PINE MEADOW GOLF CLUB

The rolling prairie terrain northwest of Chicago reveals surprising elevation changes that architect George Fazio exploited brilliantly in this 1960s gem, particularly on the par-4 12th where your approach shot plays dramatically downhill to a green guarded by mature oaks. Water comes into play on seven holes, but it's the strategic bunkering and undulating greens that separate decent scores from good ones here. This daily-fee track punches well above its weight class, offering conditioning and challenge that rival many private clubs in the region.