Your Local’s Guide to Masters Week in Augusta, GA: What to Do, What to Avoid, and How to Enjoy It

Every spring, Augusta transforms during The Masters Tournament—and if you’re a local, you already know: it’s exciting… but it can also be overwhelming.

If you're staying in the Augusta or Evans area during Masters Week, this guide will help you enjoy the energy without getting stuck in the chaos. Let’s walk through the best local strategies to make the most of it.

🌿 Why Masters Week Feels So Different in Augusta

Masters Week isn’t just a golf tournament—it’s a full economic and cultural takeover of the Augusta area.

• Traffic increases dramatically
• Restaurants are packed all day
• Short-term rentals and hotels fill months in advance
• Prices go up across the board

But here’s the good news: locals who plan smartly can still have an incredible week.

✅ What Locals Should Do During Masters Week

1. Explore Hidden Gems (Away from Washington Road)

Instead of fighting the crowds near Augusta National Golf Club, head to quieter areas:

• Downtown Augusta (early in the week) – great for local dining before peak crowds hit
• Evans, GA – calmer, suburban feel with excellent restaurants
• North Augusta, SC – scenic riverfront walks and less congestion

💡 Pro tip: Go out earlier than usual (4–6 PM) or opt for late-night dining.

2. Host Your Own Masters Gathering

 

Skip the crowds and bring the Masters vibe home:

• Serve classics like pimento cheese sandwiches and sweet tea
• Set up outdoor TVs if the weather is nice
• Invite friends who also want to avoid traffic

This is one of the best ways locals stay involved without the stress.

3. Take Advantage of Early Week Windows

Monday–Wednesday (practice rounds) tend to be:

• Slightly less crowded than tournament days
• Easier for dining reservations (but still book ahead!)

If you want to enjoy the buzz, this is your sweet spot.

4. Plan “Staycation-Style” Activities

Think of Masters Week as your excuse to slow down:

• Book a massage or spa day
• Walk the Augusta Riverwalk early in the morning
• Try a new coffee shop in Evans or Grovetown

You don’t have to fight the crowds to enjoy the week.

🚫 What to Avoid During Masters Week

1. Avoid Last-Minute Plans

Everything fills up fast—especially:

• Restaurants
• Parking near the course
• Ride shares during peak hours

👉 If you must go out, make reservations days (or weeks) in advance.

2. Avoid Driving Near Washington Road

This is the #1 local rule.

During Masters Week, these areas become heavily congested:

• Washington Road
• Berckmans Road
• River Watch Parkway (near the course)

Even short trips can turn into hour-long delays.

3. Avoid Peak Dining Hours (6–8 PM)

Restaurants are overwhelmed, especially near:

• Augusta
• Evans

Instead:

• Eat early (before 5:30 PM)
• Or go later (after 8:30 PM)

4. Avoid Underestimating Travel Time

If you normally need 15 minutes to get somewhere…

➡️ Plan for 30–45 minutes (or more)

Locals who forget this end up the most frustrated.

⚠️ Areas Locals Should Be Careful Around

High-Traffic Zones

• Around Augusta National Golf Club
• Washington Road corridor
• I-20 exits near Augusta

Busy Entertainment Areas

• Downtown Augusta (especially Thursday–Saturday nights)
• Popular Evans shopping centers

Parking Trouble Spots

• Anywhere near the course without a pre-planned spot
• Pop-up paid parking lots (prices spike significantly)

💡 Smart Local Strategy for Masters Week

If you live in Augusta, Evans, or North Augusta, here’s the winning mindset:

• Shift your schedule earlier or later than visitors
• Stay off the main corridors near the course
• Embrace home-based or neighborhood activities
• Treat it like a “controlled staycation”

🌸 Final Thoughts: Enjoy It Like a Local

Masters Week doesn’t have to be stressful—it can actually be one of the most enjoyable times of the year if you play it right.