Stonebridge Country Club

The Good: Stonebridge Country Club in Aurora, IL is a meticulously manicured, yet playable Tom Fazio design that has one of the stronger quartet of Par-5’s in the far-western Chicago suburbs. An inviting private club that allows some unaccompanied guest play, I was fortunate to gain access through my membership with NewClub. Solid Par-4 variety and a couple really good Par-3’s! Greens are inviting, particularly for the mid-high handicapper, and putt true despite being recently punched. Beautiful clubhouse with nice outdoor dining area with a backdrop view of the excellent Par-5 18th hole, as well as expansive practice facilities. Accommodating staff and very nice membership based on our experience.

The Bad: The routing is odd and crosses over busy Indian Trail Road that really breaks up an otherwise nice walk in the park. The greens didn’t hold very well and were pretty slow for a private club. The Par-3’s on the inward half are forgettable.

The Verdict: Stonebridge has been one of my pleasant surprises of the 2021 spring golf season, with much more beautiful views than I was anticipating for a residential centric club. The view standing on the 5th tee and looking back toward the clubhouse is one of the better spots in Chicago golf that I’ve been in a while. Top 10 course in the Windy City western suburbs I’ve played.

Best Hole: The Par-5 18th is a fantastic climax to an interesting round, with big hitters being coerced to try and carry a large pond right of the main fairway in order to get better access to the green. Water follows the right side all the way up to the green, while huge bunkers guard the left side.