(Alphabetical Order — No Images)
Introduction
Illinois is home to some of the most distinguished private social clubs in the United States—especially in Chicago, where historic city clubs, athletic clubs, and cultural organizations have shaped the professional and social landscape for more than a century. These clubs offer refined dining, business networking, athletic facilities, cultural programming, and elegant spaces for community and professional gatherings.
The following list highlights twelve of the most notable and respected social clubs across Illinois.
1. Chicago Club (Chicago)
Address: 81 E Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60605
One of Chicago’s oldest and most exclusive private clubs, known for tradition, private dining, and elite social gatherings.
2. Chicago Yacht Club
Address: 400 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
A premier sailing and social club offering dining, events, regattas, and active member programming on Lake Michigan.
3. Elgin Country Club (Elgin)
Address: 2575 Weld Rd, Elgin, IL 60124
A long-standing golf and social club offering dining, tennis, recreational activities, and community events.
4. Evanston Golf Club (Skokie)
Address: 4401 Dempster St, Skokie, IL 60076
A private golf and social club with strong family programs, tennis, aquatic facilities, and dining.
5. Illinois Athletic Club (Heritage)
Address: 112 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
A historic athletic and social club known for networking, wellness, and its iconic legacy in Chicago.
6. Itasca Country Club (Itasca)
Address: 400 E Orchard St, Itasca, IL 60143
A respected suburban social club offering golf, dining, and events in a welcoming community environment.
7. Knollwood Club (Lake Forest)
Address: 1890 Knollwood Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045
A historic country club offering golf, dining, racquet sports, and refined social activities.
8. Medinah Country Club (Medinah)
Address: 6N001 Medinah Rd, Medinah, IL 60157
One of the most famous clubs in the country, renowned for golf, fine dining, and upscale member programming.
9. Union League Club of Chicago
Address: 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604
A prestigious civic, cultural, and social club offering art collections, fine dining, professional events, and community leadership programs.
10. University Club of Chicago
Address: 76 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603
A historic club known for its architecture, private library, cultural events, dining, and athletic facilities.
11. Westmoreland Country Club (Wilmette)
Address: 2601 Old Glenview Rd, Wilmette, IL 60091
A private family-oriented country club with golf, racquets, aquatics, dining, and year-round social events.
12. Woman’s Athletic Club of Chicago
Address: 626 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
The first women’s athletic club in America, offering social gatherings, dining, wellness, and cultural programs.
