Austin Country Club is a prestigious private club located in Austin, Texas, which has been an iconic destination for golfers and socialites since 1899. It is one of the oldest and most respected private clubs in Texas and has become synonymous with exclusivity and luxury in the region.
The club is situated on the banks of Lake Austin, with stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. The picturesque setting, coupled with world-class golf courses and exceptional dining and recreational facilities, make it a popular destination for members and guests alike.
History and Evolution of Austin Country Club
The Austin Country Club was established in 1899 as a 9-hole course on the east bank of the Colorado River. The course was later expanded to an 18-hole layout, and in 1919, the club moved to its current location on the west bank of the Colorado River.
Over the years, the club has undergone several renovations and upgrades to keep up with the changing times and evolving needs of its members. In 1984, a new clubhouse was built, which included state-of-the-art facilities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, and tennis courts. In 2014, the club underwent another major renovation, which included the expansion and redesign of its golf course and the construction of a new clubhouse.
Golf Courses at Austin Country Club
The golf courses at Austin Country Club are undoubtedly its biggest draw. The club boasts two 18-hole championship courses – the Pete Dye-designed championship course and the Harvey Penick course.
The championship course is widely regarded as one of the best golf courses in Texas and has hosted several high-profile tournaments, including the Dell Technologies Match Play, a PGA Tour event. The course has been designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels with strategic bunkering, water hazards, and undulating greens.
The Harvey Penick course, on the other hand, is a more forgiving layout that is ideal for golfers who are new to the game or those who prefer a more relaxed round of golf. The course is named after legendary golf coach Harvey Penick, who was a member of the club and coached several famous golfers, including Ben Crenshaw and Tom Kite.
In addition to its championship courses, the club also has a state-of-the-art practice facility, which includes a driving range, chipping green, and putting green. The club also has a team of experienced golf professionals who offer private lessons, group clinics, and golf schools to members.
Dining and Social Facilities at Austin Country Club
Apart from its golf courses, the Austin Country Club is also known for its exceptional dining and social facilities. The club has several restaurants and bars, each offering a unique dining experience.
The Clubhouse Grille is the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. The menu features classic American dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as regional favorites, such as queso and brisket.
For a more formal dining experience, members can head to the Lakeside Dining Room, which offers panoramic views of Lake Austin. The menu features an eclectic mix of cuisines, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors.
In addition to its dining facilities, the club also has a range of recreational facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and tennis courts. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and strength-training equipment and offers a variety of fitness classes and personal training sessions. The swimming pool is a popular spot for families during the summer months, and the club also has several tennis courts, which host regular tournaments and clinics.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Whether or not a visit to the Austin Country Club is worth it depends on what you are looking for. If you are a golfer, then the club’s championship courses are definitely worth a visit. The Pete Dye-designed championship course is widely regarded as one of the best golf courses in Texas and has hosted several high-profile tournaments, including the Dell Technologies Match Play, a PGA Tour event. The club’s other course, the Harvey Penick course, is also a great option for golfers of all skill levels.
In addition to its golf courses, the club also has several dining and social facilities that offer a unique and exclusive experience. The Lakeside Dining Room, in particular, offers stunning views of Lake Austin and is an ideal spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.s
However, it’s important to note that the Austin Country Club is a private club, and membership is by invitation only. Unless you have a friend or colleague who is a member and can invite you as a guest, you will not be able to access the club’s facilities.
Overall, if you have the opportunity to visit the Austin Country Club as a guest, it is definitely worth it. The club offers an exceptional golfing experience, as well as high-end dining and social facilities. However, if you are not a golfer or do not have the opportunity to visit as a guest, then it may not be worth going out of your way to visit the club.
Important Information You Need to Know
- Address: 4408 Long Champ Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States
- Website: https://www.austincountryclub.com/
- Contact: +15123280090
- Open Hours: N/A