North Course
Olympia Fields, IL, USA
Olympia Fields' North Course possesses an unmatched pedigree, forever linked to the legend of Walter Hagen’s 1925 PGA Championship victory—a defining moment solidifying his place as golf’s original showman. Designed in the Golden Age of golf architecture, the North unfolds across classically rolling, parkland terrain just south of Chicago. Its fairways, framed by mature hardwoods, often present subtle elevation changes, demanding thoughtful club selection. The course modestly favors a right-to-left ball flight, presenting a strategic test where proper angles into the green complexes are paramount for scoring. Willie Park Jr.'s original design has seen respectful touch-ups over the years, ensuring its playability for the modern game while preserving its vintage character. The North has provided the backdrop for multiple U.S. Opens, PGA Championships, and the U.S. Amateur—each adding a layer to the course's formidable reputation. In 2023, the North once again welcomed the world's best for the BMW Championship, cementing its place as a championship venue. While perhaps not as globally celebrated as some of its peers, Olympia Fields' North Course remains a respected and challenging layout among discerning golfers, particularly within the Midwest. The club's membership, steeped in tradition, maintains a vibrant and engaged community, contributing to the palpable sense of history that permeates every round.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
All courses
Best in USA
All courses
Best in IL
All courses
Golfers say Olympia Fields North is an exceptional and demanding championship test that rewards precision while punishing wayward shots. Most praise the immaculate conditioning, strategically placed bunkers in every landing zone, and firm, fast greens that require an aerial approach, with several noting the thick rough and narrow fairways make accuracy off the tee essential. Reviewers consistently highlight the world-class facilities—including what's described as the largest locker room in the world, outstanding service, and an impressive clubhouse with a notable putting green and patio area. Some find the routing slightly repetitive with bunker placement always short of greens, and a few mention the range mats as surprisingly below standard for such a premium facility. Overall, golfers describe it as one of the Midwest's finest experiences and a must-play for serious golfers, though they acknowledge both the challenge level and cost are significant.
8.7
152 players
Tough course. Long thick rough.
Got my ass kicked, a true man’s course. Top notch all around but to play the north you better have a thumb on your game. Feel fortunate to have gotten to play it
Olympia Fields is pound-for-pound everything a golf enthusiast could ask for and more. From the largest locker room in the world to the first-class service the moment you hit the gate, OFCC is a true Midwest gem. The championship course presents challenges with bunkers placed in every landing zone, greens wrapped in sand, and diabolical sliding putts. Despite the test, it was one of the most enjoyable golf experiences I’ve had. If it were closer (and a touch cheaper), I’d gladly sink my life savings into a membership.
Maybe the best shot value course in the country. If you hit a good shot you are immediately rewarded, and bad shots are proportionally punished. As good as it gets.
Olympia Fields North is a great and very challenging course if you don’t find the fairway off the tee. Lots of difficult approach shots and the greens are typically firm and fast. Always love playing at OFCC.
The Olympia Fields experience is one that I think every golfer should experience. A south side club with great history, that has hosted many professional events including a US Open. I have caddied this course probably 1,000 times, and it never gets old. Some of the best, strategically placed bunkers with white sand. Top of the line service, food, and cocktails, and one of the best clubhouses and locker rooms in golf. Get to Olympia Fields North
Awesome pro shop and locker room. Very cool putting area in the back. Course was great, but notice how I led with those other two points? Also, I’m still shocked the range had dingy mats to hit off of. All of that being said, had an incredible day playing a really iconic Chicago golf course.
Could not have had a better weather day for OF. Probably the best golf facility top to bottom in the state. Just an amazing experience from the moment you arrived Ron property to the moment you leave. Clubhouse is overly impressive, and the patio and putting green after your round is second to none. The course feels a bit repetitive, with not a single bunker placed behind the hole. Must be an aerial attack, no old man running it up on the green here. Such a good experience.
Not a blade of grass out of place and not a singular employee with a bad attitude. Course challenges you for sure but it has scoring opportunities if you can hit the right shots. Greens are penalizing in August, but still roll consistent as ever. Just a phenomenal place, had an incredible day and can’t wait to come back.
Public courses closest to North at Olympia Fields Country Club.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
North at Olympia Fields Country Club has a Course Vaults score of 8.7 out of 10 based on 77 explicit golfer ratings.
North was designed by Willie Park Jr..
North at Olympia Fields Country Club is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at North is 71.
North plays 6,937 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at North is 142.
