Fan Week is nearly over, Kids’ Day is on the horizon, and the US Open tournament will officially kick off on Sunday, August 24th.
Tennis is a rite of passage for New Yorkers during this time of year, but there are definitely a few rules to keep in mind ahead of your trip to Arthur Ashe Stadium. (Leave those selfie sticks at home, folks.)
Before you order a honey deuce at the bar and secure a hat from the merch stand, come prepared to the event so you don’t hit any snafus along the way. (You don’t want to be that one in the group, do you?) We’ll get you up to speed.
These bags aren’t prohibited inside US Open courts
Given the souvenirs you’re eyeing and your everyday knickknacks, you’re likely planning on carrying a bag with you to the event. However, backpacks — except drawstring backpacks — are prohibited. Additionally, the bag you’re planning on bringing cannot be more than 12″ x 12″ x 16″, and each guest is limited to one, except those who require ADA/medical equipment. All bags are subject to search.
If you accidentally came with a few extra totes in hand, we’ll tell you the good news and bad news: there are lockers outside the Main Entry and the Champions’ Gate entrances to purchase for a fee. But be honest: Do you want to venture back to a locker when you’re supposed to be homebound on the 7? We didn’t think so.
Other times that are prohibited
- Hard coolers or containers
- Sealed packages
- Glass bottles, containers, or cans
- Flags, banners, and signs
For a full list of prohibited items, safety measures, and other rules you need to know before the game, visit the US Open website. We’ll meet you by hats and sweatshirts.
If you can’t make it to Queens this August and September, fear not: we’ve rounded up a guide of where to watch the US Open in NYC and how to watch the US Open live from home.