A Dream Trip to the Masters - How to Apply, Get Selected, and Plan Your Visit to Augusta National
Every April, golf fans across the globe turn their eyes to Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters Tournament — one of the most revered events in all of sports. For many, attending the Masters is a bucket-list experience, and while scoring a ticket can be tough, it’s absolutely possible with the right strategy, a little luck, and smart planning. Here’s how to make your dream trip to Augusta a reality.
Step 1: Understanding the Ticket Types
There are three main ways to attend the Masters:
- Practice Rounds (Monday–Wednesday)
Tickets are easier to get and more affordable. The atmosphere is relaxed, cameras are allowed (only on Monday through Wednesday), and you can watch players up close as they prepare. - Tournament Days (Thursday–Sunday)
These are the official rounds of the Masters. Tickets are scarce, as many are held by patrons who renew them yearly. But there’s still a chance to get them through the lottery or secondary markets. - Par 3 Contest (Wednesday)
A fan favorite and great way to see legends of the game, family members, and scenic views. It’s included with Wednesday practice round tickets.
Step 2: Applying Through the Ticket Lottery
Your best bet for getting tickets is directly through the official Masters lottery.
- When to Apply:
The lottery opens each year around June 1st and closes typically by mid-June. Applications are free at tickets.masters.com. - What You Can Apply For:
You can request tickets for practice rounds, tournament rounds, or both. You’ll be notified by email in mid-July if you’ve been selected. - Odds of Winning:
Practice round tickets are easier to win. Tournament days are extremely limited, but each year thousands of first-timers do win.
Pro Tip: Every adult in your household can apply separately to increase your odds.
Step 3: Planning Your Trip to Augusta
If you get the golden email or secure tickets another way, it’s time to plan. Here’s what to consider:
1. Book Early
Hotels and rentals in Augusta fill up months in advance. Consider staying in:
- Downtown Augusta for convenience.
- Aiken, South Carolina (30 minutes away) for a quieter stay.
- Columbia, GA or Atlanta if you don’t mind a long drive.
2. Transportation
- Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) is the closest.
- Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) is a 2.5-hour drive and offers more flights.
- Rideshares like Uber/Lyft operate, but surge pricing is common. Many opt to drive and use nearby parking or walk from local lots.
3. What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk a lot).
- A collapsible chair for staking out a spot.
- Sunscreen and a Masters hat (buy it there — the merchandise is exclusive and makes great souvenirs).
- Clear bag (per Augusta’s strict rules).
- Note: No phones or cameras are allowed on tournament days. Plan accordingly.
Step 4: Making the Most of It
- Arrive Early: Gates open at 7 a.m. — get there to see the course in morning light and beat the lines at the pro shop.
- Follow a Group or Camp a Hole: Walking the whole course is worth it, but finding a shady spot near Amen Corner or 16 can be magical.
- Don’t Skip the Food: The iconic pimento cheese or egg salad sandwiches are $1.50 — a Masters tradition.
- Explore the Course: Augusta National’s elevation changes, azalea blooms, and pristine conditions are even more stunning in person.
Final Thoughts
Attending the Masters is a rare blend of sports pilgrimage, Southern charm, and timeless tradition. Whether you score a ticket through the lottery or splurge on a package, the experience is unforgettable. Just start planning early, respect the club’s rules, and soak in every second — because walking through those gates truly feels like stepping into a dream.