us open plan your visit

Travel Tips for the US Open

For anyone thinking of traveling to New York to watch the last Grand Slam of the year, we put together our best tips to know before attending the US Open tennis event.

• Official Name and Website:   The US Open .
• Dates:  Qualifying from 19th to 22nd Aug. Main draw from August 26th – September 8th, 2024.
• Venue:  USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, New York, USA.

The history of the US Open tournament goes all the way back to 1881 and today it’s by far the best event to visit in USA if you want to watch the top players in the world.

At the U.S. Open you can watch the men’s and women’s singles events, men’s and women’s doubles as well as mixed doubles. The usual wheelchair event has been cancelled in 2024 as they were clashing with the Paris Paralympic Games.

Venue and Grounds

The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is one of the biggest tennis facilities in the world and the main arena is called the Arthur Ashe Stadium. This is one of the biggest tennis venues in the world with over 23,000 fans watching the big matches. A great feature is the retractable roof which means the weather won’t spoil the fun.

Make sure you check out the whole area around the grounds as there are a lot of activities and happenings not to miss! There are usually chances to see the top players and get autographs and photos.

There are plenty of food stalls and shops around the courts. Even though most of the foods are quite expensive, it’s still nice to try something else than packed food, we recommend trying the crepes for example!

Location and Travel Tips

The courts are located in Flushing Meadows, Queens, east of Manhattan and very close to the LaGuardia airport.

The best way to travel the area and getting to the courts are definitely by train and subway. Heavy traffic and expensive parking can really ruin the day at these big events.

There are affordable places to stay in the Queens area for sure. However, those who are visiting New York, maybe for the first time, might want to consider Manhattan or Long Island for a more enjoyable stay to experience more than tennis. The public transport is very good in these parts so it’s not a problem getting into the court area. Use the subway (7 train towards Main St.) or you can use the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station (Manhattan) to Mets-Willets Point.

Another option if you stay quite near, is to use the Citibike , which is the bike sharing system in New York.

Make sure you arrive early to the grounds as it can take around 30 min to get through the gates. The matches usually start around 11am.

Tickets for US Open

As always, there are different types of tickets available for sale, including day and night passes. The recommended way of purchasing tickets is via the official site where you can choose preferred ticket type such as Individual Tickets or VIP/Travel packages. They go on sale from around June each year. Even the more expensive tickets sell out fairly quickly so it’s best to be early to the action!

One popular option is the Ashe day session ticket which gets you into all of the courts throughout the day and night sessions as well as additional access to Ashe Stadium matches during the day.

Or why not try a night pass for a few days in, when matches become really competitive and you can see the best players in a great atmosphere.

In short, if you want to be near the action on the smaller courts, try Louis Armstrong Stadium and Grandstand Stadium. To watch the worlds best players, buy tickets for the Arthur Ashe Stadium. Another tip; in the outer courts, there are no reserved seating so make sure you arrive early and sit near the players to get the best experience.

What to bring?

You can bring a bag with you (note: backpack or cooler-bag not allowed), not bigger than 12”W x 12”H x 16”L, however remember that this is subject to search and it might mean the security check to go in might be longer.

You can also bring your own food and drink in smaller quantities, no glass allowed. A good idea is to bring a plastic water bottle as you can fill it up in the many water fountains around the area.

The weather in NY in August can be very hot and humid so make sure to plan your clothing according to the weather and bring sunglasses, a hat, suncream and comfortable shoes.

Some of the things you are NOT allowed to bring into the courts area; glass bottles, flags, video cameras, laptops, alcohol and tennis racquets (!).

More Tips for Visiting US Open

• If you’re going with kids, choose the Arthur Ashe Day when there are additional activities for kids, concerts and practice matches.
• If you have an Amex card, bring it to get some extra perks.
• Don’t stand up and cheer wildly until the match is over, learn the basic tennis fan etiquette before entering the matches.
• Check the daily schedule and make a plan every morning so get the most out of the day.
• Try the traditional US Open signature cocktail, Grey Goose vodka, lemonade and Chambord.
• Download the official  US Open Everywhere App to stay updated on all happenings.

Should I visit the US Open?

It’s a Grand Slam, so the answer has to be yes. If you have the chance to go to the US Open, don’t miss it. There are not many events where you get to see such world-class live tennis. Overall, it’s a very well organised event, and even though a bit expensive, for the most part it’s surely worth the pennies.

Stefan Jonsson

Stefan is a writer at Tennisnerd since 2023 and keep the readers updated on new events, betting tips and general tennis news.

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The do's and don'ts for enjoying the u.s. open.

Not far from The Big Apple’s towering skyscrapers, traffic jams and general chaos, there sits a much less crowded patch of green to help soothe frazzled big city nerves. With 893 acres of waterways, lush vegetation and walking trails, Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the largest park in Queens and the fourth largest in the state of New York. The park has hosted two world fairs and is still a hub for outdoor activities today. It’s also home to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the largest public tennis facility in the world. Most of the year, the facility is free to use by residents and visitors to New York , but in late August and early September, the park becomes packed with hundreds of thousands of sports fans who come from all over the world to witness one of tennis’ premiere tournaments: The U.S. Open.

If you’ve never been privy to the madness, here’s a vital list of do’s and don’ts to help you navigate through the elite matches of some of the world’s biggest tennis superstars.

. . . carefully consider which ticket to buy. The tournament spans two weeks and you can either pay as you go day-by-day or you can buy into a plan which gives you unlimited access to the grounds and stadiums for a week or two at a time. Which one you purchase depends on your budget and how much tennis you care to watch each day. You can weigh your options here .

. . . take advantage of the practice courts. Getting an up-close look at the style of play and skilled backhands and serves of the pros is a privilege many people don’t hesitate to lay down big money to see. That privilege doesn’t have to drain your bank account though. In 2014 the Center added revamped practice courts as part of a $500 million renovation, which allows those with general admission passes to see the superstars practice. Once just a few courts surrounded by a chain-link fence has since been upgraded with five new practice facilities and seating for more than 1,300 fans. Screens outside detail the schedule so you can determine exactly when your favorite players will be there.

. . . download the US Open Everywhere app. It gives you instant access to live point-by-point scoring, statistics and complete match results, the daily schedule, and the most up-to-date information about your favorite tennis stars.

. . . BYOB (bring your own bottle). Sitting in the sun all day is a surefire way to become dehydrated. Like any festival or event, refreshments are expensive. Save yourself a few bucks by bringing your own water bottle. There are plenty of fountains in the park where you can fill up for free.

. . . get your speedwalk on. Many of the courts are first-come, first-served seating so arrive early and know who you want to watch to ensure a front row seat to all the action.

. . . splurge. If you're a major tennis fanatic, treating yourself to a courtside seat in the Arthur Ashe stadium is a must. Matches tend to only get interesting in the latter half of the tournament so plan to reserve a seat for a night session after the third round of play. It’s pricey but once you see superstars like Roger Federer or Serena Williams gracefully flying back and forth within sweating distance, you’ll realize it was worth every penny.

. . . visit during Labor Day Weekend. If you’re someone who likes their personal space, avoid the busy holiday at all costs. It’s by far the tournament’s busiest weekend, which means you’ll spend more time in line and less time enjoying yourself. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

. . . spend a lot of time in the food village. The food at the US Open has gotten mixed reviews, but everyone tends to agree that the lines and the prices are outrageous. For a cheaper, less time intensive option, hit the hot dog stand right at the edge of Flushing Meadows. Or you can take the #7 train to Woodside for the closest pub, a burger and a beer.

. . . drive, if at all possible. Parking in New York is a major headache. Instead, take the #7 train, or, for the fastest trip, take the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) to Mets-Willets station.

. . . obsess over getting a seat. The Arthur Ashe stadium is the largest tennis-specific stadium by seating capacity in the world and the crown jewel of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. While that might make it seem incredibly appealing, during the first week of competition it's often the biggest stars, not the best matches that take place. With room for more than 23,000 fans, unless you are willing to spend a pretty penny for courtside spots, you’ll most likely end up watching the match on the big screen. For better tennis, more proportionately ranked players and smaller crowds, head over to the Louis Armstrong Stadium, Grandstand or Court #17.

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Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Trip to the Tennis US Open!

The US Open is the last of any year’s Grand Slam Tournaments in tennis. If you live near or are visiting the Northeast United States in the two weeks surrounding Labor Day and love tennis, seeing this tournament live is a must! Even if you aren’t near, it is worth planning a trip to see, so add it to your bucket list. In my twelve years of going, I have seen pretty much every major tennis player play, most from just a few feet away. Read on to see my tips for getting the most out of your trip and plan your US Open experience.

Table of Contents

Location of the Tournament

What is now the US Open began in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1881 but was soon moved to New York state. It was not referred to as the US Open until 1968.  Since 1978, it has been in its current location in the New York City borough of Queens in Flushing Meadow at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The 1964 World’s Fair was held on the grounds. Queens is on Long Island across the East River from Manhattan.

The Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

The complex contains DecoTurf, a fast-moving acrylic hard court surface that makes for exciting serve and volley games. All the courts are lit. The main court is in Arthur Ashe Stadium. It seats 22,547 and is the largest outdoor tennis-only stadium in the world. The biggest games are played in this stadium, where a roof was installed in 2016.

There are also the reasonably large Grandstand Stadium and the Louis Armstrong Stadium with a retractable roof. Some of the best games I have seen have been in these smaller stadiums that offer some general seating and where, with patience and planning, you can be closer to these tennis all-stars. The Louis Armstrong Stadium general admission areas are generally shaded, which is a big plus for me. There are also many side courts where you can find great games. The Center also has numerous restaurants, stores, and vendor areas where you can have fun playing games or testing your serve.

Getting to the US Open from New York City

Car: Public transportation to the area is excellent, but parking is available if you want to drive. Expect traffic congestion.

Subway: The 7 Train from Grand Central is about a 25-minute ride right to the front of the stadium at the Mets-Willets Point Station. When I am in NYC, I use the New York Subway iPhone app, which makes finding the right subway very simple.

You can check out US Open’s Transportation page for further directions.

How does the Tournament Work?

The US Open is held over two weeks, and the field of competitors dwindles until only two individuals or teams in each category stand to battle in a final match. There are five main categories of play: women’s singles, women’s doubles, men’s singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles. During the tournament, you can also catch juniors and wheelchair tennis (on years when the Paralympics do not take place). Check out the main schedule.

On Which Date Should I Go?

As expected, the closer you get to the finals, the steeper the ticket prices get. Early on in the tournament, you can catch big players in challenge matches on the outer courts. I usually go on the first Friday (day 5 of play) because I like seeing the players play up close. By doing this, I have seen almost every highly-ranked player over the last five years: the Williams sisters playing both doubles and singles, Nadal, Federer, Azarenka, Keys, the Bryan brothers, Djokovic, Wozniacki, Alkaraz, Tsonga, Cilic, Querrey, Halep, Keys, Gauff, Osaka, Gauff, Alcaraz, and Radwanska among others.

Where Should I Sit?

You can buy a reserved seat for Arthur Ashe, Louis Armstrong, or Grandstand Stadiums. Although all the tickets will get you admission to the side courts, the grounds, and the general admission areas of the Louis Armstrong and Grandstand Stadiums, you can only enter Arthur Ashe Stadium with seats explicitly bought for it.

As expected, tickets to Arthur Ashe Stadium are the most expensive. Grounds tickets are also available early in the tournament. They allow you into the general admission areas and are a great way to see the games, even if you can’t afford to spend a lot. Sit on the south side of Arthur Ashe (around section 240) if you would like to avoid the sun for a more extended period.

Which Session Should I Attend?

You can purchase morning or evening session tickets. If you buy a morning ticket, you can enter the stadium at 10 a.m. (or 11 a.m. in the finals) and are likely to see three games in Arthur Ashe Stadium.

You enter the grounds at 6 pm for the night games and expect to see two games. It seems to me that the more sought-after singles matches occur during the night sessions, but more of the grounds games are over, so you have fewer options outside of Arthur Ashe Stadium. If you buy morning sessions, they don’t kick you off the grounds, so you can spend the evening in the general admission areas. I always purchase day sessions.

How to Eat at the Open without Waiting in Line for an Hour

At the Open, you can buy almost any food you can imagine, from a lobster roll to chicken tikka masala. There are food kiosks in all the big stadiums, as well as a large food court. Most people eat in the food court at regular meal times. The wait for most food stalls is an hour long. Eating off-peak or in the stadiums usually saves you time in line. One of my favorite meals is the shrimp and lobster salad, which is found in the Grandstand. Not too expensive, around $20, considering a taco is $10.

You can bring food to the US Open, which is a great way to save time and money. You cannot bring glass containers, coolers, or backpacks, but  you can bring a reusable water bottle ( 24 ounces or less, like my favorites ) or unopened bottled water.

You can bring a bag into the open, but it needs to be less than 12” W x 12” H x 16” L. 5. I bring in my Baggalini Backpack as it passes the size test but is big enough to fit what I need, including the side pocket for my Contigo water bottle , and is easy to carry.

Where Can I Buy Tickets?

If you are a United States Tennis Association member (the nonprofit that sponsors and runs the tournament and local league play), you can buy tickets early and get a deal.

Otherwise, check out US Open’s ticket site to buy your tickets. If you are traveling to the game, these tickets do not go on sale until the summer. So, you may want to purchase tickets through a third party to ensure you have tickets before planning your trip.

Can I Take My Kid to the US Open?

Read on for a whole article I wrote about attending the US Open with Kids.

I traveled all the way for the US Open; what else should I do?

The US Open is a great excuse to visit all of New York City. I routinely stay over in Manhattan when I go to the US Open and spend some time enjoying this cosmopolitan city with its great museums, sites, and food. Check out my New York City Guide for more ideas on ways to spend time! I usually stay near Grand Central Station since I can leave my bag there and then get it before I catch a train home. I stay at the Roosevelt Hotel, RIU Times Square , or the Radisson Martinique on Broadway .

For more information, visit the  US Open official site , and I hope to see you at this year’s games! Have you been to a tennis Grand Slam? Any great memories?

Also, you can check out my other articles about the  US Open , including  “Bringing a Kid to the US Open,” for more information and stories .

If you liked it, please share it. Thank you!

20 thoughts on “Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Trip to the Tennis US Open!”

New York Subway iPhone app , who knew

Loved your Donuts Road Trip blog

Thank you so much for your helpful information. This will be my first trip to the open and I want to be well informed before I go. Thank you so much for sharing

This was exactly what I was looking for. Transportation, what to expect on Day 1, and bonus NY subway app. Thank you!!

Have a great time at the games!

Thank you for sharing this! Considering going this year!

I am going with my kids.

I’ve attended the US Open a few times. First in Forest Hills the last year it was featured there in 1977 if I’m not mistaken. Then in Flushing Meadows a few times. This year I’m watching it from the comforts of home on ESPN. It’s been quite monumental on several levels and intensely competitive. From Serena’s farewell to upsets by Nick Kyrgios and Frances Tiafoe the lone American pushing to win on his home court. That would be absolutely historic but there are a few others vying for it too. So, the next few days ought to be exciting at the least. The only thing that never fails to appall me is how raucous and wildly excitable the crowd at the Open always is. It’s almost like they’re puppets on a string. The players are the conductors and they the orchestra that respond on every single point with a deafening crescendo. A bit crude or maybe unrefined is a better way. For one thing I’m of the belief that you just don’t cheer on a missed or bungled play/shot, forced or unforced. Whether it’s the player they’re rooting for or esp. if it’s the other player. It’s just right to cheer on a winning play but not on a missed shot. A bit uncivil and unrefined/ unsophisticated. Does it have to be that way at arguably the biggest stage in the sport. Funny how James Blake (Janes Bloke) was rearing to interview Frances Tiafoe after his victory over the legendary Rafa Nadal in four sets. Pretty nice interview w/ an emotional but well contained Tiafoe the only American man left. Very curious to see how Alcaraz, Kyrgios and Tiafoe hold up going from here. Cheers!

I am really hoping to see Alcaraz play Kyrgios. We saw Alcaraz play in the third round and he is very entertaining!

Last nights long drawn out 5 setter between Sinner and Alcaraz was really intense and kept me up. Yannik had him in 4 but needed to come up to net and volley more decisively than he did. Too many unforced errors was the turning point. Cheers!

Great information, thanks! Can I ask, which third parties do you recommend to buy the tickets from? I don’t live in the US.

I usually but directly through the USTA, but have used Championship Tennis Tours when we wanted to buy premium seats.

Can taxis drop me off at South Gate

Rideshares and taxis drop off by the subway station. So you will have to walk about 1/4 mile to the South Gate.

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Great article and fun tips! I’m thinking of going this year after work. Saw in 2024, they will offer ground passes for the evening! As low as $28 to go a few hours? https://jc10s.com/grounds Btw, your article’s usta ticket link above doesn’t work anymore.

Thanks. I fixed the link.

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• US Open Home
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Labor day weekend packages:, final week:, featured properties (view hotels on map) :, here are your selected hotel(s) :, [+] add option(s) to your package.

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Three star properties: Overview

If you're looking for accommodations that offer great value (and prefer to spend your money on delicious food and great tennis tickets) we've hand picked a number of three star properties for their comfort, service, and location. If you're looking to stay as close as possible to the US Open, we also offer a number of hotels in Queens that are within 10 minutes by car to the tennis. In Manhattan, we feature the following three star hotels (View Hotels on Map) : Cambria Hotel Chelsea , Edison Hotel , The Four Points Sheraton , Hampton Inn-Times Square , Hilton Garden Inn - Times Square , Arlo Nomad and Beacon Hotel . All of these properties are convienently located between Central Park South and Times Square, and are a quick walk over to the W Hotel Times Square to take the shuttle to the US Open. In Queens, we feature the following three star hotels (View Hotels on Map) : Wyndham Garden , Laguardia Plaza Hotel , Fairfield Inn , Parc Hotel , The One Boutique Hotel and Aloft New York Laguardia by Marriott . All of these hotels are within 10-15 minutes by car to the US Open, and are in very close proximity to Laguardia and JFK Airports. Most clients staying in Queenst take either the subway, a cab or a car service such as Uber or Lyft, or take the train to get to the US Open. A trip from Queens to Manhattan generally takes about 15-20 minutes by subway. Transportation options from Manhattan to the US Open: 1. We offer scheduled shuttle service from the W Hotel Times Square on 47th and Broadway each morning out to the National Tennis Center. The departure time is TBD for the final four days. It takes between 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. 2. The # 7 Subway line from Times Square or Grand Central Station to the National Tennis Center. It costs only $2, and takes approximately 25 minutes from Times Square station. No changes, but makes frequent stops along the way. 3. The Long Island Railway train from Penn Station, direction Great Neck or Port Washington. It is direct, no changes, with generally only 3 stops. You get off at Willets Point/National Tennis Center. It takes approximately 20 minutes and costs about $8 each way.

Four star properties: Overview

In manhattan, we feature the following four star hotels (view hotels on map) :.

citizenM Hotel - Times Square , Casablanca Hotel , Hyatt Centric , Park Central Hotel , Park Lane Hotel , Rennaissance Hotel , The W Hotel Times Square , Westin New York , The Elysee Hotel , Millennium Hotel , Chambers Hotel , Public Hotel , Made Hotel , Freehand NYC and citizenM - Bowery . In Queens, we feature the following four star hotels (View Hotels on Map) : Hyatt Place , New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott , The Boro Hotel , The Paper Factory Hotel , Springhill Suites Laguardia , Sheraton Laguardia East , The Inn at Great Neck and Home2 Suites by Hilton . Transportation Options from Manhattan to the US Open: 1. The scheduled Shuttle service from the W Hotel Times Square out to the tennis departs each morning at 9:45 a.m and around noon for the final two days. It takes between 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. 2. The # 7 Subway line from Times Square or Grand Central Station to the National Tennis Center. It costs only $2, and takes approximately 25 minutes from Times Square station. No changes, but makes frequent stops along the way. 3. The Long Island Railway train from Penn Station, direction Great Neck or Port Washington. It is direct, no changes, with only 3 stops. You get off at Willets Point. It takes approximately 20 minutes and costs about $8 each way.

Five star properties: Overview

We feature the following five star hotels in New York (View Hotels on Map) : The Essex House , Gramercy Park Hotel , Marmara Park Avenue , The Sofitel New York , The Nomad Hotel , Lex Boutique Hotel , 1 Hotel Central Park , The Quin Hotel , Kimpton Hotel Eventi , Le Meridien Hotel , The Wallace , The Whitby and The Luxury Collection Hotel Manhattan Midtown. .

Transportation Options from Manhattan to the US Open: 1. The scheduled Shuttle service from the W Hotel Times Square out to the tennis departs each morning at 9:45 a.m and around noon for the final two days. It takes between 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. 2. The # 7 Subway line from Times Square or Grand Central Station to the National Tennis Center. It costs only $2, and takes approximately 25 minutes from Times Square station. No changes, but makes frequent stops along the way. 3. The Long Island Railway train from Penn Station, direction Great Neck or Port Washington. It is direct, no changes, with only 3 stops. You get off at Willets Point. It takes approximately 20 minutes and costs about $8 each way.

Five star deluxe properties: Overview

We feature the following five star deluxe hotels (View Hotels on Map) : Langham Place Hotel , Hôtel Plaza Athénée , The Ritz Carlton , The Mark , Park Hyatt , Mandarin Oriental , The Carlyle , The Pierre , The Peninsula and The Plaza Hotel .

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The Insider’s Guide to the US Open by a fan attending for 30+ years

September 1, 2019 by Steve Ertrachter 42 Comments

This week is a guest post from a reader who happens to be my dad. Steve is a native New Yorker who has been going to the US Open for the past 35 years.  He attends for three days every year.  The most that he has ever spent on one day was $3 for a pretzel (other than tickets). Some days have been totally free. He is proud of this accomplishment.

This is an update for the 2019 US Open with corrections and other important developments from last year’s blog. It still contains insider tips to the US Open with advice on how to visit Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on a budget, what to bring to the US Open, what to wear to the US Open, and other travel tips for the US Open 2019. Remember to enjoy the Day.

• 1 What is covered in this ultimate guide to the US Open (updated for 2019)
• 2 How to buy US Open Tickets & which are the best days to go to the US Open
• 3.0.1 My advice: buy the Louis Armstrong entrance ticket.  
• 4 Which ticket is best: Grounds Ticket, Louis Armstrong or Arthur Ashe (Large Stadium).  What happens if it rains during the US Open?
• 5 How to save money on US Open Tickets: Go for FREE!
• 6 Save Money during the US Open: Print the Draw Sheet
• 7 How early to get to the US Open? How long will security take?
• 8 Where to sit at the US Open: Where are the best seats?
• 9 How to Select the best US Open matches to watch
• 10 What to eat at the US Open & What to drink at the US Open
• 11 A better option to dinner at the US Open 
• 12 Bathroom Breaks at the US Open
• 13 Other things to do at the US Open; There’s much more than just tennis matches!
• 14 A long day’s journey in the night. How many hours is the US Open per day?
• 15 What to bring to the US Open 
• 16 What to wear to the US Open
• 17 How to get to the US Open & public transit options 
• 18 ​Should you bring a car to the US Open?
• 19 How to get the US Open by subway or LIRR.
• 20 What you can’t bring to the US Open (Updated for the US Open 2019)
• 21 How to behave at the US Open
• 22 Should you go to the US Open with kids?
• 23 Enjoy the greatest event in the USA!
• 24 Have you ever attended the US Open or another tennis tournament? Anything that you’d like to add/know?

What is covered in this ultimate guide to the US Open (updated for 2019)

• How to buy US Open Tickets
• Best days to go to the US Open
• Which tickets to buy for the US Open?
• Should you buy the US Open day or night pass?
• Which US Open ticket to buy: Grounds Ticket, Arthur Ashe or Louis Armstrong (Large Stadia)
• What happens if it rains during the US Open?
• Practice Matches before US Open
• Qualifying Tournaments before US Open

Save Money during the US Open: Print the Draw Sheet

• How early to get to the US Open? How long will security at US Open take?

Where to sit at the US Open: Where are the best seats?

• Dinner at the US Open
• Other things to do at the US Open. There’s much more than just tennis matches!

A long day’s journey in the night. How many hours is the US Open per day?

• What to bring for the US Open

What to wear to the US Open

• Should you drive to the US open?
• How to get to the US Open by subway or LIRR

How to behave at the US Open

• Should you go to the US Open with kids? 

How to buy US Open Tickets & which are the best days to go to the US Open

If you need to buy tickets for the US Open, visit the US Open website , call the Ticketmaster phone number, or go in person to buy the tickets. There might be people selling tickets outside of the stadium, but they may be fake. (Note: Wanderlustingk does not make any money off ticket sales for the US Open. We simply recommend buying direct for the best prices.)

Similarly, you can avoid overpriced tickets if buying them through legitimate channels If you bought a cheap seat and later decide that you want to pay more for a better seat, you can upgrade your seat to a better seat at an inside booth.

Note: US Open tickets do not go on sale until June generally.  If you go through the official website, you can get an official notification from Ticketmaster before they go on sale.

If you have an American Express card, you get access to the American Express Presale tickets.  So, if you see tickets on sale much earlier than summer, it’s probably a scam.

The US Open runs 2 weeks and unless you belong to the 1%  (and willing to buy expensive tickets), it’s best not to get tickets for the entire US Open as you will only want to attend on a few days.

If you’re not sure which days to attend, I recommend going on days 4-7 to watch second or third round matches.  (This means that the players have already won previous matches.)

Go earlier and you might be watching 6-0, 6-0 blowouts are typical in the first round. After day 9-14, nonprofessional juniors will be playing in the outer courts. Some people do enjoy watching the world’s top juniors,  but I go to watch the pros. This is my opinion and you might think differently.

Which US Open tickets to buy? US Open Day or Night Ticket

I recommend buying the day ticket (if you’re forced to make a decision).  The US Open sells separate tickets for day matches and night matches.

The day ticket allows you to watch over 18 different matches at the same time, but the evening matches only allows 4.  If the night matches are one-sided victory (6-0, 6-0), it will be a disappointing evening.

The Grounds Pass allows you to enter all the 18 matches except for Arthur Ashe.  You don’t know what the weather will be like for the day that you buy your tickets on. On a nice day, the grounds pass is great and cheaper, however you might get rained out.

My advice: buy the Louis Armstrong entrance ticket.  

Many of the best matches are in the outer courts. I have seen better matches in the outer courts while sitting in the first row. In the outer courts, there are no RESERVED seats so arrive early and get a front row seat. Who wants to watch ants from the stadium or sit 5 feet from top players on court 3 or 5? However, tickets to Arthur Ashe or Louis Armstrong have reserved seats so on a rainy day, you are “covered” (by a roof.)

Which ticket is best: Grounds Ticket, Louis Armstrong or Arthur Ashe (Large Stadium).  What happens if it rains during the US Open?

In 2018, the US Open re-opened Louis Armstrong Stadium as the second roofed stadium with a capacity of 14,000. This provides rain insurance since Arthur Ashe (the main stadium) already had a roof with a capacity of 24,000.  Last year, the US Open scheduled Arthur Ashe to host two matches per day instead of 3. This means that you catch more great matches in Amstrong.

This year, the US Open is selling day and evening tickets to Armstrong for the first 9 days to Armstrong. This development expands the number of tickets and guarantees a match since the Grounds Pass also allows you to also see the 18 matches (except for Arthur Ashe.)  

Previously, I recommended Arthur Ashe in lieu of the Ground Pass but I switched to Armstrong. Just as a footnote, on a nice day, the grounds pass is great and cheaper, however you might get rained out.  Many of the best matches are in the outer courts. I have seen better matches in the outer courts while sitting in the first row. In the outer courts, there are no RESERVED seats so arrive early and get a front row seat. Who wants to watch ants from the stadium or sit 5 feet from top players on court 3 or 5?

In 2018, I saw outstanding matches in Louis Armstrong at 11 am and got very close to the court. Later in the afternoon when it got crowded, I moved back to my actual seat.To compare the two stadia, the highest seat at Armstrong is much lower than a more expensive seat than at Ashe.

How to save money on US Open Tickets: Go for FREE!

On the Sunday before the tournament begins, the top players get access to all stadia to practice in. Many of the top players play simulated matches with other top professionals, so you see the top players in the world and you can sit anywhere you want.

I have seen the ranked players numbers 1-5 on Sunday.  The US Open App lists the schedule and it is a fantastic experience.  It is becoming more popular among knowledgeable fans, but still an insider secret!

The week before the US Open starts, there is a Qualifying Tournament .  Admission is free. There are always former top or injured players in this tournament, so be sure to catch it as you can sit where you want. It runs generally for 4 days and the last day decides who gets to play in the U.S. Open.

In the past, the second Thursday is free.  You typically catch Doubles Semi-finals Wheelchair and Juniors. If you don’t have the money or want to return, this is a great option. Check the US Open website for details.

On a given day, there are hundreds of matches taking place on all 18 courts.  Typically, there are 4 to 5 matches per court per day.

The Draw sheet lists which matches are scheduled and you will need it to know the best matches and where to go. Instead of buying it for $5 at the gate, print it or save it on your phone before coming. It is the same program.

How early to get to the US Open? How long will security take?

The first match starts at 11 am but it can take 30 minutes to pass through security.  Arrive no later than 10:15am, so that you can get a great seat at the court.

Later in the day, the lines can really build-up, so the wait can be over an hour.  It is quite aggravating to know that you’re missing matches while waiting to get inside the event.

Entering the US Open from the subway ramp can be time-consuming can be upwards of 20 minutes. Previously, I generally tried to enter from a side entrance that may have a little line but by accident, I discovered a new tip recently: The Will Call Line has no wait. I happened to use the Will Call for picking up my ticket on the first day but used it a second day (even though I had the ticket without waiting on any line). Going forward, I will be using this strategy when entering.

It’s best not to sit on the long side of the court or you’ll be like one of those cartoons watching tennis: moving your head back and forth to keep seeing what happens. To prevent rain-outs (especially if you are visiting NYC with non-movable dates), I would purchase Armstrong tickets since it has a retractable roof and offers closer seating to the court.

How to Select the best US Open matches to watch

This is an important topic is how do you select which matches to attend. This is an art and not a science. I met three different groups of fans who traveled from Europe and California and attend for one week all day and evening matches. Impressive? Yes. When I asked them: How do you select which match to attend? There is no single answer but here are some suggestions on how to pick the best US Open matches to watch.

Some fans love attending matches of players from their home country. Over the years, I have met French, British, Israeli, German fans supporting their country’s players. I love their enthusiasm because no matter what the score, they are loyal to their countrymen.

Double matches offer the opportunity to see top players in a smaller court. In many cases, especially by Round 3, top players have been eliminated. Doubles is being popular again. So it is possible to see Nick Kyrigos, Coco Gauff, Serena Williams playing doubles when single matches are not available.

Websites offer picks of the day. Unless you are prepared to invest hours learning about every player on the tour (as the three groups of loyalists.) I went to the Internet with the search Day 5 US Open, Picks.  They had recommended matches. 

This is speculation and not an art, but I look at the player and see who they beat the match before. If an unknown player beat a top 20 player, I may check one set to see if the match is competitive. If it is, I will stay. If not, leave.

In a way, selecting a tennis match early is similar to picking a stock or real estate. All scores are reported continuously on the American Express radio. So if you are counting on being updated to watch an upset in the making, you are not alone. Thousands of fans will also monitor matches to watch them in progress. I already know that it is too late when you hear it. 

Speak to knowledgeable fans and ask them which matches they are going to watch. The British fans told me of an upcoming match for a player ranked number 70 in the world. They told me that he had been suspended for one year for a major violation and had been ranked in the top 20 before his suspension. They were right because it was a terrific match. Thank you, Virgil. 

What to eat at the US Open & What to drink at the US Open

Buying food and drink can be very expensive.  You can bring your own food and drinks into the US open, with some restrictions, if you don’t bring very much.

I always bring my own fruit/tuna in a plastic packet to save money.  I also bring large frozen PLASTIC bottles ( NO GLASS ), so I stay hydrated throughout the day.

There are many water foundations to refill them for free although I typically go to the water fountain near Court 7.

If you do not bring your own food, there is a food vendor booth in Flushing Meadow Park that is affordable and at the time of publication, rated “A” by the NYC Health Department.

A better option to dinner at the US Open 

You could eat at the U.S. Open and spend an obscene amount of money on a hamburger, a burrito, or at the newest food stands.  However, you’re one stop away from some of the best Asian food in New York City in Flushing along Main Street (Stop: Flushing at Main Street [7 train]).

Google Maps has improved its app to include great local food recommendations. We recently went to Xian Famous Foods along Main Street, which was featured on Anthony Bourdain for their cold skin noodles. Click for our food recommendations in Flushing!

Bathroom Breaks at the US Open

Experienced US Open fans know about the insanity of going to the bathroom. In the larger stadia, this is not an issue. However, when a top player or popular match is taking place on a small court (such as Court 5)  entering and leaving can be an issue. I had to wait 15 minutes to enter the first time due to the limited number of seats. I recommend that you go to the bathroom before entering a small court. Otherwise, you will wait numerous times when I prefer watching tennis instead of waiting to enter a match.

Other things to do at the US Open; There’s much more than just tennis matches!

The US Open offers many fun events, including meeting top tennis players at autograph or book signings.  With your American Express card, you can visit the American Express Hospitality Suite to charge your phone, and get out of the heat in an air-conditioned facility.

There are also many tennis clinics, raffles, and bands around the grounds.  If you’re a fellow tennis fanatic, you can visit the Tennis Hall of Fame and/or time your serve to see how to measure up against the pros! There are booths from different vendors with many giveaways. Last year, at the American Express Booth, there were VR simulations of past matches and other Tennis related topics.. My advise get there at 10:30 am before the crowd arrives otherwise toy might spend a half-hour waiting for a five-minute experience.

Alternate between matches and fun events in the course of the day. This includes taking a photo with the men’s trophy.  For instagrammers, the Unisphere outside is a must!

At the American Express, I always get the free radio so I can keep informed of the matches occurring throughout all courts. The narration is okay but knowing developing upsets is essential to choosing the right match.

The first match starts at 11 am and often the day sessions in the Stadium end at 5 PM.  You can stay as long after you move to the outer courts until 8 or 9 PM.  Ten hours per day enough?  For me, yes.

The US is now offering free sunblock for fans.  This sunblock is being provided by a hospital in recognition of the danger of sitting in the sun for hours without any protection. I encourage all readers to find the booth and protect yourself from the dangerous rays.

What to bring to the US Open 

Try to avoid bringing a bag, if possible, as it will force you to wait in line longer.  If you choose to bring a bag, you can only bring one bag and you should ensure that it’s not larger than 12″W x 12″H x 16″L.

Backpacks and hard coolers are not allowed, so be careful in your choice of bags. A lightweight tote bag is a good choice.

Be sure to bring your Amex card for the perks, at least one empty plastic water bottle (no glass or steel), a hat to cover your head/face since the sun will beat down on you, sunscreen (cream; not aerosol), and an extra layer for nighttime (a waterproof light jacket to avoid bringing a rain poncho).

Just in case of rain, a rain poncho is helpful.  If you’re into signatures, bring a few spare tennis balls.

Most importantly: Check the rules on the website as they change.   New York can be brutally humid in August/early September, and the heat can get to you, so be prepared if you’ll be watching matches all day in the sun.

There is not a dress code for the US Open beyond wearing clothes and not wearing things with offensive sayings, however it is often good to bring layers if you intend to stay at night.

Some people dress up, but you should prioritize wearing comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot more than you realize.  Some women wear tennis dresses and/or skirts, but there is no need to dress in your fanciest clothing.

It doesn’t hurt to wear something breathable as you might be sweating due to the humidity/heat.  (Not surprisingly: Many people will wear tennis-related clothing.)

How to get to the US Open & public transit options 

It is very convenient to fly into either LaGuardia or JFK airport as the tournament is located in the same borough of Queens within New York City.

You can stay nearby for a reasonable price, however those visiting New York for the first time seeking a better location for sightseeing AND commuting by public transit might want to consider staying in Long Island City (Queens) and/or Midtown (Manhattan). Click for our picks for affordable hotels in New York City.

Both offer unparalleled access to the 7 train (check that you’re near the 7 stop or Penn Station) as well as easy access to New York’s biggest attractions .     Click for tips from a native New Yorker for a five day NYC itinerary with insider tips .

A new option is to use CitiBike to the US Open. For many years, I used to bike, using my own bike, to Flushing Meadows from my home. It was free and great exercise. Now CitiBike is available throughout NYC and offers a new transportation alternative.

​ Should you bring a car to the US Open?

NO. Parking close to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center can be quite difficult, so do not to drive to the US open.  Parking is always very crowded, far away, and expensive.  Some people will take taxis, but expect substantial traffic close to the US Open.

If you choose to drive, one of my secrets is to carpool and park close to the Queens Botanical Garden and walk to the National Tennis Center. It avoids the traffic jam and offers faster access to the courts without the crowds close to the U.S. Open.

How to get the US Open by subway or LIRR.

You’re better off taking the subway (7 train towards Main St.) or taking the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station (Manhattan) to Mets-Willets Point. It is a very short walk to the US Open from the train/subway stop, so save the environment and your money by taking public transit. Click here for a detailed guide to the New York City subway . If taking the LIRR, buy a round trip ticket before leaving for the US Open.  

If there is a Met game on the same night and/or if you go around rush hour, expect a crowded train. That said, try to take the Express 7 train instead of the local 7 train.

What you can’t bring to the US Open (Updated for the US Open 2019)

• Hard coolers
• Sealed packages
• Bottles or cans (glass or metal)
• Aerosol cans (i.e. sunscreen ) or noisemaking devices
• Video cameras or recording devices
• Computers or laptops
• Food (except in limited quantities, or for medical, dietary or infant purposes)
• Animals (unless a service animal)
• Flags, banners or signs
• Any materials constituting unauthorized advertising or promotion
• Laser pointing devices
• Tennis racquets
• Drones (UAS-Unmanned Aircraft Systems) or other model aircraft
• “Selfie” sticks or other telescopic devices

This is very simple, but tennis is a (mostly) civilized sport. Just because the players make noise…it doesn’t mean that you can. Don’t jeer at opponents you don’t like.

Similarly, you can be kicked out if you smoke, record matches on your phone and/or go live on social media, open umbrellas during matches, or try to take someone else’s seat.  Be sure to silence your cell phone as they can distract the players as well as your fellow spectators.

If a ball OR racket ends up in the stands, throw it back. However, at the end, some players choose to hit off the balls into the crowd. In that case, you’re in the clear!

The US Open is recognized as one of the primer events in the NYC  calendar. Having seen a coach for a top player on free Sunday, I approached him and spoke to him. I had a twenty-minute conversation with him about touring as a coach, upcoming matches, and life on the road. Fernando was particularly friendly and enjoyed our conversation.  If you recognize a player and coach, try speaking with them because this opportunity is unforgettable.

Many players expect well-behaved fans, so you will probably spot a high ranked professional tennis player walking around on their own.  If you spot them, be polite and courteous.

Don’t be aggressive about signatures (although you can politely ask). Similarly, if you spot a celebrity, like you might for the major matches inside the stadium, be normal. It can be cool, but it’s distracting to other fans if you’re trying to find the perfect angle to sneak a photo of a celebrity in the middle of a match (which you’ll be able to find online a few hours later).

Should you go to the US Open with kids?

If you have older kids, the US Open can be a lot of fun, however Arthur Ashe Day is the best day to bring your kids. This free day prior to the US Open includes practice matches to watch, fun stands/activities for kids, and a concert.

It is appropriate for kids of all ages although the actual US Open might be better suited to older kids who can appreciate the game (especially if you intend to spend the whole day there).  There are some fantastic children’s museums to entertain your kids nearby, including the New York Hall of Science.      Arthur Ashe is a charity and the day is a lot of fun with kids, however it is not for serious fans. 

If you attending with your children, consider buying a giant US Open tennis ball to get signed by the pros for your kids. (Save money by bringing your own). Just remember to bring a sharpie.

Enjoy the greatest event in the USA!

If you need any tips for New York City, click for where to stay in New York City and  a first time visitor’s guide to New York City by a New Yorker.

Have you ever attended the US Open or another tennis tournament? Anything that you’d like to add/know?

About Steve Ertrachter

New Yorker–born and raised. Lover of tennis. Curious. Frugal and independent traveler who believes that travel yields an understanding of different cultures. 10% of the magic behind Wanderlustingk.

Reader Interactions

June 24, 2017 at 6:19 pm

Perfect timing and very well written! One of my girlfriends and I were just thinking about traveling to watch the US Open. We just got back from our Formula 1 race trip. I feel like having these events on a trip makes it more exciting. I will definitely save this for my future trip. Thank you!

This is so awesome! We absolutely love attending major sporting events – Euros/World Cup, Wimbledon, etc. but they can definitely get expensive very quickly (beyond ticket prices). I’m so impressed with how comprehensive this guide is and really hope it’ll encourage more people to attend major events like the U.S. Open.

June 24, 2017 at 6:57 pm

I’ve always wanted to go to the US Open but it seemed like such an expensive cluster #$/k. This makes it seem so reasonable and possible. I love that he included how to behave and how to dress. So many people seem to have no clue. And the tips on going Sunday before are awesome! Saving this one!

June 24, 2017 at 7:01 pm

Such comprehensive advice! The food section is particularly useful as well as what you can bring! It’s always hard to get specifics on that kind of thing. Hoping to go to the US open next year so I’ll be returning to this article 🙂

June 24, 2017 at 11:21 pm

This article is fantastic! There’s so much detailed information in here that I feel like I could pass as an expert if I ever go there. I’ve actually caught a glimpse of the tournament from the air while a flight I was on was landing, but it would be cool to go for real sometime.

June 25, 2017 at 12:04 am

Very detailed and useful post. I was lucky enough to see a couple of matches on Centre Court at Wimbledon a few years ago and it was the best experience, I wish I’d taken photos! I’d love to go to the US Open.

June 25, 2017 at 12:18 am

I attend the US Open every year on day 5& 6. For the reason your father shared. Some of the greatest and longest day matches I have seen! My bucket list is to attend all 4 Grand Slams. As an avid tennis player, who once played on court 8 this post is amazing. Thank you and your dad for sharing!

June 25, 2017 at 1:41 am

I have never been to any sport tournament to be honest but this guide looks perfect. Literally everything is covered. Your dad did a really good job in writing all this and collecting the information!

June 25, 2017 at 10:42 pm

Meh….the article touches on many aspects of the experience, but there’s a lot of insider stuff that’s better kept secret, like where the shade is and getting the best unreserved seats for those with grounds passes. A good guide for buying tickets is worth $20 alone. No mention of the different stadiums other than Ashe? A choice between Ashe or a grounds pass?! That’s not a real choice for real tennis fans with limited funds. A diss of 14-year old kids playing the second week!?!? They’re nationally/internationally top-ranked players, some of whom will become top 50 players! Many rec players/fans I know love the first 2 days of the tournament, that’s when the most matches are played and you can see many different players. The lopsided matches usually happen in the early rounds mainly in Ashe, where the best players often get low-ranked opponents.

June 26, 2017 at 4:39 am

I should note that this isn’t entirely my opinion, but the opinion of my dad. That said, I am doing some edits per your recommendations cutting some parts, however there is ONLY so much that we can cover in one blog post (That said I’m open to edits and you’re welcome to email me).

Admittedly, more people have limited time/funds, so attending for the entire US Open is not always possible for everyone.

I really wanted to publish this as many people think of the US Open as inaccessible and too expensive, but I think it should be open to ANY tennis lover with a passion for the game.

August 13, 2018 at 7:44 pm

The shade is really important especially in the afternoon! I found a US Open shade map online that shows where NOT to sit 🙂 Also got a couple extra buy one, get one tickets for one days and night session. I am curious if the new Armstrong stadium will have first come, first serve access to “good seats” or if it will get flooded with people during a rain out? Got some Ashe tickets just to be safe.

May 22, 2019 at 4:25 pm

How did you get the buy one get one free tickets?

May 26, 2019 at 2:32 am

Great offer although the offer is for Arthur Ashe stadium. I try to avoid Ashe as Armstrong is my favorite stadium. It seats 14k while Ashe holds 24k. Armstrong also has a retractable roof that makes it playable even on rainy days. If you want BOGO, buy quickly as soon as tickets go up for sale.

June 24, 2022 at 3:04 pm

In my opinion every seat at Louie Armstrong is a good seat. Lower level is reserved. Go and enjoy. : )

June 26, 2017 at 7:32 am

Sorry, didn’t mean to be overly critical and not expecting any revisions, and yes, I knew it was written by your father. It’s definitely a helpful introduction for those who haven’t been before, but it just scratches the surface, and various facets of the event depend on personal preferences/opinion, like watching lots of different matches on the outside courts from up close versus watching the 3rd or 4th round matches on Labor Day weekend. But the parts about day versus night tickets and the possibility of rain are a little more confusing than need be. First, the only night tickets sold are for Ashe Stadium, and unless you get invited to seats that you wouldn’t otherwise pay for because they’re very expensive, it’s not worth going into Ashe at all, regardless of who’s playing, unless you want to go at night and try to “experience” the flashy, upscale stuff, with stars, music and entertainment, people there to be seen rather than watching the matches, etc. (that’s the only time/place I can think of where people think of what to wear; during the day, no one cares what you wear). You’re better off watching on TV or in the plaza on the huge screen because the reality is, you’ll be sitting very far from the action and you’ll be hearing people around you talking more than you’ll be hearing any balls being hit. That said, play goes well into the night pretty much every day of the first week, outside of Ashe, so that’s a lot of bang for the buck for tennis fans with day session tickets; they can watch anything outside of Ashe until the last match ends, which can be very late sometimes. Second, if you block Ashe out of your mind, rain is just a reality that everyone, including nearly all players except those who get to play in Ashe, has to deal with. I would never buy a ticket for Ashe just cuz I think it’ll rain. It’s simply not worth sitting in any seat in Ashe that I am willing to pay for. The only reason I’d buy an Ashe ticket is that it can sometimes be the cheapest ticket to get into the event, cheaper than the grounds passes on Labor Day weekend in some cases. Just look for the cheapest, highest-up seat in Ashe and use it to line up early and get yourself the best unreserved seats in the next showcase stadiums (Armstrong, Grandstand, Court 17, in that order). That’s the cheapest way to see many of the top 25 players on Labor Day weekend, when most tickets, including grounds passes, are very pricey (but there always tons of nose-bleed seats in Ashe for sale, right up until the morning of the day you go, that can serve the same purpose as a grounds pass). I still don’t think the junior tournament should be dissed. Ostapenko, the recent women’s winner of the French Open, was pretty much unknown to the casual fan, but she was a Wimbledon junior champ a few years ago. You can watch the juniors and the top doubles teams in the world (like those in the semifinals!) for FREE on Wednesday or Thursday of the 2nd week, assuming the tournament organizers continue to offer free admission then (to anywhere except Ashe, which again is better to just forget about). Enjoy it, it’s a great tournament and a great fan experience, with lots of buzz and energy and much more room for watching and moving around than in 2015, thanks to all the excellent construction/renovation they did for 2016.

June 26, 2017 at 7:03 pm

This is an awesome guide. I understand this was a brief introduction and is much appreciated.

June 27, 2017 at 9:35 pm

Thanks for writing this guide, it’s impressive and more than enough to keep in mind for attending the tournament. Really like the idea of going on day 6-7 to get decent matches that aren’t 1 sided…brilliant!

Can’t believe there’s so much to consider until you stop and think a little bit. Hopefully see you there next year.

July 24, 2018 at 5:06 am

Any advice for this year with the new Armstrong AM/PM tickets? I see some 2-for-1 tickets out there but this year so many went quick! Is it worth it to go just one day with a grounds pass and hope to catch Fed or Rafa on the practice courts?

July 24, 2018 at 6:51 pm

Glad to answer your question. Yes, the 2 for 1 tickets went very quick. If the only option is the ground pass is the only available ticket, go for it. Personally, I would still hold out for Ashe since the roof guarantees a match. If it sunny, walk around in the outer courts and enjoy the closeness. Remember for ground passes, there are no refunds only credit. Seeing Rafa, Fetterer in person is fantastic but the practice courts are normally crowded especially when they are there. Enjoy the 2018 US Open.

July 31, 2018 at 8:22 pm

Great Guide!!. I have been saving money to visit NY and go to US open. One of my purposes is to see Roger Federer (playing of practicing). I was thinking to wait until draw comes up, and buy a ticket for that day (ashe; day or night session). ANY ADVICE ?? I think this will be my last/only chance to visit this city.

August 1, 2018 at 10:12 am

Hi Erick, I’ve updated the guide for this year. Sorry, we can’t really know for sure at this point. If you’re hoping to see Federer, you might have more luck with the night ticket as I think that they’d schedule a match with him more likely during primetime, although you’ll probably see more matches with more players around the grounds with the day ticket. We’ve included a note about the Armstrong stadium, which is a new development from this year. We’ll update this post further once we experience it for ourselves, but it seems promising. 🙂

Best, Karen

August 2, 2018 at 10:14 pm

August 2, 2018 at 1:47 am

Your original thought about waiting for the draw is the best. The draw is 2 weeks away. Steve

August 2, 2018 at 10:15 pm

Thanks Steve!

August 16, 2018 at 3:50 am

HI. I’m flying into LaGuardia 9/1 at 9 am and headed straight to the stadium with a travel backpack instead on going to my Manhattan hotel to drop off my bag. Is there a place to check in bags? Thanks.

August 16, 2018 at 12:40 pm

Hi Jacklyn, There are bag storage facilities outside the East Gate and the South Gate.

Alternatively, I’d just leave your bag with the New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott (which should do it for a fee [call to verify]) close to Laguardia with picking it up later. I often store my bags at a 4-5* hotel in similar situations.

August 21, 2018 at 4:55 am

If I buy a less expensive Ashe ticket and want to upgrade the day of, are you able to upgrade to resale tickets?

August 24, 2018 at 2:51 am

Yes, inside the grounds, you can upgrade your ticket. My advice to is find the booth as soon as you arrive otherwise they may be gone. Enjoy.

August 21, 2018 at 4:56 am

Is it ever worth waiting until the day before and buying tickets to Ashe that people have had for resale, do they drop their prices just to get rid of them?

August 24, 2018 at 2:56 am

Highly unlikely that the price will decrease if you wait. Likely, it may even increase depending upon the scheduled matches. If you find someone selling tickets outside, it is risky due to possibility of counterfeit tickets.

May 8, 2019 at 3:00 am

This is a great guide. So much info!!! Thank you!! We usually go every year but normally we get the real cheap seats. This time, My siblings bought great tickets for a few different days. I can’t remember what ticket site they used but after reading your great article, I asked my brother about what you wrote regarding getting tickets prior to official release date, probably a scam. He said the tickets were certified, a preferred seller,and 100%guaranteed by the ticket site. I think it was Stub Hub? Or vivid seats.?? But after your article I’m concerned .

May 9, 2019 at 3:08 am

Hi Emily, I just talked with my father about it. There are season tickets that became available this year, but I personally prefer buying direct through US Open as he is am a bit skeptical of it. We’ll be updating the post this year. Tickets go on sale on June 3rd officially. Just a tip for this upcoming year: He prefers the Louis Armstrong for tickets this year as it’s much closer to the courts without being high up at the cheap seats at Arthur Ashe. Hope that helps!

May 22, 2019 at 4:59 pm

We are going for the 1st time on Labor Day and we were thinking about buying Arthur Ashe both day and night in case it rains and also because the outer courts by then are mostly juniors. Nervous about the price but will use Amex. My Q is should we buy the promenade tickets and then upgrade if we aren’t interested in the doubles matches going on or should we buy the Arthur Ashe now so that we are guaranteed matches. We are only going 1 day and flying in for it so dont want to risk rain or seeing only juniors. Thanks!

May 26, 2019 at 2:36 am

Great question. For the day session, I would buy Armstrong since it has a retractable roof. The seats are much closer and my favorite. Ashe dir the evening makes sense but bring your food since food can be very expebsive.

July 10, 2019 at 12:47 am

Hello! Thanks for such a great review. I’m nervous after seeing people’s reviews of Arthur Ashe stadium issues, but I’ve already purchased my level 100/loge level ticket, so I’ll just hope for the best.

Two questions: 1) Do you know if there’s anything sold/provided that will let you listen to ESPN/tennis Chanel broadcast during the match? I think I’ll miss the commentary from watching on TV once I’m there in person.

2) I am thinking of driving, (I know- I know against your advice). I see on US Open website Mercedes vehicles are parked for free, which is awesome. However- to avoid arriving to a full lot, I wanted to purchase parking in advance. I see people selling parking for up to $1,000 for Lot A (right next to Arthur Ashe). Do you know anything about the legitimacy of those tickets/lots? I won’t spring for a $1,000 parking spot but I’ll gladly spend a couple hundred to ensure a parking spot at a close lot. I just wonder how ppl have spots to sell when US Open doesn’t mention parking passes for purchase (for individual ticket buyers anyway).

July 11, 2019 at 5:53 pm

Yes, if you bring an Am Ex card, there are free radios at the Am Express booth provided so you can stay informed about matches occurring throughout the grounds. I always get one.

Unforunately, we cannot help with this as we prefer not to drive to the US Open!

August 11, 2019 at 4:45 am

I love this! So informative and helpful! Thanks.

August 13, 2019 at 1:08 pm

This is very helpful! I’m going on Day 2 of the main tournament this year.

How much food is allowed? The official website as “limited” but doesn’t specify how much. For example, can I buy dumplings from Flushing and bring them into the grounds in a Tupperware box?

Also, with the popularity of reusable water bottles, have you seen security allowing opaque plastic water bottles?

September 7, 2019 at 3:52 pm

Thank you so much for writing this post. I just had a question about the merch. Does it ever go on sale that you know of? $45 for a 2019 towel just sounds ridiculous! Thanks!

September 10, 2019 at 7:23 pm

Well, I Watch on TV anyway, as I’m in North Dakota. Much easier LOL!

October 20, 2019 at 8:20 pm

Hi Steve. I’m taking my wife to the 2020 US tennis open as a 60th birthday present. We are travelling from Scotland and have never been before. Your guide is very helpful as I am a complete novice to this event! We plan to take in 2 days of tennis and a further 4 days of sight seeing in New York. Can you offer any specific advice for first timers to maximise the tennis experience. Thanks.

June 28, 2021 at 4:30 pm

Since we moved to the US in 2014 (your guide was super helpful for us to make that trip from CT). My mother and I have been to every single US open (except 2020 of course) and look forward to returning this year. We were novices in 2014 and now, not so much thanks to your generosity. Now that we live in the NY area, we do multiple days.

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