Disc golf is a sport that can be played and enjoyed by all ages, in part because it’s easy to play and also because there are a lot of courses in the suburbs of Chicago.
The game is similar to golf; it is played with discs that you throw from a tee with the goal being to get it in the “hole,” which is a basket on a pole, in the least number of throws. While you can start with whatever disc you like, advanced players often use different kinds of discs depending on their shot, including discs known as drivers and putters.
Playing disc golf with your kids can be a great way to enjoy some quality time outdoors together. Courses are generally open all year round and from dusk to dawn, though it’s always a good idea to double-check with the course before before heading out.
Community Park West Disc Golf Course
1001 Zenith Drive, Glenview
Number of holes: 10
Holes on this course run by the Glenview Park District range in length from 200 to 375 feet.
Knoch Knolls Park Disc Golf Course
336, Knoch Knolls Rd., Naperville
Number of holes: 18
Part of this popular course, which used to be 9 holes but was expanded to 18, runs along the DuPage River. It’s right next to the Knoch Knolls Nature Center, which is worth checking out, too.
Illinois Institute of Tech Disc Golf Course
3301 S. Dearborn St., Chicago
Number of Holes: 9
Chicago proper doesn’t have many disc golf courses, but you can find one at the Illinois Institute of Technology. It is popular for both students and residents.
Katherine Legge Memorial Park Disc Golf Course
5901 S. County Line Road, Hinsdale
Number of Holes: 18
Lots of trees make this course challenging as well as lovely. A small creek runs through many of the holes.
Black Bear Park Disc Golf Course
1500 Essex Drive, Hoffman Estates
Number of Holes: 18
This course goes through a few of the park’s features, including wetlands.
Sunrise Park Disc Golf Course
900 W. Struckman Blvd, Bartlett
Number of Hole: 18
If your disc happens to stray from the fairway, it’s possible it could land in a water hazard like a pond, but players are advised not to go after discs that land in it.
Jericho Lake Course
Fox Valley Park District
Barnes Road and Jericho Road, Montgomery
Number of holes: 18
Two sets of tees make it possible for players to alter the length of the holes so that different skill levels and abilities to enjoy the course lengths. Blackberry Creek also winds its way through the course.
If you want more details on how to play disc golf, check out the Professional Disc Golf Association manual here.
