Sometimes, the universe aligns in the most unexpected ways. For me, it was a serendipitous realization that the time I had booked off from work coincided perfectly with the US Open. Excitement bubbled up inside me as I thought about the possibility of attending one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world.
A quick Google search led me to Tennis Championship Tours, which offered a 3-day/4-night hotel and event package. I had never heard of this company before, so I did what any cautious traveler would do: I dove into the depths of online reviews. After a couple of days of hemming and hawing, reading countless testimonials, and weighing the pros and cons, I took the leap and booked the trip.
Over the next month, I was over the moon at the realization that I was going to the US Open. The thrill of watching my favorite players live, soaking in the electric atmosphere, and experiencing the event firsthand was almost too good to be true. However, amidst all the excitement, a bit of reluctance lingered in the back of my mind. Could I trust this tour operator? Would everything go smoothly?
Despite my initial reservations, I decided to embrace the adventure with an open heart and mind. After all, some of the best experiences in life come from stepping out of our comfort zones and taking a chance on the unknown.
As the departure date approached, my excitement only grew. I prepared meticulously, making sure I had everything I needed for the trip and yet not overpack.
The trip went off without a hitch, from the hotel shuttle picking me up at the airport to seamless transportation between the hotel and the Billie Jean King Tennis Center. I arrived on Sunday, just before lunch, and was thrilled to find that my room was already ready. After settling in, I spontaneously booked a tour of Citi Field—what a way to kick off my trip!
The Citi Field tour was fantastic. I got to sit in the Cadillac Room, visit the press box, step into the announcer’s booth, and even sit in the dugout. But the highlight had to be standing behind home plate, gazing out across the field toward centerfield, imagining the roar of the crowd during a Mets game. It was a surreal experience.
Afterward, I headed over to the Queens Museum, where a small donation gave me access to some incredible exhibits. I wandered around the panoramic model of the five boroughs, a detailed miniature that captures the heart and layout of New York City. Stepping outside, I explored the remnants of the 1964 World’s Fair, soaking in the historical significance of the area.
As the evening approached, I made my way to the Billie Jean King Tennis Center for the last day of Fan Day. It was the perfect way to get acclimated to the venue. I wandered through the grounds, shopped for a few souvenirs, and grabbed dinner at one of the outdoor restaurants before heading back to the hotel to rest up for the excitement that lay ahead.
Day 1 of the US Open was everything I had dreamed of—and more. Each morning began with a rich macchiato from the Lavazza Cafe, setting the perfect tone for a day full of excitement. The electric atmosphere, the passionate crowd, and the level of talent on the courts were simply exhilarating. I spent the day bouncing around from court to court, catching matches from some of my favorite players and discovering new ones along the way, all while sipping a Honey Deuce or Aperol Spritz.
Dinners were a delight at East Plaza Grill or San Matteo NYC, where the meals were as memorable as the matches. And as the day wound down, there was no better way to end the evening than with a scoop—or two—of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream. Their Honeycomb Grand Slam and Chocolate Fudge Brownie flavors were the perfect sweet treat after a day of tennis.
Day 2 and Day 3 were equally thrilling, as I continued my tennis adventure, moving between the iconic courts and savoring every rally, ace, and dramatic tie-break. What made it even more special were the conversations I had with fellow tennis lovers, strangers who, like me, were captivated by the magic of the sport. We swapped stories, shared predictions, and bonded over the shared experience of being at the US Open.
As I look back on my time at the US Open, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the entire experience. What started as a spontaneous decision turned into an unforgettable adventure filled with thrilling matches, new friendships, and indulgent treats. From the smooth logistics provided by Tennis Championship Tours to the vibrant energy of New York City, every moment exceeded my expectations.
This trip reminded me of the joy that comes from taking chances and embracing the unknown. Whether it was sipping a macchiato before the day’s matches, exploring iconic sites like Citi Field and the Queens Museum, or enjoying the last bite of Van Leeuwen’s ice cream each night, I felt a sense of freedom and excitement that only travel—and tennis—can provide.
I returned home with a heart full of memories and a renewed love and appreciation for the sport. The US Open is more than just a tennis tournament; it’s an experience that brings people together from all walks of life, united by their passion for the game. And for that, I’m already dreaming of next year.