Discover Cinder Ridge Golf Course Wilmington: A Unique Golfing Getaway
Have you ever pictured a golf course that truly feels like an escape, a place where history meets your swing? Cinder Ridge Golf Course, in Wilmington, Illinois, is that kind of spot, really. It’s more than just a place to play golf; it’s an experience that’s been recognized for its design and beloved by those who visit. You see, this course isn't just a stretch of green grass; it's a living story, shaped by the land itself and its past, offering something quite different from your usual golf outing.
This gem, located right there in Wilmington, IL, has been a premier golf destination for folks from Coal City, Plainfield, New Lenox, Morris, and the wider surrounding areas since way back in 1995. It’s a place where you can enjoy an 18-hole course, practice your swing at the driving range, and even grab a bite or a cool drink at the deli. So, if you're looking for your next enjoyable round of golf, this course, it seems, might just be the perfect fit for you, offering a blend of challenge and scenic beauty.
It’s a course that spreads out over 350 acres, winding over and through dramatic ravines and flat areas, even incorporating remnants of coal refuse. This unique landscape, actually created over 70 years ago by past mining operations, gives the course its very name from the ridge of cinders still present. It’s a truly distinctive layout, designed by George Kappos, that has even earned a nomination for best design by Golf Digest and holds a solid 4.5-star rating on Golf Advisor. It's quite a special place, offering a memorable game every time you visit.
Table of Contents
- A Unique Design with a Rich History
- The Golf Experience and Facilities at Cinder Ridge
- Booking Your Round and What to Expect
- Player Reviews and Ratings: What Golfers Say
- Frequently Asked Questions
A Unique Design with a Rich History
The story of Cinder Ridge Golf Course in Wilmington, Illinois, is, in a way, tied to the very ground it sits on. Spanning a vast 350 acres, this course is truly a sight to behold, winding its way over and through some really interesting terrain. You'll find diving ravines, flat stretches of land, and even areas where coal refuse from old mining operations is still quite visible. These unique features, created over 70 years ago by the mining activities that shaped the region, give the course its distinctive character and, as a matter of fact, its name, too.
The course gets its name, you know, from the ridge of cinders that are still there, a direct link to its past. This isn't just a random design choice; it's a deliberate incorporation of the land's history into the golf experience. On the 10th hole, for instance, you can actually see remnants of the coal processing area, often called a "tipple," and there's even a pictorial history right at the clubhouse entrance. It's a subtle nod to the past, making your round feel a bit more connected to something bigger.
Designed by George Kappos, Cinder Ridge Golf Course first opened its greens back in 1995. George Kappos, as the owner, continues to manage the course, ensuring its quality. It’s a course that has, quite frankly, received some serious recognition. It was nominated for best design by Golf Digest, which is a pretty big deal, and it has consistently earned a strong 4.5-star rating in Golf Advisor. These accolades really speak to the thoughtful layout and the overall experience offered here. The course rating is 74.1, and it has a slope rating of 139 on bent grass, which, you know, tells you a bit about its challenge.
While George Kappos designed the original course, it's also worth noting that renowned architect Bob Lohmann is credited with designing the course as it spans over 6,900 yards. This distance covers meticulously manicured fairways, undulating greens that present a nice challenge, and strategically placed bunkers that keep you thinking about your shots. It’s a course that truly challenges golfers while providing a scenic backdrop that, honestly, just makes the whole experience better. The blend of natural beauty and a well-thought-out design makes every hole feel like a new adventure, and that's something special, isn't it?
The Golf Experience and Facilities at Cinder Ridge
When you plan your visit to Cinder Ridge Golf Course in Wilmington, Illinois, you’re looking forward to more than just a round of golf; you’re stepping into a complete experience. This place, which has been serving the community for over 20 years, offers a fantastic 18-hole course that caters to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players. It’s a public course, so anyone can come and enjoy a game, which is really nice, you know, for accessibility.
Beyond the main course, there’s a driving range available, too. This is a great spot to warm up before your tee time or just to spend some extra time honing your swing. Whether you're working on your long drives or just getting a feel for your irons, the driving range provides a convenient space to practice. It’s an important part of any good golf facility, and Cinder Ridge has it covered, which is pretty handy, actually.
And it's not just about the golf itself. Cinder Ridge also has a public deli, which is quite a convenient amenity. Here, you can grab hot and cold deli items, perfect for a quick bite before, during, or after your round. They also offer adult beverages, coffee, and various snacks. So, if you’re feeling a bit peckish or just want to relax with a drink, the deli is there for you. It’s a nice touch that adds to the overall comfort of your visit, honestly.
The course also provides golf carts, which, you know, make getting around the 350 acres much easier, especially on those warmer days. They also have clubs available, in case you need to rent some. And for those looking for something a little different, they even offer RC products, which is, well, an interesting addition. It’s clear they aim to provide a full range of services to make your time there as enjoyable as possible, which is a good thing.
You’ll find full bar service available, along with the deli options. And a point to remember is that cards are not charged until your arrival, which is a pretty flexible payment arrangement. This flexibility, it seems, makes planning your visit a bit less stressful. Whether you're looking for a quick round or a full day of golf and relaxation, Cinder Ridge has quite a bit to offer, really.
Booking Your Round and What to Expect
Making your tee time at Cinder Ridge Golf Course is pretty straightforward, actually, thanks to their online booking system. You can book online for up to eight players, which is convenient for small groups. If you happen to have a larger group, you just need to call the office directly to arrange your tee time. This flexibility, you know, helps accommodate different group sizes, making it easier for everyone to enjoy a round.
One of the nice things about booking at Cinder Ridge is that discount tee times are often available. You can book now and save, which is always a plus, isn't it? The course also participates in programs where you can earn reward points. These points are good towards future tee times not just at Cinder Ridge, but also at over 9,000 other golf courses across the globe through GolfNow. It's a pretty neat system that rewards frequent golfers, giving you more value for your play.
When it comes to rates, green fees at Cinder Ridge Golf Course can vary a bit depending on the day. Typically, they range between $28.00 and $38.00. It's important to know that they do not offer an all-day rate; rates are specifically for 18 or 9 holes only. So, if you decide to play a replay round, the price will be the same as your original round. This is just how they structure their pricing, and it’s good to be aware of it before you go.
The course is quite welcoming, offering both public and private rental options, which is useful for events or special gatherings. As you play, you’ll be treated to scenic views, adding to the enjoyment of your game. You can find complete information on the Cinder Ridge Golf Course in Wilmington, including those discount tee times, through GolfNow. It’s a good resource to check before you head out, you know, to get all the details.
Before your round, you can also see the scorecard, get a sense of the hole layout, and read player reviews. This information, honestly, helps you prepare for your game, giving you a better idea of what to expect on each hole. Knowing the course a bit beforehand can make your experience even more enjoyable, and that's something many golfers appreciate, isn't it?
Player Reviews and Ratings: What Golfers Say
The reputation of Cinder Ridge Golf Course in Wilmington, Illinois, is, in some respects, built on what golfers themselves have to say. As mentioned, the course has been rated a very solid 4.5 stars in Golf Advisor, which is a significant indicator of player satisfaction. This high rating suggests that many golfers find their experience here to be quite positive, which is always good to hear, you know.
Reviews often highlight the unique design of the course. Golfers frequently comment on how the course winds over and through diving ravines, flat areas, and those interesting coal refuse formations. This distinctive landscape, created by prior mining operations, is often a point of fascination. It’s not your typical flat, open course, and that’s part of its appeal, honestly, offering a different kind of challenge and visual interest.
Players also appreciate the overall condition of the course. With its lush fairways and strategically placed hazards, Cinder Ridge challenges golfers while providing a scenic backdrop that, quite frankly, enhances the whole experience. The bent grass greens, with a slope rating of 139, are often praised for their quality and how they add to the game's challenge. It's clear that the course management puts effort into maintaining the grounds, and that effort tends to be noticed by those who play there.
Beyond the course itself, the facilities often receive positive remarks. The availability of an 18-hole course, a driving range, and a deli with adult beverages are conveniences that golfers appreciate. The fact that cards are not charged until arrival and the option for online booking up to eight players are also details that contribute to a positive experience. These practical aspects, you know, make a difference in how smoothly your visit goes.
The course has been serving the area since 1995, and its over 20 years of experience show in its operations and the consistent quality it provides. Golfers looking for a hidden gem in the Wilmington, Illinois area, often find Cinder Ridge to be just that. It's a place where the history of the land meets the love of the game, offering a memorable round every time. So, if you're ever in the area, it's definitely worth checking out for yourself, to see what all the talk is about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cinder Ridge Golf Course unique in its design?
Cinder Ridge Golf Course is unique because it's built on land that was once part of coal mining operations, over 70 years ago, actually. The course winds through diving ravines, flat areas, and even incorporates coal refuse. The name itself comes from the cinders still present on a ridge. This history, you know, gives it a very distinct look and feel that you won't find at many other courses. The 10th hole, for instance, has visible remnants of the old coal processing area, which is pretty cool.
Can I book tee times online at Cinder Ridge Golf Course, and are there any discounts?
Yes, you can book your tee times online for Cinder Ridge Golf Course, and you can book for up to eight people that way. If you have a larger group, you'll need to call the office directly. Discount tee times are often available when you book online, which is a nice perk. You can also earn reward points for future tee times, not just at Cinder Ridge, but at many other courses through GolfNow. So, it's worth checking for those savings.
What facilities and services does Cinder Ridge Golf Course offer besides the 18-hole course?
Beyond the 18-hole course, Cinder Ridge offers a driving range where you can practice your swing, which is very useful. They also have a public deli that serves hot and cold food, along with adult beverages, coffee, and snacks. You can rent golf carts and clubs, too. They also provide a full bar and allow online booking, and cards are not charged until you arrive, which is pretty convenient. It’s a full experience, really, with quite a few amenities.
For more details on course conditions or to book your next game, you can learn more about Cinder Ridge Golf Course right here on our site. We hope this information helps you plan a truly enjoyable visit. And, if you’re curious about other local attractions, you might want to check out this page for more things to do in the Wilmington area. We look forward to seeing you out on the greens for an unforgettable round!
- Guatemala Fc
- Ojos Locos Lynwood
- Kyliemasion Onlyfans
- Weather Forecast Madison Al
- The Cast Of The Ridiculous 6
Cedar Ridge Golf Course - East Lyme CT & Niantic CT Events, Bars
Course Tour | Cinder Ridge
Course Tour | Cinder Ridge
