The Ultimate Guide to Attending the US Open Tennis Tournament in NYC
If you love tennis, the US Open is the ultimate event to attend. Held every year in New York, this Grand Slam is more than just a tournament. It delivers a full-blown spectacle. From world-class athletes to electric crowd energy, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the US Open live.
Why the US Open Is a Must-See Event
Held every year in late August and early September, the US Open is the final Grand Slam of the tennis season. It’s loud, electric, and full of heart-pounding moments.
Over two weeks, players from around the globe battle it out across multiple categories. You’ll see singles, doubles, mixed doubles—and even juniors and wheelchair matches. If you love tennis (or even if you’re just tennis-curious), this is an event worth the trip.
Where It’s Held: Flushing Meadows, Queens
Since 1978, the tournament has taken place at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park. The venue is a quick subway ride from Manhattan and packed with tennis history.
Main stadiums include:
- Arthur Ashe Stadium: The biggest tennis stadium in the world, complete with a retractable roof.
- Louis Armstrong Stadium: Features shaded general seating and a retractable roof.
- Grandstand Stadium: Intimate vibes, great views, and less crowded.
Plus, there are tons of outer courts with world-class matches and open seating.
Getting There from NYC
Subway: Take the 7 train from Grand Central to Mets–Willets Point Station. It drops you right at the venue.
Car: You can drive, but expect traffic and limited parking. Public transit is your friend here.
Understanding the Tournament Schedule
The US Open runs for two weeks, starting late August and ends around Labor Day. Each round narrows the field until the finals.
Match categories include:
- Men’s and Women’s Singles
- Men’s and Women’s Doubles
- Mixed Doubles
- Junior and wheelchair matches (select years)
Pro tip: You’ll find top players on the outer courts in the early rounds—often with shorter lines and cheaper tickets.
Best Dates to Attend
Ticket prices go up the closer you get to the finals. To save money and see more players, it is recommended to go early.
The ideal day to go and watch is the first Friday (Day 5). It’s still early in the tournament, but big names are already in action.
Where to Sit: Choose Your Ticket Wisely
Here’s what you need to know before buying:
- Arthur Ashe Tickets: Reserved seating only. Most expensive, but you’ll see the biggest matches.
- Louis Armstrong & Grandstand: Some reserved, some general admission. These offer great close-up action at a lower price.
- Grounds Passes: Early in the tournament, this gets you access to all general admission areas and side courts.
If you want some shade, sit on the south side of Arthur Ashe (around section 240) to avoid the afternoon sun.
Morning vs. Evening Sessions
Day Session: Enter as early as 10 a.m. You’ll see up to three matches and can stay into the evening.
Night Session: Starts at 6 p.m. Typically features high-profile singles matches in Arthur Ashe.
Recommendation: Go during the day and stay into the night. You get the most value this way.
Food Tips: What to Eat and How to Skip the Lines
You’ll find everything from lobster rolls to tacos to chicken tikka masala inside the venue. But here’s the trick: don’t eat during peak lunch and dinner hours.
Time-saving food hacks:
- Eat early or late to avoid long lines.
- Grab meals from kiosks inside smaller stadiums like Grandstand.
- Try the shrimp and lobster salad—filling and reasonably priced at around $20.
Bringing your own food? Totally allowed. Just no glass, no coolers, and no large bags. You can bring:
- Sandwiches or snacks
- A refillable water bottle (24 oz or smaller)
- A bag smaller than 12” x 12” x 16”
Where to Get Tickets
Option 1: Become a USTA Member for early access and potential discounts.
Option 2: Use the official US Open ticket site or trusted resellers like Ticketmaster and SeatGeek.
Heads up: General public ticket sales usually open in the summer, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling from out of town.
Bringing Kids to the US Open?
Absolutely. The US Open is family-friendly, with lots of open spaces and things to explore. Just remember:
- Bring hats, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles.
- Avoid midday heat by sticking to shaded seats.
- Visit early in the tournament for a more relaxed vibe and less intense crowds.
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