Dreaming of walking the pristine fairways at a professional golf tournament but feeling a bit lost in the ticket options? You’ve likely seen the term Grounds Pass and wondered exactly what it gets you. A grounds pass is your golden ticket to experiencing the thrilling atmosphere of a live tournament, and this guide will explain exactly what it is, how it compares to other tickets, and how you can use it to have an absolutely unforgettable day on the course.
Think of a grounds pass as the general admission ticket for a golf tournament. It’s the most common and typically the most affordable way to get inside the ropes and witness the action live. This pass grants you access to the general spectator areas of the golf course - the “grounds.” You can walk the fairways, stand alongside the greens, and post up by your favorite tee boxes.
However, it’s important to understand what a grounds pass does not include. It won’t get you into private hospitality tents, corporate suites, clubhouse restaurants, or specific seated grandstands unless they are designated as open to the public. Essentially, any exclusive, premium, or catered area is off-limits.
A good way to think about it is like a general ticket to a music festival. You can roam the grounds, see all the different stages from the crowd, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. But that ticket won’t get you into the VIP lounge with the open bar or the special backstage viewing platform. The grounds pass offers you freedom and flexibility, making it the perfect choice for fans who want to explore the course and see a wide variety of players and shots.
The beauty of a grounds pass is the complete freedom it provides. You’re not locked into one seat or one area. You can craft your own unique viewing experience. Here are the three main ways spectators like to use their grounds passes.
Have a favorite golfer you’ve always wanted to see play in person? A grounds pass lets you do just that. You can look up their tee time, meet them at the first hole, and walk all 18 holes right alongside them (staying behind the ropes, of course). This is an incredible way to get an up-close look at their pre-shot routine, hear the interactions with their caddie, and appreciate the unbelievable consistency of their ball-striking.
Coach’s Tip: If you want the best, least-crowded view, consider following a slightly less famous but still fascinating group. The marquee groups with golf’s biggest superstars will draw massive crowds, making it tough to get a spot right on the rope line. By picking a different group, you can often walk right up to the front and get an unobstructed view of every single shot.
Not everyone wants to trek five-plus miles around a hilly golf course. If you prefer a more stationary approach, a grounds pass allows you to find a perfect spot and let the action come to you. This is a fantastic strategy for seeing a large number of players without tiring yourself out. Here are a few of the best places to camp out:
A golf tournament is so much more than just the shots being hit. It's a massive event with its own unique culture. Use your grounds pass to wander around. Visit the sprawling merchandise tent to grab some gear, check out the various sponsor booths (which often have fun activities and freebies), and sample the food and drink from the concession stands. The buzz of the crowd, the collective gasps after a near-miss, and the roars echoing from another part of the course are all part of the magic.
Understanding how a grounds pass compares to other tickets can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your budget and desired experience.
A Clubhouse Pass is a step up. It includes everything the grounds pass offers, plus access to the golf course’s main clubhouse. This is a significant upgrade in terms of comfort. Inside the clubhouse, you’ll typically find air conditioning, proper sit-down restaurants and bars, and cleaner, less-crowded restrooms. If you plan on a long day at a tournament in hot weather, the extra cost for clubhouse access can be well worth it for the amenities and a comfortable place to relax.
These are the premium, top-tier tickets. Often called a "Suite Ticket," "Championship Club," or "Skybox Pass," these are frequently purchased by companies for entertaining clients. This ticket type offers the most luxurious experience. In addition to full grounds access, you get entry into an exclusive, private tent or structure, usually located at a key hole like the 18th green. These hospitality venues almost always include complimentary, high-quality food, a full open bar, private restrooms, and comfortable seating with phenomenal, often elevated, views of the action.
Some tournaments sell specific tickets for access to bleachers, or grandstands, set up around key greens and tee boxes. Think of the 17th hole at THE PLAYERS Championship or the 16th at the WM Phoenix Open. A grounds pass will get you into the area around the grandstand, allowing you to stand and watch. A grandstand ticket, however, guarantees you a physical seat within that structure. This can be a huge bonus on a crowded day, ensuring you have a clear, elevated view over the heads of the standing spectators.
Once you have your grounds pass, a little preparation can turn a good day into a great one. Treat it like a round of golf - a solid plan makes everything go smoother.
A grounds pass provides incredible value and is arguably the most authentic way to experience a professional golf tournament. It offers you the freedom to explore the entire course, watch a huge variety of players hit every conceivable shot, and completely immerse yourself in the unique energy of a live PGA TOUR event.
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