Cool Crest Miniature Golf

CouplePutts (Atlas Obscura User)

Supposedly, Cool Crest got its name from the sloping hillside that it was built on and that even in the hot Texas climate, it manages to catch a breeze that always makes it feel nice and cool. There are two courses on the premises: the “Old Course” circa 1929 and the “New Course” circa 1959. The “Old Course” is one of the oldest operating miniature golf courses in the world.

Retired trucker Harold Metzger and his wife Maria, leased the Cool Crest property in San Antonio from its original owners in 1937. They refurbished the single 18-hole course on the property and gave it an Art Deco style with lush tropical landscaping. According to their website, Cool Crest “quickly became one of the city’s most popular recreational venues, hosting many a party attended by the city’s social elite.” In 1959, the Metzgers redid the foundation of the original course and added an additional 18-hole course.

After Harold Metzger died in 1998, Maria continued to run Cool Crest until 2007. She died three years later and the facility remained closed. The course began to fall into disrepair, but in 2010, Cool Crest was designated as a historic landmark. This designation protected the property against demolition and alterations that would destroy its historic integrity. In 2012, the Andry brothers, who had played on the course as kids, stepped in to become the proud new owners of Cool Crest.

This course is all about sinuous curves, smartly placed angles and basic shapes such as circles, rectangles and octagons. The deep green turf beautifully contrasts against the crisp, white concrete. Benches and stylish triangular scorecard holders painted in the iconic “Cool Crest” teal paint add to its distinctive aesthetic.

Know Before You Go

Check the website and social media before visiting. The course has seasonal closings during the winter months and hosts tournaments that may limit your ability to play.

Metzger Biergarten on-premise that regularly hosts live music.

As far as ADA accessibility is concerned, their website states:

"In 2009 – 2010, San Antonio’s Zoning Commission and City Council unanimously approved the re-zoning of Cool Crest as a historically significant property, due in part to the uniqueness of the concrete work that comprises the foundation of the two 18-hole courses. This designation effectively limited the types of structural changes that could be made to it upon its restoration and re-opening.

However, our staff is always willing to assist any physically challenged person in helping make their Cool Crest experience a pleasant and memorable one. Although we regret that we may not be able to accommodate every person, we will make every reasonable attempt to do so."