If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a ticket to The Masters, congratulations. Its an honor to be part of the action at Augusta National and its a lot of fun to plan your visit to golf’s most prestigious event. While the Masters website is a great resource, we also have put together our list of must-do’s while attending the event.
To start, I’ll begin by saying that Augusta National spares no expense in making the fan experience first class. From free parking to large entrances, cheap concessions, and reasonably priced merchandise, its hard to leave the Masters feeling disappointed. That being said, there are still a number of things you can do as a patron to further enhance your experience. Each year we found new ways to enjoy our day watching the action at golf’s most famous venue. Here are our takeaways
- See the whole course, in addition to Amen Corner
A lot of patrons make a V-line to Amen Corner. Obviously, you have to spend time there but I recommend getting the lay of the course before experiencing Amen Corner. Walking down No. 1 and 2 lands you right in the middle of the course, and gives you a great feel for the front nine layout. Behind the 2nd green you can see holes 2, 3, 7, and 9. I’d do this at a minimum and then make your way over to Amen corner by crossing over No. 14 and 15 fairways on the way. Then park it at 12 green for a while and soak in the beauty. - Get your picture at the Founders Circle
I attended the Masters twice before I figured out that you can get your photo taken for free in the Founders Circle, and get a first hand look at Magnolia Lane and the entrance to the Clubhouse at the same time. The line moves quickly and the experience is absolutely amazing. Tip: Hop in line to the left of the putting green near the par-3 course. - Walk down the 10th hole and stand behind 11 tee
It’s amazing how steep the downhill slope is from No. 10 tee down to the green. TV doesn’t do it justice. The green is an amazing site, one of the most beautiful sights on the course. Standing behind the 11th tee puts into perspective just how hard the hole is. TV Coverage shows a lot of the approach but the tee shot is no picnic either. - Purchase a Masters chair, and place it where you’d like to watch play
Not only are the chairs a great souvenir, but they can be strategic for viewing play, especially during tournament rounds. Once you place your chair, you can still stroll around the course and nobody will bother it. Place your name or business card in the name tag slot and you’re good to go. Best holes to watch outside of Amen corner are 9 and 18 green. - Make the trek to the 5th Green
One of the furthest points from the clubhouse is the 5th green, but it’s one of the most amazing green complexes on the whole course. Not only that but you’ll have great views of the 6th and 16th holes. If you’re lucky enough to have Berkman’s Place tickets, you’ll get to know this area well. - Hit the merchandise tent later in the day
A common mistake (I’ve made it) is to load up on merchandise first thing in the morning. While there are stations where you can ship your merchandise home rather than tote it around all day, you’ll find yourself battling the biggest crowds in the morning. Enjoy the course and then hit the merchandise when you’re heading out. Tip: There are smaller merchandise tents throughout the grounds in addition to the main store near the first tee. - Have a Pimento Cheese sandwich and a beer
The $4 beers include a complementary souvenir cup and nothing says Augusta National like a Pimento Cheese sandwich. Not only are the concessions cheap but the lines are rarely backed up. You can’t go wrong with any of the options. You can actually have everything on the menu for under $60! - If you attend a practice round, cameras are allowed
While cell phones are strictly prohibited all days, practice round days do allow the use of a digital camera. We’ve attended on Wednesday and have taken some great photos of past champions at the par-3 contest. (One thing to note is you can check your cell phone, valuables at the gate free of charge). - Enjoy the beauty of Augusta National and bask in the feeling of the greatest golf tournament on earth
The feeling of stepping foot onto the grounds of Augusta National is truly amazing. The entire experience is surreal and no matter which way you decide to spend your day, you can’t go wrong. Take it slow, and soak in every second!
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our annual Masters Preview, for a unique look into this years Masters in addition to our picks to win. Here are a few of our photos from our trips to The Masters:
