Review Date
November 2, 2004

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Visitors rate this review
5.00 of 5, 3 votes

Reviewed by: ILGolfer, Shoots in the 80s

Summary:
The new Village Links 18 is a challenging yet not quite "best in class" municipal experience. It's a "Top 10" Chicago-area municipal with tough competition (Orchard Valley and Bolingbrook come to mind). A challenge due to length (if you're a 10+, PLEASE shoot from the whites), this course will build its reputation on its new greens. The last 5 holes are my favorite in succession of any public course in Chicagoland. Back to back par 5s in holes 15 and 16 present a daunting task (see where the architect "buried the elephant" on 15 and hope the pin placement is not back and to the right). Golfers either love or hate the water-laden par 4 18th, with water in play off the tee (left, right and long), and with the second shot to the green.

It's a player's course with plenty of variety. Some details are lacking (relatively noisy gas-powered carts, handi-wipe towels on the ball washers, greens keepers that prioritize efficiency over "invisibility", and a clubhouse in need of an upgrade), yet water fountains abound. Clubhouse food is among the best public course fare in Chicago.

The practice facilities, staff and resident professionals are very good (including the #3 instructor in Illinois).

Overall, this is a must play for challenge, and among the better municipal courses for total experience.

Customer Service:
Very good.

Similar Courses Played:
Great food for a municipal course.

Review Date
July 21, 2004

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: GEGolfer, Shoots in the 90s

Summary:
The newly-renovated Glen Ellyn Village Links is back among the top municipal courses in metro Chicago. Fewer trees and more hazards (water on 15 holes ... increased use of bunkers), with new greens and a variety of tee options (up to 5 from 3), there's challenge for all levels of golfer.

This course has a tradition of excellence, with implementation of the first "keep pace" policy, and recognition as the first course to an Audubon Sanctuary.

Improvements extend to course aesthetics, including increased use of wildflowers and prairie grasses. It's common to encounter hawks and Great Blue Herons, and early this year I encountered a deer ... twice.

Customer Service:
Not a resort experience, but not priced like one either. Rangers can move things along better.

Similar Courses Played:
Good restaurant. Great practice facilities and teaching professionals. Clubhouse is next in line for renovation or replacement.

Review Date
June 19, 2002

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5