When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Jimmy Clay Golf Course
Why Jimmy Clay Golf Course is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jimmy Clay Golf Course, located in Southeast Austin and surrounded by the scenic Williamson Creek, is a classic and highly regarded golf venue that offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. Established in 1974 and designed by the esteemed architect Joe Finger, the course features a traditional layout with 18 challenging holes spanning up to 6,918 yards. The tree-lined fairways and elevated, open greens provide a beautiful, natural setting that balances both challenge and enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels. Recent renovations have enhanced the course's appeal, including redesigned greens and bunkers, a water feature near an island green, and an enlarged driving range with an elevated hitting area, making it a premier practice and play facility. Beyond golf, the course complex offers amenities such as a fully stocked pro shop, golf lessons, a snack bar, and outdoor pavilions, creating an inviting environment for socializing and relaxation. Its integration into a 36-hole complex alongside the Roy Kizer Golf Course makes it one of the most diverse municipal golf destinations in Texas, ideal for groups and friends to enjoy varied golfing experiences together throughout the year.
Here's what people think of Jimmy Clay Golf Course
As of recent, Jimmy Clay Golf Course holds a 4.2-star rating based on 287 reviews.
User reviews of Jimmy Clay Golf Course reflect a generally positive experience, with an overall rating around 4.2 stars from nearly 300 reviews. Many players praise the course for its traditional tree-lined design, well-maintained greens, and the challenging but fair layout that requires strategic play, especially around the narrower fairways and water hazards. The improvements to the greens and bunkers in recent renovations are frequently highlighted as major positives, along with the expanded and upgraded driving range, well-equipped pro shop, and accessible lesson programs. Visitors also appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, the reasonable public course fees, and the beautiful natural setting provided by the surrounding Williamson Creek. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as pace of play delays, upkeep inconsistencies in specific spots, and sometimes crowded conditions which can detract from the overall experience. A few users mention the firmness of some greens or course difficulty as challenges. Overall, the reviews suggest that Jimmy Clay Golf Course remains a favored destination for both local and visiting golfers, appealing for its combination of quality, tradition, and amenities, with room for continued enhancement in service and course management.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Toolin
Fairways were in decent shape. The course was green since we had rain recently. Greens were in decent shape and for the local muni it was all good
Tyler Wilsey
The course is pretty light for challenges but all in all a decent place to play. Greens are slower but still fun. Great snack bar with lots of food options. Staff was friendly as well. Had a lot of hawks visiting us on holes if you like to see some birds of prey.
Cameron Fields
One of the best well kept municipal courses I’ve come across between Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Kansas. For the past week I’ve played either here or Keizer. And there’s a reason I’ve come back over and over. Booking is easy, plenty of room on practice greens/ range, and the breakfast tacos available at the club house… they’re just amazing for what they are. Thank you to all the kind staff I’ve come across and thank you for all your hard work to keep these courses maintained to what they are today. You all do amazing work.
Plant Muzik, Inc.
Jimmy Clay Golf Course in Austin, TX, is a fantastic place to enjoy a round of golf. I played in a foursome during the evening, and the experience was exceptional. The greens and fairways were in excellent condition, making for a smooth and enjoyable round. The layout is both challenging and fun, catering to golfers of all skill levels. Beyond the course itself, the staff at the pro shop and restaurant were outstanding—welcoming, knowledgeable, and attentive. Their hospitality added to the overall experience, making it even more enjoyable. I will definitely return to play again and also look forward to trying Roy Kizer Golf Course, which shares the same location. For anyone looking for a well-maintained course with a great atmosphere, Jimmy Clay is a must-visit in Austin!
JC Wan
Played a nice round of golf at Jimmy Clay golf course with a friend. The course conditions are really good. The greens are in very good shape (runs slow though). Would like to come back to play again in the future, including the sister course - Roy Kiser.
How to reach Jimmy Clay Golf Course
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Why Jimmy Clay Golf Course may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jimmy Clay Golf Course with your friends?
Jimmy Clay Golf Course makes for an excellent destination to gather with friends for an outdoor experience that combines relaxation, challenge, and beautiful scenery. The course is set amidst traditional tree-lined fairways and elevated open greens that offer a visually stunning backdrop, especially since it is surrounded by the natural flow of Williamson Creek. This setting fosters a peaceful environment where friends can enjoy lively conversations combined with the enjoyable physical activity of golf. The course’s design, originating from renowned architect Joe Finger and subsequently modernized through renovations, provides a balanced layout suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, it encourages friendly competition and shared accomplishment. Additionally, the well-maintained practice areas and driving range create opportunities for everyone to warm up, learn, or hone their skills together. Beyond golf, Jimmy Clay features amenities like snack bars and outdoor pavilions that are perfect for group dining and socializing. These aspects make it a versatile venue where friends can rally to connect, bond, and create memorable experiences in the fresh air.
What activities can you enjoy at Jimmy Clay Golf Course?
Jimmy Clay Golf Course caters to a variety of golf-related activities and beyond, making it ideal for both casual and serious groups. The primary attraction is the 18-hole championship course that stretches 6,918 yards, featuring tree-lined fairways and elevated greens that challenge players with diverse terrain and strategic play. Alongside this, the course has undergone major renovations to include water features and improved bunkers, adding excitement and variety to the game. For those looking to practice or improve, the facility offers extensive practice options including a large grass and mat driving range with elevated hitting areas and large target zones. Additional practice facilities include expansive putting greens, chipping areas, a practice bunker, and a free pitching area with multiple target greens. These spaces give players the chance to work on specific skills together, fostering a social yet productive environment. The complex also includes a Joe Balander Game Improvement Area—a short par-three course of four holes—perfect for sharpening short-game techniques in a relaxed atmosphere. For groups looking to complement golf with food and drink, there is a snack bar and a fully stocked pro shop, plus outdoor eating areas and large pavilions where folks can gather between rounds or after play for refreshments and socializing.
Why is Jimmy Clay Golf Course perfect for a group meetup?
Jimmy Clay Golf Course is an outstanding choice for group meetups due to its expansive facilities and accommodating atmosphere. The course itself is thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups of all sizes, enabling both competitive rounds and casual play without crowding or long waits. Its connection with the Roy Kizer Golf Course creates a 36-hole complex that offers diversity for groups wanting to extend their outing with varied challenges. The presence of two large outdoor pavilions ensures ample space for group gatherings, celebrations, or simply relaxing together between games. These pavilions provide shelter and a comfortable setting for picnics or catered events, adding convenience for groups aiming to make a day of it. Moreover, the on-site snack bar and outdoor eating areas support hungry golfers and their guests with light meals and refreshments, facilitating a laid-back social atmosphere. The surrounding natural scenery beside Williamson Creek enhances the experience by offering tranquility and a beautiful setting for photos and memories. Additionally, the course's relatively moderate pricing combined with its range of offerings makes it affordable for groups planning regular meetups or special occasions. Overall, Jimmy Clay’s balance of sport, scenery, and social spaces makes it tailor-made for memorable group outings.
How can Jimmy Clay’s facilities enhance your experience?
The comprehensive facilities at Jimmy Clay Golf Course greatly enhance any visit by providing convenience, comfort, and opportunities for skill improvement. The driving range is notably large and well-designed, featuring an elevated hitting area that improves visibility and encourages players to practice together while enjoying clear views of targets and fellow golfers’ swings. The multiple putting and chipping practice areas allow players to warm up or refine short game techniques without waiting, fostering a cooperative learning atmosphere. The addition of the practice bunker and free pitching area with multiple target greens ensures that players can work on different aspects of their game in varied settings that simulate real course conditions. For those interested in formal instruction, the partnership with Phillips Golf Academy brings professional lessons right to the complex, catering to all skill levels from beginners to experienced players. Many visitors appreciate the pro shop, which is fully stocked with all essentials from clubs to apparel, enabling groups to easily rent or purchase equipment if needed. The outdoor eating area and snack bar provide places to pause and recharge, while the large pavilions allow for extended gatherings or shelter during inclement weather. This breadth of facilities creates an all-encompassing golf experience that supports both the sport and the social elements for groups.
What should you know about availability and fees?
Planning a group visit to Jimmy Clay Golf Course is straightforward given the clear and flexible reservation options. Tee times can be booked online starting at 9 am, with weekday slots available seven days in advance and weekend tee times opening the Tuesday prior, helping accommodate group schedules with advance planning. Reservations are also accepted by phone starting at 7 am or in person at the pro shop, giving groups several channels to secure preferred times. The golf course operates every day except Christmas, allowing for meetups year-round with the added beauty of Austin’s mild climate. Pricing is competitive and offers good value for the quality and extent of the facilities: regular green fees range around $30–$34 on weekdays and weekends, with reduced rates for seniors and juniors, encouraging groups of mixed ages to participate affordably. Cart rentals are an additional but reasonable fee, and there are special rates for evening and sunset rounds, perfect for groups who want a more leisurely pace or scenic twilight play. It is important to note the course accepts credit and debit cards only, with no cash, which simplifies transactions for groups. All these factors combine to make Jimmy Clay Golf Course a highly accessible and cost-effective venue for group activities.
What makes the course design at Jimmy Clay unique?
Jimmy Clay Golf Course stands out due to its classic yet thoughtfully updated design crafted by Joe Finger, a noted golf course architect. Opened in 1974, the course features 18 holes that stretch nearly 7,000 yards through a setting dominated by traditional, tree-lined fairways and elevated open greens that present both visual appeal and golfing challenge. The layout successfully balances playability and difficulty, accommodating beginners and seasoned golfers alike. Over time, renovations have been implemented to enhance playability and aesthetics—for instance, the 2007 redesign introduced challenging water hazards near an island green, increasing strategic play and visual excitement. Additional work in 2015 reshaped multiple greens to improve turf conditions and playing surfaces. Such continuous improvements show a commitment to maintaining a top-tier golfing environment. The surrounding Williamson Creek adds natural beauty and a soothing backdrop, while the course’s integration with the adjoining Roy Kizer Golf Course offers a diverse golfing experience with a combined 36-hole complex. This thoughtful design and ongoing care ensure an engaging round of golf that appeals to both individuals and groups.
How does Jimmy Clay Golf Course support skill development?
For groups interested in not just playing but improving together, Jimmy Clay Golf Course provides outstanding resources designed to elevate golfing skills. The complex includes several specialized practice areas: extensive putting greens, chipping zones, a practice bunker, and a free pitching area with target greens to simulate real-course scenarios for short game mastery. The large grass and mat driving range features numerous targets and an elevated hitting platform to help golfers work on driving accuracy and distance in a comfortable setting. These practice areas minimize wait times and promote a collaborative atmosphere for friends to learn or compete in improvement challenges. Additionally, the Phillips Golf Academy partners with the complex to deliver professional lessons tailored to every level, from novices seeking to understand basics to advanced players aiming to refine their technique. This facility’s comprehensive support for skill development makes it a preferred destination for groups who want to blend social time with meaningful progress in golf. By practicing together, players can motivate each other and share tips, deepening friendships alongside golfing competence.
Why is Jimmy Clay Golf Course a great value for group events?
Jimmy Clay Golf Course offers substantial value for groups seeking a full golf experience with added conveniences that make event planning simpler and more enjoyable. The green fees are reasonably priced, generally starting around $30 for a regular round on weekdays, which is affordable compared to many private courses in the Austin area. Additionally, the availability of a large driving range, multiple practice areas, and the option of professional lessons provide an all-inclusive golfing environment that maximizes the outing’s worth. The presence of snack bars, outdoor eating areas, and large pavilions also reduces the need for outside catering or additional rentals, making group event logistics more straightforward and cost-efficient. The expansive pavilion spaces are ideal for parties, reunions, or tournaments, giving groups a private area to gather, relax, and celebrate. Furthermore, the well-kept facilities and scenic location enhance the overall experience without the premium pricing often associated with similarly attractive venues. This balance of quality, amenities, and affordability ensures that group events at Jimmy Clay are not only fun but also financially sensible choices.
What guest services enhance the Jimmy Clay Golf Course experience?
To accommodate groups and individual guests alike, Jimmy Clay Golf Course offers a range of services designed to enhance comfort and convenience. The pro shop is fully stocked for equipment rental or purchase, helping visitors without their own gear to participate effortlessly. Friendly and knowledgeable staff assist with tee times, provide local golf advice, and help ensure smooth operations during busy group events. The snack bar serves refreshments and light meals so guests can recharge without leaving the site. Outdoor eating areas encourage social interaction and relaxation between rounds. Cart rentals make traversing the course easier, especially for groups with mixed physical abilities or those wanting a more leisurely experience. Moreover, the course's scenic surroundings create a welcoming ambiance for all visitors. These attentive guest services contribute significantly to why groups repeatedly choose Jimmy Clay Golf Course for their golfing meetups and social occasions.
In summary, Jimmy Clay Golf Course offers an inviting, versatile, and affordable environment perfectly suited for hosting golf outings with friends and family. Its combination of well-designed course features, extensive practice facilities, quality guest services, and accommodating group spaces makes it a premier venue for both recreational golf and social connection. Whether looking to compete, improve skills, or simply enjoy a picturesque day outdoors together, this golf complex provides all the essentials that can make any meetup memorable and enjoyable.