Your Guide to the Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club

Sarasota is widely regarded as a world-class golfing destination. From first-time players to seasoned pros, golfers of all levels are drawn to the area’s sunny skies and fresh Gulf breeze.

In fact, Sarasota’s golf tradition runs deep — some accounts even suggest one of the first-recorded courses in the nation was established here. Sarasota is now home to more than 50 golf courses, from beautiful bayside links to shady, tree-lined fairways.

About the Senior PGA Championship

Administered by the PGA of America, the Senior PGA Championship is a prestigious professional golf major for men 50 and older, and one of five major championships on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit. Many previous tournament winners are also PGA Tour champions, including legends Lee Trevino, Gary Player and Sam Snead.

The Senior PGA Championship is the first major of the season, and it returns to the Sunshine State for the first time in nearly three decades. The Concession Golf Club will host the event for three consecutive years.

About The Concession Golf Club

The 10th & 18th holes at The Concession during a winter sunset, photo by @jkhokhar1

This 530-acre, par-72 championship course was designed by Senior PGA Champion Jack Nicklaus and Ryder Cup captain Tony Jacklin. Their vision was clear: a privately owned facility without an attached neighborhood, fit to host global tournaments and local members alike. And the name? A reference to one of the most famous moments in golf history — Nicklaus’s concession to Jacklin’s putt during the 1969 Ryder Cup. The club opened to high praise in 2006, and while it has evolved over the years, the rolling hills, manicured greens and peaceful environment remain constant.

How to Attend the Senior PGA Championship

Enjoyable for both casual golf viewers and dedicated fans, the Senior PGA Championship is a great opportunity to see Hall of Famers and former major champions compete in a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

The tournament runs April 16–19, 2026. Tickets are available online, with advance tickets for Thursday through Sunday starting at $165. One-day flex tickets, valid any day of the weekend, are $48. Discounts are available for junior golfers and military personnel.

Where to Stay Near The Concession

The Resort at Longboat Key Club encompasses 45 holes on two PGA-approved courses, photo courtesy of @longboatkeyclub

Looking to stay as close as possible to the venue? The Home2 Suites by Hilton - Lakewood Ranch is less than 10 miles from The Concession Golf Club. The hotel offers both short- and long-term stays, pet-friendly rooms and a complimentary hot breakfast along with tech-focused and eco-conscious amenities.

Other convenient options a short drive away include Even Hotel Sarasota-Lakewood Ranch, a wellness-focused lodging property with a state-of-the-art Athletic Studio, in-room Fitness Zones and an outdoor heated pool. Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch provides ample amenities, including free breakfast and WiFi, an outdoor pool and rentable bikes. The main attraction is the self-serve, self-pour station in the lobby.

Need an extended beach vacation? Make your way to the coast post-event for a luxury stay and some tee time of your own at The Resort at Longboat Key Club. Here, multiple restaurants and reimagined guest rooms facing either the Gulf or bay meet two spectacular on-site golf courses, a full-service spa, tennis courts and group fitness classes. 

Dine & Shop Nearby

Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch features over 10 dining and drink options, plus local shopping, photo courtesy of @watersideplacelwr

You won’t have to travel far to enjoy high-quality dinner fare. The Bistro, located on-site at The Concession Golf Club, serves fresh seafood, steak and pasta, and its extensive wine list features the largest collection of 100- and near-100-point wines in the region.

About 15 minutes away, the upscale community of Lakewood Ranch offers plenty of stylish eateries and family-friendly restaurants, along with shopping and entertainment. GROVE specializes in New American cuisine, with appetizers like lamb lollipops and entrees like pork osso bucco and bison chili. At nearby B&B Chophouse, every steak is hand-cut and prepared on their flame grill and infrared 1000-degree broiler. Order one smothered in Maker's Mark butter, or topped with jumbo bourbon shrimp. After dinner, catch a movie at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, or practice your putt at the Fish Hole Miniature Golf.

Nearby University Town Center is home to both exquisite fine-dining bistros and relaxed, no-reservations-required spots, as well as every retail store and chain store you could want to get some shopping done. For dinner, Selva Grill blends Latin flavors with Asian influences, with dishes such as shrimp ceviche and braised short ribs. Seasons 52 is a classic choice, with entrees ranging from rotisserie half-chicken to black lentil bolognese. Casual options include Yard House, Ford’s Garage and Mission BBQ.

Before the final event on Sunday, head to nearby Waterside Place to catch the weekly Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch for organic produce, fresh-picked flowers, specialty spices and sauces, local honey and homemade breads and baked goods. If you can't make it in time for the market, plenty of dining options await after the Senior PGA title and trophy have been awarded. Agave Bandido is the perfect place to cap the weekend with celebratory margaritas and Mexican-inspired dishes.

Where to Play Golf in Sarasota County

Bobby Jones Golf Club's 27-hole course also offers a driving range, golf lessons and nature trails

If you can sneak in some swing practice at the range or a tee time between events, beloved public courses in Sarasota include Bobby Jones Golf Club, newly revamped by acclaimed architect Richard Mandell, and University Park Country Club, featuring three superb nines designed by Ron Garl. Tatum Ridge Golf Links is a Scottish-style course, overlooking stunning Florida wetlands. Private courses like Laurel Oak Country Club and TPC Prestancia offer a more exclusive member experience.

With more than 50 public and private golf courses and accommodating weather year-round, Sarasota County is a player’s dream. If you’re hoping to sample a variety of courses yourself while in town, the Big Summer Golf Card is just the ticket. For one fee, card owners receive unlimited play at various local courses, including Boca Royale Golf & Country Club in Englewood, Calusa Lakes Golf Club in Nokomis and Capri Isles Golf Club and Plantation Golf & Country Club in Venice.