Masters Week Visitor Guide

Make the Most of Your Visit to Augusta

Whether you're attending your first Masters Tournament or returning for another unforgettable week, planning ahead can make all the difference.

This guide will help you choose where to stay, prepare for Masters Week, discover local attractions, and experience more than just the golf tournament.

Quick Facts

📍 Tournament: Augusta National Golf Club

👟 Expect to walk several miles each day.

🚗 Parking at Augusta National is traditionally free.

🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🏨 Book lodging months in advance—many visitors reserve a year ahead.

In This Guide

• First-time Masters visitors

• Returning patrons

• Families traveling to Augusta

• International visitors

• Anyone wanting to experience Augusta beyond the tournament

Who This Guide Is For

• Planning Ahead

• Weather

• Choosing Where to Stay

• Transportation

• What to Bring

• Explore Augusta

• Dining Tips

• Local Advice

Introduction

Every spring, Augusta becomes the center of the golf world.

Visitors travel from across the United States and around the globe to experience Masters Week. But what many people discover is that Augusta itself becomes one of the highlights of their trip.

With ongoing downtown revitalization, growing local businesses, and beautiful outdoor spaces, there has never been a better time to experience the city beyond the tournament.

1. Planning Ahead

One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is how quickly Augusta fills up during Masters Week. Hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and transportation services often begin booking months in advance, and many returning patrons reserve accommodations a full year ahead.

Before You Travel

• Reserve your lodging as soon as your trip is confirmed.

• Make restaurant reservations before arriving.

• Plan your transportation in advance.

• Allow extra travel time throughout the week.

A little planning will make your visit far more enjoyable.

2. Weather During Masters Week

April is one of the most pleasant times of year to visit Augusta. Expect cool mornings, comfortable afternoons, and the possibility of an occasional rain shower.

Pack for Changing Conditions

• Dress in layers.

• Bring a light rain jacket.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

Temperatures can change noticeably between morning tee times and afternoon rounds.

3. Choosing Where to Stay

One of the most common questions visitors ask is, "Where should I stay?" The good news is that you have several excellent options depending on the type of trip you're planning.

West Augusta

If your priority is being as close as possible to Augusta National, West Augusta is the most convenient choice. It offers easy access to the tournament, numerous hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and major highways, making it the most popular area for Masters visitors.

Downtown Augusta

Downtown offers a completely different experience. If you enjoy walkable restaurants, nightlife, historic architecture, live entertainment, and riverfront views, this is an excellent place to stay. With the continued revitalization of Broad Street, downtown continues to become one of Augusta's most vibrant destinations.

North Augusta, South Carolina

Just across the Savannah River, North Augusta provides a quieter atmosphere while remaining only minutes from downtown Augusta and Augusta National. Visitors enjoy SRP Park, Riverside Village, breweries, restaurants, and scenic walking trails.

Evans, Martinez & Grovetown

Don't overlook these neighboring communities. Located about 15–20 minutes from Augusta National (traffic permitting), they offer an excellent selection of hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, shopping, and newer accommodations. During Masters Week, many visitors choose these areas because they provide more lodging options while still being a convenient drive to the tournament. If hotels closer to Augusta National are sold out, these communities are excellent alternatives.

4. Transportation Tips

Traffic is simply part of the Masters experience. The busiest areas are typically Washington Road, Berckmans Road, and Alexander Drive.

Tips for a Smoother Experience

• Leave earlier than your GPS suggests.

• Use navigation apps for live traffic updates.

• Have alternate routes in mind.

• Plan meals near your destination rather than driving back and forth.

• Arrive early if you plan to park at Augusta National.

Patience goes a long way during Masters Week.

5. What to Bring

Comfort is key. You'll likely spend several hours on your feet each day.

Recommended Items

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Hat

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Light rain jacket

• Portable phone charger

• Folding chair (when permitted)

If experienced patrons agree on one thing, it's this: don't underestimate how much walking you'll do

6. Explore More Than the Tournament

Many visitors come for the Masters but leave talking about Augusta itself. The city offers beautiful outdoor spaces, local culture, and a growing downtown worth exploring.

Local Favorites

Augusta Riverwalk
Walk along the Savannah River, enjoy public art, and take in some of the city's best views.

Augusta Market at the River (Saturdays)
Browse local vendors, handmade goods, specialty foods, and community events.

Augusta Canal & Savannah Rapids
Perfect for walking, biking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

North Augusta Greeneway
Miles of paved trails through beautiful natural areas make this one of the region's favorite outdoor destinations.

7. Dining During Masters Week

Masters Week is one of the busiest dining weeks of the year.

To make the most of your experience:

• Reserve restaurants early.

• Expect longer wait times.

• Try locally owned restaurants.

• Explore Downtown Augusta and North Augusta—not just Washington Road.

You'll often find some of the area's best meals just a few minutes away from the tournament crowds.

The Arich Team Tip

The first time people visit Augusta, they focus on the tournament.

The second time, they spend more time exploring the city.

Take time to discover our parks, restaurants, local businesses, and riverfront. Many visitors are surprised by how much they enjoy Augusta itself.

Common Mistake

Trying to do everything at Augusta National.

Leave yourself an evening to explore downtown, have dinner at a local restaurant, or enjoy a walk along the Riverwalk. Those experiences often become some of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Frequently asked questions

How early should I book my hotel?
As soon as your trip is confirmed. Many visitors reserve accommodations months—or even a year—in advance.

Is parking available at Augusta National?
Parking is traditionally free, but arriving early is recommended.

Should I stay outside Augusta?
Absolutely. Evans, Martinez, Grovetown, and North Augusta are all convenient options and are popular with returning visitors.

What's the most important thing to pack?
Comfortable walking shoes. You'll likely spend hours on your feet.

Related Guides

Best Neighborhoods in the CSRA

Downtown Augusta Guide

North Augusta Guide

Moving to Augusta: The Complete Guide

Things to Do in Augusta

Want a printable version? Download our Masters Week Visitor Guide to take with you while planning your trip or exploring the CSRA.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Sometimes a visit to Augusta turns into something more.

You may be relocating, considering an investment property, planning a future move, or simply curious about what it would be like to live in the CSRA. The Arich Team can help you understand the area, compare communities, and explore your options with no pressure.

Planning a move to Augusta?
Explore our relocation resources or contact us for local guidance.

📞 Ari Saladin: 808-594-7918

📞 Richard de los Santos: 386-333-4795

📧 Ari@Arich.us

📧 Richard@Arich.us

🌐 www.Arich.us

Serving Georgia & South Carolina | English • Español • Português

About the Authors

The Arich Team

The Arich Team is a veteran-led, trilingual real estate team serving Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Grovetown, North Augusta, Aiken, and the surrounding CSRA.

As local real estate professionals and longtime members of the community, Ari Saladin and Richard de los Santos help families buy, sell, relocate, and invest throughout Georgia and South Carolina.

They created this guide to help Masters visitors enjoy more than the tournament and experience the communities, local businesses, and Southern hospitality that make the Augusta area special.

Veteran-Led. Family-Focused. Helping Families Build Wealth Through Real Estate.

Contact Us

📧 TheArichTeam@Arich.us

📞 Ari: (808) 594-7918

📞 Richard: (386) 333-4795

📍 Serving Augusta, Evans, Grovetown, Martinez, Hephzibah, North Augusta, Aiken & the CSRA

🌎 Serving clients in English, Español & Português

Proudly serving buyers, sellers, military families, and investors throughout Augusta, Evans, Grovetown, Martinez, Hephzibah, Harlem, North Augusta, Aiken, and the greater CSRA.

Helping Families Build Wealth Through Real Estate.