Naperbrook Golf Course

As someone who’s played their fair share of public courses, this links-style beauty really stands out. The layout actually reminds me of those classic Scottish courses (minus the ocean views, of course!), with rolling terrain that’ll keep you on your toes.

The course stretches across some gorgeous Illinois prairie land, and I’m telling ya, the views here are something else, especially during sunset rounds. What I really dig about Naperbrook is how it manages to be challenging enough for experienced players while still being approachable for us mere mortals who occasionally slice into the rough (guilty as charged!).

Best Time to Visit

From my experience hitting the links here countless times, early morning rounds between May and October are absolutely magical. The course maintenance crew does an amazing job, and the grass is usually pristine with morning dew still glistening. But if you’re like me and aren’t exactly a morning person, late afternoon tee times can be pretty sweet too – especially during weekdays when the course is less crowded.

Spring and fall are particularly spectacular, with comfortable temperatures and stunning seasonal colors. Summer afternoons can get pretty toasty, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Winter golf is possible thanks to the indoor simulator, which is actually a blast when the weather outside is frightful.

How to Get There

Getting to Naperbrook is pretty straightforward from most parts of the Chicago suburbs. You’ll find it tucked away in south Naperville, just off Route 59. The course is easily accessible from both I-55 and I-88, making it a convenient option whether you’re coming from downtown Chicago or the western suburbs. Trust me, even with morning traffic, it’s worth the drive!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, let me share some insider tips that’ll help make your round at Naperbrook even better. First off, book your tee time in advance – especially for weekend mornings. This place can get pretty busy, and nothing’s worse than showing up only to find out there’s a 2-hour wait (learned that one the hard way!).

The driving range here is fantastic, but it can fill up quick during peak hours. I usually try to arrive about 45 minutes before my tee time to warm up properly. Oh, and don’t skip the putting green – the greens here can be tricky with some subtle breaks that’ll catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.

Pack extra balls if you’re a first-timer – there are some challenging holes where water comes into play. The signature 7th hole, for instance, has eaten more than a few of my Pro V1s! The wind can also be a factor here, so club selection is crucial.

The bar and grill makes a mean burger, but if you’re playing during peak times, call ahead to place your order at the turn – this little trick has saved me from some hangry moments! And speaking of food, there’s a beverage cart that makes regular rounds during busy days, but I always pack a few snacks just in case.

If you’re taking lessons (which I highly recommend), try to schedule them during off-peak hours when the instructors can give you more focused attention. And don’t forget to check out their seasonal specials – they often have great deals on twilight rounds and practice facility packages.

One last thing – download their mobile app before you visit. It’s super helpful for checking course conditions, booking tee times, and tracking your scores. Plus, you can sometimes snag some sweet last-minute deals if you’re flexible with your playing time.