About Town: Golf Course Among Nation's Best

Not only is George W. Dunne National Golf Course a top public 18-hole course, it also protects the local environment.

Named by Golf Digest as one of the top public courses for golfers, the course has also been certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Sanctuary committed to protecting the "local environment, conserving natural resources, and providing wildlife habitats," according to its website.

The Forest Preserve Golf, Cook County course is set in a forest preserve. Dunne National has bent grass fairways and greens; eight lakes that come into play on 11 of the course's holes; and tree-lined fairways, its website states. Additionally, the well-bunkered course has a lit driving range and an on-staff PGA professional.

Other course highlights include a par-5 "with a fairway bracketed left and right by water," and a "diabolical finishing hole," according to a Patch article.

Public reservations for tee times are accepted online up to 15 days in advance; card holder reservations can be reserved online up to 15 days in advance at a discounted rate. Those interested in becoming a card holder can find further details online. Groups of 16 or more should call 708-429-8226, ext. 2 or visit the website for more information.

Forest Preserve Golf will "make reasonable accommodations to ensure that golfers with disabilities" can play on the course. Those with disabilities should contact the general manager for more information.

The casual-attire course also has a full pro shop and grill, a practice area and a driving range. Additionally, it offers equipment rentals, GPS, kids' classes, party and banquet rentals and private instruction, according to resources. 

Open from dawn until dusk, the George W. Dunne National Golf Course is located at 16310 S. Central Ave., Oak Forest. For more information, visit its website or call 708-429-6886.