The PGA Tour Championship: A Tournament Like No Other
/
A view of the 15th green during the final round of the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club on August 27, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. PHoto Credit: Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images
The Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club is the grand finale that features the top 30 players of the PGA Tour season in the FedExCup standings. This prestigious event, scheduled from August 28 to September 1, 2024, not only crowns the season's champion but also offers visitors a blend of high-stakes golf and Southern hospitality.
East Lake Golf Club, founded in 1904, is steeped in history. It was the home course of legendary golfer Bobby Jones and has hosted numerous significant tournaments, including the Ryder Cup and U.S. Amateur. The course has recently undergone a full-scale restoration to recapture its 'Golden Age' design, influenced by a 1949 aerial photo of the original Donald Ross design, reimagined by contemporary course designer Andrew Green. Significant changes included updating grasses, such as fairways to Zorro Zoysia for increased roll and greens to TifEagle Bermuda for better playability. Bunkers have been reconfigured to challenge players strategically, and water features have been restored to maintain ecological balance. The course lengthened slightly for the TOUR Championship.
Go Time
The PGA TOUR Championship offers several ticket options. Daily Grounds tickets provide general access to the tournament grounds and public venues. For a more premium experience, the Starter Lounge on the first tee includes food and beverages. The Michelob ULTRA Athletic Club offers open-air hospitality with inclusive beer and seltzer, while the Youth Ticket Policy allows free entry for children under 15 with a ticketed adult.
Scottie Scheffler of Team United States tees off on the 14th hole during a practice round on day five of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Le Golf National on July 31, 2024 in Paris, France. PHoto Credit: Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images
As the PGA 2024 TOUR Championship approaches, all eyes are on the top contenders who have shown exceptional form throughout the season. Leading the pack is Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked number one in the world, who has already secured multiple tournament victories, including the Masters, showcasing his remarkable consistency and ball-striking prowess. Close behind is Rory McIlroy, who has had a stellar year with significant wins and an impressive track record at East Lake, making him a formidable contender. Xander Schauffele has cemented his status as a top contender for the PGA TOUR Championship with a stellar season, highlighted by his victory at the 2024 PGA Championship. His ability to perform under pressure was evident as he overcame intense challenges from Bryson DeChambeau and Viktor Hovland, showcasing his resilience and skill. Schauffele is poised to be a formidable force at East Lake with this significant win and a string of impressive performances.
Dining in ATL
Traversing East Lake all day will indeed work up an appetite. With its proximity to downtown Atlanta and a robust public and private transportation system, there are no limits to the meals you can find in the surrounding area.
In the bustling West Midtown area, Hayakawa is a top destination for Japanese cuisine under the meticulous guidance of Chef Atsushi Hayakawa. Renowned for his lively personality and expertise in kaiseki-style dining, Chef Hayakawa delivers a series of beautifully presented miniature courses. Diners can indulge in delicacies such as scallop sashimi with miso-mustard sauce and simmered monkfish. The intimate setting, characterized by a sleek wood counter and dark-streaked stone backdrop, enhances the dining experience. Each meal culminates with expertly crafted nigiri, made from premium imported fish, served in the traditional Hokkaido style, a nod to the chef's heritage.
Bacchanalia, a beloved establishment in Atlanta, is celebrated for its sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere. Dark wood, a constellation of Edison bulbs, and brown leather banquettes set the stage for a memorable dining experience. The multicourse prix fixe menu showcases inventive dishes such as chilled lobster in ponzu sauce with English peas and horseradish oil and a unique cheese course featuring an oat date cake with black garlic sauce and parmesan rings. Desserts like the delicate grapefruit soufflé with spicy pistachio crumble and rose crème anglaise provide a perfect ending to a gastronomic adventure that emphasizes flair and creativity.
The Chastain emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing in its culinary offerings. The menu, which changes frequently based on the availability of ingredients from local farm partners and an onsite regenerative farm, features innovative dishes that highlight seasonal produce. The restaurant's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident through its practices, such as onsite composting, compostable containers, and extensive recycling efforts. The Chastain delivers exceptional cuisine and sets a standard for sustainability in the dining industry, making it a must-visit for eco-conscious food lovers.
Slumber in the South
After savoring exquisite cuisine at Atlanta’s finest restaurants, it's time to find the perfect retreat to rest and rejuvenate. Whether looking for historical charm, modern luxury, or serene elegance, Atlanta's top hotels offer unparalleled comfort and amenities. Here are three premier options for your stay, each providing a unique and luxurious experience.
Located in the heart of downtown, The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, epitomizes luxury and sophistication. This esteemed hotel is minutes from key attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park. Guests can enjoy Southern-inspired dining at the hotel's AG steakhouse, which emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. The Ritz-Carlton also offers unique experiences such as the Lumen Lounge, featuring live music and crafted cocktails, and Jittery Joe’s Coffee Bar, an Athens-based micro-roastery. The newly renovated rooms provide a modern touch of elegance, making it a perfect retreat for business and leisure travelers. The hotel is approximately 8 miles from East Lake Golf Club, a 20-minute drive away, making it convenient for guests attending the TOUR Championship.
The Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead offers a serene escape in one of Atlanta's most prestigious neighborhoods. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites with top-tier amenities, an indoor pool, and a wellness center with premium spa treatments. The hotel's signature restaurant uses herbs from its garden to enhance the culinary experience. The Waldorf Astoria is known for its private garden and meeting facilities, making it an ideal choice for relaxation and business gatherings. Nearby is easy access to upscale boutiques and cafes. The hotel is about 10 miles from East Lake Golf Club, roughly a 25-minute drive, offering both luxury and convenience for golf enthusiasts.
Atlanta, GA. Photo Credit: Walter Bibikow, Stone / Getty Images
Experience the stunning skyline views of Atlanta from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the iconic Westin Peachtree Plaza. This luxury hotel is close to major attractions such as the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It provides exceptional services and amenities, including the renowned Sun Dial Restaurant with panoramic city views. The hotel features a sophisticated workout studio, an outdoor pool, and extensive event spaces, making it suitable for leisure and corporate stays. The Westin's luxurious accommodations and prime location ensure a memorable experience for all guests. The hotel is approximately 7 miles from East Lake Golf Club, about a 20-minute drive.
It's Not All About Golf
While attending the PGA TOUR Championship, visitors can immerse themselves in various cultural and entertainment events around Atlanta. Taste of Soul Atlanta event is from August 31 to September 1, 2024. Located in West Downtown across from the Mercedes Benz Stadium, this festival is the largest Soul and R&B music concert in America, featuring over 100 music performances and an array of delectable soul food. This festival offers an authentic taste of Southern cuisine and culture, from fried chicken and catfish to mac n' cheese and candied yams.
A good option for music lovers is Harvest Moon: A Tribute to the Music of CSN&Y, happening on August 30, 2024, at the Red Clay Music Foundry. This concert celebrates the timeless music of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, providing a nostalgic evening under the stars for music lovers.
For art enthusiasts, the Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is available throughout the tournament. It is a unique, 360-degree digital art exhibition that brings Van Gogh's masterpieces to life. Located at Pullman Yards, this exhibit combines art and technology, creating an unforgettable experience.
A rainbow is seen over the clubhouse and 18th green during a suspension of play in the third round of the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club on August 26, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo Credit: Mike Ehrmann, Getty Images.
Till the next tee time…
Attending the PGA 2024 TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club offers the thrill of watching world-class golf and immersing yourself in Atlanta's vibrant culture. Plan your visit to maximize your enjoyment of the golf and the vibrant life Atlanta offers.
With its rich history, cultural diversity, and luxurious accommodations, Atlanta is the perfect destination for a memorable getaway during the PGA TOUR Championship. Air Charter Guide offers comprehensive and up-to-date flight booking information for those traveling to this grand event, ensuring your journey to Atlanta is as splendid as the experience awaiting you.