Onwentsia at Onwentsia Club

Onwentsia, nestled in the affluent North Shore of Lake Forest, is a bastion of understated Midwestern golf. Carved from gently rolling parkland, the original H.C. Fownes design from the late 19th century has been subtly updated over the years, never losing its classic character. Its subtle, yet distinct shaping is what sets it apart.

The routing favors strategic play over raw power, rewarding thoughtful approaches to its modestly sized, undulating greens. While lacking the dramatic elevation changes or penal bunkering of more celebrated courses, Onwentsia demands careful club selection and precise execution, particularly with approach shots. It's a course where experience and local knowledge provide a distinct advantage.

Onwentsia has quietly hosted significant amateur events, including the U.S. Amateur, drawing top talent to its challenging layout. More than that, it's a haven for its membership and their golf lore.

While not often found in discussions of the nation's elite courses, Onwentsia remains a treasured institution for its members, a place where tradition and camaraderie are valued above all else. It’s also renowned for its understated elegance and commitment to the enduring spirit of the game.