Countryside Traditional Course

In the July 1st, 1927 Chicago Tribune, an ad for Countryside Golf Club said “the course is very sporty, and the scenic setting ideal.” A subsequent ad boasted “grass tees, interesting traps and bunkers, and large velvety greens.” It cost $1 to play on the weekdays back then, and $2 on the weekends. This historic club has been part of the Lake County golf tradition for nearly a century, and when you play here, you are continuing that legacy.

Back in when it opened in 1927, there was only one course here, but now there are two. Owned by the Lake County Forest Preserves since 1977, Countryside offers golfers two distinct playing experiences. The Traditional Course is the historic one from 1927, while the Prairie Course was opened in the 1990’s. Each has a different feel, but both are imbued with natural beauty, validated by Countryside’s Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary certification since 1996.

Countryside’s practice facility is top notch, offering a grass tee driving range, along with a huge putting green and a separate green for chipping. The pro shop is on the smaller side and is mostly a functional affair to get you on the golf course. There’s not a tremendous amount of gear for sale, despite it supporting two full-length golf courses. There is a bar and small indoor seating area to dine at; they serve staples like burgers, dogs, brats, pizza, and sandwiches. An outdoor patio also fronts the clubhouse.

Traditional Course
Countryside’s Traditional course feels like an old school midwestern golf course, because that’s exactly what it is. Elevation changes grace the landscape to spice things up. The fairways are considerably narrower on this track, and tall, mature trees line most of them, putting an emphasis on accuracy. At 6,397 yards, it’s 360 yards shorter than the Prairie course, and slightly easier too, with a course rating of 71.0. The squared-off tee boxes are a really nice touch, and one you don’t get on the Prairie course.

There’s three par-5’s on the front, and one on the back 9. Water’s in play on only three holes, which is a real break compared to its sibling track. However, the greens on this side are smaller in comparison. But both courses are great, and you’ll enjoy yourself out here.