February 26, 2026 
5 Min 
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Houston has no shortage of golf options, from stiff-private clubs with waiting lists to pay-to-play courses that won’t make your wallet weep. Gus Wortham Golf Course sits comfortably in the middle – a municipal track that’s been around for decades and consistently delivers solid, affordable golf without the pretension.
This guide covers what you need to know before playing, from green fees to course conditions to actually getting a tee time.
History and Background
The course bears the name of Gus Wortham, a Houston businessman and golf booster who helped shape the city’s golf scene back in the mid-20th century. Today it operates under the City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department, which explains the reasonable pricing and open-door policy.
It’s not a championship-level test – this is a player-friendly municipal course that prioritizes accessibility over intimidation. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, but it does mean you won’t need to hit 300-yard drives to have a legitimate chance at par.
The course has seen renovations over the years, most recently keeping up with modern drainage and irrigation standards while maintaining the traditional feel that regulars appreciate.
Course Layout
Gus Wortham plays as an 18-hole layout with modest elevation changes – this is Houston, after all, not the Rockies. The fairways are forgiving compared to many courses, which makes it particularly welcoming for higher-handicap players and beginners still learning to find the short stuff consistently.
The greens are the real test here. They’re well-maintained with subtle breaks that reward careful reading. Miss a green and you’ll find bunkers or water on several holes that will punish sloppy approach shots.
Multiple tee boxes let you scale the length to your game. Beginners can play forward; longer hitters can stretch it out from the tips. The routing is walkable, though carts are available if Houston’s summer heat makes that impractical.
Green Fees
This is where Gus Wortham really shines for budget-conscious golfers. As a city-run facility, rates stay well below what you’d pay at private clubs or premium public courses.
- Weekday mornings offer the cheapest rates
- Houston residents with valid ID get a small discount
- Twilight rates kick in during afternoon hours and offer real savings
- Seniors and juniors have their own pricing tiers
A full round here costs what a single round runs at some of Houston’s more exclusive clubs. Annual passes exist if you plan to play frequently.
When to Play
The course opens around sunrise in summer, later in winter. Summer mornings are popular – get there early to avoid the worst heat. Spring and fall offer the best overall conditions.
Weekdays are noticeably less crowded than weekends. If you can play Monday through Thursday, you’ll experience a more relaxed pace. Weekends fill up fast, especially in the cooler months between October and April.
Book tee times online in advance. Weekends and holidays require planning ahead – sometimes a week or more.
Facilities
The pro shop covers the basics: balls, gloves, tees, basic equipment. Nothing fancy, but you won’t be stranded if you forget something.
The clubhouse has a small restaurant and bar area. It’s not a destination dining experience, but you can grab a sandwich or a beer after your round.
Practice facilities include a driving range and putting green. Both get the job done for warming up.
Carts are available for rent. In July and August, you’d be crazy not to take one.
Lessons
The course offers instruction through professional golf instructors. Group lessons work well for beginners looking to learn fundamentals without dropping serious cash. Junior programs introduce kids to the game in a low-pressure setting.
Private lessons address specific problems – slice, chunking, putting yips – whatever’s keeping your handicap where it is.
Getting There
Gus Wortham sits inside Gus Wortham Park on the city’s east side. From downtown, it’s a straightforward drive without dealing with the worst of Houston traffic. The course provides ample parking right near the clubhouse.
Booking Tips
Online reservations are the way to go. Weekends book up quickly, so plan ahead. If you have flexibility, weekday afternoons offer the best combination of availability and value.
Call ahead if it’s your first time – staff can answer questions about dress code and course-specific rules.
Course Conditions
Fairways stay in decent shape year-round thanks to Houston’s mild climate. Greens are the highlight – consistently smooth and true. Summer heat stresses the bermudagrass, but the maintenance crew keeps things playable even in August.
Spring and fall typically offer the best overall conditions.
What It’s Like to Play Here
Gus Wortham attracts a mix of regulars who’ve played here for years, newcomers learning the game, and everyone in between. The atmosphere is casual – nobody’s checking your pedigree or your equipment. It’s golf, not a country club.
You’ll see hackers and scratch players sharing the first tee. That’s the beauty of a municipal course.
Many Houstonians learned to play here and now bring their own kids. That kind of generational connection is hard to find at private clubs with their membership requirements and initiation fees.
First-Tip Advice
- Arrive 30 minutes before your tee time
- Dress code is relaxed but still expect collared shirts and proper golf attire – call ahead if unsure
- Keep up with the group ahead – ready golf speeds things up
- Don’t obsess over score – enjoy the round
Bottom Line
Gus Wortham Golf Course delivers exactly what it promises: solid, affordable public golf in Houston without the hassle. It’s not the most challenging track in Texas, but it doesn’t try to be. For regular players, weekend warriors, and anyone wanting to introduce friends or family to golf without spending a fortune, it’s a reliable choice that keeps Houstonians coming back.
