Tip #1: ENTER EARLY!
The event is expected to completely sell out this year. At 760 players we cap the draw and start turning people away. Don’t get shut out. Click here to enter on-line today!
Tip #2: ORDER TICKETS NOW!
You must have a ticket to view any of the pro matches, and although the Stadium Court seats over 1,100 the event is always a sell-out from the quarters on. No-shows can free up some session tickets “at the door” but it’s risky to wait. By far, the best deal is to purchase one of the ticket packages (just $135) for unlimited viewing for all pro matches for the entire week. The Ticket Package will save you over $95 verse purchasing the session tickets and guarantees you a back wall viewing seat – but ticket packages are sold only in advance!
Tip #3: ENTER TWO OR THREE EVENTS.
Court time restrictions (and the large draw) do not allow us to offer consolation divisions, so we strongly recommend that you enter two divisions so that you are guaranteed at least two matches. Although players are limited to just two divisions there are a couple of exceptions. First, if you would like to play “up” into the Men’s or Women’s Pro draw (perhaps just for the experience) you can still play in two amateur divisions, for a total of three events. Second, if at least one of your divisions are doubles, you can play in any third event you choose. For these two exceptions only, a third event is permitted.
Tip #4: STAY AT THE HOST HOTELS.
Check the entry form for the official list of host hotels. Now that the event is in a downtown setting area hotels are quite expensive. However, we have negotiated some great deals with our three host hotels (Comfort Suites, The Marriott, and The Grand) and have a large number of rooms blocked for our group. All three hotels are walking distance to Life Time Fitness Target Center. These hotels will fill up VERY fast so call to book your room immediately. For a complete list of hotels in the area offering special U.S. OPEN room blocks and rates visit click here.
Tip #5: BRING NICE CLOTHES AND YOUR DANCING SHOES!
One of the really fun parts of attending the US OPEN is experiencing the many evening social activities offered, especially the Grand Gala – The Party with the Pro’s. Racquetball or casual attire is not allowed at this bash so “dress to impress” will be the rule!
Tip #6: LAST FLIGHT OUT ON SUNDAY.
Make sure you book the very latest flight you can get home on Sunday. The Men’s Pro final is the last match of the tournament and you won’t want to miss it. A packed house, booming music, laser light show introductions and the television camera’s make this an experience like no other in the sport. The match usually ends around 2:30 pm so any evening flight will do. Can’t get a late flight out? Consider going home Monday morning. It will be worth it!
Tip #7: FLYING IN—NO RENTAL CAR NEEDED!
From the Minneapolis airport you can take the cities clean light rail directly into downtown Minneapolis and right to The Target Center (only 22 minutes). Cost is just $1.75! Two of the three clubs we are using (including the main club) are downtown and so is are our three host hotels. All hotels and clubs are walking distance apart. For the Life Time Fitness St. Louis Park club, we will offer a free shuttle every hour from The Target Center (club is only 8 minutes away). If you are driving in for the event parking is going to cost you daily in downtown Minneapolis. Check out the Comfort Suites who is offering daily parking for just $12 per day.
Keep these tips in mind when making plans to attend the 2011 US OPEN and you will have the inside track for having a terrific time. See you in Minneapolis!
