Marquette Park Golf Course

Marquette Park Golf Course Overview
The June 5th, 1913 edition of the Chicago Inter Ocean newspaper featured this story: “Marquette Park Links Open. Nine-hole course finished after a year of construction. It is thought that the opening of the new course will do away with the congestion at Jackson Park.” Marquette Park Golf Course, and other historic tracks like it, are woven deep into the fabric of the city of Chicago. At over 110 years old, generations of city dwellers have spent their recreational time here, maybe swinging a golf club for the first time, or getting addicted to the game loved by millions. That the course is still operating with largely the same footprint as back in 1913 makes it a living, breathing monument in the city.

Marquette Park’s 9-hole course is a good fit for folks who want to enjoy a laid-back, casual round of golf. Despite its ancient heritage, the course doesn’t take itself too seriously; but you could judge that based on the affordable price point, and the fact that it’s owned by the Chicago Park District. The track meanders around the park and Marquette Lagoon, which wants to rinse all your golf balls. Most of the holes are straight lines, and there’s three slight dogleg holes. Smallish bunkers aim to impede your progress, and the sand can be unforgiving here.

There’s no traditional pro shop here. Instead, there is a walk-up window to kick off your round. Luckily, there is a practice area and driving range on the east side of Kedzie, maybe a 5 minute walk from the first hole. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to get photos of that area when I last visited, but I hope to be back soon.

While you’re here, visit the MLK Living Memorial across the street to the north, which commemorates Marquette Park’s significance in America’s civil rights movement and Dr. King’s march near the park in August 1966.