🏌️♂️ The Ultimate Atlanta PGA TOUR Championship Travel Guide
Here’s your complete guide to staying, watching, and dining during the PGA TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or experiencing your first tournament in Atlanta, these insider tips, local recommendations, and must-visit spots will make your week unforgettable.
👀 Best Places to Watch the PGA TOUR Championship in Atlanta
Every August, East Lake Golf Club hosts the PGA TOUR Championship, the thrilling finale of the FedExCup Playoffs. Whether you’re attending in person or catching the action elsewhere, here are top picks:
⛳ East Lake Golf Club – Ultimate fan experience with close-up views of the world’s top players.
🎯 Topgolf Midtown – Golf entertainment plus big screens, great food, and climate-controlled bays.
🍺 The Midway Pub (EAV) – Chill neighborhood sports bar with craft beer and a laid-back vibe.
📺 Sports & Social Atlanta (The Battery) – Massive screens, buzzing energy, and plenty of seating.
🍻 New Realm Brewing Co. (BeltLine) – Scenic rooftop, craft beers, and multiple TVs.
🏠 At-Home Viewing Party – Create your own setup with themed snacks and golf challenges.
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive early for live viewing at East Lake, and make sports bar reservations ahead of time.
🏨 Where to Stay in Atlanta
Atlanta offers accommodations for every style—from luxury escapes to charming boutique stays. Downtown: 🏛️ Georgian Terrace, Hotel Indigo, Signia – Close to Fox Theatre & Georgia Aquarium; short drive to East Lake.
Decatur: 🌳 Courtyard by Marriott, Hampton Inn & Suites – Quaint area, just minutes from East Lake.
Midtown: 🌆 Loews Atlanta Hotel, The Starling, Kimpton Shane – Ideal for nightlife, dining, and cultural spots.
Buckhead: 💎 Waldorf Astoria, The Candler, Thompson Hotel, The Whitley – Premium shopping and fine dining.
🍽️ Where to Eat During Tournament Week
From Michelin-rated restaurants to local gems, here’s where to fuel up:
Near East Lake: 🥗 The Argonaut, ☕ Perc, 🌮 La Fonda Latina, 🍗 Poor Hendrix
Decatur: 🦪 Kimball House, 🍖 The Iberian Pig, 🍦 Butter & Cream
Midtown/Downtown: 🍗 South City Kitchen, 🐟 Lure, 🍹 Saints + Council
BeltLine Hot Spots: 🍺 New Realm Brewing Co., 🌳 Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall, 🍝 Yeppa
💡 Dining Tip: Reserve early and plan for travel time if heading toward East Lake in the evenings.
📌 Final Tips for PGA TOUR Championship Week
📅 Book Early: Hotels & dining spots fill up fast.
🚇 Use MARTA or Rideshare: Avoid traffic headaches near East Lake.
🏙️ Explore Atlanta: Visit the BeltLine, Ponce City Market, and Piedmont Park between rounds.
With this guide, you’re ready to experience the PGA TOUR Championship like a true local—world-class golf, incredible food, and Atlanta’s unmatched hospitality.
Beyond the Fairway: East Lake Golf Club, Community Impact, and Atlanta’s Rich Golf Legacy
It all begins with an idea.
As Atlanta gears up for the prestigious TOUR Championship this August, the preparation isn’t limited to tee boxes and leaderboards. Behind the scenes, East Lake Golf Club and the East Lake Foundation have been orchestrating a blend of championship-ready conditions and meaningful community engagement, proving once again that golf in Atlanta is about more than just the game—it’s about legacy, access, and opportunity.
Course readiness & community collaboration
On July 21–22, the East Lake Foundation hosted a behind-the-scenes media event that provided a glimpse into the meticulous planning and inclusive spirit driving this year’s TOUR Championship. Media professionals were welcomed to walk the fairways, tour the facilities, and hear firsthand how East Lake is preparing for the influx of players, fans, and global attention.
Even more compelling than the pristine course conditions was the focus on community involvement. In collaboration with local residents and culinary students from Drew Charter School, the Foundation showcased its commitment to community inclusion. These students played an integral role in the event’s hospitality experience, gaining real-world exposure to careers in culinary arts, event planning, and hospitality management.
Empowering the Next Generation: First Tee Teen Summit
On Wednesday, July 23, the First Tee Teen Summit was held at Emory University. This annual gathering brought together teens aged 14–18 from across the region for a full day of education, mentorship, and empowerment.
More than just a conference, the Summit focused on developing life skills through the lens of golf. Key workshops included:
Financial literacy: Teaching teens how to build smart money habits early.
Mental health and self-care: Promoting emotional well-being, mindfulness, and stress management.
Careers in golf: Introducing pathways in turf management, golf media, hospitality, and professional play.
Personal branding: Helping students craft their digital and interpersonal presence for college and career readiness.
By engaging youth in these pivotal discussions, First Tee continues its mission to shape game changers on and off the green.
Honoring Atlanta’s Civil Rights Golf Legacy
On July 19, 1951, Dr. Hamilton Holmes—father of two prominent civil rights activists—made headlines alongside his sons and friends when they attempted to play at Bobby Jones Golf Course. Their peaceful resistance became the basis for Holmes v. City of Atlanta, a pivotal lawsuit that eventually led to the desegregation of public golf courses in the city.
This courageous act is a reminder that golf has not always been inclusive—and that progress is the result of persistence, advocacy, and brave individuals willing to challenge unjust systems.