Walking the hallowed grounds of Augusta National is a bucket-list dream for just about any golfer, but the question that quickly follows that dream is What does it actually cost? Answering that isn't as simple as quoting a single number because the pilgrimage to the Masters can be done in many different ways, from a relatively strategic strike mission to an all-out, once-in-a-lifetime splurge. This guide will break down every potential expense, from securing that mythical ticket to the price of a pimento cheese sandwich, so you can build a realistic budget for your trip of a lifetime.
The single biggest hurdle and most significant cost variable for any Masters trip is the ticket, or "badge," itself. Unlike other major sporting events, you can't just hop online and buy one at face value. Access is tightly controlled, leaving you with three primary avenues, each with a vastly different price point and probability of success.
This is the holy grail. Each year, Augusta National opens a lottery on its official website, Masters.com, typically from early June to late June. Anyone can create an account and apply for free. You can apply for Practice Round tickets (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday) and a maximum of one Tournament Round (Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday).
For the 99.9% of us who don't win the lottery, the secondary market is the go-to option. This is where ticket brokers and individuals who do have tickets resell them on sites like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats. Prices here fluctuate based on the day, the weather forecast, and who's in contention, but here's a general cost breakdown:
Pro Tip: When buying on the secondary market, use a reputable broker that offers a guarantee. Ticket fraud is a real concern, so the peace of mind is worth it. Prices can sometimes drop slightly right before the event, but they can also spike, so it's a gamble waiting.
If you're looking for a turnkey, first-class experience, a hospitality package is the way to go. Dozens of companies build packages that bundle your Masters badge with access to an exclusive off-site lounge. These lounges provide unlimited gourmet food, top-shelf open bars, comfortable seating, large-screen TVs to watch the coverage, and private transportation to and from the course entrance.
Costs vary widely, but expect a single-day package to start around $4,500 for a Thursday round and go upwards of $8,000+ for Sunday. Augusta National also has its own ultra-exclusive on-site hospitality venue, Berckmans Place, but gaining access to that is an entirely different level of commitment and cost.
Once you’ve sorted your ticket, you need to get to Augusta and find a place to sleep. During Masters week, this sleepy Georgia town becomes one of the most expensive places on the planet.
You have a few options for air travel. The key is to weigh the convenience against the cost.
Don't forget to factor in a car rental, which will also have elevated "special event" pricing, likely running you $100 to $200 per day.
This will be your second-largest expense after your ticket. A normal $120/night hotel room in Augusta can easily fetch $700+ per night during Masters week. Here’s how to approach it:
Here’s the good news! Once you are through those famous gates, things become surprisingly affordable. It’s part of the tradition and charm of the event.
Augusta National resists modern stadium pricing. The food is a throwback to a simpler time, and your wallet will thank you. Here’s a sample of an experience you can’t get anywhere else:
You can genuinely eat and drink to your heart's content all day long for under $50 per person.
The one place you can do some serious financial damage is in the merchandise shop. This is the only place on Earth to buy official Masters merchandise, creating a shopping frenzy unlike any other. You will see people buying mountains of polos, hats, and pin flags for everyone they know. Prices are what you'd expect from a high-end pro shop: Polos run $80-$100, hats are $30-$40, and iconic Masters green folding chairs are around $35. It's smart to set a budget before you enter the tent, but plan on spending at least a couple hundred dollars to get your iconic keepsakes.
So what's the magic number? Let's build a few potential trip scenarios.
Attending the Masters is an investment, but it doesn't have to require a second mortgage. With smart planning - like applying to the lottery, staying outside Augusta, and focusing on a single practice round day - you can experience the magic for a cost comparable to other major sports championships. It is, without a doubt, a trip every single golfer should try to make at least once.
When you walk those grounds and watch the best players in the world strategize their way around Amen Corner, it gives you a new appreciation for course management. We wanted to bring that same pro-level thinking to your game. When you’re faced with a tough decision on your home course, instead of guessing, you can use Caddie AI to get an instant strategy recommendation. You can even take a photo of a tricky lie in the rough and get simple, clear advice on the best way to play it, helping you make smarter choices and play with more confidence, just like the pros do at Augusta.
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