Watching professional golf in person is an entirely different game than what you see on TV, offering a chance to see the best players on earth up close. To get the most out of the experience, however, a little preparation goes a long way. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from buying your tickets and packing your bag to navigating the course and understanding spectator etiquette like a seasoned veteran.
Success on the golf course starts long before the first swing, and the same is true for attending a tournament. A bit of planning will make your day smoother, more comfortable, and a lot more fun.
Not all tournament days are created equal. The energy and accessibility change drastically from Thursday to Sunday.
When buying tickets, always purchase from the official tournament website or a verified partner. Avoid third-party scalpers to prevent issues at the gate. Pro tip: Buy your parking pass at the same time you buy your ticket. It saves time and guarantees you a spot, as lots often sell out.
You’re going to be on your feet and walking - a lot. A typical day can involve three to five miles of walking, often over hilly and uneven terrain. This isn't the time to break in new shoes.
Most tournaments have a small-bag policy (typically something like 6" x 6" or a clear bag of a specific size), so check the event’s specific guidelines before you go. Here’s what you should prioritize:
What not to bring? Leave coolers, large bags, chairs (unless foldable and specifically permitted), and personal cameras (on competition days) at home. Always double-check your event's prohibited items list.
Once you’re through the gates with your map in hand, you have a decision to make. How do you want to experience the day? There are generally two effective strategies for watching golf.
This strategy involves picking a good spot and letting the action come to you. You find a comfortable and strategic place, set up your (permitted) foldable chair or settle onto a grassy hill, and watch every group play through the same hole. It’s a less strenuous way to enjoy the tournament and gives you a fantastic perspective on how different pros tackle the same challenge.
Excellent "Camping" Spots:
This approach is more active. You pick a favorite player or an interesting group and walk the course right along with them. This is an exciting way to feel like you're part of the action, getting an inside-the-ropes sense of the round's rhythm, the player-caddie conversations, and the emotional ups and downs.
Tips for "Following":
Many people find a hybrid approach works best. You might "camp" for the first few hours in the morning and then "follow" a group as they make their way down the home stretch in the afternoon.
Knowing how to act on the course makes the experience better for you, the players, and everyone around you. Most rules are common sense, but a few are specific to golf.
This is the most important rule. When a player is addressing the ball to hit their shot - whether on the tee, in the fairway, or on the green - you must stop moving and be silent. Course marshals will often raise "Quiet Please" signs as a signal. Once the ball is in the air, you can relax, talk, and move again.
Keep a casual pace. Running is distracting and can be dangerous on crowded, uneven ground. There’s no rush, the next shot will still be there.
The ropes are there for a reason - to give players space to compete. Stay behind them at all times. Use designated crosswalks to cross the fairway, and only do so when a marshal signals that it’s safe. Never walk through a bunker or on a tee box or green.
Your phone should be on silent or vibrate mode the *entire* time you are on the grounds. Nothing breaks the intense quiet of a backswing like a phone ringing. Policies on photos and videos vary. Generally, photos (no flash) are only allowed on practice days. Taking videos during tournament rounds is almost always prohibited. Check the specific rules for your event before you go.
Never ask a player for an autograph in the middle of their round. The best time is after they've finished playing. A good spot is near the "scoring" area where players turn in their scorecards or along the rope lines leading to the clubhouse or player parking lot.
Attending a professional golf tournament is an amazing way to appreciate the skill of the world's best players. By planning your day, packing smart, and being mindful of etiquette, you'll be set up for a comfortable and memorable experience, whether you’re following your favorite pro or soaking up the sun at a scenic par-3.
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