends, so if you’re in the market for a bit of competition and camaraderie, look no further. If you’re looking to challenge yourself and to think your way around a great track, you’re in the right place!
