Mini-Golf re-opens as Shady Greens Wine & Beer

LOCAL OPENING

The former Magic Greens Miniature Golf Course was approved for new status as Shady Greens Wine & Beer Garden at the August 28 Planning and Zoning (P&Z) meeting, when the commission approved a permit recommendation for the sale of alcohol.

“Improvements look great, and we have positive feedback,” said newly installed P&Z Commission Member Martin Garza.

The welcome sign is already hung at its location at the corner of RR12 and Sports Park Road, a treefilled 2.5 acre parcel in the Magic Greens Subdivision of Dripping Springs. Owners, James and Carole George, have already been granted their Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission license, and plan a soft opening on Sept. 22, staying open 4 days/ week until the warm season ends around the end of Nov. Then they will hold a Grand Opening in March 2019 for the next season of family friendly outdoor food, drink, music and activities.

“We hope the community embraces our vision,” said Carole.

The vision was put into action during the last four months, giving the 18 hole mini-golf course a facelift, turning the washer game lot into a giant sandbox, and enhancing the huge allage adult/children swing set. They will offer bubble swords, glo stix, and neon golf balls, making it a great play date for families to enjoy one another. There is a 6-foot wrought iron fence for children’s safety.

“Plenty of picnic tables have been installed, and a stage for acoustic music gigs similar to those at the Salt Lick,” said Carole.

The DS City Planner modified the music plan to include a PA amplifier since there are no nearby neighbors.

The Georges will have available the craft beers and wines being produced locally. They will hire local TABC licensed servers, and give second jobs to teachers. Families are encouraged to bring picnic foods. They hope to have part-time food truck vendors in their oneacre parking lot in the future.

The Georges bought the mini-golf park in 2005 and then closed it down in 2015, intending to sell it over the past three years. Sales kept falling through to potential buyers who were planning the same sort of venue. (During that time, they moved from Dripping Springs to Henley, and now live in Johnson City.) Finally, noting that similar establishments--but without mini-golf-- were popping up in the hill country, the Georges jumped into restoring and transforming their property into their own wine and beer garden.

“We hope it is a welcome addition to Dripping Springs,” James said.

Hours will be 5:00pm-10:00pm Thurs. and Fri.

12:00pm-10:00pm Sat., and 12:00pm-8:00 Sun.

Visit Shady Greens Wine & Beer Garden on Facebook.