The Memorial Tournament, an esteemed PGA Tour event held annually at the prestigious Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of golf icon Jack Nicklaus. Founded and hosted by the Ohio native and Hall of Fame golfer, the tournament’s inception was driven by a profound desire to honor individuals who have significantly shaped the game of golf. Over its distinguished 50-year history, The Memorial has evolved into more than just a premier golfing competition; it has become a cornerstone of charitable giving, raising over $56 million for vital causes, including the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, Ohio’s Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s Eat. Learn. Play. foundation.
Nestled in Dublin, a serene suburb approximately 20 minutes northwest of downtown Columbus, Muirfield Village Golf Club provides a picturesque backdrop for this week-long spectacle. Typically gracing the golfing calendar in late May or early June, the tournament strategically precedes the U.S. Open, offering top-tier professionals a final competitive tune-up. The event’s format encompasses three practice rounds and a pro-am competition in the initial days, culminating in four days of intense championship play. This year’s edition once again drew a formidable field of the world’s elite golfers, including notable talents such as Wyndham Clark, Tommy Fleetwood, Rory McIlroy, and the two-time defending champion, Scottie Scheffler, underscoring the tournament’s stature and appeal.
Beyond the thrilling on-course action, The Memorial Tournament is renowned for its exceptional spectator amenities, offering an experience that rivals the golf itself. The culinary and beverage offerings were as diverse and engaging as the undulating fairways of the course. Patrons seeking refreshments found various options, from the efficiently organized Pub 18, which separated food and drink service into distinct tents adjacent to umbrella-covered picnic tables, to the Birdie Bar on the 16th hole, featuring a relaxed setting with sun-drenched Adirondack chairs and a large screen for viewing. Both of these popular spots provided convenient access to large restroom facilities.
A highlight for many VIP guests was The Pavilion on 18. Constructed in 1986 specifically for the tournament and situated adjacent to the Member’s Club with prime views of the 18th green, this exclusive area offered a sophisticated blend of indoor and outdoor experiences. The indoor section boasted an array of dining stations, featuring an impressive selection of culinary delights including sushi, a garden salad bar, Italian rigatoni, asada, Wagyu sliders, and gourmet donuts and ice cream. Complementing the food was a well-appointed beverage bar, an engaging Golden Tee video game, and large-screen televisions, providing a comfortable retreat. The outdoor area provided covered seating and its own dedicated bar with attentive table service. Access to all food and beverages within The Pavilion was included with VIP passes, enhancing the premium experience.
The tournament also catered to attendees seeking a more relaxed atmosphere or engaging activities. The Champions Pavilion, strategically located across from the main entrance, offered ample shade and cooling fans, alongside a large-screen TV, food and drink service, and a dedicated wine bar. For those looking for interactive entertainment, The Patio at Patron Village, situated between the 10th and 14th greens, provided lounge-style seating, classic lawn games like cornhole, and the all-ages Bunker Challenge. The tournament’s official golf shop, stocked with merchandise, was conveniently located near the main entrance, allowing fans to take home a piece of the event.
A signature beverage that became a talking point among attendees was Muirfield Village’s famous course cocktail, the "Transfusion," a refreshing concoction of vodka, grape juice, ginger ale, and lime. This popular drink, along with other Memorial-specific cocktails, was available at various locations across the grounds, including Patron Village, The Champions Pavilion, Golden Bear Club, Range Bar, and the Out of Bounds Bar, adding a unique flavor to the spectator experience.
For those seeking local brews and spirits beyond the tournament grounds, the nearby city of Dublin and the larger metropolis of Columbus offered a wealth of options. Dublin transforms into a vibrant hub during tournament week, with establishments buzzing with activity and hosting their own post-golf celebrations. Columbus, a more extensive urban center, boasts a thriving craft beer scene, providing ample opportunities for exploration.
Exploring the Greater Columbus Area During The Memorial Tournament
While The Memorial Tournament itself offers a full week of world-class golf and associated festivities, the surrounding Columbus metropolitan area provides a rich tapestry of activities, dining, and cultural experiences for visitors looking to extend their enjoyment beyond the golf course.
Fore! Fest: A Celebration of Music and Community
A significant highlight of the Memorial Tournament week is the free outdoor music festival, Fore! Fest, held in downtown Dublin’s Bridge Park. This highly anticipated event spans Friday and Saturday evenings, transforming Bridge Park Avenue into a pedestrian haven closed to vehicular traffic. A central stage showcases a lineup of four musical acts each night, with this year’s headliners including Ian Harrison and North to Nashville. The family- and dog-friendly atmosphere is amplified by beverage carts and food trucks lining the side streets, complemented by lawn games such as cornhole, minigolf, and Connect Four. A breathtaking drone light show over the Scioto River on Friday evening added a spectacular visual dimension to the festivities. Spectators can enjoy the music from across the street at Bridge Park, a scenic greenway along the Scioto River featuring a large water feature, grassy picnic areas, and a covered pavilion with restrooms. A stroll across the Dublin Link Bridge offers access to historic downtown Dublin, dotted with charming pubs and restaurants.
- Bridge Park: 6741 Longshore St, Dublin, OH 43017
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: A Wild Escape
Conveniently located a short distance from the golf course, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers an expansive retreat for families and animal enthusiasts. Spanning 580 acres, it ranks among the nation’s largest zoos, housing over 10,000 animals representing approximately 800 species across distinct thematic regions such as Heart of Africa, Asia Quest, Polar Frontier, and the Congo Expedition. Advance online ticket purchase is mandatory, with adult admission priced at $25, as on-site ticket sales are unavailable. A significant perk for Memorial Tournament guests is the complimentary parking at the zoo’s lot, coupled with a convenient tournament shuttle service.
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: 4850 W. Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
North Market: A Culinary Crossroads
A short rideshare from downtown Columbus, North Market stands as one of the country’s oldest and most esteemed indoor food markets, featuring over 35 year-round vendors. This historic 150-year-old market is a treasure trove of fresh groceries, including a butcher shop, artisanal baked goods and cheeses, a diverse spice selection, a vibrant fruit and vegetable stand, and fresh flowers. For those seeking a meal, North Market offers a global culinary journey with its array of ready-to-eat establishments, serving everything from Polish pierogi and Midwestern barbecue to a fresh-from-the-sea oyster bar.
- North Market: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
Jack Nicklaus Museum: A Tribute to a Legend
Situated on the campus of The Ohio State University, Jack Nicklaus’s alma mater, the Jack Nicklaus Museum serves as a comprehensive tribute to the golfing icon. Museum curator Steve Auch notes that the extensive collection, curated by Nicklaus’s wife Barbara, comprises over 2,000 items spanning his high school and college years, his illustrious professional career—including six Masters trophies—and memorabilia from The Memorial Tournament itself. A particularly engaging exhibit is a meticulously recreated living room from the Nicklaus’s Florida home, complete with personal family photographs and a comfortable couch where visitors can watch a Nicklaus documentary.
- Jack Nicklaus Museum: 2355 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43202
Columbus Museum of Art: An Artistic Sanctuary
For a tranquil escape from the outdoor excitement of The Memorial, the Columbus Museum of Art offers an air-conditioned sanctuary. Located within walking distance of Hotel LeVeque on Broad Street, the museum features a wing dedicated to American contemporary and folk art, alongside a permanent collection showcasing European and American masters dating back to the 1800s. Notably, Sundays at the museum are free for all visitors. The Cubist Room, featuring works by Pablo Picasso and Juan Gris, is a particular draw. According to Gertrude Stein’s 1937 book, Everybody’s Autobiography, the museum’s collection of Cubist art was amassed by a local collector who acquired the pieces during successive visits to New York City, later donating them to the museum.
- Columbus Museum of Art: 480 E. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
German Village: Historic Charm and Literary Delights
South of downtown Columbus lies German Village, a historically preserved residential area characterized by charming brick homes, tree-lined sidewalks, and a palpable sense of history. A must-visit within this picturesque neighborhood is The Book Loft, a unique independent bookstore housed in a historic building. Its labyrinthine layout features 32 rooms brimming with books across all genres and for all ages. The store’s charming courtyard, adorned with flowering plants, water features, and benches, offers a serene escape. Nearby, 3rd & Sycamore offers a delightful shopping experience with its range of house-made candles, essential oils, and spa products. The unique candle scents, named after evocative combinations like "Laundry," "Tomato Plant," and "Fruit Loops," are a testament to the creativity and playful experimentation of the store’s creators.
- The Book Loft: 631 S. Third St, Columbus, OH 43206
- 3rd & Sycamore: 650 S. Third St, Columbus, OH 43206
Scioto Mile Park: Urban Oasis and Recreational Hub
To balance the indulgence of tournament week, the 175-acre Scioto Mile Park offers a refreshing urban greenway stretching along the Scioto River, just a block from downtown hotels. This expansive park system features a 12-mile trail perfect for running or walking, passing by intricate water fountains and captivating sculptures. The park’s highlight is the vibrant splash pad and fountain at Bicentennial Park, a popular spot for families on warm days. A bonus for fitness enthusiasts is the annual Columbus 10K road race, held on the Sunday morning of Memorial Tournament weekend. Scheduled to celebrate its 50th year in 2027, the race commences at North Bank Park and winds through the scenic Scioto Trail, historic German Village, and the heart of downtown Columbus.
- Scioto Mile Park: Accessible from downtown Columbus.
Culinary Delights in and Around The Memorial Tournament
North High Brewing: Craft Beer and Casual Fare
Located in Dublin, North High Brewing offers a welcoming atmosphere for patrons seeking quality craft beer and casual dining. Before heading to Fore! Fest, visitors can enjoy a blackened chicken southwest salad on the brewery’s tree-shaded patio. The brewery’s signature brew, "Howl," a wheat lager sweetened with local honey, is a popular choice. Its unique cucumber ale is also highly acclaimed. The establishment also features a cool basement bar area, ideal for summer evenings.
- North High Brewing: 56 N. High St, Dublin, OH 43017
Momo Ghar: A Taste of Nepal
Inside the vibrant North Market, Momo Ghar presents an authentic Nepalese culinary experience. The restaurant, translating to "dumpling house," gained national recognition after being featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives. Diners can enjoy a mix-and-match selection of jhol (chicken), veggie, and alu (potato) momos, all served with a flavorful tomato-based Nepalese dipping sauce. For those seeking an extra kick, a spicy sauce is available, offering a pleasant warmth.
- Momo Ghar: 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215 (inside North Market)
Schokko Café: Artful Dining at the Museum
The Columbus Museum of Art’s Schokko Café provides a delightful dining experience within the museum’s serene environment. A grilled chicken Caesar salad paired with a glass of Malbec, enjoyed in the museum’s outdoor sculpture garden, offers a perfect conclusion to an afternoon of artistic exploration.
- Schokko Café: 480 E. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
Land Grant Brewing Company: A Local Favorite
A short walk from downtown Columbus, Land Grant Brewing Company is a popular local brewery renowned for its expansive outdoor beer garden and two on-site food trucks. The beer garden provides ample shade with umbrellas and canvas coverings, and its artificial turf area is a hit with families and their canine companions. The brewery offers a tasting flight to sample its diverse brews, including the aptly named "Greenskeeper" session IPA, a nod to the golfing event. The relaxed ambiance, often enhanced by the presence of well-behaved dogs, makes it an inviting spot.
- Land Grant Brewing Company: 424 W. Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
The Keep: Elegant Dining and Speakeasy Charm
For a memorable final meal in Columbus, The Keep, located on the mezzanine level of Hotel LeVeque, offers a sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant complements the hotel’s Art Deco aesthetic with its polished wood floors and plush booths. Adjacent to the restaurant is a hidden speakeasy-style bar, a cozy nook with dark wood accents and ornate columns. The menu features refined dishes such as sesame-encrusted tuna with fingerling potatoes and broccoli in a soy ginger cream sauce, perfectly paired with an Aperol spritz. The establishment is also a popular spot for golfers returning from The Memorial, who can be overheard discussing notable tournament moments while enjoying expertly crafted espresso martinis served in bourbon glasses.
- The Keep: 50 W. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215 (inside Hotel LeVeque)
Accommodation Options for The Memorial Tournament
Hotel LeVeque: Historic Elegance in Downtown Columbus
Columbus serves as an ideal and more accessible base for attending The Memorial Tournament compared to the smaller, often fully booked accommodations in Dublin. Hotel LeVeque, a distinguished Marriott Autograph Collection hotel housed within the historic LeVeque Tower, offers a luxurious and convenient stay. This iconic Art Deco building, once the tallest in the United States, famously served as a navigational landmark for aviator Amelia Earhart. The hotel’s rooms are notably spacious, a pleasant surprise for accommodations within a historic structure. The bathrooms are equally impressive, featuring large walk-in showers and striking black-and-white tilework. The guest rooms are appointed with Art Deco furnishings and décor, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
- Hotel LeVeque: 50 W. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
Navigating The Memorial Tournament and Central Ohio
Transportation Hubs and Local Transit
John Glenn International Airport (CMH) is a primary gateway to Central Ohio, serving eleven airlines and located less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Columbus. Dublin is an additional 20-25 minute drive north of the city center. While rideshare services are readily available, patrons should anticipate increased prices and wait times during The Memorial Tournament, particularly for return trips from Dublin to Columbus. It is advisable to allocate extra time for such journeys.
For those arriving by car, Hotel LeVeque offers valet parking for $50 per day. While many attractions in downtown Columbus are within walking distance, rideshares remain a convenient option. The Memorial Tournament provides complimentary parking at several designated lots surrounding the tournament grounds. Some of these lots, including those at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, offer complimentary shuttle services to and from Muirfield Village Golf Club, facilitating seamless transportation for attendees.
