BY ABBEY ALGIERS
As the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open Championship presented by Ally approaches, golf enthusiasts from around the world have their eyes on Erin Hills. Some will travel great distances to attend, but Chicagoans are lucky – the roughly two-hour drive to Erin Hills Golf Course in Erin, Wisconsin is a breeze. Plus, the timing of the Championship (May 29 – June 1), is ideal for visiting Erin Hills, with its stunning landscapes and views of nearby Holy Hill.
ACCOMMODATIONS
With Downtown Milwaukee just 35 minutes from Erin Hills, the city is a great place to stay. Milwaukee accommodation options include The Pfister Hotel, Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel, The Iron Horse Hotel and The Kimpton Journeyman Hotel by IHG. Want to get closer to the course? Head to Milwaukee's western suburbs, such as Wauwatosa, Brookfield or Delafield (the boutique Delafield Hotel is a great find). Stay closer to Erin Hills in nearby Hartford (try the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites) or choose from hotels in Jackson, Germantown, Menomonee Falls and West Bend.
DINING
U.S. Women’s Open fans can find restaurants, supper clubs (when in Wisconsin…), bars, breweries and wineries all within a reasonable drive from Erin Hills. Options less than twenty minutes from the course include Fox & Hounds, Johnny Manhattan’s, The Copper Dock, Mineshaft Bar & Restaurant and the tasting room at Hartford’s Brewed Omen. If there’s a plant-based eater in the group, Hartford’s Plantonic Cafe is a great option for breakfast or lunch. Other nearby options include Oconomowoc’s Twisted Fire, Sobie’s Restaurant and Lago Su Bella, Brookfield hotspots such as Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant and North Star American Bistro, and Delafield favorites, I.d. & Belfrē Kitchen. Plus, the nearby area known as “Lake Country” has numerous lake dining options such as Smoke on the Water BBQ and Fishbone’s Cajun & Creole. All are within 30 minutes of Erin Hills.
GOLF
Perhaps watching the U.S. Women’s Open will inspire a round or two of golf after the tournament at nearby courses, such as The Club at Lac La Belle (offering stay and play at a nearby inn), Western Lakes Golf Club, Washington County Golf Course, Hartford Golf Club and many others. Or plan a future getaway to Erin Hills, and other Wisconsin premier courses such as Whistling Straits, Blackwolf Run, Sand Valley Resort or SentryWorld.
BEYOND GOLF – attractions for visitors of all ages
Spectators at Erin Hills can’t help but notice nearby Holy Hill, the world-famous Basilica and National Shrine of Mary. Visitors can tour the basilica, chapels and grounds, while also climbing the tower for incredible views.
Other Washington County attractions include lakes, trails and parks, as well as cultural options such as the Schauer Arts Center, Wisconsin Automotive Museum in Hartford and the Museum of Wisconsin Art in West Bend. In addition, take advantage of area shopping at The Corners of Brookfield or Mayfair Mall in nearby Wauwatosa.
COME FOR THE GOLF, STAY FOR THE VIBE
For Chicago area golf fans, a trip to the U.S. Women’s Open Championship offers world-class golf and a relaxing getaway in one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful areas. It’s an ideal spot to spend a day (or several) and the perfect way to kick off the golf season!
Abbey Algiers is a Wisconsin-based travel writer who loves golf.