A Serious Tennis Fan’s Complete Guide to the 2026 US Open: Tickets, Tips & More

▸ Returning Visitors: Click Here for Latest Updates!
- June 28: Published fully restructured new version of this post to facilitate navigation, including this PDF 2026 US Open Ticket Options and Average Prices: How to Spot a Good Deal — day-by-day ticket options and direct links to check prices and comparison shop on Ticketmaster and Stubhub.
- July 3: Added FAQ: “Which seats in Promenade have obstructed views?”
- August 3: Updated details on shade patterns in Armstrong Stadium in FAQ: “Which seats get the most shade?”
- August 27: The NYT reported that the Open would offer limited $25 evening grounds passes for purchase on-site only through Sep 6: “However, they can be purchased only on-site the evening of entry and on nights that Louis Armstrong is sold out (not including resale tickets).” When I asked the US Open box office to provide more details, they wrote: “No unfortunately we cannot confirm availability beforehand, these specific passes are on a day-to-day basis. Evenings grounds passes are only made available day of based on the capacity of the events and the stadiums.”
- August 29: My new chart outlining how scheduling should work beginning in Round 2: “Who Plays on Which Dates After R1?”
- September 1: Fellow fan Carrie reported on the late-night taxi situation: “I had a great experience with getting a yellow cab at the rideshare area by the NY Hall of Science at around 11:30pm the first two nights. NYPD organized the taxis and the taxi line and I waited only a few minutes in line before I was able to get a cab and a fast ride back to the hotel at a very reasonable cost. There were plenty of taxis waiting to pick up folks. This was probably way faster than waiting for an uber, and the police officer organizing the taxi line even made the sure my driver had his meter on when he saw I was a woman traveling solo late at night!”
- September 3: I share observation on the new post-renovation Courtside and Loge sections in my updated FAQ “What’s different about Ashe after the big 2026 renovation to Ashe Stadium?“
By P.J. Simmons
If you’re a fellow tennis fan planning a trip to the US Open — whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth — I built this guide for you. As a serious tennis player and fan living in NYC, I feel so lucky that the US Open is in my backyard. I absolutely love the tournament, and find nothing more educational and inspiring for my own game than seeing world-class live tennis.
2026 will mark my 18th time at the US Open, and I’ve learned a ton over the years through trial and error about how to maximize the opportunity, find the best tickets and seats on the Official US Open ticket site on Ticketmaster, StubHub, and other reseller sites, and generally get the biggest bang for the buck. Likewise, I’ve learned so much thanks to fellow fans around the world who have shared their own insights since I wrote the first version of this post over a decade ago.
Below are my top 10 recommendations and practical resources to help you sort through the complexity, understand all the ticket options, and make the best decisions for your own priorities and budget so you have an incredible experience. I’ll continue to update throughout the summer and the tournament. Don’t hesitate to reach out with a question below if you can’t find what you need – I’ll reply as soon as I can.
For my returning friends: Please let me know what you think of this newly restructured and updated version (June 28), which hopefully will make navigation easier and faster for you. Please let me know what you think – I’d really appreciate your feedback!
What Every First-Timer Should Know Before Buying Tickets
Whether it’s your first Open or you just haven’t been in a few years, here are a few things worth understanding before you spend a dollar or make final decisions on when to attend.
Consider taking advantage of incredible FREE opportunities to see world-class tennis and superstars the week before the main tournament (August 23–29)
Before the main tournament begins, there’s a packed week of events at the US Open grounds (“Fan Week”) that offers many opportunities to experience the magic of the Open without spending a dollar on a ticket.
The week kicks off Sunday August 23 with Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day. If you have kids, this is a great day to go with lots of interactive games, music, activities.
Then, the Qualifying Tournament (Monday August 24 – Thursday August 27) is an amazing opportunity for serious fans to see major rising players and incredible tennis up close. 128 of the world’s best male and female players (whose ATP and WTA rankings were just shy of qualifying automatically for the US Open) will compete for the final 32 spots (16 each for men and women) in the singles draws. In 2021, #150-ranked qualifier Emma Raducanu went on to win the US Open women’s singles title – the first Grand Slam champion in history to come through qualifiers. Maja Chwalinska came close to doing the same at the 2026 French Open. Read why Fan Week/Qualies are so special in this excellent piece by Steven Kutz.
Throughout the entire week, there are opportunities to see some of the top-seeded players and biggest stars in unofficial practice sessions (details posted on the practice schedule the morning of).
Note: Fan week also features four special events that require paid tickets: including Mixed Doubles Rounds 1&2 (Aug 25 10am); Exhibition play with Roger Federer (Aug 25 7pm); Mixed Doubles Semis and Finals (Aug 26 7pm); and a “Stars of the Open” exhibition (Aug 27 7pm).
IMPORTANT: TO GAIN ADMISSION DURING FAN WEEK, YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER FOR A FREE FAN ACCESS PASS.
The US Open is much bigger than Ashe Stadium. Get the lay of the land before you make your plan.
Most people think of Arthur Ashe Stadium when they think about the US Open—and understandably so. It’s the largest tennis stadium in the world (almost 24,000 seats) and home to many of the tournament’s biggest matches. But the US Open is so much more than Ashe. Think of it as a massive tennis festival spread across an entire campus. On a typical day during the first week, world-class matches take place simultaneously on Ashe plus 16 other courts.
In fact, some of the most exciting tennis during the tournament happens on Louis Armstrong Stadium (almost as big as the main show courts at Wimbledon, the French Open, and the Australian Open with around 14,000 seats plus a retractable roof in case of rain), Grandstand (with 8,100 seats), Court #17 (2,800 seats) and the smaller field Courts #4-16.
Some important basic rules about how entry and seating works:
- Any of the almost 80 ticket options gets you access to the entire US Open grounds — you’ll find every option laid out in the ticket chart below (2026 US Open Ticket Options and Average Prices).
- Once you’ve entered the US Open grounds, you can access unreserved seats (on a first-come basis) in Armstrong, Grandstand, and on every other court except Ashe stadium. Ashe Stadium has no unreserved seats, so you need to buy an Ashe-specific ticket if you want to get in. Armstrong and Grandstand have both reserved ticket options and unreserved seating. Courts #4-17 are entirely first-come, unreserved seating.
- Grounds entry times vary depending on your ticket: A grounds pass or “Day” session reserved ticket for either Ashe, Armstrong, or Grandstand allows entry when gates first open (usually 9:30am). If you only purchase an “Evening” session ticket for a particular day, you’ll have to wait until 6pm to enter the grounds. Once you’re in the US Open grounds, you can stay as late as you want until closing.
Learn how player and match scheduling works to raise the odds of seeing your favorite players.
Most fans coming to the Open dream of seeing their favorite players in action. But what many first-timers don’t realize is that it’s impossible to predict which players will play on which days, on which courts, or at what time until the detailed “Daily Schedule of Play” is released shortly before the actual match day. So if you buy a ticket to the Open prior to that – which most people do – you’re buying access to matches in a particular round of play, not a guarantee that you’ll see any specific player.
The good news is that having a clear understanding of how scheduling works can dramatically improve your odds of seeing the players and matches that matter most to you. Taking a few minutes now to review these things will put you ahead of the game:
1. Start by getting the big picture of the tournament’s schedule – here’s an overview:
>> You can find a comprehensive, day-by-day breakdown of the schedule and every ticket option here: 2026 US Open Ticket Options
2. Get a sense of what day-by-day match scheduling looks like by reviewing last year’s “Daily Schedules of Play” to get a feel for what types of matches are played on which courts during the various rounds. Keep in mind this is just illustrative: for instance, just because a player was scheduled for certain days or played on certain Ashe Day or Night sessions does not mean you can expect the same for this year!
3. Go deeper: see the FAQ “How can I predict when and where my favorite player will play?” below — it explains how to make educated guesses about who plays when and where.
How to Choose the Right Tickets and Spot Good Deals
One of the most common questions I get every year is some version of: “What’s the best ticket to buy?” The honest answer is that there are many “best” tickets — it simply depends on your priorities and what kind of experience you’re hoping to have. Some fans want the energy of being with 24,000 others in an Arthur Ashe night session. Others are happy spending an entire day roaming the grounds in the early rounds, hopping from court to court. Some want to treat someone special to courtside seats in a final round. Others want the most tennis possible for the lowest price. So the goal is simply to find the ticket that’s best for you.
Below are my top recommendations—followed by a time-saving chart I built to help you compare all the options, benchmark average prices and comparison shop, and make decisions with confidence.
Don’t miss the chance to see world-class players and great matches up close on the other courts beyond Ashe Stadium.

It was awesome seeing Ben Shelton up close for the first time in 2022 on Court #10 in Round 1 (v. Borges)
For my first US Open, I spent about $250 per ticket for a seat in the upper portion of Ashe Stadium for a night match so I’d be guaranteed to see at least one Top 10 player live. While it was certainly thrilling to experience the electricity of an evening Ashe match, I still felt somewhat distant from the action (it’s a mammoth 24,000-capacity venue) and spent much of the time watching the match on the huge video screen. Moreover, because the tournament prioritizes putting the biggest stars on Ashe over the best match-ups, the matches I saw weren’t terribly exciting.
Since then, I’ve become addicted to the unparalleled thrill of seeing many world-class competitors from a few feet away in epic duels on several of the smaller non-Ashe courts (Louis Armstrong Stadium, Grandstand Stadium, the very cool Court #17, and other outer courts #4-#16). Once you have this experience you’ll likely get addicted too. While it’s rare that you’ll see the Top 5 players on those courts, you WILL see other awe-inspiring players in very competitive matches –including seeing rising stars before they become household names, and feel the excitement of “discovering” new talent to cheer for. Over the years I’ve seen countless “next-gen” players up very close for the first time on outer courts before they were super famous — including Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff, Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, Madison Keys, Dominic Thiem, Sasha Zverev, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and many others.
While I recommend everyone experience Ashe Stadium at least once, I also can’t recommend more strongly that you make time to explore the opportunities to see thrilling tennis in more intimate settings on the other 16 courts.
On a tight budget but want to see a lot of tennis? Consider going during Rounds 1 and 2, and aim for an affordable Ashe Stadium (or Armstrong Stadium) DAY session ticket — often comparably priced to a Grounds Pass, but a much smarter buy.

Be sure to take in some Doubles action too. Here was Casper Ruud and his partner William Blumberg during Round 1 in 2024.
Rounds 1 and 2 (Sun–Thurs of the main tournament’s first week) are a great chance to get maximum bang for your buck. There’s so much action across the entire US Open grounds, with matches happening simultaneously on 17 courts all day — and some play stretching into the evening. Crowds are heavy but not as intense as Labor Day weekend. It’s one of my favorite times to be out there.
Many fans assume a Grounds Pass is automatically the cheapest way into the Open — but often it isn’t. Before you buy one, always compare it against Ashe and Armstrong DAY-session tickets. During Rounds 1 and 2 those are often available for a similar price (sometimes less!), and they give you everything a Grounds Pass does — early entry when the gates open in the morning, the run of the whole grounds — plus a reserved seat and rain protection (both stadiums have roofs). You may end up roaming the outer courts more than sitting in that seat — but it’s there when you want it, and it guarantees you a spot inside if one of your favorites gets scheduled in that stadium. And keep in mind: a Grounds Pass won’t get you into Ashe at all (every Ashe seat is reserved). So if having Ashe be part of your experience matters to you, a cheap Ashe day ticket in the early rounds is often the most affordable way to do it.
And because a DAY ticket lets you stay on the grounds into the evening, you’ll get hours of extra tennis on the outer courts well past 6pm — all for the price of one ticket.
If your budget can swing it, I strongly recommend getting a courtside reserved seat in Louis Armstrong stadium (especially between Sep 4 – Sep 7) and/or in Grandstand (especially on Sep 4 or Sep 5).

Me spotted on Netflix “Break Point” series cheering on Taylor Fritz and Brandon Holt at the 2022 US Open – front row during awesome match on Grandstand
As a general rule, I encourage fellow fans to budget their time and money in ways that maximize the possibility of a few magical experiences versus a ton of forgettable ones. For instance, if you’re opting between multiple days of cheap nosebleed seats in Ashe’s Upper Promenade versus applying the same budget towards excellent seats on Armstrong or Grandstand for a couple sessions, I generally recommend the latter.
Louis Armstrong (14,053 seats) and Grandstand (8,125 seats) are the other two main show courts after Ashe Stadium – and they offer a much more intimate experience. A reserved courtside ticket for either can give you access to thrilling matches and players up close that you’ll never forget.
The first time I did this in 2010 I saw an unforgettable marathon slugfest between David Ferrer and Fernando Verdasco from the first row of the old Armstrong stadium… It gave me a memory I will treasure forever. Ever since, I’ve made it an annual tradition to go with friends to get excellent courtside seats in Armstrong during the 3rd Round or Round of 16. In 2019, I got to see Matteo Berrettini crushing balls in the Round of 16 on Armstrong from the second row (and my phone exploded with texts when my friends and I were spotted on ESPN frequently cheering for him). I’ve had similar transporting experiences in Grandstand over the years – including sitting first row behind-the-server for a match between Auger-Aliassime and fellow Canadian Denis Shapovalov.
Both stadiums also feature general admission seating on a first-come basis, but getting good GA seats can be tough and involve long lines for the higher-profile matches — so having a reserved courtside ticket gives you the dual benefit of skipping long lines plus incredible proximity to the players.
If you’ve never done it, consider splurging once on a courtside Ashe seat.

Me caught on ESPN cheering very loudly for Carlitos from front row Ashe (lower left) during 2024 Round 2 (v Botic van de Zandschulp)
After dreaming for years of the possibility, I finally bit the bullet to invest in Arthur Ashe Stadium Courtside seats in 2011 for the first time. It was bliss. Ever since, I’ve made an annual pilgrimage to experience Ashe Courtside with a few close friends at least once.
What most people don’t understand about the mammoth Ashe stadium until they’ve been in person is that even Loge seating is fairly high up because (a) the stadium is very vertically oriented (seating is on a sharp incline) and (b) there are two levels of suites above Courtside before the first row of Loge even begins. So when you’re down in Courtside, you feel like you’re in another world. The feeling of being that close to greatness in Ashe’s electric atmosphere is pretty amazing.
Here’s a video I shot of Federer from the front row in 2011, the very first time I sat courtside at Ashe. I found a great deal on a resale ticket on Labor Day during the Round of 16 and got to witness Federer perfection from a few feet away. Best money I’ve ever spent.
Before you compare options, get clear on what matters most to you for this particular visit — seeing a favorite player, incredible proximity, atmosphere, the most tennis for your money, shade, flexibility, or certainty. The more familiar you become with the market, the easier it becomes to recognize real value when you see it.
Here are 4 steps to making sure you make your decision with confidence:
- Know the benefits/restrictions of each type of ticket – read “What Each US Open Ticket Type Gets You” below.
- Review the day-by-day ticket options and average prices in the chart below. It will give you valuable context for smart decisionmaking, including up-to-date price ranges of what to expect for every single ticket option plus benchmark ranges from last year’s Open.
- Comparison shop — best done on a computer. For my full step-by-step process — which sites, how to read the maps, what to avoid — see “Which ticket site should I use?” under Before You Buy below.
- Scan the topics below under “Before You Buy — Common Questions” to dive deeper into many important questions that may impact your final decision about what’s best for you.

Before You Buy — Common Questions
▸ Should I buy now or wait? Will prices go up or down?
The frustrating reality is: it depends — and it’s impossible to predict with certainty. Buying US Open tickets can be a bit like investing in the stock market: knowledge and good judgment dramatically improve your odds, but there are always surprises because so many variables are involved.
One thing many first-time buyers don’t realize is that the inventory they see today may look very different tomorrow, next week, or later in the summer. Much of the market is driven by resale, because the USTA typically makes relatively few Standard tickets (“blue dots” on Ticketmaster) available, with most inventory pre-allocated to subscribers — and even Standard tickets are dynamically priced rather than sold at a fixed “face value.” As a result, prices can move in unexpected ways.
Historically, some sessions get cheaper as more resale tickets hit the market and sellers compete, while other high-demand sessions rise substantially. Who gets scheduled on which days, courts, and sessions matters too. Last year (2025), schedulers surprised everyone by putting the blockbuster Djokovic–Alcaraz semifinal in the day session rather than at night — so day prices spiked and night prices dropped.
Resale tickets are almost always available until the last minute, so patient buyers sometimes find great deals — but waiting trades certainty for risk. The best advice I can give: familiarize yourself with typical prices for the sessions you’re considering so you can recognize a good opportunity when you see one. The chart above is built for exactly that — every option, this year’s average ranges, and last year’s day-of benchmarks (for context, not prediction). One clue: if you enlarge the Ticketmaster map and see few tickets, scarcity often signals prices may keep rising; abundant inventory often means more downward pressure.
▸ Will the tournament release more Standard tickets and Grounds Passes?
Sometimes yes — but in a completely unpredictable way. The USTA has historically released additional Standard (“blue dot”) tickets throughout the summer for some sessions, sometimes for surprisingly good seats. There has never been a reliable pattern for which sessions or ticket types get more inventory, and Grounds Pass inventory can fluctuate too. My advice: check periodically, especially in the mornings, but don’t count on it for any specific session.
▸ Will I still get good tickets if everything looks expensive right now?
Usually, yes. One of the biggest misconceptions among first-time buyers is that the inventory available when tickets first go on sale is all there will be. In reality, more resale inventory appears throughout the summer, and the USTA often releases additional standard tickets too. The market keeps evolving right up until the tournament begins — and sometimes even on the day of the matches.
▸ Which sessions are the best deals?
This varies year to year, and some of the best last-minute deals turn up when the lineups aren’t what people expected (last year, for example, a marquee semifinal landed in the day session instead of the night). Still, here are a few sessions that tend to be overlooked and have historically offered relatively good value:
- Armstrong evening courtside, week 1 — exciting under the lights in a big stadium, but demand is lower because many fans choose day-session tickets instead (understandably, since a day ticket lets you in as soon as gates open, so you can catch as much tennis as possible). The trade-off: an evening-only ticket won’t get you onto the grounds until 6pm. But it can be an affordable way to see bigger names from a far better vantage point than the upper tier of Ashe.
- Quarterfinal day sessions — the biggest-name lineups almost always go to the night sessions during the quarterfinals. With many tourists gone and locals leaning toward evenings, day tickets here are often cheaper than the Round of 16.
- Labor Day Ashe evening — historically cheaper than other Round-of-16 sessions, since many tourists have headed home and demand dips. You still get great matches, and it’s a great time to experience Ashe at night.
▸ How do I see the exact location of seats I might buy?
Use the “Map View” on Ticketmaster for any particular session provides the best reference for the exact location of specific seat(s). After you click on the session/stadium that interests you, choose Map View, then mouse over or click any of the dots to see the exact section, row, and seat number. This is also helpful if you’re comparison shopping with Stubhub or other resale sites, whose maps may only feature sections and zones and not individual seats.
KEY SEATING CHARTS AND SHADE MAPS
ARTHUR ASHE STADIUM
- NEW 2026 Arthur Ashe Seating Chart
- My NEW 2026 annotated Ashe Stadium SHADE map
- Ashe “Interactive Seat Viewer” (updated for 2026) to give you a sense of what view is like from specific seats – which from my experience tends to make seats look like they’re closer than they actually feel when you’re there, but helpful nonetheless.
Update on the Renovated Loge Section
In previous years, I recommended prioritizing the lower half of Loge when Courtside wasn’t in the budget, because even the front rows of Loge were already relatively high up. With the new design, the front rows of Loge now sit meaningfully farther from the court (only 5 of the original 13 rows of Loge remain) – so sitting in Loge is only marginally better than lower Promenade, making it hard to justify paying much of a premium.
A warning about the first row of the new Loge section: The roof of the luxury suites just below juts out like a sore thumb from the front row, both creating a visual and emotional barrier to the court. Here’s a photo I took from the new Section 231 Row A.
LOUIS ARMSTRONG STADIUM
- Louis Armstrong Stadium Seating Chart (Official)
- Louis Armstrong Chart (with my annotations)
- Armstrong Interactive “View from Seat” Map
- My annotated Armstrong Stadium SHADE map
GRANDSTAND
▸ What’s different about Ashe after the big 2026 renovation to Ashe Stadium?
A lot. 2026 brings a huge change to Ashe: a major renovation added 2,000 new Courtside seats and removed around 2,800 Loge seats to make room for the expanded courtside area and newly designed luxury suites between the Courtside and Loge levels. Promenade remains exactly the same.
My initial observations after spending a few days watching play from various sections of Ashe in 2026:
The New Courtside
- Courtside seats (even higher rows) remain qualitatively much, much better than Loge and Promenade, which now feel even more remote. Overall, though, courtside feels far less intimate. And more numbers create intense crowds in the “Club Level” corridors (where you get drinks and food).
- Noise levels are worse than ever in the stadium due to the larger numbers of people in courtside and folks in suites, many of whom are drinking heavily and carry on conversations at full voice. All it takes is a few loud conversations to spark a chain reaction: background conversations become white noise, and everyone feels permission to talk loudly.
- Gone are the days when you would be embarrassed for standing in an aisle except during changeovers. The longer stairways — coupled with the highly questionable elimination of the continuous walkway at the top of Courtside — means people take too long to get to their seats.
- The addition of two cordoned-off Courtside rows (“100A-100E”) with walkway behind the umpire chair feels, to be perfectly frank, obnoxious. One the one hand, I applaud the move to put Players’ Boxes into the first row on this side (section 100A) and directly opposite (105AA). And I understand the need to reserve parts of these rows (especially 100G) for VIPs like Billie Jean King and provide special security for them. But selling the rest of these seats to ultra-rich subscribers — many of whom skip matches in favor of hanging in suites or resell the seats at out-of-reach, exorbitant prices — is infuriating to someone like me who has spent hard-earned savings on those seats in the past and literally been moved to tears of joy and appreciation to be in them watching favorite players.
The New Loge
In previous years, I recommended prioritizing the lower half of Loge when Courtside wasn’t in the budget, because even the front rows of Loge were already relatively high up. With the new design, the front rows of Loge now sit meaningfully farther from the court (only 5 of the original 13 rows of Loge remain) – so sitting in Loge is only marginally better than lower Promenade, making it hard to justify paying much of a premium.
A warning about the first row of the new Loge section: The roof of the luxury suites just below juts out like a sore thumb from the front row, both creating a visual and emotional barrier to the court. Here’s a photo I took from the new Section 231 Row A.
I’ll update the FAQ on views from seats as soon as I can with a few more photos, but wanted to share this update in real time (Sep 3, 2026).
▸ Which seats get the most shade?
ASHE STADIUM
The roof creates a huge amount of natural shade all day for many seats. The most shade is in the South and West sections. Next-best is the North. The most sun (to avoid for Day sessions) is on the East side. See my Ashe shade map. I will update this with more details after I’ve experienced Ashe post-renovation in person during Fan Week this year.
GRANDSTAND
Much less shade overall, but South and West are again better because the sun is more at your back. GA seats higher under the overhang — especially the Southwest corner — get the most.
ARMSTRONG STADIUM
Sections 1–8 (South and West) are best overall for shade, with Section 2 the best (in shade all day). Sections 11-16 (East) are the worst and sit in direct afternoon sun (however the top couple of rows are shaded all day due to the overhang from the upper deck). See this basic overview of the Armstrong shade pattern – then see these additional photos showing how various sections are impacted throughout the day. Additional details:
- Section 1 is fully shaded until around 12:30pm, then some rows and some seats in the first 8-10 rows start getting some sun). See this photo.
- Sections 17-18: Fully shaded until around 12:30pm, then lower rows start getting sun. By about 2:15, many of the first 8-10 rows (rows E-O) are getting sun – see this photo and this photo. By 3pm a few more rows in 17 and 18 get sun – see this photo. By around 4pm (not sure exact time) all of 17 and 18 are shaded completely again
- Sections 3-8 (West side/Chair umpire side) is in full sun at 11am, but the shade gradually moves down to blanket more and more rows such that by 12:30pm the top 10 rows (appx) are in shade and by around 1pm all seats are fully shaded.
- The last 2 rows in the lower bowl around the entire stadium stay shaded (under the overhang from the upper bowl).
- Sections 8-11: Rows U and above are always shaded, most other seats always in direct sun.
▸ Which sections and seats have the best views?
Most people consider “behind the server” seats (the North or South ends of the court) the best — and prices reflect it. For first-timers, that’s my top recommendation. It’s the angle used for broadcast: you can follow point construction and see the court from the perspective of the player on your side of the net, without moving your head side to side. Here’s a photo of the same perspective (from higher up seats) in Armstrong. Here’s another photo from Ashe courtside front row.
Corner sections are also widely considered to be highly desirable — and for good reason. They carry many of the same advantages of the above, with the added benefit you can see the player on your side of the net from the front as their hitting the ball not just the back. Here’s a photo from the new Armstrong from that perspective.
As a serious player myself, I personally love sitting courtside as close as possible in lower rows of sections where seats are practically on the court, perpendicular and near to the actual baseline (e.g., section 120 in renovated Ashe) because it gets me physically even closer to the players and more on the same level. Sitting in the lower rows, I feel even more like I’m on the court with them. I feel the speed of the game. In these seats, I personally enjoy watching one player at a time sometimes to see their footwork, how they prepare for the next ball, etc. Here’s a photo from Ashe courtside from that perspective.
For Loge or Promenade in Ashe, I generally recommend the lowest rows you can get regardless of location, since Loge — and especially Promenade — are already quite high up.
For Day sessions, factor in shade (West, Southwest, and Northwest get the most relief; see the shade question above). The umpire chair is never a real obstruction, but in very low rows on that side it can be a minor annoyance.
▸ Which seats in Promenade have obstructed views?
There are a handful of specific seats worth avoiding in Promenade based on reader reports in the comments over the years and posts on “View from my Seat.” Two recommendations based on every obstruction complaint I’ve ever heard about the Promenade:
1. Avoid aisle seats in Promenade rows A-E (due to large glass safety panels at the bottom of aisle stairways).
At the bottom of every aisle staircase, there’s a clear safety panel (with a metal support bar) to keep people from stumbling over the ledge. These sit at the ends of the rows, all the way around the stadium. If you’re in one of the first several rows (roughly A through E) AND in the seat or two directly beside an aisle, that glass and bar can cut right across your view of the court. Fans report this year after year, always in the same spots: the aisle-adjacent seats in the low rows. A few rows up, or a few seats over, and the problem disappears. The added bonus of skipping these seats: you’ll avoid fans walking up and down the aisles (which they’re only allowed to do in Promenade).
2. Unless you are fairly tall, avoid Row A in Promenade due to the metal safety rail. The front row of the Promenade has a horizontal rail along it. For many adults it’s a non-issue — you see right over it. But if you’re on the shorter side, or bringing kids, the rail can sit annoyingly close to your sightline to the near baseline. My advice for most folks is to avoid the first row altogether. Rows B and C give you virtually the same view with zero rail, and Row A’s extra legroom probably isn’t worth the tradeoff.
Check out photos from other fans of particular seats in Promenade at “View from my Seat.”
Note: I am not able yet to address questions about structural obstructions in the newly renovated Courtside and Loge sections – I’ll update after I’m there this year.
▸ Day session or evening — which is the better value?
For most fans, day sessions offer better overall value. You’ll typically get more tennis, more scheduling flexibility, and grounds access from morning until late evening. Evening sessions often feature big names and a special atmosphere under the lights, but you’re usually paying for fewer matches. Which is “better” comes down to whether you care more about the quantity of tennis or the energy of a showcase night session.
▸ Is a Grounds Pass worth it?
Sometimes — but usually not. Many fans assume a Grounds Pass is automatically the best value; often it isn’t. Before buying one, always compare prices for Ashe and Armstrong day-session tickets. If they’re available for a similar price, you get all the same grounds-access privileges plus a reserved seat and valuable rain protection from the stadium roofs.
▸ Should I buy a subscription or multi-session plan?
For most serious fans, I don’t recommend it. Most multi-session and first-time subscription plans are only for Promenade seats — so high up in that huge stadium that you’ll watch much of the match on the Jumbotron or through binoculars. It can take years to upgrade to Loge (only available with the very expensive full-series plan). For the price of a full-series plan (well over $2,000 each) you could buy several amazing seats across the tournament — or two excellent seats for the Men’s Final. And there’s always a glut of Promenade Ashe seats on the resale market, so an entire series of Promenade seats can be hard to resell.
▸ Which ticket site should I use? How to comparison shop?
Start with Ticketmaster, then compare resale. My process:
- Consult 2026 US Open Ticket Options and Average Prices: How to Spot a Good Deal to learn the average price ranges for the sessions you care about.
- Always check the official Ticketmaster US Open site first — on a computer for the fastest navigation. Use “map view” (click any section), try different sortings, and use multiple tabs to compare sessions. Ticketmaster shows both Standard tickets (“blue dots” — face value, most often Promenade, occasionally Loge/Courtside) and resale tickets (“red dots”). Surprisingly, resale red dots are often the best value, because resellers undercut each other. Tickets stay on sale up to 59 minutes after a session starts if inventory remains, and both Ticketmaster and StubHub make it easy to relist if your plans change (you need a US bank account to re-list on Ticketmaster).
- Compare availability and prices with StubHub and any other preferred resellers to see if you can find an even better deal for comparable seats. Other sites I’ve never had any problems with include Viagogo, VividSeats, SeatGeek, or Ticket Liquidator. I personally no longer recommend TickPick after two very poor experiences. My “2026 US Open Ticket Options” chart linked above links directly to every specific Ticketmaster and StubHub session ticket option.
- Only buy resale tickets that specify the exact Section, Row, and Seat (or seat range) matching the stadium seat maps in this post. Double-check what you receive matches what was advertised; reputable resellers refund a misrepresented ticket (but then it’s on you to find another).
- Never buy off Craigslist or classified sites — too many scams, and NYC law bans “scalping” within 1,500 feet of the venue (effectively everywhere off the subway), with undercover police on site.
- Going with friends? Consider buying a mix of cheap and amazing seats and trading off time in the great one (Promenade vs. Courtside, or across stadiums) — I do this every year. All tickets are mobile-only; if you don’t have a smartphone, Ticketmaster customer service can move yours to Will Call.
- For package deals (tickets + hotel/transport/VIP), trusted options include Championship Tennis Tours, Grand Slam Tennis Tours, and Steve Furgal’s International Tennis Tours.
▸ Are resale ticket sites safe?
Generally, yes — provided you use reputable marketplaces. In some cases resale tickets are actually better values than standard tickets, because sellers compete on price. Before buying, always verify the section, row, and seat numbers, and make sure the ticket is clearly marked for mobile transfer.
▸ How can I predict when — and where — my favorite player will play?
While you can never be absolutely sure whether your favorite player will be scheduled for a Day or Night session (or on which court) until the Schedule of Play is released the day prior to matches, you CAN predict which DATE your favorite players will play if they advance after the Round 1 schedule is announced. Here’s a chart showing which players would play on which days after Round 1 if they advance (based on the pattern from the first two days of Round 1).
To be absolutely sure you see your favorite player, consider waiting until the schedule is published the day prior (start checking frequently early afternoon, usually out by 5:00pm), then immediately go to the official Ticketmaster US Open site or other resale sites like Stubhub to grab a resale ticket. This strategy requires, however, that you monitor the ticket situation closely in the days prior and are prepared to act immediately when the schedule is announced. Also, if you see tickets becoming scarce and prices going up in the days prior, you may conclude it’s worth taking a chance and purchasing based on an educated guess.
Another way to see your favorite player up close is to watch them when they’re scheduled for practice on the practice courts. See Tip #9
- Only the biggest superstars (like Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff) are sure to be scheduled on Ashe – others might be scheduled on Armstrong, Grandstand, or field courts. Schedulers have been known to put even the #1-ranked player in the world on Armstrong or Grandstand, as they did in 2021 with then #1 Simona Halep during Round 1 (on Grandstand) and then #2 Aryna Sabalenka (Armstrong).
- There’s never any sure way to predict whether players will be scheduled for DAY or NIGHT sessions. Officials try to spread the wealth and be fair to players by alternating players between Day and Night sessions. Contrary to popular belief, they do not always schedule the biggest stars at night. The one exception to this is Quarterfinals, when biggest stars are almost always scheduled for the night sessions.
- For Men’s Semifinals, we learned last year (2025) never to assume that the biggest starpower matches would be put on the Night session: they shocked everyone and put the Alcaraz v Djokovic match on during the Day session, and Sinner v Auger-Aliassime at night.
How to Get the Most of Your Visit
The night before you go, check the Schedule of Play
1. Download the official US Open Everywhere App (search “2026 US Open Tennis”) for the latest schedule, scores, and live updates. I also recommend SI.com’s tennis page for terrific day-to-day coverage and analysis.
2. Be sure to check the Schedule of Play here (or on the App) to identify the matches that most interest you and build your plan around that.
3. If you are targeting the first match of the day on either Grandstand or Armstrong and if you don’t have a reserved seat, aim to get in line early at either the East Gate (for Armstrong) or South Gate (for Grandstand) so you can be among the first to enter when gates open at 9:30am. Then speed-walk over and grab the best seat you can.
4. If you’re a player, you might be interested in reading my ten ideas for watching a pro match to help improve your own game— some of the ways I challenge myself to watch live tennis more deliberately from the perspective of a player who wants to improve.
Check out the practice courts for close sightings of the superstars
Check the practice schedule here (or on the US Open App) the night before and the morning of your day at the Open. Note: the best time to see top players practice without fighting as many crowds is during the Fan Week (see Tip 1).
Don’t drive unless you really have to — here’s how to get there
My top recommendation is to take the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) to “Mets-Willets Point.”
It’s super fast (under 20 minutes from midtown Manhattan) and drops you literally steps from the US Open’s East Gate. You can take it from either Moynihan Train Hall (8th Avenue between West 31st-33rd) or Grand Central. Look for “Port Washington” train on the monitors (signage may say “GREAT NECK” or “PORT WASHINGTON” — double-check the train number.) See 2026 LIRR schedule here. Download the MTA TrainTime app to purchase tickets. Important: the Mets-Willets LIRR stop is NOT accessible for fans with disabilities — exit instead at Woodside/61st St and transfer to the 7 train (or just take the 7 to Mets-Willets Point).
The subway #7 train is also a convenient (and the least expensive) option.
Takes a bit longer, but runs 24 hours. Stops include Grand Central. Download the MTA App for train time and routes. If you must drive: See the US Open’s driving directions and parking details. Plan extra time when the Mets are home (Aug 24-30 and Sep 4-6); I recommend arriving no later than 8:30am on Mets’ dates to be on the safe side. A good alternate parking option is the Shops at Skyview – about a 10-minute walk to the East Gate (and you can reserve a spot in advance for a discounted rate here). Consider buying a resale parking pass on StubHub for a specific lots. Fellow fan Harry notes street parking under or south of Highway 495 is viable if you don’t mind a walk.
Thinking of using UBER/ LYFT/ TAXI? They’re great getting out to the Open – but can be a nightmare coming back after a night session.
To the Open, set the destination to “Billie Jean King National Tennis Center” (drops near the South Gate) or “Mets-Willets Point” (near the 7 train, then walk the footbridge to the East Gate). After a night session, be ready for long waits and heavy surge pricing — thousands of people will be trying to do the same. Alternatives: reserve a car service in advance (I’ve used Riverside), take the LIRR or 7 into Manhattan and hail a cab there, or hail under the 7 train on Roosevelt Ave (or use the Curb app).
Consider staying nearby in Queens and walking or biking.
Fellow fan Mark stayed at an Airbnb on Queens Boulevard about 2 miles away: flat terrain, good bike lanes, and bike racks across from the South Gate — “a fun and hassle-free way to make the commute.”
Coming directly from Laguardia?
It’s only a 9-minute cab ride — or take the Q48 public bus to the “Roosevelt Av/Willets Pt” stop (around 30 minutes). You can check your bag at the US Open before you enter the grounds.
More Common Questions - Good to Know Before You Go
▸ What can I bring — and what’s not allowed? (No backpacks!)
Be sure to review this official complete list of prohibited items before going! To help clarify some common confusions:
- You CAN bring a drawstring bag (click here for example) but NOT a backpack with two straps
- You CAN bring a digital camera with video capabilities (however they do NOT allow “Video cameras or recording devices”, which includes GoPros)
- You CAN bring a plastic or metal water bottle 24 oz or less to refill on site (but NOT anything glass!)
- You CAN bring a fanny pack: but if you do you’ll still need to go through the “with bag” security line
- You CAN bring sunscreen in lotion form only, NOT aerosol cans
- According to the US Open bot on the website: “Outside food or beverages (excluding alcohol) CAN be brought into the US Open grounds, but must fit into one sized bag. There are no exceptions.”
- There is storage outside both East and South Gate entrances if you need it: (in 2025 it was $10 per locker, $20 for large items including suitcases). Bag check for American Express cardholders is discounted (1 bag per card).
Be prepared to wait in a potentially long security line if you have any bag at all (i.e. an enclosed object that doesn’t fit in your clothes), whereas you can breeze through a separate express line for those without bags.
Before Leaving, Don’t Forget…
- Download your mobile tickets to your mobile wallet (e.g. Apple Wallet or something like WalletPasses on Android)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (lotion not spray)! If you forget, La Roche offers free samples just inside the EAST gate entrance.
- A backup phone charger (e.g. a Mophie) if you have one – although there are Chase-sponsored free chargers on site.
- A lightweight white towel (and/or lightweight neck gaiter) to protect exposed skin from sun or to sit on when in unreserved seats, which can get hot and uncomfortable.
- Reusable plastic water bottle (to refill using any of the many water fountains).
- A small umbrella if rain may be in the forecast
- Dress in layers as it can get hot during the day and occasionally chilly at night
- Contacts wearers: A very small bottle of contact lens solution in case you get something in your eye
- FYI: There are two entrances to the grounds: (1) the main entrance, the “East Gate,” located near the Subway/LIRR; and (2) the “South Gate” entrance near the iconic World’s Fair “Unisphere” (globe) – see map above. While lines tend to be shorter by the South Gate, the wait may end up being about the same because there are fewer attendants and metal detectors.
▸ Can I exit and re-enter the US Open grounds?
DAY SESSION ENTRY TO US OPEN GROUNDS (Gates open usually 9:30 most days, 11:00am Finals weekend)
- With either a Grounds Pass (Day) or a DAY-session reserved ticket in Ashe, Armstrong, or Grandstand), you can enter the US Open grounds as soon as gates open (usually 9:30am, 11am on Finals weekend)
- Enter the US Open Grounds through security with your ticket scanned at the East Gate or South Gate; if you have a reserved stadium seat, your ticket is re-checked entering that stadium. Once you enter the US Open grounds with any ticket, you can stay as late as you want until closing.
- Note: DAY-session reserved tickets for Ashe or Armstrong only entitles you to that seat for the Day-session matches — after which you will have to leave your seat but can remain on the US Open grounds and access general unreserved seating on every court except Ashe (which has no unreserved seating).
- You can exit the grounds and re-enter as much as you’d like before 6:00pm (you can’t re-enter the Grounds after 6:00pm).
EVENING SESSION ENTRY (6:00pm)
- If you only have an Evening session ticket, you have to wait until 6:00pm to enter the grounds.
- If you are already in the grounds and also hold an Evening reserved tickets (for Ashe or Armstrong) for the same day, you do NOT need to exit and re-enter the grounds.
- If you’re in Armstrong for the Day session (courtside or GA), you’ll leave your seat between sessions while they clean, but you can stay in the Armstrong concourse.
▸ What if it rains?
The good news: since both Arthur Ashe and the new Louis Armstrong have roofs, far more fans can keep watching even
if it rains.
The bad news: if you’ve invested in Grandstand seats or just a Grounds Pass, there’s less consolation. Keep in mind weather forecasts are notoriously unreliable and change by the hour — there’s always hope showers pass quickly.
In the rare event of an all-day rainout (or under 60 minutes of play), the session may be rescheduled to the next day and your ticket honored then — or, if you bought directly from Ticketmaster, you may be able to trade tickets for another session this year or next (see the US Open’s somewhat complicated 2026 Inclement Weather Policy).
Worst case, look for the silver lining: you’ll be among thousands of fans you can grab a specialty cocktail with, huddle under shelter, and watch an Ashe match together on the big screen.
▸ Is grounds admission free on the second Thursday (Sep 10)?
One of the best-kept secrets: for years the US Open has quietly offered free grounds admission on the second Thursday of the main tournament (gates usually open 11am or noon; you must arrive before 5pm) — a chance to see the Men’s Doubles Semifinals plus all-star wheelchair players, the world’s top juniors, and standout collegiate players.
If you’re a serious fan — especially a doubles player — this is a day not to be missed.
▸ Food
FOOD: There are a bunch of options on site, but they aren’t cheap! See my chart outlining examples of the food stands by area on the grounds.
- This PDF includes several menus from past Food Village stands. Every year there are some new additions and substitutions, but many of these will still be around in 2026.
- Korilla BBQ is one of my favorites, but lines are usually among the longest.
- Poke Yachty is absolutely delicious and lines move quickly because they’ve nailed their system.
- Oyster Bar behind Grandstand has killer ceviches and lobster rolls.
- Hill Country BBQ, Curry Kitchen, Fish Shack and Fly Fish are also delicious.
- Restaurants in Queens not on the grounds
▸ What are perks for cardholders?
- AMERICAN EXPRESS CARDHOLDERS: Bring your Amex card if you have one! See full Amex Benefits at US Open here. Perks from 2025 likely to be repeated in 2026:
- (1) Amex Card Member Lounge on the 2d Level of the Amex “Fan Experience” (where anyone can also play a “Glow Tennis” mixed reality interactive game and get a complimentary manicure with tennis themed nail art).
- (2) Centurion Suite in Armstrong (Exclusive to Platinum and Centurion Members). Book in advance on Resy
- (3) Book complimentary court time in NYC area at over 500 tennis and pickleball courts and unlock special access to peak reservation times when using your Amex.
- (4) Check your bag for a reduced fee at East or South Gate
- (5) Get a one-time $20 statement credit when you spend $100 with your enrolled card at participating US Open merchants
- (6) Get a free earpiece/radio to hear ESPN match commentary
- (7) Skip lines and grab concession items quickly (checkout-free shopping) at the Amex Shop in South Plaza .
- CHASE CUSTOMERS? Check this Chase site for updates on perks for 2026.
- Click here to make a reservation to access the “Chase Lounge”
- Other past perks have included offering cool video+mobile “Chase Charge & Watch” chargers
▸ Recommended places to stay?
This is not an area of expertise for me, but I trust fellow tennis fanatic Melissa, who maintains a great list of hotels appealing to all budgets here.
Fellow fan Mark recommends staying in Queens and biking, based on his experience: “We packed our bikes and stayed at a nice AirB&B on Queens Boulevard, a little over 2 miles from the stadium. Queens has a great network of dedicated bike lanes and a friendly attitude toward bikers, and best of all – the terrain is flat! Once at the grounds, there are bike racks across from the South Gate entrance and in front of the security tent that handles baggage claim. It is a fun and hassle-free way to make the commute for anyone that so inclined!”
▸ Grounds access on Finals Weekend?
Grounds Admission tickets usually get issued at some point over the summer for Finals Weekend (Fri-Sun Sep 11-13) on Ticketmaster.
You can’t access Ashe with these tickets, but you can walk the grounds, see juniors and wheelchair finals, and watch Ashe matches on the big screens.
Final Tip: Pay It Forward When You Can
If you have the opportunity, consider a random act of kindness for fellow fans during the tournament. Our tennis community is big, but in a way it’s small — and our passion is infectious; do something kind for someone today, and they’re likely to pay it forward.
For instance, if you’re leaving your great Ashe (or Armstrong or Grandstand) seat for the day/night while matches are still going, as you exit consider consider gifting it to a fan who’s waiting outside the entrance hoping someone like you might offer. Giving someone on grounds your seat when you’re done isn’t as easy as it used to be, given tightened Ticketmaster restrictions preventing transferring after the ticket is scanned and preventing screenshots from within the Ticketmaster app… But with a little creativity and effort you can pretty easily make it happen, and the gesture might create a lifelong memory for someone else. Here’s how:
- Take a screenshot of your ticket in your phone’s WALLET (Ticketmaster will block screenshots from within the app).
- For Armstrong or Grandstand, simply text someone else the screenshot and it should hopefully suffice.
- For Ashe:
- If gifting to someone already IN the stadium, a screenshot from your wallet should suffice — including if you’re leaving the Courtside/Club level area entrance and you want someone already in Ashe to benefit from your seat (from Loge or Promenade.
- If gifting to someone already in the Open grounds but not in Ashe already: You’d need to walk with them to the Ashe entrance, re-scan your ticket (telling the ticket scanner that you’re letting your friend go to your seat) AND give them a screenshot (which they’ll need to show to ushers or for entry to Club level); OR you’d need to walk with the friend(s) as if you were going to re-enter with them, hand the friend your phone to get scanned, then have the friend discreetly pass the phone back after they are “in” (then just turn around as though you changed your mind about entering themselves at this time).
I’ve gifted a lot of tickets over the years, and it always feels wonderful.












Hi PJ, I stumbled across your tips and I keep referencing it. Thank you very much for this. My husband and I would like to surprise our 15 year old son with tickets this year. We’ve never been. He’s a huge RF fan, of course. We are planning to buy tickets on 9/3. Upon your recommendation we’re thinking about day tickets in Ashe. At first we thought about splurging and trying to get courtside, but then I wondered if we should buy in Loge 102 row B for less than half the price and then we could buy day tickets… Read more »
Hey Rochelle, thanks so much for your kind note. Your son is going to be THRILLED – and lower level Loge will be awesome. 102 behind the server is absolutely great. If you can do both day and night, I’d say that would probably make your son ecstatic (and if Federer is scheduled that day, you’ll be sure to see him that way… my guess is he’d be scheduled on evening but you never know). If either Sep 2d or 4th are also possibilities and seeing Fed is the your priority, you might consider waiting until Fri Aug 25th when… Read more »
If we waited until the schedules were posted, I’m worried the decently priced seats will be gone by then. Any thoughts on this?
It’s always a bit of a gamble and there are tradeoffs… If seeing Federer is the #1 priority, I’d recommend you wait until Day 1 schedule is posted on Friday Aug 25, be ready to act as soon as it’s announced, determine the days Federer will be playing, then buy day and evening sessions for the relevant day you can attend (e.g., if he is scheduled for Day 1, Monday, then he will play on Wed, Fri, and Sun if he advances; if he isn’t scheduled on Day 1, then he will play Tues, Thurs, Sat, Mon if he advances).… Read more »
Hey man! For clarity, Nadal has taken the #1 ranking and Fed is #2 going into the OPEN. No way that can change between now and then right? I haven’t been to US OPEN in like 15 years sadly but, am thrilled to be going this year! Since you’re a seasoned vet, I wondered what your thought was on the following; I’m planning on 2 sessions at the OPEN while I am in NY. I will be there from Sept 1-6th. I was thinking I would go on the 3rd for round of 16 action (night session) and then go… Read more »
Hey Derek, so glad you like the site! Rafa is #1 with 7645 points, then Murray with 7150 points, then Federer #3 with 7145. So US Open seeding all depends on whether Murray withdraws (his current stated intent is to play). As you decide between sessions, keep in mind that they do typically put the biggest stars on at night but there are no guarantees (last year I saw Nadal during day session on Sunday round of 16, they put Djokovic on evening). I do think if seeing Federer and Nadal is your top objective you should probably wait until… Read more »
Hi P.J.,
We are holding out for the schedule at our hopes to potentially see Federer, but we’re trying to prepare ourselves of where we’d like to sit. If we ended up going with Loge and you had your pick of any section, what are some recommended sections you would want to sit in Loge? We were originally thinking an end like 102 or 118 but just read that the corners are the best seats in this section? What are your thoughts? Thanks so much!
Hey Rochelle, corners and “behind the server” (like 102 and 118) are generally what most people prefer. Generally a matter of personal preference. I’d pick whichever one you can get (corner or behind server) with seats lowest in the section. For Loge, I generally prefer corner or behind server, but when I’m getting courtside seats I often choose low seats at around the baseline (on the side) because it enables you to get really close to each player, and I love watching footwork and movement– yet those who like watching points play out from a strategy standpoint wouldn’t enjoy that… Read more »
Hi P.J., seriously, I have referenced this blog a million times. I have no idea what I would’ve done without it never have been to the Open before. We purchased tickets for Ashe for Saturday evening in hopes to see Federer. We’re driving from Maine or else we would’ve bought day and night passes to eliminate the risk. So, because we’re getting in on Saturday afternoon and won’t have much time to walk around before the matches start, we’re considering going back on sunday to do a grounds pass. However, I wonder if you had any other recommendations. We probably… Read more »
Hey Rochelle, I’m so glad – and I’m very excited to hear about your son’s reaction! I have fingers crossed (and everything else physically possible) that Fed wins today and that they schedule him Sat night!! For Sunday, normally I would have recommended Armstrong reserved (either behind the server or very close to court on a side near baseline) — but because weather is looking questionable Sun, I would say buy a cheap Ashe ticket as rain insurance and use it as your “grounds pass.” Because Sun is bottom half of draw (i.e. not with Fed and Nadal), ticket prices… Read more »
Thanks so much for this post! I always try to attend R2 evening session in AA which is always fun and affordable. I have a 4-year-old and she loves to watch live tennis especially the US Open. I also take her to AA Kids day which is a fun day with lots of activities for kids to watch. General admissions only cost $10 and seats are on first come first serve basis, but we get to see some top players on the court.
Keep up the good work and keep sharing interesting stuff related to US Open.
Hey Mueez, thanks for your thanks! And also for this great insight – I love the idea of your daughter wide-eyed with excitement about tennis at only 4 years old. Awesome. Have a great time this year! P.J.
Hi PJ, Thanks for the great information, its really helpful. I’ll really appreciate if you can give me some advice. I’m on a very tight budget but I finally have the chance to go for the first time to the US Open with my wife and I don’t want to miss it. I’m planning to go on Sep 4 and 5, currently I can get 2 tickets for around $40 each (300s sections upper rows), I’m not sure if those are the best seats for that price range or if I wait its possible to obtain something better, do you… Read more »
Hi Jaime, that’s definitely going to be best you could do on that budget – a great deal! P.J.
Hi PJ! This post is amazing! Thank you so much for sharing all this useful info!
I’m from Mexico and I’m currently living in the US. One of my dreams is to attend to a Grand Slam so I’ve been saving money -hopefully enough to live a great experience-
So my question is about which day do you recommend me, which arena and if I should buy a session day, groundstand or an evening pass. Thanks in advance! Great post ??
Also, do you have any social media where I can follow you?
Hey Sara, mil gracias! Un placer. My recommendation would be to buy the best Ashe day session ticket you can afford on Wed or Thurs of the first week of the tournament (during the 2d round, when prices are still relatively low) and to watch matches on Ashe that day that appeal, but plan to spend a lot of time visiting other courts (Armstrong, Grandstand, Court 17, etc) based on what matches look most interesting to you. Matches on outer courts will go well into the evening that first week, so your day session ticket will provide access to many,… Read more »
Hi PJ, You mentioned getting courtside tix on Labor Day weekend for $435 (112, row B), but most Loge seats for first week night sessions are going for close to that amount! I’d love to see Fed but at this point am scared of waiting to see what prices will be like last minute. I’m thinking of purchasing night tix for Aug 31 Ashe and if Fed is not scheduled then, buying another pair on Wed… What would be my best strategy to increase odds of seeing him play? I know that is a crap shoot since the draw isn’t… Read more »
I meant, I looked at Loge row 112 row B for $435 for the first week, but you mentioned comparable prices for courtside at a later week. Why are tix so expensive the first week?
Hi Ani, not sure which comment you’re referring to? (1) Both Loge and Courtside tickets tend only to go up in price as the tournament progresses. I may have mentioned at one point that Labor Day Ashe evening tickets sometimes are less on average than Fri-Sun nights of that weekend because it’s a weeknight and many out-of-towners are returning home – but that’s one of the only exceptions. (2) There are many Loge seats available for much less that $435 during the first week (see e.g. Wed Aug 30 day session on Ticketmaster, where there are even courtside seats available… Read more »
Thanks, PJ! Sorry for the confusing set of emails…as if you don’t get enough. Can you tell I’m excited???!!
LOL, no worries – I’m super pumped too and totally get it!!
Hey PJ, this is by far the best and most comprehensive guide to the U.S. Open – many thanks for compiling. My wife and two friends are looking for budget-friendly tickets where proximity to the court is preferable to seeing a top 5 player. Unfortunately, September 4th and the 5th are the only two days that work for us. From your guide it seems like the Ashe day ticket is the way to go, but in the second week, are there many other day matches to watch where we can get close to the action? Would you recommend a better… Read more »
Hey Mike, thanks!! 4th (Monday Labor Day) is a great day to go, round of 16. I’ll be there Sep 4th myself and bought Armstrong courtside reserved for the day (plus Ashe courtside reserved evening) – it’s my one “splurge” day for this year and going with 3 other die-hard fanatical friends/players. For most people I do recommend Ashe because now that there’s a roof it eliminates worry about potential (I have been rained out before and it’s a huge bummer). If you’re willing to take the chance and want proximity, I’d say go for Armstrong on the 4th: it’s… Read more »
Hi PJ. This site is great and has helped us immensely plan our first trip to the US Open this year! So thank you! I’ve been keeping track of ticket prices for the Friday and Saturday of Labor Day weekend. I’m looking to sit in Armstrong Friday & the Grandstand on Saturday. We would like to have seats at an actual stadium for both days…thus is why we are foregoing grounds tickets (but we do plan on going to other courts depending on matchups). Right now, it’s looking like decent Armstrong tix on Friday are about $500 for a pair… Read more »
Hey Jason, really glad it’s been helpful! That’s pretty standard ballpark for those days. A standard non-resale courtside Armstrong seat that Friday is currently listed for $275 (sections 107-110 don’t have any standard available right now, they would be a bit less – I’m guessing more like $150-180). The prices for the resale tickets in 107-110 will probably go down slightly, but the ones courtside (1-15) will probably stay about the same. For Grandstand, I would predict Saturday to be the highest demand day and for that range to stay about the same – unless rain is in the forecast… Read more »
Almost forgot! by having a front row (the 50 section row c) do you think I could sneak to the front at the end of the match and hope to get an autograph?or the players usually stop a bit closer to the exit?
Thanks again! 🙂
Never any guarantees, but Section 50 is just about as good as any other down there to try to get an autograph (47-49 being perhaps slightly better, but you never know) – and at the end of the match you’ll be well positioned to go down the aisle toward the front to hold out something for them to sign. P.J.
Hey PJ, third message for you 🙂 I need some advice about the ticket I have purchased! By the way, that “shady website” I have bought my ticket from was legit in the end. I have spoken to them and somehow they were able to even transfer my tickets to the official Ticketmaster website and on the US Open app where I put them on sale (as I got some slightly better seats via Ticketmaster directly). My question is, is it likely that someone is going to buy them? they are promenade seats (way up) but they are for the… Read more »
Hi Clelia, I strongly recommend you wait until you sell that ticket before dropping a lot on a loge seat. I generally counsel people strongly not to buy Promenade seats unless they are sure they will use them themselves because they are very difficult to resell. The exception is men’s semis and finals – but even then no guarantees. The 112 row G seat would be very good – however right now prices are speculative based on whether Federer or Nadal make the final. They will probably drop significantly if neither does. Regardless, if you sell your Promenade seat you’ll… Read more »
Thanks PJ! So far I battled the urge and didn’t buy that seat. The “issue” is that I would love to see Nadal and if he doesn’t make it to the semis or the final then I’m more than happy to just have my low promenade seats, but let’s say the tennis Gods are generous this year and we have Nadal AND Federer in the final (or even just Federer… In that case, when do you suggest to buy the tickets? very last minute is going to be a disaster I guess? I was thinking to wait till the quarter… Read more »
Hi,
I am extending a trip to NYC for one day in hopes of catching Venus play in the first round on Monday August 28th. Do you have any insight into if she has historically played the 11am or 7pm rounds?
Hi Monica, for the past 4 consecutive years she has been sheduled during the day sessions. However, I would place bets on her being scheduled for an evening session this year: (1) she’s back in the Top 10 and the top seeded American; (2) Serena isn’t playing, which takes out competition for a night slot. Note: no guarantee she will play on Day 1 v Day 2 (see my explanation under Box 3 FAQ #2). I recommend you wait to purchase a ticket until Day 1 schedule is announced on/around Friday August 25. P.J.
Hello PJ!
Your guide is AMAZING; so thorough! My husband and I have our first (and probably only) chance to see a Grand Slam tennis tournament. We’d like to go on Sept. 2, as we fly out early the next Sunday.
Which stadium do you think we should buy tickets for the best view/seats and the chance at seeing top ranked players? I’m leaning toward day session at Arthur Ashe vs. Armstrong because it would be just our luck to get rained out.
Thank you!
Hi Elaine, thank you! Yes if you’re just going for one day, Ashe (day session) is the way to go: you get rain insurance and your ticket allows access to all the other courts. I’d purchase the best possible seats you can afford in Ashe because it is a huge stadium. If you are up for a very full day and evening, you might consider getting both reserved seats in either Grandstand or Armstrong for the day so you can experience amazing tennis athletes up close, and also get Ashe evening session tickets – the best of both worlds. That’s… Read more »
Hey PJ, can I get your opinion on my planned trip to see the Open? Would really appreciate a second opinion since I don’t travel a lot and have never been to NY before. I really want to see Fed play followed by Nadal. I’m planning on flying in on Sun 9/3. I’ll be booking a flight that arrives by 11am. I am hoping that Nadal and Fed will be scheduled night matches. As a matter of fact, I am 90% sure Fed will play on Labor Day Monday (I looked at the Open schedule all the way back to… Read more »
Hi James, if Federer makes it through to R16, he will play on Sunday or Monday, but there’s no way to predict whether it will be Sun or Mon until the Day 1 schedule is announced on Aug 25 (see Box 3 FAQ#2 above and also this explanation). Also, it’s likely they’ll put Federer on evening, but no certainty. Same for Nadal (who, by the way, I saw play last year on Labor Day during the day session). LGA is really close to the tournament, so that Sunday afternoon contingency plan should work fine – however they may schedule the… Read more »
Hello, I went to the US Open last year and this year I bought tickets in the Championship plan. I am however starting to be very worried because you can no longer have tickets in pdf-format. Now you only have mobile tickets. But I am simply not up to date from a technological point of view. I just bought a smartphone especially for this purpose but I have no experience whatsoever with “apps” and I also have the feeling that they have tailored everything for Apple phones and I have no Apple phone because I find Apple totally not userfriendly.… Read more »
Hi there, for most purchases made outside the U.S, Ticketmaster gives the option for you to pick up hard tickets at “Will Call” at the US Open itself – check your confirmation email or login to your Ticketmaster account and see if this is an option for you, or perhaps send a note on the Ticketmaster Contact Us page and see if that’s an option. I imagine they changed the policy because there has been an issue in the past of people reselling fake PDFs to others, and this probably helps with fraud.
Thank you PJ for providing such a comprehensive and practical guide to the US Open. I have referenced your site multiple times in preparation for my return to the event (last visit 1991). Truly appreciate all your efforts in updating the material on the site and replying to board messages. I plan to attend both day and night sessions during the first Wednesday and Thursday (2nd Round). For the night sessions, I am seeking two seats in a low Loge row. For the day, I am only in need of a single ticket and its location is less important. A… Read more »
Christopher, so sorry for the delay – somehow missed this one! Thanks for your kind words! 1) Wish I had a perfect answer for this one, but reality is: “it’s complicated.” It’s like betting on the stock market – you just never know for sure. I can only provide educated guesses, and hope they help – but even I have been very surprised at twists and turns in pricing in previous years despite following closely. For those particular nights, now is an excellent time. Many fans are focused on later-round matches, but when the schedule is announced and people realize… Read more »
Hello PJ, thanks for the info, has been very helpful, but I need your advice. We’ll be in NYC (from Mexico) Sunday 27 and Monday 28th…what would be your recommendation? We are four big tennis fans (specially my 12 year old son)…I’m doubting between buying the Grounds Admission or the Armstrong session….and a last thing…would you recommend to buy them directly at the ticket office the same day?? Thanks and sorry for all the questions….
Maria
Hi Maria, I would definitely recommend Ashe seats over general admission or Armstrong for Monday the 28th. Armstrong will be relatively easy to get into that day, and there will be so many fun matches to watch across all the grounds. With an Ashe seat, you have rain insurance plus are guaranteed to see a big “star” play PLUS you have access to every other stadium, including Armstrong. Go for the best seats you can possibly afford for an Ashe DAY session Monday 28th. I would recommend purchasing on Ticketmaster before you go. If you can afford, consider getting 2… Read more »
Thanks PJ! I already bought our tickets as you recommended….just out of curiosity, what is the difference from the blue tickets (in ticketmaster) and the pink ones? I know those are resale tickets, but what is the difference??
My little one plays and loves tennis, he’s pretty well ranked in Mexico, so I read about the Ashe Kid’s Day…what would we expect from that event??
Thanks again!!!!
Maria
Hey Maria, great! (1) The pink tickets on Ticketmaster are certified resale tickets – meaning another person is selling them using the Ticket Exchange as the means to do so. Blue tickets are either “standard” (face-value) or “premium” (avoid those, seriously overpriced!). Prices for pink resale tickets are all over the place — usually much more expensive, but occasionally less expensive than blue standard tix. (2) Do go to kids day if you can! There should be lots of fun activities for him to plug into, and perhaps most appealing for him, you’ll be able to see players (some stars)… Read more »
Hi PJ, appreciate you may not know the answer to this but are there any bars you would recommend for tennis watching? I have tickets for semi final but will be in ny on Sunday 10th too so fancy camping somewhere with a good atmosphere. Maybe we can get a group together and if you’re not going to the final yourself, can buy you a few drinks!!??
Hey Lee, you know I have been asking myself the same… There used to be this amazing watch party in Madison Square Park with a big screen, but they stopped a couple years ago and they are definitely not doing it this year. Here’s a good list by Time Out from last year. The Vine at the Eventi could be really cool. Let me keep checking around – would be great to meet up with you and others! P.J.
Be really nice to meet up with everyone and watch together.
Thanks again for this very valuable insight. I used it as a reference the last time I went to the Open in 2014 and am happily back again this year. Having sworn off Ashe in 2010 I’d like to get a good day seat in either Armstrong or the Grandstand for my 1 day on Sat 9/2. Two quick questions if I may: 1) Normally I would prefer Armstrong, but considering that it is a temp venue this year (bleachers all around???), would you say that the Grandstand is the way to go? With 2 top 5 men players out,… Read more »
Hey Karen, thanks very much! (1) From what I’ve read about the temporary Armstrong, it will still be pretty great – and even more intimate than the old Armstrong. I expect they will continue to put the more “marquee” players on Armstrong as they did last year, but with very appealing players for “true fans” like us on Grandstand too (last year on Sat Grandstand were Thiem, Nishikori and Pliskova, while Wawrinka, Del Potro and Radwanska were on Armstrong). (2) I would hold out a bit for slightly lower prices on Grandstand especially. Armstrong may not go too much lower,… Read more »
Hi, PJ. Thank you so much for so many great details and tips about US open. It is so helpful. I am a big Fedfan. I want to go watch final by myself cus I have a strong belief for Roger this year :). When do you think it is a good time to buy final ticket? I am OK to seat up to the middle part of promenade. Do you think I can see the ball from there? Is it too far? I am also thinking to go one day quarter final. Do you think I should buy ticket… Read more »
Hi Jaden, thanks so much. For finals, if you’re just buying one ticket for yourself I would be patient and keep monitoring. Right now there is still a very large number of resale tickets available – click on the Ticketmaster map for detail for the final Sep 10 session and see all the red dots. I personally would hold out as long as possible for a Promenade seat in the first few rows for under $500 including fees – that may not be possible, but there’s not much harm in waiting, as I don’t think prices will go much higher… Read more »
Thank you very much for your reply, PJ. For final, is ~400 for row j in promenade section a decent price? Do you think whether I would be able see the tennis ball from there? You think for first few rows under 500 including fees might be a good price, right? I am afraid the price will go up dramatically if Roger and Rafa both get into final. So I should not too long, right? Thanks a lot again.
Hey Jaden, first, yes you will be able to see the ball from any seat in Promenade – it’s just that the difference between first few rows and mid to upper Promenade is significant in terms of how “connected” you feel. I do think it’s worth taking your time and continuing to monitor over the next week or so. I don’t think prices will go up much from where they are unless Fed and/or Rafa are in the final or both playing so great through round of 16 that everyone expects one or both to make it. So you have… Read more »
Thanks, PJ. I have another question. Do you know US open has the same setting as Wimbledone or this year AO as people can buy tickets to sit outside Arthur Ash Stadium?
Hey Jaden, Not really, unfortunately… There’s a big screen outside Ashe stadium and another big one outside Armstrong where folks can watch who don’t have Ashe tickets but DO have tickets to enter the the grounds (i.e. General Admission or reserved seats at Armstrong or Grandstand) – however not at all as cool, communal or comfortable as “Henman Hill” at Wimbledon. Last year they offered $25 grounds admission on finals weekends so people could be on the grounds and watch on big screens – I haven’t seen confirmation yet if they’re planning that again this year. P.J.
Hi, PJ. When I was reading your blog, you mentioned Roger and Rafa will both be scheduled to play on the same day through Round of 16. How about quarter final? Do you mean it is possible they can play on different day for quarter finals? Thank you again.
Hey Jaden, yes sorry should have specified – that pattern would hold through quarters too (same day if they both make it through). PJ
Hi again, I am still holding out on getting tickets and noticed today there are no single seats left in the lower area in Grandstand on Tuesday. All the ones that had been available are gone. Do you think more will show up? There are plenty sets of 2 tickets still available. You think they will eventually sell them as singles to unload them closer to the tourney?
Thanks
Hey John, there’s literally one single ticket available that day Section 8 Row G seat 4 for 180+ fees. But that’s a bit expensive for the first Tues round 1. I personally would hold out until much closer with the expectation that, yes, someone who purchased and can’t attend will want to sell to recoup costs. P.J.
Thanks, I noticed there are available seats in Armstrong that day, but also 185.
Hey PJ, great read, appreciate the help in looking for tickets. I really can only go on Friday the 1st at night, whats the most affordable section that doesn’t compromise the experience?
Hey Ryan, Just looked and see a handful of standard tickets available in Loge and even courtside. If you can afford, there’s a great single standard seat in Section 116 Row C for ($210, minimal fees because not resale). If you can’t afford, I’d look to lowest row you can get in Promenade. See e.g. 336 row B, 328 Row C, 317 Row C, 308 Row C, 326 Row D. Huge difference between Row C in Loge versus row B or C in Promenade, worth the extra $100 if you can swing it. PJ
Hi PJ,
How are you? I hope everything is going well for you. I have a question for you…as always. If I purchase Arthur Ashe tix on Tuesday September 5th, will I still be able to go to Louis Armstrong stadium that same day? I am asking because it looks like there is General Admission seating at Louis Armstrong, however there are no GA tix available to purchase. Am I making any sense? Thanks for your hep as always Gina.
Hey Gina, yes you will – however just note that there will only be doubles matches that day on Armstrong (which I personally think are amazing and totally underrated, but a lot of folks just want to see singles battles). P.J.
So basically all single matches from Quarterfinals forward are on Arthur Ashe?
Yup!
Hey PJ, what do you think about section 106 row L in the Loge? I’m thinking about it for the semis (found tix for <$800). I know it gets shade last, but since the semis don't start till 4, I figure it won't be THAT long. I'm just wondering if the action will seem pretty remote? I know it's close to the top of the loge (think only M and N are rows are behind it). Thanks for your help as always!
Hey James, I think that would be just fine – corner is great. But before you press buy keep looking for a bit closer – just looked and saw section 116 row E seats 3-4 about the same, plus very appealing 103 E seats 5-6 – a bit more but pretty sweet seats and relatively much less than going rate for comparables. PJ
Thanks PJ! I’ll keep looking, but it sounds like your seeing tickets bought as pairs? I’m going by myself so was only looking for 1 ticket. Seems to limit me a bit. Did think about buying a pair and trying to sell the other…
I think I see the tickets you are talking about. I think they are >$800 once you add service fees. The 106 L ticket was with service fees included. Arghh!! This is so stressful LOL. I think I’ve already decided to sacrifice trying to get a courtside seat in the 4th round. My new strategy is to try and get as close in the loge as possible for 4th round matches (in hopes of seeing each Federer and Nadal) and then go to the Semis (where hopefully I will get to see each of them again :)) It was getting… Read more »
Yeah, sorry… But keep holding out. Singles do show up – and they tend to go for lower prices because they are harder to sell. Take you time. PJ
Hey again PJ 🙂 So like 10 standard tickets in section 107 row K just popped up. Do standard tickets fluctuate in price?What I’m trying to know is, is this as low as the price for these seats will be from TicketMaster? Which means that any row closer will be higher in price? With fees it comes out to about $793. I’m trying to stay below $800 so I’m wondering if this is the best I can do? Also, can you enter and exit the rows from both ends? In other words, if I sit in seat 16, do I… Read more »
Hi James, prices of standard tickets for particular seats do stay the same once they are put up for sale. But prices for standard seats can vary a lot in price based on date/session and location – and since the prices aren’t listed anywhere, you never know exactly what they are until they pop up (yes, I know, incredibly frustrating). Those 107 K seats for $770 + fees (around 793 total ) are probably the best you will do for standard seats for semis, and it’s rare that standard Loge seats pop up for semis. In most cases, there are… Read more »
PJ, thanks so much for this comprehensive guide! Me and my buddy plan to flight in from different places and watch the labor day weekend sessions. We’d also like to play some tennis while we are there, since it was years ago when we played. Would you please recommend some nice tennis courts in the city? I thought it might be hard to come by during US Open, but if anyone knows a place or two, it must be our beloved PJ! Thanks!
Hey thanks so much, really appreciate the very nice words!! Will you have a car? If so, my home club is CourtSense in Tenafly NJ – a bit of a drive, but an affordable gorgeous facility with very well maintained cushioned hard courts and they take serious adult players really seriously (ask for Louis and mention me). Other options: Roosevelt Island Racquet Club is another good choice for har-tru courts and metro accessible. Stadium Tennis Center Forest Hills West Side Tennis Club is excellent, subway accessible, and historic (former site of US Open) Midtown Tennis in convenient in Chelsea but… Read more »
Thanks, PJ! We don’t have a car, but at least one of the places seems near the event site. We’ll see if we can get a reservation there! It sure is expensive in NY city, just like pretty much everything else!
I have referenced your site a million times already in planning a trip over Labor Day weekend- wonderful resource as I’m a beginner at this and planning a trip for my husband’s birthday! I am thinking of getting tickets for Sunday of that weekend. What is your opinion – Armstrong vs. Ashe night? Are evening matches only at Ashe? How many matches can you see in an evening session? Thanks!
Hi Rosa, thank you so much 🙂 Your husband is going to be so grateful! So for me, the ideal would be Armstrong Day (or Grandstand Day, a bit cheaper) PLUS Ashe Night. That’s a big splurge, but guarantees a pretty spectacular experience. For Armstrong or Grandstand day reserved tix, pretty much ANY reserved seat is good in that stadium – obviously the closer the better, but just having a reserved seat that day means peace of mind and experiencing some competitive round of 16 matches up close. Ashe night session you’ll see one women’s and one men’s match. You… Read more »
Very nice write up! I used your guide last year and was able to see Fed play during Labor Day weekend! Thank you so much! I will be heading there this year again (3rd time going) with a friend. Do you think we should buy tickets for the last QF AND the Men’s SF, but with bad seats (promenade level), or buy some Ashe lodge seats during week 1 before Labor Day weekend? We won’t be able to make it during Labor Day weekend, but can before or after. We would love to see Fedal play. I’m thinking if we… Read more »
Hey Alex, thanks so much! So happy it’s been helpful. You might want to consider going ONLY to Semis and dropping as much as you can for a Loge seat… And I would keep checking Ticketmaster every day to see if any blue dot (standard) tickets pop up in Loge. Right now there are standard Promenade seats for semis in Section 338 F (which in that section is actually 4th row) for only $250. I have seen some standard Loge tix pop up recently, and more may in days ahead. Alternatively, if you haven’t ever sat courtside, you might want… Read more »
Hi P.J.
Thanks for all the great tips and advice! Really appreciate it. Unfortunately we can only go either during the first week before Labor Day weekend or after Labor Day weekend. Otherwise, I would’ve gotten tickets for both the first week and second week. Anyway, I’m looking at tickets for the SF and I found a pair for 1095 each in section 119, row G. They are centered right behind the baseline as well. Does this sound like a good deal? Thanks!
Alex, sure thing. Those are sweet seats but that’s pretty steep. Check 116 Row E for $778 each + fees. P.J.
Thanks! Oh my, I see some courtside seats at section 30, row F for standard price of $2650. Can I resell these for more? What do you think?
Alex sorry for the delay in getting back – have been traveling. Just about any standard seats for semis are smart purchases and would be pretty easy to resell. PJ
Hi PJ , your site is by far the best one I have found online to find out about the US OPEN , like many others I am travelling the long distance only to get to watch Fed before its too late !! I will wait until the 26 and be ready to purchase them online right away , Fed is almost always playing night session on Ashe but just to make sure I will purchase tickets for the day session and night session , the thing is I would like to get courtside tickets for the night session at… Read more »
Salut Benoit, merci mille fois! Sounds like a good plan. Yes, there will still be courtside seats available on resale – but it’s just so hard to predict on price. Round 2 will be significantly less than Round 3. Right now there’s a single courtside standard ticket available Wed night Aug 30 (Round 2) in section 54 Row H Seat 8 for $400 and another in 27 (row J seat 1) for the same, and there are resale tickets as low as $460 plus appx 15% fees… If Federer is scheduled for Day 1 (Mon 28th), then I expect tickets… Read more »
Hi PJ , it gives me a good idea of what to expect!! thank you again for taking the time ! your french seems very good by the way !!
Merci bien – ca fait longtemps… mais j’ai passe trois etes au bord du Lac d’Annecy (il y a 20 ans) y j’adore la langue!! 🙂 P.J.
Hi P.J. I ended up getting tickets for the SF. I am also thinking of getting tickets for the day session on Wednesday. I’m hoping Fed will play here since he’s already played two evening sessions back to back. However, the tickets are way too cheap compared to the evening session; the evening session tickets are like 3-4x the price for the same seats! Do you know why that is? And also, do you think Fed will play on Wednesday’s day session? Thanks!
Hey Alex, (1) many tourists will have left and it’s harder for people to take the day off from work so generally lower demand than for evening; (2) there is massive speculation that Roger Federer will win today and be scheduled for the Wed evening session. We know Federer will play Wed if he wins, but the reality is we cannot predict for sure whether he will be scheduled day or evening. If Nadal loses today, strong chance they put Federer evening. If Nadal wins, it would be unfair to Rafa to put him on Day yet again. But who… Read more »
Hey Bernard! My reading of the prohibited list and past experience is that you will be fine bringing those. Just sent a note to a friend of mine who I’m 99% sure has brought a telephoto lens on multiple occasions to the Open. Will let you know if I hear anything differently. P.J.
Just got this from my friend:
“The Olympus mirrorless camera and telephoto lens should be no problem. I’ve been taking my larger setup (Canon 7D SLR with a 70-200mm telephoto) to the Open for years. I don’t know what they’ll say about the 360 camera. It looks like that is a video camera. Of course, they could try to get it in and if it gets rejected simply check it in that luggage check area.”
Hi P.J.
Many thanks for your quick turnaround. The more I think about this, I am probably going to use a standard zoom lens which is only 3.5″ long. Planning to enjoy ourselves instead of lugging “things” around the grounds. I think our reserved seats are close enough.
Your article really helped my wife and I plan for our first US Open. Appreciate your sharing your past experience and observing what’s possible.
Since the 360 camera can technically be used for still 360 pictures, I will see whether can apply my persuasive skills during the check-in process otherwise I am now aware of the luggage check area. Thanks for reaching out to your friend on what’s possible with the mirrorless camera.
Bernard, so happy it was helpful. Hope you guys have a wonderful time. let me know how it goes! P.J.
PJ, so we are going to the Open as a bucket list trek to see Fed live before he retires. We live in Massachusetts, so the drive is about 4.5 hours. So, when the schedule first comes out, and we count the every other day play based on the first round schedule for the first few rounds, we are planning for a 2nd or 3rd round seat. 1. How then do we know to buy the day or night tickets in Ash? 2. Or, is it that we wait for the schedule of play and times to come out for… Read more »
Hi Laurie, check out this overview I prepared on this topic. You will only be able to predict the day he plays in R2 or R3 based on whether he is scheduled for Day 1 or Day 2. He’s LIKELY to be scheduled at night, but there’s no way to say for sure. He will definitely be on Ashe. Cheers, P.J.
Can we bring in seat cushions to the venue? Are backpacks with the string on them allowed?
Are there vendors that sell bags?
Hi Vienna, yes seat cushions are fine as are drawstring bags. The shops usually sell drawstring US Open-branded bags on site. PJ
Thank you!
Do they sell seat cushions there, as well?
Hi Vienna, I’m so sorry but not really sure – I would think so, but can’t promise. Emirates airlines has a sponsor booth and if you stop by early in the tournament you may be able to get one… PJ
Hi PJ! My family and I are newbies to the US Open but are very excited to go! We have day session Ashe tix for September 1. Is it possible we’ll see top player matches?
I’m also looking forward to seeing doubles matches, as I am a doubles player. What courts would doubles matches be at?
Our tix are on the less shady side of Loge seats, Section 110. I hope not to regret buying these seats. Please give me some good news on these seats.
Thank you for your very helpful advice!
Hey Vienna! First, definitely you’ll see some top players in 3d round matches Fri 9/1! Check out last year’s schedule for the same day to have a sense — and also to get a sense for where to catch doubles matches. The good news is that many people who go to the US Open don’t realize how amazing great doubles is to watch live, so it’s much easier to get a seat on those courts! As for section 110, well yes that is less shady – but just bring a hat and sunglasses and you’ll be fine! You can always… Read more »
Next question: Will it be crowded on September 1? I mean, how long is the security/bag check line really, on his day?
Hey Vienna, hard to estimate exact times – many variables. Probably not as crowded as on Sep 2-4, but if you are carrying a bag that needs to be screened, you can expect a bit of a wait. Lines usually move pretty quickly. But if you want to be in your seat for exactly when warm-up begins for a match at 11am, I’d recommend getting there by 10:15am. P.J.
I’m completely bummed I won’t see Federer or Nadal since I have September 1 tickets. My alternatives are to exchange my tickets, buy another days worth or hope to see them practice on the day I go. Any other options ?
Hey Vienna, yeah it’s a tough break they both ended up in the same half of the draw – would have at least been a consolation if they were playing on opposite days. Yes you can always try to see them practice on that day (they might, no guarantees, you’ll have to check the practice schedule night before or day of). You can also try calling Ticketmaster to see if they might let you exchange for another day; it’s not normal that they would, but I once asked the question on behalf of someone and the person said they would… Read more »
PJ,
Great stuff here = very informative.
My ?: Do you have any experience w/last minute ticket purchases?
*Noted an article that said ’16 tickets were going very cheap if you were willing to wait until day of/near match time.
Hey Gabriel, most years I end up deciding at the last minute to add an additional session or two based on what’s available. Last year I got a men’s quarterfinal evening single courtside seat for something like $700 on the same day or previous evening, because the seller was clearly eager to get something for what they originally paid. There have been other years I’ve held on hoping that prices would drop and they didn’t much… But there is ALWAYS availability for every session because of the number of resellers. It’s all about your patience and risk tolerance! P.J.
HI PJ: My father and me have a 3 day championship session wich includes all the machtes played en Ashe Stadium from September 8 to 11. We bought the Promenade section, but we never had an specficif seat. How is the seating policy, it depends on how early you enter to the session? We would like to see as TV broadcast and we hate side seeing. Tahnk you for your awnser!!
Hi Lucas, you definitely have an assigned seat – all seating is assigned– but if you bought on resale and the seller didn’t specify, then you may not know yet what it is. Did you get an electronic ticket or promise of delivery? I could contact the seller to find out what exact section/row/seat# you’re in. PJ
Oh my goodness, this is such an amazing informative site for those of us venturing to New York for the US Open. My husband and I are bringing our son for his 21st birthday present. He’s a player and HUGE fan. We will be there over Labor Weekend. I went ahead and bought ground passes for Friday, and am planning a day session on Saturday (was thinking about Louis Armstrong) and an evening session Sunday (Ashe). I know in Armstrong there are some seats that have obstructed views, so I will try and stay away from them, but is it… Read more »
Thanks Judy! For Armstrong, all the seats are very good – only about 8,000 (versus 21,000 in Ashe) so any reserved seat is fine. I’d spend as little as you can for Armstrong reserved seats so you can maximize your budget for Ashe Loge seats. As long as you are in Loge, you won’t have the “ant” problem! Grounds passes fine for Friday. I would recommend taking at least a week to get very familiar with the market for resale tickets for Ashe before you pull the trigger on purchase. That way you’ll really feel good once you make your… Read more »
PJ, I have been diligently watching the prices and doing my homework. My plan is day session on Saturday (9/2) and I was looking at Armstrong or Grandstand. For the 3 of us, it looks like it will be close to $300 per ticket in either stadium. I even looked at splitting the tickets up 2 and 1 to see if I could get a better deal. With that info, do you think I would be better off just doing Ashe? My plan is DEFINITELY to do Ashe Sunday evening (9/3). I would really like to make this a GREAT… Read more »
Hey Judy! I would say go for best seats in Ashe you can for Sat 9/2 day session. They will definitely put the biggest name players on Ashe, which will make your son happy to see… And you can always go to some of the many other outer courts for close-up experiences (albeit doubles and juniors matches) even if Armstrong and Grandstand are really crowded. The other benefit: no worries about rain with an Ashe ticket. In sum, I think Day Ashe Sat plus evening Ashe Sun will be awesome, and you’ll have opportunity to venture out onto other courts… Read more »
How do they handle the “fast lanes” into the Grandstand and Armstrong now with mobile tickets. I know in past years with a printed paper ticket you kind of quickly showed it to the person standing at the entrances. Is it basically the same now but you just have to show them your phone screen? Also any feel for how long the lines might be to get into either of those courts early in the first week if you don’t have a ticket for access to the fast lanes?
Hey Bill, that’s a really good question. Not sure – I can see things either speeding up or slowing down as a result of the policy change. I imagine the US Open itself will discover new challenges in the actual implementation – so we’ll have to wait and see. As far as lines for the first week, the only days I’ve experienced impossibly long lines are Sat-Mon of Labor Day weekend, other days much more manageable. P.J.
Hi PJ!
Thank you for the great information! My husband and I will be flying in on the 5th. I was thinking of buying Ashe tickets (day and night) for the 6th and 7th. After reading your blog about the 7th being “community day” I am seconding guessing that; I don’t know if I want to fight the crowds. Do you think the crowds will be extreme? Should I opt for tickets for the 6th and 8th instead? What would you do?
Hey Angela, that second Thursday Sep 7 is indeed a free day again this year (before 5pm) and usually isn’t very crowded – it’s the day when all the doubles semifinals are played along with juniors. I just found out they’re going to put some big wheelchair matches on Ashe that day, and day admission to Ashe courtside will be free to watch – so I’m planning to go myself and really looking forward to it. I’ll be posting on that in the days ahead… If your goal is to see men’s singles matches, Friday 8th would be a better… Read more »
Thanks so much for all the great tips, I really loved your site! I’m really keen on watching Federer play and I don’t mind even a first or second round match. I think my best bet right is to wait for the schedule to be announced and then look for resale tickets immediately. Is it really difficult to get courtside tickets to a 1st or 2nd round match once the schedule is announced, though?
Also, if I wanted to get an autograph when would be the best time? Would you recommend heading to one of the practice sessions?
Hi Nischita, thanks! Yes, I think that’s best – and it’s usually not difficult at all to get courtside for 1st and 2d round at the time when Day 1 schedule is announced. If Federer is announced for Day 1, just be prepared to act very quickly. Getting a Federer autograph will be very very tough… Even his practice sessions will be mobbed. Always worth trying, part of the experience! See my comments to Leonardo about autographs. P.J.
Thank you so much, P.J. 🙂
Hi PJ,
I’ll be going to the US Open by myself on Friday, 9/1. I’ll be at the Ashe evening session in Sec 56, Row H. Will I be ok by myself? To be honest, I’m a little nervous!
Hi Lor, absolutely! You’ll be surrounded by many very friendly fellow tennis fans. And courtside area is really relaxed and fun. I would take the LIRR from Penn Station to and from if you can – does that work with where you’re staying? With LIRR, you’ll know exact schedule of the trains and it drops you right at the entrance to the Open. P.J.
Hey P.J., a few other questions if you can help me out please: 1) Would you recommend waiting to buy men’s semi tickets or buy now? I found a few in the loge which are in my budget but not sure if I should hold off. I think if the rankings hold up, Fed will be 3 seed and Nadal 2 which could mean a possible Fed v Nadal semi if they both make it through? My other problem is my travel plans are not quite finalized so if I end up not being in NY on that Fri, it… Read more »
Hey James, first the easy one: DSLR is fine. You can hear shutter of the press corps photographers, so I wouldn’t worry too much – but I love that you’re thinking about both fans and players and would say if you continue to be self-aware and consider the moment (e.g., avoid continuous shutter during critical points when you can hear a pin drop) you’ll be just fine. For #1 – I would wait until your plans are finalized. I generally advise against ever assuming you can resell… For semis, chances are quite high you will be able to — but… Read more »
Hi James, it is much more likely that Nadal will be 1 and 3 when the US open kicks off. Murray has pulled out of Montreal and Rafa only needs to make the semis to be number 1. Murray, if he plays, is then not able to gain much ground because he got to the final of the next tournament in Cincinnati, so he is ‘defending’ the points won there. I believe it could even be possible that fed overtakes Murray too if he wins the 2 tournaments before US. I’d say there’s a 5% chance of a nadal-federer semi… Read more »
Great observations, Mike. Thanks!
Thank you P.J. and Mike! I totally did not see the news about Murray, hopefully he’ll play at the Open. Would be a bummer to lose both him and Nole. I tried to find some info about possible point changes up to the Open that would affect ranking and was unsuccessful so really appreciate the insight Mike!
Actually I’m not sure I provided accurate info! Please see this link: https://www.quora.com/Tennis-In-grand-slams-do-they-plan-it-so-that-the-number-1-seed-will-play-number-4-in-the-semifinal-should-they-both-make-it-and-that-2-will-play-3-Is-it-a-draw I had gone on last year’s where seed 1 (Novak) played seed 3 (Stan) in the final, thinking the semi formula was therefore 1v3 and 2v4. It appears from this link (from 2014) that it is actually drawn at random whether 1 will play 3 or 4 and the same for 2.. that would mean that if nadal gets to world no 1 and federer stays 3 then there is a 50% chance of them meeting in semi (assuming the draw is actually random – there would… Read more »
If I bought a first-row section 41 seat would I get a high chance of getting an autograph?
Hey Leonardo, actually no – that sits too high above the players. Better bet would be sections 47, 48, or 49. If you have tickets in 41 or in another nearby courtside section you could always try to go over to that area immediately after match ends (i.e. when winner is getting interviewed) and see if the usher in that section will let you into that section. Finally, please know I can’t guarantee success here, just based on what I’ve observed in previous years! P.J.
Yeah, but arent sections 41 and 42 above the tunnel where the players enter and leave the stadium? I thought that would be a safe bet
They are indeed above the tunnel, and I’ve actually sat there… but they are so high above the level of the court (the back wall is quite high) that you have to reach down and literally stop the players as they exit (and they’re usually walking quickly and don’t pause there). They tend to stop for autographs along the side wall before they hit the tunnel area, then usually just focused on exiting. No matter what, there’s no guarantee in that area – players usually only sign a handful in Ashe as they exit, so anyone that gets an autograph… Read more »
Okay..
Do you think they will release Standard Courtside Tickets for the night sessions of the QF? They already have released them for the day sessions, but nothing yet for the night ones
Hey Leonardo, always possible and absolutely worth continuing to check! P.J.
Your site is amazing. Thank you. I am turning 60 in September and on a whim have decided that going to the Open for my birthday with my kids and husband is better than any party. We will be flying in from all over the country for the Labor Day weekend. We are thinking of going just on Sunday 9/3. Would you say that grandstand day and Ashe night would be a good choice? I am the worlds biggest Rafa fan but the last time I came to the open he lost to Fognini the night I arrived in NYC… Read more »
Hey Leslie, happy early birthday! If I were you with that budget, I would do exactly that. There are scattered good GS seats on resale right now as low as $130 – just took a quick glance. You may have to sit 2 and 2 (or just wait a bit and see what else pops up). Spend as little as you can on GS reserved tix because they are all good seats, then spend your max remaining budget on Ashe Loge seats for Sun evening. Let me know how you do! P.J.
Thank you so much. It is so hard to know what to do. You are an amazing source for tennis fans! Have a wonderful US Open yourself!
Thanks Leslie, that’s so kind – really appreciate it!! P.J.
One last question PJ ( as I watch Tommy Paul outplay Nishi). Isn’t Sunday the third the beginning of round of 16? Won’t that mean that there will be few matches on grandstand? Would Armstrong be a better choice? Since I only have one day and do not want to be on Ashe ( unless courtside haha) I want to get the most bang for my buck. Thank you in advance for your thoughts.
If you can afford Armstrong along with Ashe, that’s a great choice. See my link above to 2016 schedule as a guide to what you would see… P.J.
Also, do you think that closer to the matches, courtside tickets for those sessions will still be available? I know that the stadium is huge, but could the courtside section be completely sold out?
Thank you so much for this information, it’s great! Glad to get the heads up on the rucksack. I’m coming from the UK for my first US Open and really want to see our number 1 female player, Johanna Konta (I love Murray too but my experience of being at the back of Court 1 at Wimbledon has put me off big courts and I imagine if he’s well enough to come he’ll be on Arthur Ashe and I can’t afford a closer more expensive ticket). I’m thinking of biting the bullet and buying a ticket (back of Arthur Ashe… Read more »
Hey Sinead, I love Johanna Konta – watched her match against Halep this year, became a big fan. Reselling is a very uncertain thing – I would say unless you could stand to lose the money if you don’t resell (or lose a significant amount if you have to resell at a price that is lower than you paid), you should avoid doing it. Better to wait at least until the Day 1 schedule is announced on Friday before the tournament and purchase then when you have more clarity on whether she will star playing on Day 1 or Day… Read more »
Thank you very much P.J. !
Dear all,
A bunch of standard tickets have just been released for Friday 09/08 Men’s Semi-Finals.
Grab them!
Absolutely – for those looking for decently priced Promenade seats for Men’s Semis, now is definitely the time to get them! Thank you so much Scott for alerting everyone!
P.J.,
My pleasure, a pair of standard loge ticket for Friday 09/08 Men’s Semi-Finals just popped up now (Sec 116 Row J, so no shade), if these are what your are looking for, grab them!
I’m looking to get nose-bleed seats for Sept 1 day session at AA stadium. Do you think I should buy them now or wait. I’m afraid if I wait the prices will go up. What do you think?
Hi Mare (are you from Budapest? I spent a semester there and love love love it). I would recommend taking about more more week to really monitor prices for that day before making a decision – nothing will change much in the next 7 days. Once you get really familiar with the going rates you’ll recognize a deal that makes sense for you. Right now there are still quite a few face-value (blue dot, non-premium) tickets available for that session – which is a sign that demand isn’t off the charts. Just took a quick look — if within your… Read more »
I’m not from Budapest but my parents were born in Hungary so I am a frequent visitor of Budapest. Yes, indeed it is a beautiful City!!! I’m actually from Connecticut. Thanks for the tip. This is a very informative site. I will definitely check out Loge sections you mentioned.
Nagyon jó 🙂 I also grew up in CT (Vernon off I-84). P.J.
Hi PJ,
Do you think the current ATP rankings hold for the seedings as well. Because, the seeding is what determines the order of play. I am trying to get tickets for the Federer quaterfinals (assuming he makes it). Pls help.
Thanks
Hi Vivek, the ATP rankings affect the seeding; the seeding impacts the DRAW, which in turn impacts the scheduling. The exact order of play on a given day (e.g. day or night, which court, what time, etc) is up to the tournament staff. See this article I prepared to explain why you can only make educated guesses about who will play when. P.J.
One more question – Do we need a valid match tickets to go see players practice during the tournament ?
Hi Vivek, yes except for the informal “practice day” the sunday before the event starts (Aug 27) when admission to grounds is free. PJ
Hi
Wonderful information, many thanks.
My wife and I are Australian and will be in New York for a week and plan to go on the second Monday.
A group from the wedding party are keen to go.
My thoughts are best value would be to get an Arthur Ashe stadium cheap seat and gives us option of that and also Louis Armstrong and Grandstand.
Would you recommend purchasing these from Ticketmaster ASAP or do you think they might still be available a week or so out in case others choose to come with us?
Many thanks
David
Hi David, yes patience is almost always a virtue when it comes to US Open tickets. I recommend getting to know the going price range now for sessions that interest you (track it for about a week so you feel like you have a really good sense). If you see an exceptional deal, grab it- but otherwise you can wait. Just keep monitoring occasionally… One week prior to the event there will still be plenty of resale tickets via Ticketmaster (and possibly some face-value that get released too). Agree on the Ashe cheap seat strategy (rain insurance + total access)… Read more »
PJ, If Nadal and Federer both don’t make the semi’s, do you expect a big reduction in loge seat prices? Conversely, if one or both make the semi’s, do you think loge prices will go up significantly?
Depends on who else makes it, but with Nole out yes I think semis prices will go down significantly if neither Nadal or Fed make it. My guess is that prices could go up a bit if Federer makes it, probably stay about same if only Nadal makes it. P.J.
I am attempting to go into Ticketmaster on both my phone and PC. It’s like the US Open doesn’t exist. Nothing comes up. It says “no events in my area”. I get rerouted to Tickets Exchange. Do you know what is going on? Tickets I have purchased are in my orders section of Ticketmaster but that’s it. No sessions are accessible to buy tickets.
Hi Bill, strange – try clicking this Ticketmaster link from your phone, which goes directly to the US Open event. I just did and it gave me all the sessions. If you click on any session, you’ll see option for “Filter” in a box – select that and you can de-select “Verified Resale Ticket” and the premium options and keep only “Standard Ticket” selected if you want to see if any face-value seats are available. As I outline in my blog, they are hard to come by for anything but Promenade seats early on. P.J.
P.J.,
A few standard loge tickets for Men’s Semi-Finals on Friday 09/08 just popped up and gone within the minute I am still monitoring closely, I do have the lower promenade tickets for that day but seriously considering upgrade to loge, I am still debating, those loge tickets are $620 – $650 each but I only saw row K, L & M. I think I am just hoping you would tell me it’s worth it so I can pull the trigger:P……
If it were me, I’d definitely go for it! P.J.
P.J.,
Sec 106 & 132 tickets just popped up, which section would you personally choose?
132 – shade…
P.J.,
Thank you! I know Sec 132 definitely has shade but isn’t 106 covered as well? Or it depends on time of the day?
Sure thing. Depends on time of day – Sun hits south area first and wraps around west then clockwise around the stadium. 106 is on east side, which tends to get shade last.
P.J.,
I finally got the standard tix for loge 132 row K, now I am all excited!!!!!
I don’t mean to be greedy but row K is not exactly as close as I hoped (since I got the Sec 101 row C tix for 09/03 as well), I will just keep monitoring for the next few weeks and see if I can snapped a pair front row loge tix for 09/08: Just out of curiosity, how difficult would it be to resell loge 132 row K tix? (If I managed to get better loge tix)
Hey Scott, that’s great! And I totally get wanting to keep shooting for closer. One can never predict, but I would think you would have zero problem reselling those tickets at least for what you paid for them and almost certainly could sell for at least a little bit more. P.J.
P.J.,
Thank you again for the quick respond! My only concern now is that if none of the big names make it to the Semis then I might have problem reselling my promenade tix and the loge tix I just got (that is if I end up getting better tix) I guess I will just have to have faith that they will make it and give us a spectacular final slam of the year *finger crossed* Worst case, I can still “Pay it forward” as you suggested.
🙂 Demand is usually really high for semis regardless… So fingers crossed it will all be fine!
Dear all,
I just saw a few court side standard tickets popped up for Friday 09/08 Mens’ Semi-Finals.
For people who has the money, grab them!
P.J.,
This is definitely our of my range but just out of curiosity, would these be sound investment?
I am personally so tempted… but my other half would kill me for dropping that much on a day of tennis… I’d say if one is sure they want to go, an excellent price. But because prices (and demand) can vary so much depending on who’s playing, I generally advise against anyone speculating on buying and reselling tix later. Just too many variables, you can never know for sure. And reselling on most 3d party marketplaces, including Ticket Exchange, require you to put tickets up for 15% more than what you paid just to break even – that’s how the… Read more »
I have been to the Men’s Semi “Super Sat” before and they are usually amazing matches! If you just want to witness great matches and can only get 1 day, it’s a high chance on this day. I watched Stan and Nole go 5 sets. The Men’s Finals in contrast is only 1 match and we have not seen a 5-setter since Murray in 2012 over Djokovic…the Delpo vs Fed match was the best in recent memory. So this year, if both Rafa and Roger make it there to play that day, it is almost guaranteed to be sold out.
Hey JC and all, just to avoid any potential confusion to folks new to the Open, it’s now “Super Friday” (no more fun alliteration) since they moved men’s semis to Friday. Totally agree with you JC. PJ
P.J.,
You are right, it’s just way to risky…unless of course you are actually planning on going.
By the way, I noticed the standard court side ticket for $2250 plus fee / per ticket changed to $2400 plus fee now, is that normal?
It’s hard to say what’s “normal” with the face-value tickets. Every year they list a range of prices — but it’s not totally transparent as to which seats cost exactly what, so I’m not surprised that there might be a rise in price based on going rates on the resale market and a belief that they can get more than what they originally listed the tickets for…
P.J.,
Thank you so much!
I see Sec 106 & 132 tickets pop up and gone over and over, what is going on?
Which Sec would you personally choose?
People are probably adding to their cart, then taking time to think, then not completing the transaction in time… Just keep refreshing and grab as soon as you see new ones pop up and you should be fine.
Quick question: where do the players enter court and where are the player boxes? Would it be possible to indicate on your seating map? Thanks!
Hey James, in past years players have entered/exited Ashe through tunnel under sections 41-42. P.J.
Thank you so much for this informative post! After waiting for a bit and looking around I decided to get 2 tickets on Grandstand in Section 1 Row S for the Saturday of Labor day for $203+ fees and will probably pick up some Promenade tickets for Sunday. I think the seats should be nice since they’re behind the server what do you think? I’m really excited as this is my first time going to the US Open and this post really helped me in deciding the tickets I wanted to get.
Hey Lucy, YES absolutely – those seats in Grandstand that Saturday will be awesome. So glad it was helpful! P.J.
Hello PJ, Many thanks for such awesome information and also and also patiently replying all the queries. I booked my tickets even before the official opening and I could reserve only the promenade tickets Section 322, Row X, Seat 16. I got the first week tickets as I wanted to watch outside courts and I thought I’ll pay a bit more and get some closer tickets for Federer’s 2nd or 3rd round game. What’s your suggestion for me now is that I have a first week ticket? Also, I looked at the resale and it goes session by session. Shall… Read more »
Hi Partha, sure thing. Best advice I can give you is above in Box 3 FAQ #3 — I’d wait until the Friday before the tournament and either try to make an educated guess, or check keep checking every afternoon to try to see the schedule for the following day as soon as it’s announced, then when you know he’s playing grab a ticket for the best seat you can afford then. P.J.
Hi, I’ll be attending the opening sessions this year and I wanted to know:
– What are the chances of seeing Nadal and Federer on a practice court session?
– Would I have to get to their designated practice courts extra early to grab the best seat/position?
– How does one acquire an autograph from them…
Hi Andrew, I hesitate to give odds… Definitely check out the practice schedule the day before and get there well before the scheduled time if you see them scheduled. Getting autographs from them will not be easy – best bet would be after a practice session. P.J.