US Tennis Open in New York
 

Will be attending the US open for the first time this year. Any tips, cautions or don't miss this advise?

Unless you want to take out a second mortgage, eat before you go. The food prices are outrageous. If you are going for the full day during the early rounds, you probably can't avoid eating there, however.<BR><BR>Of course, if you are being treated by business associates, then the cost is their concern.<BR><BR>I'd also suggest that you take the subway, if coming from Manhattan. Getting to/from by cab can be a hassle. <BR><BR>However, there is a boat that runs from NYC to Shea Stadium for Mets games. It's operated by NY Waterway. They might have a boat in operation for the Open. If so, on a nice day, this could be a nice way to get there.<BR><BR>Good luck and have fun.

Last year my husband and I went and we brought a cooler with drinks (including beer) and sandwiches into the complex. Anyone know if the rules have changed for this year given all the security issues?

The USOpen is a wonderful, well-run event in a gorgeous facility. If you have a grounds pass, you will have access to all matches other than those in Arthur Ashe stadium. However, you will only be allowed to enter the court area during changeovers. This applies even if you leave your seat (to go to the restroom, get food, etc.) and try to return. So try to time your exits appropriately.

Get the schedule of matches from the internet if you can. They charge a couple of bucks for this when it should be free.<BR><BR>Look for tips from the official internet site.<BR><BR>It's much more fun to watch evenly matched players or players with contrasting playing styles from up close in the outside courts than a top seed destroy a nobody out from far up in the stadium (assuming you have nosebleed seats).<BR><BR>Your bottom might get sore from the hard seats. A cushion might help.<BR><BR>Binoculars?<BR><BR>Sometimes it gets cold and windy at night - bring a sweater or a jacket.<BR><BR>Be prepared to stay late - some great matches go past midnight. I saw Sampras upset Wilander when he was not well known and that match lasted past 12.<BR><BR>Watch a men's doubles match. Some of the volley rallies up close are fun. <BR><BR>Don't keep a ball if you catch one that goes out of play. Throw it back.<BR><BR>Have fun!