Showing posts with label US Open. Show all posts
Showing posts with label US Open. Show all posts

Grounds Passes FAQ: the late summer sale

Purpose of the Grounds Pass

Historically, the Grounds Pass was a way to allow fans to fill spare capacity at the US Open. It was designed for the first 10 days only. When buying tickets in August and Ashe seats appear too pricey, check the grounds pass! It sets the "floor" Ashe price, offering more fans a way to go for slightly less.

US Open Grounds Admission
Newest batch released for week 1


General Seating = Great Value

The main tradeoff was that you would not have a "reserved seat". So this excluded you from Ashe Stadium and the reserved lower bowls of the Armstrong and Grandstand Stadiums.

There are plenty of "non-reserved" seats higher up and open. Generally ideal for those who are not so picky, these were a great value to roam the 20+ courts on campus throughout the day.

Demand and Price Inflation

About 10 years ago, prices were only about $60-70 for the grounds.
For 2024-2025, the median price for the Grounds Pass was around $150-$180.
Yet, the US Open still managed to set attendance records the last 3 years in a row!

Sign up for our alerts to US Open passes and discount alerts @
https://go.tennis-bargains.com/fans

The sessions for August 27 and August 28 will both offer discount codes for tickets*
Stay tuned for the promo code and release activation details!

Full List of Seat Prices (# of dates)


My first US Open ticket ever was a grounds pass

I attended my first US Open ever with a grounds pass. I sat next to a friend with a 3rd row seat on the old Grandstand baseline watching a 3rd round match. I paid less than $80 and returned it for many years. 

Whenever a tennis fan comes back each year, I know they have great stories and memories to share. If they only remember the high prices or overcrowded lines, then the reputation of tennis as a sport is damaged. To grow the game, the avid fans are customers for life.

Re-sell Mania Market

A year ago, they began only showing the lowest-priced resale grounds passes. So, I would ignore the $250+ prices, because they simply are prematurely priced. Wait for markets to adjust, then reconsider what is sustainable and what fans are willing to pay.

When unreasonably high, it scares away new tennis fans. The patient shopper will find more inventory in late July and again around mid-August. When more tickets are introduced, the prices will come down.

Our advice for folks who just want to get in is to buy the cheapest ticket available!
This might be Ashe, Armstrong, Grandstand, or Grounds.

US Open Standard Tickets (non-resell) will be available again this Summer

We saw 2 rounds of new ticket releases last year for 2024. We expect those ticket batches will arrive with many more Grounds Passes by August for 2025.**Update: The 2nd (and final) "rate cut" happened in mid-August, dropping on around 8/14.

Evening grounds passes (after 7pm entry) have sold out already!


Sign up for our alerts on US Open discounts
https://go.tennis-bargains.com/fans


Many fans and NYC locals can't take a whole day off work. Or can't spend $200+ for Ashe tickets.

For the growth of tennis and the goal of creating lifelong fans, we want more middle-class families to be able to attend this amazing US sporting event live.

Get 5% cash back in Q3 at US Open and Ticketmaster

Get 5% back with the Chase Freedom + Flex Cards

For the US Open or Ticketmaster tickets, this looks like a no-brainer deal.
  • Valid 7/1 - 9/30.  Activate at ChaseRewards.com
  • Sign-up Bonus: Earn $200 back after $500 spent (plus 5% back rewards)

Deal is Back! Valid for Ticketmaster, US Open, and Gas Stations. July through September.
Here's the easiest way to get 5% back on tennis tickets this Summer.




Earn 5% cash back at Ticketmaster and US Open purchases with Chase Freedom and Freedom Flex.
You must first activate the special quarterly bonus online by 9/14. Purchase tickets using your Chase Flex card (up to $1500 worth).
July through September - US Open and Ticketmaster were listed as eligible merchants.

Bonus Tip: Access to the Chase Lounge RSVP at the US Open


Register with your email and phone number to create a free account today.

2025 US Open tickets? 4 smart rules to know before buying

US Open Tickets - key signals to buy

  • Arthur Ashe
    • Valued at $200+ for weekdays
    • < $150 for nights; < $300 for weekends
  • Grounds Passes
    • Less than Ashe (should be less than any Ashe Tickets - otherwise, just wait)

  • Armstrong
    • Ashe price +/- $50 (good for closer tiered seats, smaller stadium)
  • Grandstand
    • Ashe +/- $40 (best for 2nd or 3rd rounds, depends on matchup)

Are ticket prices too high? Should you sell? Ways to "trade" for another stadium?

  • Stick to Ashe Stadium - if you want rain protection insurance with the roof or for a must-see player.
  • If Armstrong or Grandstand are only slightly more expensive, get those instead.
  • With similar prices, it's better to have a quality seat you can use than a cheap pass.
  • Grounds Passes should always be cheaper than Ashe!

1) Arthur Ashe Stadium

A "good price" range for Ashe currently is about $200-$250 for Day Session tickets.

Select "BEST SEATS" and slide the Max price to $250 (or $300)

Ticketmaster tips for the best resale price for the closest seat

  • In the menu tab, select "Best Seats" (not lowest price)
  • Move the Max Price slider down ($250 or $300 to start)

Wonder how much better seats you'd get for $50 more?
Just shift the price bar up one notch to $300 or $350. Find the best incremental price and best views. Sometimes it's better to sit closer rather than at a corner angle. I prefer the baseline sides.

Unless you get the 100s mid-level or buy the Men's Final, never pay over $1000 for the promenade outer level!

Check out amazing Armstrong or Grandstand options in the $350-$550 range (below).

Row Letters matter more than Row Numbers!
A-C row letters are always worth at least $50-$100 more than bigger letter rows.

Going from Upper Promenade to Lower Promenade upgrade makes the biggest difference.

Almost as much as going from Lower Promenade to the cheapest Loge seats.
Think of the lower promenade as "economy plus", and Loge as business class.

The back rows (letters like W, X, Y, Z, or ZZ) often have empty seats during week 1.

Those people generally prefer to roam outside, take selfies of the NYC skyline, or lounge around at free perk booths. You might be watching a lot of the action on the giant TV screens.

Why Ashe Stadium tickets are the *safest* tickets to buy?
Short Answer:
  • Ashe is the most flexible option
  • Access to all the courts
  • A reserved seat in the main stadium

  • Rain insurance: a covered place to shelter inside if it rains
  • Play will continue under its roof, even if outside play is suspended.

Unless there is a specific player and match you want to attend elsewhere, the Arthur Ashe tickets are the safest all-around bet when buying well in advance (before July).

Grounds Pass vs Ashe Ticket
The grounds pass becomes less valuable as more big matches get put on the main stadium. Usually, by week 2, you want access to reserved Ashe seats where most key matches are held.


Latest US Open Ticket Updates via email

Ashe is typically slightly more expensive than Grounds Passes. Yet it grants you a reserved seat (very useful if it rains) and allows you into every stadium. Any of the Grounds Passes should cost less.

The strategy is to roam anywhere, knowing you have reserved your seat in Ashe when you want to see your favorite star player play.

The top-seeded fan-favorite players will almost always play there exclusively and often at night.

Unlock Insider US Open Deals & NYC Tips!



Wait-and-see vs Pay-and-Pray? Before and after the official draw comes out.

The later the purchase, the more info about the draw - at the risk of higher prices!
If you're not picky, I would get the cheapest ticket. Just being at the US Open is an experience.
Then just wander around the outer 17 courts from match to match!

Most matches take about 2.5 hours to complete. Usually slightly shorter to watch the women's best of 3 sets.

US Open: NYC Hotels, transportation, and tours

3 "Express" Hotels to go by foot, subway, or train

I've been going to the US Open regularly and NYC for over 35 years! With input from my family in Queens plus tennis friends in NYC, here's our short list of hotels. You can cruise car-less on your next US Open visit.

US Open travelers will stay near the US Open, Downtown NYC, or a hybrid option.

If you are there in August, you may see us there during Fan Week! Welcome back to NYC 2022.
Tune into the NBC Today Show on Aug 25 as we join TopCourt special guests at 30 Rock.

1) Go by foot: stay nearby LGA or Flushing

Spending most of your time at the Open? You might want to be able to walk there and back. Very useful last year in 2021 when the subways were flooded! Or when there's a Mets game playing.
  • Allows you to get some rest at the hotel during the middle of the day
  • Use the "Show on Map" button at the top right.
  • Plot a path on Google Maps to ensure it's less than a 1-mile walk
  • Ideally, look for one that is near one of the bridges or a metro stop on the 7 train line
  • Nearby hotels ranked by user ratings

Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel

Option: Flushing, NY (Chinatown) is just one "7 train" stop away.
  • Opt to walk there along Roosevelt Ave
  • Saves parking fees and time at the game
  • Use Bonvoy points or your free night voucher!
Get free referral bonus points (up to 3 free nights) with a Bonvoy Sign-up from Amex.

2) Going by Train: Penn Station and the LIRR

If you're planning to do more activities in the city and only plan to go to the US Open once or twice, it might be better to explore hotel options near downtown Manhattan.

Going from Downtown to Flushing Meadows?
Taking the LIRR at Penn Station is about $10 and 20 minutes with very comfortable seats and only 1 stop.

Tip: keep your train ticket out so the conductor can punch the card. A nice souvenir from the journey!

NYC Sights
I would spend at least 2 days visiting this amazing city for the first time in NYC. You'll do a lot of walking - so wear comfortable shoes and buy a metro card!

Just be aware that many downtown rooms might be much smaller and/or more expensive than normal. After all, you're in a town that never sleeps! But this might be a positive.

Broadway Week: 2-for-1 Tickets

NYC Attractions

Check out these other broadway shows and sport events (MLB Mets / Yankees) during the US Open

Broadway shows are a top NYC attraction.
Staying near Penn Station puts you very close to the action and near subways. Just remember to book those Hamilton tickets way in advance!

Broadway week starts September 8 - 21.
This event happens twice a year and offers 2-for-1 tickets.
Book online using promo code "BWAYWK"

Must-see stops include Times Square, the Empire State Building, seeing galleries at the MET, and walking above the High Line district.

Pay what you want - walking tours are another very popular option!

Please consider visiting the 9/11 and World Trade Center memorials.
If you have time, take a guided tour. Here is one great walking video tour. A very solemn and quiet area of a busy city to pay your respects.

To stay somewhere a bit calmer than downtown and a bit nicer than Flushing, there is a little secret area called "Long Island City" (or LIC) - not to be confused with Long Island. It puts you between the two areas of interest while keeping prices manageable.
LIC Hotel - Skyline Deck View

For 2022, we opt to stay nearby LIC on Roosevelt Island, where we'll share some spectacular city views. It sits right across the river from Manhattan yet has a few train stops in the area. It takes just a few stops to reach the city.

Express Train - 7X Purple Train (3 stops to the Open)
If you plan to watch any night matches at the Open, look for the 7X. As in "X for the express train."

US Open Evening Match?
Get from LIC within 3-5 stops during the weekday evening rush hour commute between 3pm - 9pm.

Express Trains have a Diamond #7 symbol
Local Trains Stops have a Circle symbol.

Sent exclusively to fans who open our links or read our newsletters regularly.

US Open Tennis, Ticket Deals for Summer in August

The Start of Summer and the US Open Tennis Series

Our great American summer tradition - between BBQs and fireworks. Professional sports means enjoying a fun day together and cheering on our favorite players. Nothing beats sharing some food with all your friends and a chance to collect an autograph or collectible souvenir.

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the pools open, school is out, and your adventure awaits!


Cheaper to Wait? When to buy US Open tickets?

Note the initial offer prices and look for special sale promotions between July and early August. More seats become available during the summer. Deals are usually for mid-week at the promenade seating level near the upper rows of Ashe.

It is our advice to have travel plans set before getting tickets. Having plane and hotel tickets ready helps me narrow down my dates. Next, decide how many day or evening sessions you plan to attend. I prefer two Ashe day sessions for max value so you'll see most of the players.

#1 Most Popular Date - Smart Shopping

Sat, Sept 3rd is the most popular middle Saturday!
Sign up for our emails to get our 15+ years of attending US Open and tennis tournament tips.

You will be notified when special promo offers are announced. The Amex Centurion suite and Chase RSVP lounge also become available for online reservations during the Summer.


"Buy in July vs Rush in August" - Summer Ticket discount trends

In past years, we have purchased 2-for-1 ticket deals and seen prices as low as $30. Sponsors such as Emirates, Amex, JP Morgan, and IBM often have discounted ticket codes. We share the sponsor deals on our email list!

We are neither paid nor sponsored by the US Open, and our opinions are completely our own. These limited-seat deals become available and are very useful if you just want to roam the grounds. More people will start selling tickets by mid-August, making it a buyer's market.



The US Open Series features tennis events held across the USA (July - August)
It signals the beginning of the US Hard Court tennis season. Everything leads up to the big finish in NYC with the US Open in August. Attending any of these events across America will give fans a sneak preview locally for anyone who can't make it to the Big Apple.


I share my personal travel experiences on the ATP and WTA tennis tour at JCtennis. Feel free to check it out if you want inspiration or a sample guide for planning your own post-vaccination tennis vacation.

Full Stadiums, more positive signals from Sports Fans in Europe


Being a photographer on the court and at their press conference, my opinion is from an insider perspective at actual pro tennis events. I watch the conditions and players on the ATP and WTA tours daily. It was an honor to dust the same clay off my shoes as Nadal and Djokovic.

Witnessing the energy and passion of the full Spanish crowd at Madrid’s stadium is the most amazing way to feel connected with a sea of cheering fans full of energy, waving their red and yellow. 

Feel the spirit of Tennis Fandom in person
Like a Champions League soccer match, the entire crowd erupts together in a wave of humanity. Tennis fans enjoyed the clash between Nadal and Alcaraz with stars from Real Madrid soccer players and even the King of Spain himself in attendance.


We heard the packed Parisian crowd again at the French Open in Paris. So far, so good. Regarding public safety and health, we look back a few weeks after these sporting events conclude.

This is the most encouraging sign that major sporting events can return fully this year in a post-vax environment.

US Open - American Express Card Preferred Seating Sale

US Open Amex Preferred Seating Tickets Available in May

American Express Members - Preferred Seating Codes
Enter the promo code "INCENTUR". Preferred seats are closer than regular seats at Arthur Ashe! It can be cheaper than the standard price for even better Lower Promenade Seats.

You must use your Amex card to check out to redeem*



Did you miss the Amex 2-for-1 Presale Offer?
Don't worry, if you sign up for our email list you can still get other US Open promo codes for August and September!

Grounds Admission Passes - 1-Day Ticket Option


US Open Insider Tip #1 - TicketMaster Market for the US Open
Another primary source of public tickets is those sold securely by season ticket holders. They will usually sell it here if they can't go for any reason.

You can buy their seat directly via the *US Open TicketMaster Listings*.

*Advice: Bookmark this site as new ticket prices and availability are up to date here*



*Seats labeled "Instant Access" are available right now

How to show the American Express Seats:

  1. Pick any available session date - Click Find Tickets >>
  2. Enter "INCENTUR" into the Offer Code Box
  3. Click the "Type" button -> American Express Preferred Seating to highlight those seats.
  4. Use your American Express card at CHECKOUT to secure your seats!

Tip: Select "Verified Resale Tickets" to list all "auction" tickets; hidden to most casual fans

Look at the top, click on Type (with the Ticket Button).
Check the box for "Verified Resale Ticket" to reveal additional seats.


Want US Open Tips Email Alerts?
Get instant access to Discount Promo Codes




For popular dates such as (Fri-Mon) during Labor Day weekend, buy early!

US Open Advice and Deals


US Open Tennis: Tickets advice for fans

US Open Tennis Tickets vs Package Plans

Buying individual tickets instead of packages can save you lots of money and offer more flexibility!

Only buy a package if you're sure you can attend most sessions.

It is still a buyer's market unless you get a marquee matchup for the later rounds.

The rounds leading up to the Labor Day weekend have been also popular in recent years. Note that this year, the two semi-finals for the men are sold as individual tickets.

In the past, these "Super Saturday" sessions were combined and sold as one ticket. Now they are individually worth slightly less with only one semi-final feature each.


Want all the real tips about finding the best US Open Ticket deals?


Which Day Sessions will get sold out first?

The most popular dates are generally the Saturday session for Labor Day weekend. Closely followed by the Finals Championship weekend tickets.

If you want to lock in these dates, it might be worth ordering now. Otherwise, you likely have time to buy individual tickets in July or even August.

Tip: Always buy from the Official Ticket Seller before trying resellers.

US Open Stadium Tickets

The Ashe tickets are the most flexible. Followed by the Grounds Pass, and then Armstrong and Grandstand. Because you do not know the draws and schedules until August, getting an individual stadium pass other than Ashe is a bit risky.

However, Armstrong and Grandstand will guarantee you a relatively close view of the action in one location (without needing to roam around the grounds).

Are "Multi-Session Ticket Plans" sold as a package a smart idea?

Only if you are planning to attend a series of multiple days and nights: you can purchase a ticket mini-plan today. This is recommended only for those who plan to commit to most day and night sessions during either championship weekend or Labor Day weekend.

I have purchased this plan before. Then had to sell several sessions that I could not attend personally. This option will allow you secure seats early. However, you become responsible for handling seats you do not want. This package also works well if you need a larger batch of seats all in a row.

Generally, after the sale of extra seats, you come out even or possibly slightly ahead. However, it is very dependent on many factors such as demand for particular sessions. Remember the inventory risk for you, the package ticket holders.

How much do US Open Ticket Plans Cost?
Depends on the session. For the opening week, it can be $290 per seat. For the entire tournament at every round, it is above $2000 per seat.

Strategy for June - "Hold". For July/Aug - "Buy"

Wait until the general sale dates to compare the retail prices to resell tickets. See how much demand is there for the popular sessions first. Wait for the 2-for-1 discount codes (via our email) to appear in late July, or early August before committing to weekday seats.

If your favorite player does not make it to 2nd week, yet is a popular fan favorite, you may still get good money for your seat. In September, a case can be made to Sell. Factor in weather conditions and if a player has the potential to break a grand slam record if they win the US Open (Nadal, Serena).


US Open Grandstand: Opening Day Preview and Swag


US Open - Full Fan Preview & Grandstand Map

After 3 days at the US Open this weekend, I wanted to share my tips and findings with all the US Open tennis fans from around the world. Should give you an idea of what to expect*

Millions of fans will be attending this year in NYC or following it online and on TV.
Our goal is to make your experience fun, safe, and most importantly a good value.

Personal Weekend Experience and Opinions:
Two days of Qualifiers plus Arthur Ashe Kids Day. I witnessed a lot of new things while they were on my preview tour of the grounds at Flushing Meadows.

The Good - Great New Venue and Sponsor Freebies

*NEW*: Our Insider's Instagram - US Open Grandstand Map is now on Instagram
- FOLLOW US for Secret TIPS and info about this new stadium!
US Open Grandstand Map
Grandstand Court - US Open Map Guide

Grandstand Lounge - hidden secret on the far side
Access up the stairs. Turn LEFT after you pass the SMART car booth
New 2016 US Open Grandstand Court - most-shaded seats looking towards Ashe


Bonus: New Grandstand Stadium

Absolutely gorgeous architecture and a facility designed by Rossetti Architecture.

The flow of the tennis campus now draws crowds in more of a circular path, but bottlenecks still occur at the food court pavilion and effectively isolate Court 17 as it is in the opposite corner from everything else.

A few tricks to save yourself time and sweat: Walk *behind* the new Grandstand stadium area. Stick to the paths at the South edge and West Edge. There is a "secret" back entrance along the South side of the Grandstand...with lounge seating and a private bathroom if you go all the way up to the top of the Grandstand. This is where most of the ESPN crew go to use it. It's like a private little hotel up there.

Also, another optimal and shaded path you can take is between the P1-P5 courts and cut through to see the new Grandstand.

How to defeat the bad - high pricesSummary
1) Good New Grandstand Stadium and Ashe Roof. Great Weather. Lots of Tennis.
2) Bad HIGH Food Prices. Still not Tech Savvy. Lack of Easy Info.
3) Ugly US Open Staff Service (not everyone) - a few rotten apples in the big apple...more later


Best Perks of US Open Freebies

Free US Open Game Ball. My favorite tennis souvenir.
Tip: Go early morning to find them next to the practice courts!
All USTA members can pick up this cooling towel FREE!
Get your free US Open art poster
Just show them your pre-sale ticket.


Free Fan! Visit Orlando = Fan Friendly
Go inside the American Express Private Lounge
Amex Card gets you upstairs for Beverages and Snacks :)






US Open Ticket Offer Code - Buy One, Get One ticket deals


Special Thanks to IBM and their sponsorship of the US Open!

For more Buy One, Get One US Open Tickets - enter their Ticketmaster Offer Code at the top of page for select days.
This offer code also allows the Buy Two, Get Two special for Arthur Ashe on Kids Day.

Buy tickets for any US Open sessions here

Note: Limited seats left, must purchase in pairs of two to be valid at checkout.
Big Data is a game changer in Tennis
- IBM Watson (YouTube)
.

Win 2016 US Open Tickets - Drawings held every other week

Subscribe here to be entered to win a pair of 2017 US Open Tickets!

Two (2) tickets will be given away per drawing, including a pair of Men's Finals tickets. Please pick the date you will be in NYC (below), we will contact the winner via email.

Still want 2017 US Open tickets?
Buy Tickets for ANY Session!

Best deals are found in July-Aug on 2016 US Open Ticket prices. *Seats listed as "Instant Access" are available right now. I often find a few hidden gems weekly, so check back often!*

2017 US Open Ticket Deals - Sign Up and Save!


2016 US Open - Early Bird Ticket Sale and New Schedule Info

2016 US Open Tickets Now on Sale

 US_Open_Ashe_Tickets_Sale_Schedule


Updated May 2016:

Before the general public starts lining up to buy in late May, you can use our ticket exchange partners to purchase an advance ticket today from a season pass holder. If you want good tickets for Labor Day weekend (Sept 3-5), then I highly recommend looking at getting those tickets early*

For more tips and ticket advice on the 2016 US Open, subscribe to our email list!
You will receive free emails with tips that cover all the basics on getting the best seats for less. Also where to watch the best matches in comfort and how to see special NYC events going on this summer!

News Alert: Arthur Ashe Roof ready for play in 2016

This year, main stadium retractable roof is to be completed - which means at least one weather-proof stadium where top, marque matches will be played regardless of rain! No more rain outs! Yaaah!

This also means that the Arthur Ashe tickets are more valuable this year*  It gives you a guaranteed dry seat to watch a live match in a climate-controlled environment. There will also be a newly rebuilt Grandstand stadium this year with 8,000 seats and extra shade around the edges.

 US Open Ashe Roof ClosedSchedule Changes for 2016

This year's matches are played over 2 weeks, from Aug 29 to Sept 11.
  • Top Tickets: Men's Final pushed back to the traditional last Sunday Sept 11 (instead of Monday night)
  • Men's Semi-Finals are now all held on Friday Sept 9 (session 22).
  • Women's Final on Sat, Sept 10 was sold out last year, even before the men's finals.
  • A new Grandstand Court (more circular and which offers more shaded seats) will be ready soon - more pictures and details coming later in our "Best Seats" secret spots email for each stadium.
  • Great alternative ticket option for 1st week are called Grounds Passes - which lets you into all court except Ashe Stadium. Great option for about $80!
  • The 2-for-1 Ticket Promo codes for 2016 will start rolling out from us starting around June!
    A great way to bring a friend to enjoy the game on a weekday, and save 50% over the box office.
  • We would avoid the "USTA member pre-sale" at the end of May, unless you absolutely must get those Labor Day weekend tickets. Seats will be very limited or extra expensive for those Packages; but need not fear, as more choices will be available later this summer.

SUBSCRIBE FOR OUR FREE 2016 US OPEN TIPS EMAIL
PLUS MORE US OPEN TICKET DISCOUNT CODES!



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