The US Open is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments and the biggest tennis event in North America. Held annually in late August and early September at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City, the US Open attracts over 700,000 spectators each year. With world-class tennis players competing on the game’s largest stage, the US Open offers an unforgettable experience for tennis fans. However, attending the US Open can be an expensive endeavor. Ticket prices, travel costs, accommodation, food and other expenses quickly add up. For fans interested in catching the action at the US Open, it’s important to understand the different costs involved. This article will break down the main expenses associated with attending the US Open so you can decide whether it aligns with your budget.
US Open Ticket Prices
The first major cost to account for is the price of admission into the US Open grounds. There are a variety of ticket options available, with prices that fluctuate based on factors like the specific court, round of play, and seat location. Here is an overview of the main ticket types and price ranges:
Grounds Admission Passes
Grounds admission passes offer access to the general grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, allowing you to watch matches at the outer courts or visit concession stands and fan areas. These are the most affordable ticket options for getting onto the grounds:
– Adult Single Day Grounds Pass: $75-$115
– Junior/Senior Single Day Grounds Pass: $50-$75
– Adult All-Session Grounds Pass: $340-$700
– Junior/Senior All-Session Grounds Pass: $200-$350
Arthur Ashe Stadium Tickets
Arthur Ashe Stadium is the largest tennis arena in the world and the main show court where many of the tournament’s prime matches are played. Individual session ticket prices to access Ashe Stadium vary by seat location:
– Upper Promenade Single Session: $150-$250
– Loge Single Session: $215-$375
– Field Single Session: $275-$525
– Lower Box Single Session: $325-$600
Louis Armstrong Stadium Tickets
Louis Armstrong Stadium is the US Open’s second largest court and hosts many top players throughout the tournament. Ticket prices are:
– Upper Promenade Single Session: $100-$200
– Promenade Single Session: $160-$300
– Loge Single Session: $190-$350
– Field Single Session: $240-$450
Court of Champions Tickets
The Court of Champions hosts the US Open qualifying tournament the week before the main draw. Tickets are only sold as part of a package:
– Court of Champions Ticket Package (3-day): $78
Travel Costs
Since the US Open takes place in New York City, fans traveling from out of town need to account for transportation and lodging costs during their stay.
Airfare prices vary drastically based on your departure location and dates. Flying coast to coast from Los Angeles to New York during the US Open will run you $200-$600 roundtrip per person. Check budget carriers like Spirit, Frontier and JetBlue for cheaper rates. Those on the East Coast can likely score flights in the $100-$300 range.
New York City hotels routinely jack up their prices during major events like the US Open. Room rates average $250-$500 per night during the tournament, even for basic rooms outside Manhattan. Opting for alternative accommodations like Airbnbs in Queens or Brooklyn can save you money.
Getting around New York City also adds up with subway and taxi rides. Purchase a 7-day unlimited metro card for $33 to save the most money. Alternatively, split Ubers and Lyfts with friends. Expect to budget $100+ for transportation around the city if you aren’t based in walking distance of the tournament grounds.
All in all, traveling from across the country for the 2-week US Open tournament can easily cost $1,500+ when you add up flights, hotels, transportation and other travel expenses. Those already on the East Coast can likely get by for $500-$800 for their trip.
Food, Merchandise & Misc Costs
Aside from just getting into the event, there are other costs to factor in for the complete US Open experience:
– Food & drinks: The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center has a range of dining options from food courts to cocktail bars. Meals, snacks and beverages inside the grounds can cost you $15-$30+ per person per day. Bringing your own food and non-alcoholic drinks is permitted to save money.
– Merchandise: The US Open has tons of branded apparel and products for sale, like shirts, hats, towels and tennis equipment. Plan to budget $50-$100 if you want some nice souvenirs from the event.
– Parking: Day parking passes at the US Open cost $40-$60. If driving, factor in these daily parking fees.
– Tips: Food and drink vendors accept tips, so have cash on hand if you plan to tip for service.
How To Save on US Open Costs
Attending the US Open can clearly get very expensive, especially if you’re traveling from out of state. Here are 5 tips to help you save money:
1. Buy tickets for outer courts
Skip Ashe and Armstrong Stadiums and go for Grounds Passes instead to see matches at the Grandstand or Court 17 for a fraction of the cost. You’ll still get to enjoy world-class tennis.
2. Look for ticket package deals
Many tickets are cheaper when bundled into multi-day or multi-session packages instead of paying individual daily rates.
3. Book accommodations early
Prices spike as the tournament gets closer. Find an affordable Airbnb, hotel or hostel a few months in advance.
4. Cook your own meals
Grocery shop and prepare food in your accommodation to avoid pricey food and drinks inside the grounds.
5. Take public transportation
New York’s subway system is extensive and affordable. Use it to get around instead of taxis.
Cheapest Ticket Options
Here are some of the cheapest ways to experience the US Open:
– Single Day Grounds Pass: Around $75 for an adult.
– Arthur Ashe Upper Promenade Single Session: Around $150 depending on the session.
– Court of Champions 3-Day Ticket Package: $78 total.
If you really want to go budget, try attending the qualifying tournament the week before the main draw. Those ticket prices are significantly cheaper, with some general admission passes going for less than $25. The early rounds can also provide world-class tennis at lower costs.
Luxury & VIP Packages
On the higher end, there are luxury hospitality packages that provide exclusive access, premium seats, and fine dining at the US Open:
Package | Price |
---|---|
Luxury Suites | $9,500+ per day |
The Residences at Arthur Ashe Stadium | $10,500+ per day |
President’s Box | $60,000+ for tournament |
Moët & Chandon Suite | $3,000+ per day |
These ultra-premium packages cater to corporate clients and the biggest tennis fans. Perks can include exclusive dining, premium bars, suites, gifts, transportation, and more. Be prepared to pay five-figures and up for the full luxury US Open treatment.
Conclusion
Attending the US Open can range dramatically in price. With grounds passes starting around $75 per day or $340 for two weeks, it’s possible to attend matches on a budget. However, factoring in travel, accommodation, parking, food and more, costs for out-of-town fans easily reach $1,500+ for the trip.
At the high end, luxury suites and exclusive packages can run tens of thousands of dollars for corporations and ultra high-net worth individuals. While the sticker price to attend the US Open can be steep, experiencing a Grand Slam in person is the trip of a lifetime for many tennis devotees. With strategic planning and smart decisions, fans can find ways to enjoy the US Open Tennis Championships within their budget.