When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Lions Municipal Golf Course
Why Lions Municipal Golf Course is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lions Municipal Golf Course, affectionately known as "Muny," stands as one of Austin, Texas's most cherished public golf destinations. Established in 1924 and nestled on the 141-acre Brackenridge Tract, Muny offers a unique blend of rich history, community spirit, and recreational challenge. As the city’s first public golf course, it still welcomes golfers of all skill levels to enjoy an 18-hole layout famed for its tree-lined fairways and smaller greens that test precision and strategy rather than just distance. Despite being just 6,001 yards, the course’s relatively narrow fairways and variety of terrain provide a diverse golfing experience featuring water hazards, elevation changes, and a compelling mix of open and tight holes. Beyond golf, Lions Municipal boasts amenities such as a driving range, putting and chipping greens, and a conveniently located cafe that allows players to relax between front and back nines. The course has hosted golfing legends including Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson, Tom Kite, and Ben Crenshaw, further enriching its storied legacy. Located close to downtown Austin, Muny is not only accessible but also serves as a welcoming community hub and a great gathering spot for friends to socialize and enjoy the outdoors in a historic setting.
Here's what people think of Lions Municipal Golf Course
As of recent, Lions Municipal Golf Course holds a 4.3-star rating based on 343 reviews.
Reviews from visitors and golfers overwhelmingly praise Lions Municipal Golf Course for its affordability, well-maintained grounds, and unique charm. Many highlight the course as an excellent municipal option within city limits, emphasizing its friendly staff, reasonable pace of play, and the welcoming atmosphere where solo golfers often find playing partners. Positive feedback also focuses on the course condition, noting well-kept greens and fairways, as well as the balance between challenge and playability despite its shorter yardage by today's standards. The on-site cafe receives compliments for quick and convenient service between rounds. However, some negative remarks address occasional concerns such as the narrowness of the fairways presenting a tough test, and the aging facilities that reflect the course’s historic nature rather than modern luxury. Additionally, a few players mention the potential risk of closure or redevelopment, which has raised community concerns about the loss of this historic municipal asset. In conclusion, user reviews collectively reveal that Lions Municipal Golf Course is a valuable, historic treasure for Austin golf enthusiasts and casual players alike, appreciated for its character, accessibility, and competitive but friendly environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hayden Schwarz
Moderately easy course that is very beginner-friendly, great for last-minute sunset slots during the week! Beautiful space to be outdoors that is tucked away from the noise of the city
Wilson Randolph
Great place for a round. Super laid back. Greens, fairways, tee boxes all taken care of nicely. Course is challenging without being super frustrating. Recommend!
Lexi
This course is flooded with tarry town teenagers. I’m all for pushing the youth to get into golf, but if they don’t have the proper/super basic golf etiquette then they shouldn’t be here i.e. rushing the group in front of them, running carts into each other, letting their friends ride up to the course on their bikes and jump in front of other groups and play for free. Seems like the staff doesn’t monitor them at all. Other municipal courses in austin are not like this. This is ridiculous. Fairways and greens are in great condition, but players here don’t call fore. Which is super important if these fairways are running parallel to each other. There were multiple greens with pitch marks like craters… i guess no one that plays here wants to fix them. I’m avoiding Lions and sticking to jimmy, kizer, and riverside.
Max P
Was in town in March 2025 for a conference and had the chance to play this local muni. Tee times go fast but because they don’t have any no-show penalty, the pro shop told us that walkins are usually able to get off the waitlist due to no-shows. The range was not in service so we spent a good amount of time practicing out chipping and putting. The course itself was reasonable and relatively short in distance (especially the par 3s), and there wasn’t much difference between the white and red tees which Nat wasn’t thrilled out. The greens aren’t easy though- most of them were on slopes and had breaks to them. Overall was a good time and reasonably priced- we paid $91 for our 3pm tee time for two of us (with carts included).
Barry Harris
The course is in great shape. I used to play here all the time 20 years ago and I have noticed improvements in all aspects, including a staff that is personable and friendly. For years it was run by a bunch of grouches. Lions has been added back to the rotation. (Just wish the range could accommodate woods)
How to reach Lions Municipal Golf Course
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Why Lions Municipal Golf Course may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lions Municipal Golf Course with your friends?
Rallying at Lions Municipal Golf Course—fondly known as "Muny"—offers an unbeatable mix of rich history, lively atmosphere, and lively camaraderie, making it an ideal destination to gather with friends and family. The course is Austin's oldest public golf course, established in 1924, and has served as a beloved communal hub for generations, lending a nostalgic yet vibrant vibe that few venues can match. Whether you and your friends are seasoned golfers or casual players, Muny’s approachable 18-hole layout invites everyone to participate, creating a shared experience that fosters connection and fun. The course’s scenic setting featuring mature trees, doglegs, and water hazards also ensures a visually stimulating backdrop for your social rounds, enhancing the pleasure of each swing. Additionally, because it is a public course with affordable rates and ample tee times, it accommodates groups of all sizes without breaking the bank or requiring extensive scheduling. Muny’s combination of accessibility, history, and scenic charm makes it a perfect gathering spot to relax, compete friendly, and celebrate a good day outdoors with your circle of friends.
What is unique about the golfing experience at Lions Municipal Golf Course for groups?
Lions Municipal Golf Course presents a unique golfing experience that caters wonderfully to groups of varying skill levels by virtue of its compact yet challenging design. The course spans 18 holes, with a par of 71 across 5,825 yards, making it a manageable length for players who want a full round without an exhausting trek. The tight layout is notable for its oak and cedar tree-lined fairways and multiple doglegs, which add strategic elements that require players to think carefully about shot selection. Importantly for groups, this design provides a fun test of skill while remaining welcoming to weekend golfers and novices. The course's rating of 69.8 and a slope of 123 reflects its balance between a friendly challenge and accessibility. Furthermore, Lions Municipal includes a driving range and practice facilities, allowing your group to warm up together or polish swings before or after play, enhancing the overall group experience. The course’s layout also encourages social interaction since players stay close throughout their rounds, making it easy to chat, share tips, and enjoy friendly banter.
Are there extra amenities and activities available at Lions Municipal Golf Course that enhance group visits?
Beyond the 18-hole course itself, Lions Municipal Golf Course offers amenities that make group meetups even more special and convenient. The clubhouse provides a welcoming space where groups can gather before or after their rounds to relax, refresh, and share stories. Food and beverage services help extend the social vibe, providing refreshments and casual dining options that appeal to groups looking to prolong their outing. The pro shop is another asset, supplying equipment rentals and offering expert advice or lessons if your group wants to improve their game together. These extras reduce the logistical complexities of outing planning by consolidating essentials on site. Additionally, the course regularly hosts tournaments such as Texas’s oldest amateur event, the Firecracker Open, which demonstrates its lively golf culture and offers group visitors a chance to engage with the local golf community. Having such amenities integrated into the course’s environment means your meetup isn’t just about golf, but an all-around enjoyable social occasion strengthened by comfort and convenience.
How does the historical significance of Lions Municipal Golf Course add to its appeal for group outings?
The deep historical roots of Lions Municipal Golf Course add a rich layer of meaning to any group visit, enhancing the connection among friends sharing the experience. Muny is notable for being one of the first golf courses in the southern United States to desegregate even before the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling, instilling a sense of pride and social progress in its legacy. Hosting golfing greats like Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson, the course has witnessed numerous iconic moments, making your casual outing a walk in hallowed grounds of golf history. The Texas Golf Hall of Fame recognizes Muny, and it is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, symbolizing its cultural and sporting importance. This historic ambiance makes for great conversation starters and adds a layer of gravitas to your day, transforming a standard game of golf into an experience shared with echoes of the past. For groups who appreciate unique venues with stories, Muny serves as both a sporting and cultural landmark.
What food and social opportunities make Lions Municipal Golf Course ideal for hosting a meetup?
Lions Municipal’s on-site food and beverage offerings contribute significantly to making it a full-service venue for meetups with friends and family. The clubhouse snacks and drinks options provide a comfortable environment for post-round socializing, where groups can toast their successes or unwind after a spirited game. Having a dedicated social space promotes longer stays beyond golf itself, supporting casual mingling or small celebrations. Because the course is centrally located near downtown Austin, it also offers easy access to many nearby dining and entertainment venues for those who want to extend their meetup into a larger outing. Whether you want to hold a relaxed gathering or an active day outdoors combined with food and drink, Lions Municipal supports these plans seamlessly. Additionally, the friendly and community-focused atmosphere found here encourages inclusivity, helping groups of all ages and interests feel welcome and engaged in the event.
What practical considerations make Lions Municipal Golf Course a convenient and accessible venue for groups?
Lions Municipal Golf Course’s affordability and accessibility are major advantages for groups planning a meetup in Austin. With a public course model managed by the city, it offers competitive green fees that make organizing group golf less expensive than many private or resort courses, encouraging larger groups or repeat visits without a high financial barrier. Its location just north of downtown Austin allows easy driving access for locals and visitors alike, minimizing travel complications. Reservation policies allow tee times to be booked in advance with both online and phone options, providing flexibility that fits many schedules. Furthermore, the course’s typical attendance of over 100,000 rounds per year ensures it is equipped to handle crowd flow efficiently. All these practical points combine to facilitate smooth planning and execution of group outings, whether spontaneous or carefully scheduled. The presence of well-maintained facilities, rental clubs, and a friendly pro shop staff also helps groups avoid logistical hassles, making Lions Municipal a dependable choice for socially focused, fun-filled golf days.
Lions Municipal Golf Course stands not just as a place to golf but as a social and cultural nexus in Austin. Its combination of historical prestige, challenging yet friendly golfing, supportive amenities, and convenient location make it an exceptional venue to rally your friends or family for a memorable group outing. Whether you aim for a competitive round, a relaxing day in nature, or a lively post-game get-together, Muny provides a welcoming space that understands how to blend sport and community. Its 4.3 rating from over 340 reviews speaks to its enduring appeal and quality experience, reaffirming why this iconic municipal course has been a treasured Austin gathering spot for nearly a century.