Just south of the Lamar bridge and Town Lake, tucked between the railroad tracks and some fast food joints, is one of my personal favorite spots in Austin. Butler Park Pitch & Putt is an emerald gem of a nine-hole par three golf course. It’s not a snobatorium, it’s not fancy, and it’s pretty damn perfect. $7 buys you nine holes of enjoyable escapism on a sunny day regardless of golf skill level. On any given day you’ll see a wide range of folks out there: college kids, parents teaching their kids golf, lifers who play here every week, couples on dates, bachelor parties, etc. Pack a couple beers in the mini cooler, grab your putter and pitching wedge, and get ready for a relaxing stroll hole to hole. As frustrating as golf can be, I never seem to get too frustrated at Butler no matter how I play. It’s just near impossible to not enjoy yourself out there.

The Club(cottage)house

Inside the names of all those who have recored a hole-in-one here since the course opened in 1950 are hand written on the wall.

What’s not to love?

Respect the rules and you’re ready to roll.

Taylor starting it off on #1. (We ended up in a tie after #9. Ties are frustrating.)

**Relaxed sigh**

Ran into my buddy Nolan while he was playing a round with his grandpa. Go see Nolan’s band, The Wheeler Brothers, at Antone’s on November 19th. Do it or I’ll cut you.

Did I chip in? Well…

words & photos – Jake