TERRACE HILL GOLF COURSE

The rolling prairie terrain northwest of Chicago creates natural elevation changes that designer Dick Nugent exploited brilliantly, particularly on the dramatic downhill par-3 17th that plays over a wetland to a well-bunkered green. Water hazards thread through seven holes without feeling contrived, and the bentgrass fairways reward aggressive play while punishing wayward shots with thick fescue rough. At under $60 for weekend play, this daily-fee gem delivers country club conditioning and strategic interest that most private clubs would envy.