The Austin Primer is a biweekly column that will feature various facets of Austin that locals love most.

Sitting atop a small, hidden hill off of Barton Springs Road, Peter Pan Mini-Golf has given Austinites cheap, fun thrills for over 50 years.

Founded in 1950, this miniature golf course has attracted locals with its simple charm and character. The colossal figures that adorn the faux mini-golf greens—including a vivacious-looking Peter Pan; a tall, orange Tyrannosaurus Rex; and a goofy, white rabbit—give Peter Pan Mini-Golf its magnetism.

Senior Caitlin Ireland said that playing mini-golf, and playing at Peter Pan Mini-Golf in particular, can be a great icebreaker on dates.

“Nobody can really be good at mini-golf, so nobody can be super bad either, so it’s nice,” said Ireland. “You can tease your date and just have fun together, which relieves some of that awkward tension.”

Another aspect of Peter Pan Mini-Golf that helps lighten everyone’s mood is the course’s alcohol policy. Mini-golf players can bring their beer of choice to tote around the golf course while they play the holes.

Peter Pan Mini-Golf is also exceptional in that it’s been a family owned and operated business since opening half a century ago.

Clifford Dismukes first opened the course under the name Varsity Links. The course was then passed to Glen and Jack Dismukes, where it was renamed Peter Pan Mini-Golf.

Today, Clifford Dismukes’ nephew, Mike Dismukes, with the help of other family members, runs the miniature golf course after inheriting it.

Peter Pan Mini-Golf has won many of the Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” awards, including “Best Miniature Golf” in 1991, 1993 and 1994, and “Best Place to Celebrate a Birthday II” in 1992.

Locals have been big fans of this miniature golf course for decades now, and that won’t soon change. For some old-fashioned fun, check out an Austin favorite, Peter Pan Mini-Golf.