Lake Park Golf Course and Marina
A charming park featuring an 18-hole par-3 golf course, marina, paddleboats, fishing, and scenic walking paths.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Lake Park Golf Course and Marina
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming park featuring an 18-hole par-3 golf course, marina, paddleboats, fishing, and scenic walking paths.
"Great price for 18 holes, perfect for short game practice and family fun!"
🚶♂️ Walking Only Course
No motorized carts. Bring a pull cart or be ready to walk the ~1 mile course. :athletic_shoe:
⚽ Bring Your Own Soccer Ball
Essential for footgolf! One per player recommended for a smooth game. :soccer_ball:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
18-Hole Par-3 Golf Course
The main attraction
Perfect for practicing your short game with 18 chances for a hole-in-one!
Footgolf Fun
On the golf course
A unique twist on golf where you kick a soccer ball into oversized holes.
Marina and Paddleboats
Adjacent to the lake
Enjoy serene views and a leisurely paddle on the water.
Scenic Walking Path
Around the lake
A paved path perfect for a peaceful stroll or jog with lake views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tee Off with Confidence: Know Before You Go
Marina & More: Beyond the Greens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♂️ Walking Only Course
No motorized carts. Bring a pull cart or be ready to walk the ~1 mile course. :athletic_shoe:
⚽ Bring Your Own Soccer Ball
Essential for footgolf! One per player recommended for a smooth game. :soccer_ball:
🦢 Watch for Geese!
They roam the course. Admire from afar and watch where you step. :bird:
⛳ Short Game Practice
Ideal for honing your irons and putting skills. Holes are short. :golf_club:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♂️ Walking Only Course
No motorized carts. Bring a pull cart or be ready to walk the ~1 mile course. :athletic_shoe:
⚽ Bring Your Own Soccer Ball
Essential for footgolf! One per player recommended for a smooth game. :soccer_ball:
🦢 Watch for Geese!
They roam the course. Admire from afar and watch where you step. :bird:
⛳ Short Game Practice
Ideal for honing your irons and putting skills. Holes are short. :golf_club:
💰 Resident Discounts
If you live in Des Plaines, you'll get a slightly lower green fee. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lake Park Golf Course and Marina for its affordable and fun 18-hole par-3 course, ideal for practicing the short game and enjoying activities like footgolf and paddleboating. The scenic lake views and walking paths are also highlights. However, some guests have raised concerns about the cleanliness of the clubhouse's fountain drink station.
"Wow. Too bad I can’t leave 0 stars. First time coming out for the summer season and I am quite frustrated. Although I had a great round on the course; (-8 which might be the course record here) afterwards I went into the clubhouse and bought myself a fountain soda. I was super excited following my -8 round to get a Cherry Pepsi. When I went to take my first sip I found a huge worker ant inside my cup. I went to look more into the issue and found dozens of ants all over the fountain machine. The course is great but I now have sanitary concerns inside the clubhouse. Looks like I’ll stick to my country club lol 😆 👍 (This was on 6/8 around 10am)"
Bobo Cheddar
"Still a favorite of mine. It's a quick play. 18 Par 3 holes. $18 if you're a resident, $20 if you aren't. No motorized golf carts here so you have to walk it, but they do have pull carts to carry your clubs for an additional fee
You'll need just a 9 iron, pitching wedge and a putter for this course. The walking length of the whole course is likely just a little over a mile. They have a nice putting green and generally there's no wait to play.
Residential housing borders the first 7 holes, Holes 8 and 9 run along the netting next to Touhy, and the lake lines the back 9. There are also some sporadic bunkers that come into play here as well. Bring a couple extra balls just in case. The lake isn't a big issue, but factors into your shots for holes 11, 13, and 14.
The course (particularly the back 9) was really shredded during the 2024 season, but for my April 2025 visit, the course has gone under repair, grass was being regrown, and the ground had been leveled off. Despite that, theres still very apparent signs of aging throughout the entire course. It's also very likely that geese will be meandering around and heckling your shots. It goes without saying, but if you do see geese, watch where you step.
The shortest hole here (12) is only 54 yards and the longest hole (10) is 120 so if getting a hole in one is on your bucket list of things to do in life. You'll get 18 chances here, so this is the place to do it."
Eric Balter
"Fun little par 3 course for the short game. Pretty location. Great price for 18 holes. Some places charge the same or more for 9."
Lyndy Zimmer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Park Golf Course and Marina is located at 1015 Howard Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options might be available via local bus routes, but driving is generally the most convenient.
Yes, there is parking available at Lake Park Golf Course and Marina. It's recommended to arrive a bit early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot.
If you live nearby, walking is an option. The park is situated within residential areas, making it accessible for local residents.
The park is quite walkable, especially the golf course itself. For families with young children, a stroller is recommended for navigating between the different activities.
While Lake Park offers a variety of activities, the surrounding area of Des Plaines has other local parks and dining options. It's a great spot for a half-day or full-day outing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees for the 18-hole par-3 course are approximately $18 for residents and $20 for non-residents. Prices can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead.
While not always mandatory, booking a tee time is recommended, especially during peak seasons or on weekends, to avoid long waits. You can usually book online or by phone.
Generally, access to the marina area, walking paths, and fishing spots is free. Fees typically apply only to specific activities like golf or paddleboat rentals.
Operating hours vary seasonally. The golf course typically opens in the morning and closes around dusk. It's best to check the official park website for current hours of operation.
Yes, pull carts are available for rent to help you carry your clubs. Club rentals might also be available, but it's advisable to confirm this in advance.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
The course is an 18-hole par-3, making it ideal for beginners and those looking to practice their short game. Holes range from 54 to 120 yards, offering a fun challenge without being overly difficult.
Absolutely! Lake Park offers footgolf, a fun alternative where you kick a soccer ball into oversized holes. You'll need to bring your own soccer ball.
Besides golf, you can enjoy paddleboats on the lake, fishing, and walking along the scenic paved path. It's a versatile park for various outdoor interests.
Yes, the par-3 course and footgolf are very family-friendly. The park also offers paddleboats and walking paths, making it a great destination for a family outing.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, water, and a hat. If you plan to play footgolf, don't forget your soccer ball!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a clubhouse where you can purchase drinks, including fountain sodas. However, some visitors have reported sanitary concerns with the fountain machines. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks or be cautious.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted and recommended, especially given past reports about the clubhouse's fountain machine. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake!
Information about a dedicated restaurant at the marina is limited. The clubhouse offers basic refreshments. For a full meal, consider dining in Des Plaines before or after your visit.
Fountain sodas, including Cherry Pepsi, are typically available at the clubhouse.
While not explicitly detailed, parks often have picnic tables or open grassy areas suitable for picnics. Enjoying a meal with a view of the lake is a great option.
📸 📸 Photography
The marina area offers lovely shots with boats and water. The lake itself provides scenic backdrops, especially during sunrise or sunset. The golf course greens can also be picturesque.
Yes, with the lake, trees, and resident geese, it's a pleasant spot for nature photography. The changing seasons also offer different visual opportunities.
Absolutely! Many golfers capture their swings or scenic views. Just be mindful of other players and the pace of play.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming might require permits. Always check park regulations if you plan extensive shoots.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a beautiful ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the greens, families can enjoy paddleboating on the lake and a leisurely stroll along the paved walking path. Bringing a stroller is a good idea for younger children to navigate the park comfortably.
💰 Budget Travelers
Activities like walking the paths and fishing are free, and paddleboat rentals are typically affordable. Bringing your own food and drinks will further help you stick to a budget.
⛳ Golf Enthusiasts
While it's a par-3, the presence of water hazards and bunkers on the back nine adds strategic elements. It's also a prime location for those chasing a hole-in-one, with 18 chances to achieve it.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mastering the Par-3 Course
While the course is designed for accessibility, don't underestimate the challenge. The back nine, in particular, runs along the lake, introducing water hazards that can factor into your shots on holes 11, 13, and 14. There are also sporadic bunkers to contend with. For those aiming for a hole-in-one, this course offers 18 distinct opportunities, making it a popular spot for this golfing aspiration.
Recent reviews indicate that the course has undergone repairs and regrading, with grass being regrown. Despite signs of aging, it remains a favorite for its quick play and affordability. Remember to bring extra balls, as the lake and bunkers can be unforgiving.
Beyond the Greens: Marina and Activities
For anglers, the park offers fishing opportunities along the shoreline. It’s a peaceful way to spend an afternoon, soaking in the natural surroundings. The paved shoreline path is another highlight, perfect for a relaxing walk, jog, or even a bike ride. It offers lovely views of the lake and the surrounding parkland, making it a popular spot for both exercise and quiet contemplation.
Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, particularly the geese that often frequent the park. While they add to the natural charm, visitors are advised to be aware of their presence and watch where they step.
The Unique Appeal of Footgolf
To participate in footgolf, you'll need to bring your own soccer ball. It's recommended that each player has their own ball for a smoother game experience. The park's par-3 course is well-suited for footgolf, providing a variety of distances and angles to test your kicking accuracy.
Footgolf is a fantastic option for families or groups looking for a unique outdoor activity that's less formal than traditional golf. It’s a great way to enjoy the park's amenities while trying something new and exciting.
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