One of the great things about the Masters golf tournament is that, to a large degree, your money is no good there. The tournament keeps prices at historically low levels: This year, a badge for weeklong entrance runs a mere $325, about what you would pay for decent seats to watch one game of the worst team in the NBA. The pimento cheese sandwiches on site are $1.50. Supersize with chips and a beer, and you’re still at only $4.
And though the best spot to stay is in one of the 10 cabins on the grounds, unless your surname is Nicklaus or Nantz, it does not matter how much cash you wave—you’re out of luck. There’s something charming about old-fashioned, old-money connections as the true currency at a golf club.
The quaint vibe extends to the city of Augusta, a quiet Georgia city of 200,000 people. The most authentic spots range from the caddy hangout Tbonz Steakhouse to Raes Coastal Café, an unassuming shack that serves jerk wings and Red Stripe on the famous creek that runs in from the 12th and 13th greens.
But like all well-publicized events involving star athletes and big brands, there’s another, lesser-known side to the Masters. In terms of price, they aren’t on the pimento-sandwich-and-a-beer and of the spectrum.
Here’s how to do the Masters, a “tradition like any other,” the other way.
Where to Stay
The hotel market in Augusta is populated by DoubleTrees, Sheratons, and Marriotts, though a few plantation-style bed-and-breakfasts such as the Partridge Inn have that shabby chic, baby-grand character. Over in Aiken, a 30-minute drive from Augusta National, the Wilcox Hotel has 22 rooms that come with ornamental fireplaces, four-poster beds, hand-stitched pillows, and marble baths.
If you want to emulate the pro golfers, though, and set up camp for the entire week to catch the practice rounds on Monday and Tuesday before the tournament officially starts, rent a private home and hire a chef and a cleaning service to give it that five-star vibe. It’s an especially good option for those who have waves of friends coming on different days; it becomes cost-efficient by spreading the amenities among multiple people.
Look around in Westlake, a gated community about 15 minutes from Augusta. Its country club golf course is a popular place to swing the clubs at any time of the year. Elsewhere, Conifer Place and Barrington offer good value, depending on whether you need a seven-bed, seven-bathroom house—so it feels like a mini-hotel with everyone’s own private area—or a kitchen and dining room area big enough to support a chef and entertainment area.
These home rentals can range from $15,000 to $65,000 for a week, plus housekeeping and catering expenses.
Estimate: $50,000