The Superior First-Timer’s Guide to Attending the Masters
Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Visit in 2027
The Masters is arguably the most well-known and beloved golf event on the PGA Tour, and for good reason. From its stately, manicured greens and prestigious clubhouse to its time-honored traditions, there is so much to learn, explore, and love about this tournament. The 2027 Masters Tournament is scheduled for approximately April 7‑10, 2027, at Augusta National Golf Club, with Masters Week beginning on Monday, April 7. Attending the Masters is an experience you won’t soon forget, but it can be a lot to take in if this is your first time in Augusta.
Planning your first trip to the Masters? Contact our team to explore VIP hospitality packages for the 2027 tournament. For a detailed breakdown of what to wear, see our what to wear to the Masters dress code guide.
Whether you’re traveling with our Superior team or on your own, here are our top tips for first-time attendees to make the most of your trip to Augusta.
What Are the Masters Phone and Camera Rules?
This may come as a surprise to first-time Masters attendees, but cell phones, pagers, and cameras are strictly forbidden on tournament days. Penalties for violating this rule are severe: you’ll be removed and banned from the grounds. That’s not an ideal way to experience the Masters for the first time. We recommend leaving your phone in your hotel or home rental so there’s no chance of accidental mistakes. Practice rounds allow phones on-site but do not permit data or internet use. For a complete breakdown of what to expect, see our guide to getting Masters tickets.
Where to Park and How to Get to Augusta National
Parking at Augusta National is limited and requires a purchased parking pass (included in most patron packages). The primary public lots are located off Washington Road and Wheeler Road, a short walk from the main entrance. Many first-timers opt for shuttle service from downtown Augusta hotels, which is a simpler option that eliminates parking stress. If you are attending with Superior Executive Services, ground transportation coordination is included in your package. For those driving independently, arrive early: tournament lots fill before 8:00 AM on competition rounds. Verify current lot locations and shuttle routes at the official Masters website before your trip, as details can change season to season.
What’s on the Masters Prohibited Items List?
Augusta National’s prohibited items policy is strict. First-timers should review this list carefully before arriving. Always cross-reference the official Masters patron information page for the most current rules.
Prohibited:
- Cell phones, smartphones, and pagers (tournament days; practice rounds allow phones without data or internet use)
- Cameras with detachable lenses
- Tablets and laptops
- Alcohol from outside the grounds
- Selfie sticks
- Backpacks or bags larger than 6″ x 6″ x 6″
- Drones
- Outside food beyond a small snack
Permitted:
- Folding chairs (stored in the chair zones; never move another patron’s chair)
- Small clutch bags and clear totes within size limits
- Periscopes (to see over crowds on par-3 holes)
- Binoculars
- Rain ponchos
- Small snacks
Take a Photo in Front of the Clubhouse
The exception to the cell phone rule: you can take a picture in front of the clubhouse, by the Augusta flag flowerbed. This is one of the only spots where you’ll be able to capture a photo memory of your time at the Masters, so make sure you grab one. Masters personnel will take your photograph with their devices, and you’ll be able to access it later.
Try the Famous Pimento Cheese Sandwiches
Even with your luxury VIP hospitality badge, if you’re a die-hard Masters fan, you may want to head down to the general course concessions for a pimento cheese sandwich. These are as classic as the green jackets themselves, and sticking with tradition, they’re still famously affordable. The rest of the time, you’ll have access to Club Magnolia, which hosts the best luxury food and beverage options on the grounds. Make sure to explore these chef-curated meal options.
What Should First-Timers Wear to the Masters?
A day at the Masters can be a long one, and you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. Dress comfortably but nicely, and make sure you bring shoes that can handle some walking as you meander around the grounds and course. There is a lot to explore, and the steps add up quickly. For more detail on attire, see our Masters dress code guide. For more packing tips, check out our guide to packing for a golf tournament.
Browse our 2027 Masters VIP hospitality packages and reserve your spot at Augusta National.
The Best Viewing Spots on the Course
For first-timers, choosing where to watch on the course is as important as everything else. Amen Corner (holes 11, 12, and 13) is the most iconic stretch in golf and always worth at least one visit. Arrive early if you want a seat in the stand behind the 12th green. The par-3 16th is another fan favorite, known for the crowd energy when players take the Sunday pin position. If you prefer a quieter, elevated vantage point, the hill above the 17th fairway offers a panoramic view of the finishing stretch. VIP hospitality badge holders with Club Magnolia access can rotate between the course and the clubhouse terrace, which offers a partial view of the 18th green, one of the best vantage points on the property.
Don’t Run or Move Chairs
Another key Masters rule: never run, and never move others’ chairs, even if no one is sitting in them. It’s a time-honored tradition that is observed carefully. If you’re sitting in the clubhouse or designated seating, this may not impact your visit, but it’s crucial to be civil, courteous, and observe the traditions of Augusta National.
What to Bring for Comfort
When attending the Masters for the first time (or any visit to Augusta), bringing a few key items for comfort can really elevate your experience. Sunscreen is a must to prevent painful sunburns. You may also want to bring a hat, visor, or sunglasses to keep the sun off your face. Binoculars are another great idea so you can see action on multiple holes without having to walk around. A light rain poncho and a folding chair are also worth packing. For a full packing list, see our guide to packing for a golf tournament.
2027 Masters Week Schedule
- Monday, April 7: Players arrive at Augusta National
- Tuesday, April 8: Practice rounds and Masters Champions dinner
- Wednesday, April 9: Practice rounds and Par-3 Contest
- Thursday, April 10: First round
- Friday, April 11: Second round
- Saturday, April 12: Third round (Moving Day)
- Sunday, April 13: Final round and green jacket ceremony
Note: The 2027 Masters schedule is approximate. Confirm dates at the official Masters website before finalizing your travel plans.
Keys to Attending the Masters
When you’re at Augusta National, it comes down to being respectful, honoring the traditions, and having a great time watching the most famous golf event in the world. Want to make the most of your corporate outing? Read our guide on how to host clients at the Masters for VIP entertainment tips. For more pre-trip reading, check out our ultimate Masters Tournament guide covering VIP experiences and travel tips, or our guide to all-inclusive Masters packages for business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cell phones allowed at the Masters?
No. Cell phones, pagers, and cameras are strictly forbidden on tournament days at Augusta National. Penalties for violating this rule are severe, and you could be removed and banned from the grounds. Leave your phone in your hotel or home rental to avoid accidental mistakes. During practice rounds, phones are permitted on site but internet and data use are not allowed.
What should I wear to the Masters?
Wear comfortable but nice clothing. Dress in smart casual attire appropriate for the venue. Bring comfortable shoes that can handle significant walking around the course and grounds. Consider bringing sunscreen, a hat or visor, and sunglasses for sun protection. For a full guide, see our Masters dress code guide.
How much does food cost at the Masters?
Food at the Masters is famously affordable. A classic pimento cheese sandwich costs about $1.50 in the general admission concessions. VIP hospitality badge holders also have access to Club Magnolia, which offers chef-curated luxury dining options.
Can I move chairs at the Masters?
No. A key Masters tradition is to never move other people’s chairs, even if no one is sitting in them. This is an Augusta National tradition that is observed carefully by all attendees.
What is the 2027 Masters Week schedule?
The 2027 Masters is scheduled for approximately April 7‑10, 2027, at Augusta National Golf Club. Confirm the exact schedule at the official Masters website or contact Superior Executive Services for VIP hospitality package options.
