Aerial view of a golf course with a green, sand bunkers, and winding cart paths surrounded by trees and grass.
A solid white square with no discernible features or content.

Golf

Bride and groom standing on a balcony covered with ivy over a window, set against a slate shingle roof.
Solid white background

Weddings

Elegant banquet table setup with white tablecloth, floral centerpiece featuring white pumpkins, pink flowers, and greenery. Place settings with plates, silverware, and glasses are arranged along the table. Wooden chairs and a spacious room with large windows are visible in the background.
Makray Memorial Golf Club logo with stylized yellow and blue graphics.
Solid white background

Special Events

A plated meal featuring grilled salmon on top of a salad with mixed greens, assorted berries, vegetables, and a sprig of rosemary.
White square with no visible elements

Oak Terrace Grille

Featured Events

  • Putt For Paws

    Join us at Makray for the annual “Putt For Paws” outing featuring Animal House Shelter. Scan the QR code on the flyer or click on the link below to register

    Click Here

  • The Oak Terrace Grille will be closed on Wednesday July 9th, 2025 for Maintenance. We will resume normal operating hours on Thursday July 10th, 2025. Thank you for your understanding.

    Click Here
  • Christmas in July sale

    🎄 "Swing Into Summer Savings — It's Christmas in July at the Golf Shop!" 🏌️‍♂️☀️

    No Snow, Just Low Prices!"

    Click Here
  • Young child playing golf on a putting green, wearing a neon green shirt and a cap.

    Junior Golf

    In these three-day summer clinics, students will learn the fundamentals of golf including grip, stance, set-up, full swing, putting, and short-game skills.

    Sessions are available June-July and feature pro golf instructors. $200 per student per session.  Payment due prior to start of session.  

    Please call (847)-381-6500 or stop by the Golf Shop to make payment.

    Register for Junior Golf
Wedding Wire Couples Choice Award
The Knot Best of Weddings 2025
The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame
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A stone house with ivy, featuring a wooden arched doorway and windows, surrounded by greenery.
Aerial view of a golf course with clubhouse, pathways, and golf carts amid greenery.
Golf course with green fairways, trees, and a small pond under a clear blue sky.
Aerial view of a golf course with a clubhouse, fairways, and sand bunkers, surrounded by greenery and trees.
Golf course with a large clubhouse in the background, featuring a pond, green fairways, and a sand trap.
Outdoor patio with black metal tables and chairs, large red umbrellas, stone pillars, and a view of a lush golf course.

History

Large stone house with ivy-covered walls, surrounded by landscaped gardens and trees, under a partly cloudy sky.
A line of golf carts on a paved path in a green park setting, with people sitting in each cart, surrounded by trees and grass.
Elegant banquet hall with round tables and white tablecloths, set for an event; features large windows, wooden flooring, soft lighting, and a wedding cake on a central table.

A Legacy of Warmth and Welcome

Makray Memorial Golf Club began as Thunderbird Golf Course in 1962, founded by Paul Makray Sr. His vision was to create a joyful, family-friendly golf experience without the exclusivity of membership. In 2002, nearly a decade after his passing, his family honored his legacy by renovating the course and clubhouse. Three years later, the club reopened as Makray Memorial Golf Club.

Historic Charm with Modern Comfort

Throughout the clubhouse, historic details bring timeless character to the space. Light fixtures range from 1798 to 1930, many of which were originally gas-burning and later converted to electric. Copper corridor lights come from the 1920 New York subway, and the iron gates in the Golf Shoppe and Grille are from the Old Burnt Tavern in Kentucky. The custom faux-finish corridor paint, created by Painted Illusions of Lexington, Kentucky, adds a unique and artistic touch with their custom two-tone technique.

Conveniently Located, Naturally Beautiful

Located just north of downtown Chicago in Barrington, Illinois, Makray offers the charm of a countryside escape without leaving the city. Outdoor ceremonies can take place on the Patio Lawn or by the Lake. Indoors, large windows flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere with plenty of room for dining and dancing. Rehearsal dinners can also be held onsite at The Oak Terrace Grille.

A Gorgeous Backdrop for Your Memories

Makray is an 18-hole championship public course featuring stunning views of rolling hills and lush green fairways. The elegant ballroom, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a stone-wrapped veranda, offers a breathtaking setting for weddings and events. From outdoor ceremonies to receptions with rustic charm, the venue sets the stage for unforgettable celebrations.

Dedicated to Exceptional Experiences

What sets Makray apart is our team’s commitment to excellence. From start to finish, we work closely with couples to ensure a smooth, joyful experience. Our culinary team, led by Executive Chef John Hennessy and Sous Chef Mike Bataglia, crafts delicious and memorable meals. Our attentive service staff brings it all together, helping you and your guests feel truly cared for.

Let our team help you bring your vision to life with warmth, elegance, and a touch of history.