So, I always thought golf tournaments were about, well, golf.

 

 

But, like most sports events these days, it’s not just about the sport, but about the entire experience. The Bridgestone Invitational, which is part of the PGA Tour and takes place at Firestone Country Club in Akron every year, has upped their game to make the tournament a true event with so much to see and do (and eat!) beyond the world-class golf.

You can grab a bite and a drink throughout the course, with tons of delicious options. We started our tour at the air-conditioned Grey Goose 19th Hole Lounge (21+), where a Moscow Mule made with Grey Goose La Poire and served in a real copper cup took the edge off a hot morning on the course.

Then it was off to Firestone Village to enjoy burgers and brats from B Spot and a cold one at the Labatt Beer Garden.

 

 

From there, more eating was in store at Firestone Foodies, a food truck rally on the 12th green.

Firestone Foodies features Barrio, Lobster Louies (OMG, the crab cakes), and Hatfield’s Goode Grub (OMG, the bacon and brown sugar mac ‘n cheese.)

The Lawn at Water Tower Way hosts a Kids Autograph Zone. Jeffrey immediately proclaimed that he wanted an autograph, despite having no idea what an autograph is. And I immediately proclaimed that I wanted a taste of William Hill Estate Winery Sauvignon Blanc.

Our final stop was the Penzoil Fan Zone by Firestone Complete Auto Care, with prizes and giveaways, miniature golf, Swenson’s Food Truck (in case you were running low on cheeseburgers between B Spot and there), ice cream, cornhole, and more.

Both Jeffrey and I had a wonderful time and found lots to see, do, and enjoy, since we are admittedly not the biggest golf fans. But even if you’re not a huge golf fan, you can’t help but get caught up in the chance to be so close to world-class athletes who are making Northeast Ohio home for a few days.

The Bridgestone Invitational continues through this Sunday, August 6 and tickets are still available! Click here to purchase tickets. And mark your calendars for next year, too. I’ll see you on the links (did I say that right?)

***Disclosure: I was invited to tour the Bridgestone Invitational and received complimentary admission, food and beverages, and activities. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.***