The 2019 Masters is only just fading from public attention. The tournament always attracts quite a spotlight, but this year’s event was particularly special: Golf fans in Augusta and around the world were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle as Tiger Woods claimed the championship to become golf’s greatest star once more. We simply don’t see things like this in sports or pop culture in general very often, and it’s something many will never forget.
Even if the 2019 Masters was unique, the tournament is still consistently among the best destination events in the American South. Those who are looking for getaways specifically to play golf may want to look elsewhere. But for a relaxing trip, beautiful surroundings, happy crowds, and a few days of pure fun, The Masters is a good idea year in and year out.
For that reason, we wanted to provide some general tips for those traveling there.
Go Early
One of the most common recommendations you’ll find for attending The Masters is to go early. That doesn’t mean you should arrive at the course early for the first day of the tournament (always a Thursday), but rather that you should be in Augusta a few days early, if possible. The point is to attend the practice rounds, which some swear they enjoy more than the tournament itself. The crowds are smaller, past and present stars are more visible, and it’s easier (and cheaper) to access and walk along the course. Nothing really beats the tournament, but there’s something charming about enjoying a day or two in advance.
Consider Where to Stay
Renting a place to stay for The Masters is actually simpler than you might expect, provided you look into it well in advance. The easiest options are the standard, chain hotels and inns in and around Augusta, as well as Airbnb properties you can find online. However, there are also some more unique hotels—the Partridge Inn and the River Walk Marriott, namely—that can give you cozier and more authentic accommodations, and enhance the trip.
Place a Bet on the Action
Betting in the United States is a bit of a grey area in that it’s legal in some states, illegal in others, and somewhere in between in a few. This is just to say you should be careful about the idea. However, many enjoy betting on The Masters, and some would swear it can enhance the fun. So if you have a more competitive side, you might want to look into your options. There are some betting-like activities, like daily fantasy sports, that you can try instead. There are also UK sites offering free bets that you may or may not be able to access where you are. And in the meantime, betting legislation is advancing through much of the country. Just keep in mind that as long as you’re responsible about it, The Masters can be even more fun if you have a stake in it.
Plan For a Few Drinks
Again, it’s important to be responsible here. But food and drink are part of the tradition at The Masters, and as much attention as pimento cheese sandwiches may get, it’s some of the cocktails that really steal the show. The John Daly is a hit, for instance (it’s a vodka-infused Arnold Palmer), and the Azalea is the event’s signature cocktail that really can’t be missed (vodka, grenadine, and lemonade). There’s also beer, and of course there are non-alcoholic beverages, but if interested you should plan on a few drinks here and there as you enjoy the weather and take in the golf.
Play Golf if You Can!
As a quick final note, do try to play golf if you can! We noted that attending The Masters isn’t explicitly about playing golf, and you certainly can’t play the Augusta National course. However, being around the tournament is sure to give you the itch, if you like to golf, and there are some courses in the surrounding area you can enjoy. You might consider hanging around to play the day after the tournament ends, or simply sacrificing a morning of viewership to get in some swings yourself. Whichever way you do it, it’s a nice way to round out the trip!
