Putt Around Before the Cold

Get a dose of outdoor recreation on the West Side just in time to soak up the last warm rays of fall. Two miniature golf/mini-putt facilities (one of which just opened this summer) provide the perfect opportunity to grab a putter and get out before the cold sets in this winter.

Bird-Inspired Fun in Douglass Park: Douglass 18

Nestled behind the Douglass Park Fieldhouse at 1401 S. Sacramento Dr. in North Lawndale, Douglass 18 is an 18-hole, youth-designed, nature-themed mini golf course operated under the Chicago Park District.

The course officially opened in August 2021, following a multi-year effort that began in 2018 to revitalize the previously neglected space. Every hole is inspired by one of the 200+ bird species that migrate through or live in Douglass Park. The design was led by teens from North Lawndale and Little Village under the guidance of teaching artists, ecologists, and designers, with support from the Lincoln Park Zoo, Trust for Public Land, and Open Architecture Chicago.

Access, hours, and pricing

• Open seasonally, May 1 through October 30
• Hours: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon–Fri; 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sat (closed Sundays)
• Admission: $5 per round; “Two for Tuesday” special (two players for the price of one, 8 a.m.–noon)
• Reservations required Mon–Wed; call (312) 907-7701

---

A New Free Mini-Putt in Austin’s Columbus Park

In August, the Chicago Park District and Troon Golf opened a new 9-hole mini-putt and short-game practice facility in Columbus Park, 5701 W. Jackson Blvd., in Austin.

Funded with a $450,000 investment from Troon, the course includes a putting green, chipping green, and creative holes for players of all ages. Best of all, it’s free to the public.

Troon Golf, which manages many of Chicago’s public golf courses, manages the new Columbus Park facility as well. The goal is to make golf more accessible in West Side communities while providing safe, family-friendly fun.

Why Visit These Courses Now

• Season is limited: Douglass 18 closes after Oct. 30.
• Unique experiences: Douglass Park celebrates local bird life with artistic design; Columbus Park offers free, beginner-friendly play.
• Good for groups: Both spaces are designed for families, friends, and neighbors to enjoy together.
• Contact the Columbus Park Golf Course at (773) 673-5016 for more info.