The US Open is one of the biggest and most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. It takes place every August and September in New York City at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows.
The US Open is the final grand slam tournament of the year and features the top professional tennis players from around the world competing for over $50 million in prize money. Getting tickets to the US Open can be competitive, but it’s definitely possible if you plan ahead and know where to look.
When and where is the US Open played?
The US Open takes place over two weeks, generally from late August through early September each year. Here are the specifics for upcoming tournaments:
Year | Dates |
---|---|
2023 | August 28 – September 10 |
2024 | August 26 – September 8 |
2025 | August 25 – September 7 |
The tournament is played at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, New York City. The facility has over 20 tennis courts, including the massive Arthur Ashe Stadium court which can seat over 23,000 spectators.
What tennis events take place at the US Open?
There are tournament events for men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, mixed doubles, junior’s, wheelchair, and legends competitions.
The main events that most fans want to see are the men’s and women’s singles finals. This is where the top professional male and female players compete for the championship title.
Some of the other highlighted events include:
- Men’s and women’s quarterfinals and semifinals – featuring top 8 seeded players
- Opening night ceremony and matches
- Arthur Ashe Kids Day – fun activities for children and families
- Legends matches – retired champions face off
With so much happening over the two weeks, there are lots of exciting matches and tennis action to enjoy if you get tickets.
What is the timeline for getting US Open tickets?
Here is a general timeline for when tickets go on sale to the general public:
- January – Tickets packages go on sale first to American Express Cardholders and US Open ticket package holders from the previous year.
- March/April – Individual tickets start going on sale to the general public online. It’s a good idea to register for email updates on the US Open website so you are notified when tickets go on sale.
- May – The US Open ticket resale marketplace is launched where fans can buy tickets from other fans.
- July/August – Last minute tickets may become available via the US Open website and resale sites.
- August – As the tournament approaches, ticket prices may drop on resale sites.
So generally tickets go on sale between January to August, with the best availability earlier in the year.
Where can you buy US Open tickets?
There are a few options:
- US Open Website – This is the official source to buy tickets when they go on sale to the general public. You can create an account to get alerts for when tickets are available.
- Ticketmaster – An official ticket provider that sells US Open tickets. Prices are similar to US Open site.
- StubHub – Large resale marketplace with tickets being sold by other fans and brokers. Prices vary widely.
- Vivid Seats – Another big resale site with a range of ticket prices.
- SeatGeek – Resale site that compiles listings from multiple sources.
The earlier you buy from the primary sources, the better selection and prices you’ll get. Resale sites are an option for last minute tickets but can be more expensive.
How much do US Open tickets cost?
US Open ticket prices vary greatly depending on which courts, sessions, and days you want to attend.
Some sample ticket price ranges:
Session | Price Range |
---|---|
Early round weekday sessions | $25 – $100 |
Marquee matches first week | $100 – $300 |
Quarterfinals and semifinals | $200 – $600 |
Finals weekend | $400 – $1000+ |
The most affordable way to attend is getting grounds passes for early rounds. Later rounds and prime matches can get very expensive, especially if buying resale.
Tips for getting affordable tickets
Here are some tips for finding cheaper US Open tickets:
- Buy early when tickets first go on sale
- Look for promo codes and special deals on ticket sites
- Go to weekday day sessions the first week
- Avoid finals weekend and night matches later in the tournament
- Consider grounds passes instead of assigned seats
- Join a ticket exchange group and buy from fans
With some flexibility on dates and courts, you can find some relatively affordable tickets to enjoy the incredible experience of seeing world class tennis at the US Open!
What are the best courts and matches to see?
While the US Open offers great tennis all around the grounds, here are some of the best courts and matches to see if possible:
Arthur Ashe Stadium
This is the biggest court and hosts marquee matches featuring the top players. Try to see one of the night matches here with the lights and electric atmosphere. Seeing any of the quarterfinals, semifinals or finals is amazing.
Louis Armstrong Stadium
The second largest court with over 10,000 seats. You’ll get more competitive matches here in earlier rounds and still see top pros warming up.
Grandstand Court
An intimate setting with great views for competitive matches between seeded players and rising stars.
Court 17
Known as the “people’s court”, this small court lets you get right on top of the action. Cheer on players as they break through here.
Doubles Matches
Don’t overlook doubles, which features teamwork and fast play at the net. The unique formations and strategies make for exciting tennis.
Try to see a mix of different courts and some doubles matches for a well-rounded experience if you have more than a grounds pass. Match schedules are posted each day.
What else is there to do at the US Open?
While the tennis is the main attraction, the US Open offers a ton of other activities and fun:
- Food – Over 100 dining options from fine dining to unique NY foods.
- Shopping – Huge merch store with apparel and collectibles of all players.
- Exhibits – Interactive experiences like American Express Fan Experience.
- Entertainment – Music acts, fan contests, mascots, and activities around the grounds.
- Tours – Behind the scenes stadium tours when available.
You can easily fill an entire day exploring everything happening at the tournament. It’s almost like a festival celebrating tennis and the players.
When should you start planning a trip for the US Open?
It’s best to start planning your US Open trip 6-12 months in advance if possible. Here’s a timeline:
- 6-12 months out – Research hotels and transportation. Look at ticket prices and availability as they are released.
- 4-6 months out – Book your hotel and travel. Purchase your tickets when the general sale begins.
- 2-3 months out – Plan your daily schedule of matches and make dining reservations.
- 1 month out – Confirm all reservations and tickets. Check back for any new ticket releases.
Start early for the best chance at your ideal hotel location and tickets. You can also save money by getting ahead of demand.
Last minute trips can still work too, just expect fewer ticket options and pricier accommodations near the tournament.
Where should you stay for the US Open?
When choosing accommodations, look for locations near convenient transportation to Flushing Meadows park. Some top options include:
- Manhattan – Wide variety near subways. Look near Times Square, Herald Square, or Grand Central.
- Brooklyn – Try Downtown Brooklyn or Williamsburg. Takes 30-45 mins by subway.
- Queens – Neighborhoods like Long Island City, Astoria, Forest Hills are closest. 15-20 mins away.
- Near LIRR Stations – Hotels clustered around transit hubs like Penn Station or Jamaica.
- Airport Hotels – JFK and LaGuardia have airport hotels including some with shuttles available.
Match proximity and transportation convenience with your budget when booking.
Those staying in Manhattan should take the 7 train directly to Flushing Meadows, while Brooklyn travelers can take the LIRR from Atlantic Terminal. Staying in Queens gives you quicker direct subway access via the 7 train or LIRR Port Washington line.
How do you get to the US Open?
Public transportation is the easiest way to get to the US Open. Driving and parking on site is extremely limited. Here are transit options:
Subway
Take the 7 train to the Mets-Willets Point stop. From there it’s about a 10 minute walk to the grounds. This is the most popular and affordable option.
LIRR
Take the Port Washington line from Penn Station or other stops to Mets-Willets Point. Also about a 10 minute walk from there. Runs special direct trains on finals weekend.
Bus
The Q48 bus runs from Main Street Flushing to the US Open. There are also free shuttle buses provided from the Mets-Willets Point station on weekends.
Taxi/Rideshare
Taking a taxi or rideshare app can save some time but costs a lot more than public transportation. Expect price surges during busy times.
Citi Bike
You can find Citi Bike docks near the tournament grounds. A nice option from nearby areas of Queens if the weather is nice.
Give yourself plenty of time to deal with New York City transportation crowds on your way.
What are the best tips for attending the US Open?
Use these tips and tricks to make the most of your US Open experience:
- Bring a bag to carry essentials but check size limits
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – you’ll do a lot of walking!
- Pack sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
- Bring an empty water bottle to refill for free onsite
- Download the US Open app to get around and track matches
- Scope out different courts and venues over multiple days
- Consider splurging on upgraded seats for bigger matches
- Visit fan fun zones and activate early to avoid lines
With smart planning and preparation, you’ll be ready to make lifelong memories seeing the world’s best tennis at the US Open!
Conclusion
The US Open provides two weeks of can’t miss tennis action every summer in the exciting atmosphere of New York City. While getting tickets takes planning and patience, it’s an incredible lifetime experience for any tennis fan.
Use this guide to strategize the best ways to secure affordable tickets, book smart accommodations, plan your transportation, and maximize your time at the tournament. With incredible matches, delicious food, celebrity sightings, and so much more, the US Open is a bucket list event worth the effort to attend. Let the countdown begin to next year’s Open!