I've talked about the different "gems" that the Rockford area has to offer, not only to those of us who live here, but also to the many visitors to the Rockford area. I've highlighted places like Anderson Gardens, MercyHealth Sportscore Two, The UW Sports Health Factory, Tinker Cottage, and more. If Aldeen Golf Club and Practice Center isn't on your list, it's long past due to add it, because others certainly are.

Congratulations are in order for the Rockford Park District and their great golf staff, as they've just been recognized by Golf Advisor as being #21 on their list of the "Top 25 Golf Courses in the United States Under $50." Aldeen is also the #1 ranked course in Illinois.

From the Rockford Park District news release:

The Rockford Park District was notified today that Golf Advisor ranked Aldeen Golf Club and Practice Centre, 1902 Reid Farm Rd., Rockford, among the Top 25 golf courses in the United States under $50. Aldeen Golf Club was ranked as #21 and of the 25 courses that were ranked Aldeen Golf Club is the highest rated course in Illinois. Golf Advisor rating is based on reviews over the last two-and-a-half years. In order to be ranked, courses needed a minimum of 20 reviews; reviews come from a wide range of daily-fee golfers. Golf Advisor is the leading source of golf course ratings and reviews by golfers, for golfers.

Once again, it's really cool to see Rockford receive such kudos from an outside entity, although those of us who've been lucky enough to play at Aldeen were already well aware of its beauty and affordability.

Director of Golf Operations Duncan Geddes:

We continue to offer a high-quality golf experience with the design of our course, conditions, service, and price. One customer’s review said that Aldeen was ‘an excellent golf course with a challenging layout, but kept in fantastic condition. A great value and a well-maintained municipal course.’ This is a testament to Norris and Margaret Aldeen’s vision in providing a high-quality public championship course with private club amenities at an affordable rate.

And as you may know, there are plans in place to expand an already outstanding venue:

Oh, and since this weekend's weather forecast looks really, really good, keep this in mind:

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