All the action in Augusta, Georgia during Masters Week is not inside the ropes.
The city comes alive during the week and there are some activities I recommend when you’re not roaming the carpet-like fairways at Augusta National. Even if you’re one of the unlucky ones who can’t even scrounge up a ticket even for a practice round, you can still immerse yourself in all the frivolity and fun that is Masters Week.
Here are some great things to do:
See and Be Seen
Enjoy Steaks and Frosty Brews at TBonz Steakhouse–It’s a popular hangout for players, caddies and golf industry types during Masters Week. The “Godfather of Soul”, James Brown, loved TBonz and there’s all sorts of J.B. memorabilia around the restaurant. Menu highlights include hand cut steaks (try the Drunken Ribeye with Kentucky Bourbon Sauce or the Black & Bleu Filet topped with broiled bleu cheese crust). The ribs and chicken are pretty darn good, too.
Join the JD Party
Visit with John Daly in front of Hooters–It’s a tradition unlike any other. Every year during Masters Week, John Daly parks his luxury RV in front of the Augusta Hooters on Washington Road. J.D. hasn’t played in the Masters since 2006, but he still comes to Augusta every year to hawk everything from t-shirts and head covers to hats and towels. He stands in front of his bus, usually smoking a heater, and chats with fans while he makes sales. If you buy something, large or small, Daly happily takes a picture with you that’s worthy of any Instagram or Facebook post.
Legendary Local Favorite Restaurants
Dine With the Locals–Two of the most popular local restaurants are The Boll Weevil Cafe near the Riverwalk, where shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, pasta creole and homemade desserts are the draw and Luigi’s, a mainstay since 1949 and Ben Crenshaw favorite, which has to-die-for Lasagne and it’s legendary Toasted Ravioli with Meat Sauce. Other options include, Cafe 209 for authentic Southern cuisine and Southbound Smokehouse, for BBQ and live music.
Rock Out Dudes & Dudettes
The 20th annual Rock Fore! Dough (Tuesday, April 9, 2024) is an awesome celebration of golf and music. This year’s musical line-up includs Cole Swindell, Randy Houser, Tyler Reeve, Black Dawg and DJ Rock. The concert supports the First Tee initiative so you’re supporting a great cause while listening to some fab tunes.
Funny Feherty
Golf’s funnyman and witty Irish philosopher performs his one-man show, David Feherty Live Off Tour in Augusta at 7:30 p.m. on April 10, 2024 at the Imperial Theater.
