By Certified Travel Consultant Dawn Webb
The Arnold Palmer Invitational, founded in 1979, is a professional golf tournament on the PGA tour. It is located at Bay Hill Club and Lodge in Central Florida and Arnold Palmer’s famous course. The tournament is so popular that Mastercard formed a partnership with it 20 years ago.
Recognized as one of the top tour tournaments, the Arnold Palmer Invitational welcomes thousands of daily fans worldwide, which can make parking a challenge so here are 4 key tips to ensure a great tournament experience for 2025.
1. Pre-Plan Parking
Options for parking include off-site near Universal Studios, which requires a shuttle delivery experience to the course. But if you are looking for up close and personal parking, you can prepay for parking by clicking here. Full disclosure: on-site parking isn’t cheap. If you live within the Dr. Phillips/Windermere/Winter Garden area, it may be cheaper to pre-book an Uber ride. But it’s essential to know that all Uber rides get dropped off at Gate C located at Apopka Vineland & Bayside Drive.
2. Advance Ticket Purchase
Tickets can sell out as there is a cap on attendance. The busiest days are Saturday and Sunday, so I recommend purchasing tickets in advance, especially if you want a VIP tent experience such as the White Claw fan deck. However Mastercard holders receive 10% off most ticket options including grounds and the fan deck. However if you don’t want to spring for the extras there are other options such as the Arnold Palmer Patio an exclusive Mastercard-only spectator venue located on the 14th green. Supplying great views, the Palmer Patio also features air conditioning, as well as complimentary food and non-alcoholic beverages. You can purchase alcoholic beverages with your Mastercard.
3. Mastercard Tent For Cardholders
The best opportunity is the Mastercard Club, an upgraded venue open to all cardholders. The club features a fun atmosphere, a full bar for purchase, spectacular views of the driving range, putting green, and 9th hole. It is a great place to escape from the heat or grab a quick drink before returning to the action! This is my favorite hang-out spot as I have met some incredible connections and escaped the heat.
4. Know Before You Go
Aside from knowing what you can bring into the tournament, which you can access here, it’s important to know that you can take photos of the players, such as the 2024 tournament winner Scottie Scheffler, and get autographs from your favorite players. So come prepared or grab your signature souvenir from the tournament merchandise shop to cash in on the fun.
The Wrap-Up
And there you have it, the most successful tips for the Arnold Palmer Invitational 2025.
The tournament is an incredible event to attend, and it’s even more spectacular when prepared.
Whether you plan to stay in Orlando or live locally, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic day out if you follow the 4 valuable Arnold Palmer Invitational Tips.
