N
ow this is true Southern hospitality. We’re talking super cheap ($3 for a beer) prices and every item is Masters-branded and for that reason alone it tastes 10 times better... Regardless of what you get, be sure to snag a famous Pimento Cheese Sandwich. It’ll set you back a whopping $1.50.
2. CHECK OUT THE SPOT ON 13 WHERE PHIL HIT HIS INFAMOUS SHOT BETWEEN THE PINES IN 2010
Last year while I was standing there, one of the marshals walked over, took a ball out of his pocket and placed it in the pine straw exactly where Phil’s ball landed. It’s a pretty incredible perspective from one of the most iconic moments in Masters history (he even gave amazing insight about the shot on Callaway Live).
3. SAVE MONEY FOR THE MERCH TENT (YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU DID)
From pullovers to Magnolia Lane-scented candles to swim trunks and dog bowls, there’s something at the merchandise tent for everyone. And if you go a little crazy, don’t worry…you can unload everything at one of the shipping stations located just outside the exit. (Seriously, they thought of everything!)
And if you’re lucky enough to know a member or someone who can get into the Augusta National Pro Shop, have them snag you something with the “Members Logo” on it. Roger Cleveland graciously offered to get me this lid last year.
4. STOP & SMELL THE AZALEAS
Or just stare at them.
5. ORDER A “STAND 12” DRINK (OR FOUR)
This glorious concoction can only be found behind the tee box on 12. It’s a mix of pink lemonade, blue sports drink and Sprite. Half pink, half blue and 100% delicious. I call it the Nectar of the Gods but when you get there you’ll ask for the Stand 12. And if you can, ask for Tara to make you one. After all, she invented it:
6. WATCH PLAYERS SKIP BALLS ACROSS THE POND ON 16 DURING PRACTICE ROUNDS
It’s one of Augusta’s greatest traditions, which is why it’s imperative to get there for a practice round. And if you see our friend Freddy the Turtle, tell him we said hello.
7. CAMP OUT AT AMEN CORNER FOR A FEW HOURS/DAYS
This is obviously one of the best places in the entire universe to be if you’re a golfer. It’s almost an out-of-body experience when you first catch a glimpse of the 12th green. You can see the players hit their approach shots at 11, play the iconic par-3 12th and hit their tee shots on 13.
8. CATCH SOME SHADE UNDERNEATH THE BIG OAK TREE
Located right behind the first tee box, the Big Oak is famous for being the spot where reporters interview players after their rounds.
9. ASK A STRANGER TO TAKE A PHOTO OF YOUR GROUP
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Don’t feel bad asking someone to take your photo. I know these guys were happy they asked me to take this shot of them at #12! (Listen, worst comes to worst you can always take a selfie…but don’t tell anyone I told you that.)
10. IF YOU CAN SCORE A BERCKMANS PASS…GOOOOOOOOOO!
Berckmans Place is a giant hospitality facility located along the 5th fairway. Badges aren’t easy to come by but if you get the opportunity, DO NOT pass it up. The 90,000 square foot facility is only open one week out of the year (!!) and features three restaurants where you can eat or drink as much as you want for free. But what makes the experience unforgettable are the three replica putting greens of the 7th, 14th and 16th holes for patrons to putt on.
11. LAST BUT NOT LEAST, SAVE YOUR PLASTIC CUPS
As you know by now, all drinks come in these really cool plastic Masters cups and there’s nothing better than taking a giant stack of them home with you to remind yourself and everyone that comes over that you went to the Masters. (My addiction to their so-thick-you-can-stand-a-spoon-in-it Sweet Tea is the reason for my extensive collection.)
Just wanted to say that I've renewed my membership with Soulcare and it is worth it!