This year’s U.S. Open is volleying some tennis over to Manhattan.
The Queens-based tournament kicks off Aug. 28, but you can get into the action earlier at the U.S. Open Experience in the Seaport District.
The free tennis fan festival, taking place Aug. 24-25, transplants a replica of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center’s new covered court to Lower Manhattan. Inside, you’ll be treated to demonstrations by some of the star players who’ll be competing in the two-week tournament, while kids ages 5-18 can take up a racket of their own during on-court Net Generation clinics.
There’s tons more tennis-themed activities off court as well. Snap a selfie with the tournament trophies and get a view of the world from a courtside umpire’s chair. Meet-and-greets get you some face time with the pros, with specific players to be announced closer to the event.
Tournament vendors Korilla BBQ and Lavazza coffee will be on hand with free bites and coffee, or grab a drink from the Seaport’s seasonal Garden Bar. Finally, both evenings wrap with live bands and DJs.
The U.S. Open Experience is open both days from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and activities vary by day so be sure to check the full schedule. The U.S. Open will be played Aug. 28 to Sept. 10, with qualifying rounds starting on Aug. 22 at the Billie Jean King sports complex in Flushing Meadows.
