2026 US Open NYC Travel Guide: Flights, Hotels, Rental Cars
TL;DR:The US Open 2026 will bring world-class tennis to New York City, and planning your trip early will help you make the most of this exciting event. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park (Queens, NYC), the tournament is scheduled from August 31 to September 13, 2026. Whether you’re flying in from abroad or traveling domestically, this guide covers all the essentials from airports and transportation to hotels, sightseeing, and local tips for an immersive US Open experience in NYC.
Getting to New York City (Flights & Airports)
New York City is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty International (EWR). International visitors will likely arrive via JFK or Newark, as both are major global hubs with nonstop flights to and from all inhabited continents. LaGuardia primarily handles domestic flights (with a few from Canada/Bermuda). When booking flights, compare options into all three airports for best fares and schedules.
- Distance to Flushing Meadows: LaGuardia is the closest airport to the US Open site only about 5 miles (8 km) away (roughly a 15-20 minute drive in light traffic). JFK is around 11 miles (18 km) from Flushing Meadows, and Newark is about 33 miles (53 km) away, located across the Hudson River in New Jersey. Be mindful of New York’s traffic: a taxi or car ride from JFK to Flushing can take ~30-45 minutes (around $60-$75 fare) under normal conditions, while from LGA it’s closer to 15 minutes (around $20 by taxi). Newark is the farthest easily an hour or more by car so budget extra travel time if you fly into EWR.
- Flight Tips: Given the popularity of the US Open, flights to NYC can fill up fast around late August. Book early for better prices. If you’re coming from overseas, ensure your passport and any visa requirements are in order well in advance. All three airports have plentiful ground transportation (taxis, Ubers/Lyft, shuttles, and public transit). JFK offers the AirTrain, connecting to the subway and Long Island Railroad (LIRR) for an inexpensive ride into the city. From Newark, a dedicated AirTrain links to NJ Transit trains into Manhattan. LaGuardia has express buses connecting to the NYC subway. In short, you won’t need a car just to get from the airport there are convenient transit options to reach Manhattan or Queens.
Ground Transportation in NYC: Public Transit vs. Driving
- New York City’s public transportation is extensive and often the quickest way to get around. The MTA subway and buses reach all boroughs, and the system runs 24/7. For US Open attendees, the MTA strongly recommends using mass transit to reach the tournament. The 7-subway line stops at Mets-Willets Point, right at the entrance to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, serving the US Open grounds with both local and express trains. During the tournament, extra 7 trains are usually provided after late matches to accommodate crowds. Another convenient option is the Long Island Railroad (LIRR): on the Port Washington branch, it provides direct service from Midtown Manhattan (Penn Station and Grand Central Madison) to Mets-Willets Point in about 15-20 minutes. If you’re coming from Long Island or transferring from other LIRR lines, you can switch at Woodside to reach the US Open stop. Using a MetroCard or OMNY contactless payment will allow seamless transfers between subways and buses.
- Buses and Shuttles: In Queens, several bus routes serve the Flushing area. For example, from LaGuardia Airport, an MTA bus (such as the Q48 or Q70 SBS) can connect you to the 7 train for a short ride to Flushing. MTA buses cost the same as the subway ($2.90) and accept the same MetroCard/OMNY payment. All MTA buses are wheelchair accessible. If you’re staying in Manhattan, you likely won’t need to use buses much the subway or LIRR will suffice but buses can be useful for crosstown routes or areas not directly on a subway line.
- Taxis and Rideshare: Yellow cabs and app-based rideshares (Uber, Lyft) are abundant in NYC. Taxis from Manhattan have a metered fare (with JFK being a flat $70 to Manhattan, though to Queens it’s by the meter). Using a rideshare or taxi can be convenient, especially late at night or if you’re carrying luggage, but be prepared for potentially heavy traffic around event times. Rideshare drop-offs for the US Open are limited to a designated area near the New York State Pavilion (in the park) due to road closures. From that drop-off spot, it’s a short walk through the park to the South Gate of the tennis center (shuttle carts are often available for those needing assistance).
Should You Rent a Car in NYC?
For most visitors, renting a car in New York City is not always recommended. The city’s traffic is notoriously heavy, parking is scarce and very expensive (often $40-$50+ per day in garages), and tolls on bridges/tunnels add extra cost. As one travel source bluntly puts it, “Renting a car in New York City is generally not recommended due to heavy traffic, expensive parking, and high toll costs”. Manhattan in particular is best explored on foot, by subway, or by taxi a car would be more burden than convenience for solo travelers or couples.
However, there are scenarios where a rental car might make sense, particularly if your plans extend beyond the city. If you’re traveling as a family or group and plan day trips outside NYC (for example, to explore Long Island beaches or upstate attractions), having a car could be useful. Large groups can also consider renting a van or SUV consolidating into one vehicle can be more cost-effective than multiple cars or rideshares. That said, remember that you’ll need to navigate city traffic and find parking. During the US Open, on-site parking at Flushing Meadows is available but limited and costly ($40 per vehicle on tournament days). On days when the adjacent New York Mets have home games, parking is even more restricted attendees are strongly urged to use public transit on those conflict dates.
Bottom line: If you’re staying within NYC for sightseeing and tennis, skip the rental car and rely on the excellent public transport and plentiful cabs. If you do rent a car for flexibility, consider picking it up only for the portion of your trip when you’ll use it (for example, a countryside excursion before or after the tournament), rather than keeping it in the city the whole time.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Neighborhoods
Choosing the right location for your accommodations can greatly enhance your US Open trip. The tournament takes place in Queens, and many fans opt to stay in Queens or nearby for convenience. Flushing the neighborhood adjacent to the tennis center has several hotels within a 1-2 mile radius of the USTA grounds, including popular options like Hyatt Place Flushing/LGA, Renaissance New York Flushing Hotel at Tangram, and The Parc Hotel. Staying in Flushing or Corona means you’re only a short walk, subway stop, or cab ride away from the action each day. These areas also tend to be more affordable than Manhattan hotels, making them attractive for budget-conscious travelers. Plus, you’ll get to experience a more local side of NYC Flushing is home to one of the city’s largest and most vibrant Chinatown districts, with amazing food (more on that later).
If you’re visiting from out of town and want to sightsee in Manhattan as well as attend the US Open, you might consider staying in Manhattan and commuting to Queens for the matches. Manhattan offers a vast range of hotels, from luxury five-stars to budget hostels. The trade-off, of course, is price and distance. A Midtown Manhattan location (around Times Square, Grand Central, or Penn Station) can be a great base you’ll be near famous attractions and have direct transit routes to Flushing Meadows. For example, staying near Grand Central Terminal gives you easy access to the 7 train, and a hotel by Penn Station enables you to hop on the LIRR to the tournament. Many past attendees recommend Long Island City (LIC) in Queens as a compromise option. LIC is just across the East River from Midtown Manhattan hotels there are usually cheaper than Manhattan’s, and the neighborhood is on the 7 subway line (about 15 minutes to Mets-Willets Point). However, LIC is a quieter, more residential area with fewer tourist sights, so it’s ideal if you mostly just need a convenient place to sleep.
Neighborhood Guide: If tennis is your priority and you’re not as interested in classic tourist spots, staying in Queens is highly convenient. You’ll avoid long post-match rides and be immersed in the local community. Flushing, in particular, offers a culturally rich experience you might feel like you’ve traveled to Asia with all the authentic shops and eateries. On the other hand, if it’s your first time in New York and you want that quintessential “Big Apple” feeling, staying in Manhattan might be worth the commute. Areas like the Upper East Side (upper Manhattan) are slightly closer to Queens by car/subway, while Midtown places you in the heart of NYC’s attractions. Ultimately, there’s no wrong choice you can even split your stay between boroughs. Just aim to be near a direct transit line (either the 7 subway or LIRR) for the easiest daily trip to the Open.
Tip: Book your hotel early. The US Open attracts thousands of visitors, and nearby hotels can sell out months in advance for the tournament dates. Also, check if your dates overlap with other big NYC events (holidays, conventions) that might impact availability.
Getting to Flushing Meadows the US Open Venue
Once you’re in New York, you’ll need to commute to the US Open each day of your attendance. Fortunately, the USTA National Tennis Center is well-connected by transit. As mentioned, the Mets-Willets Point stop on the 7 subway line and the LIRR is the dedicated station for the US Open. If you’re coming from Manhattan, the 7 train runs from Times Square and Grand Central through Queens to Flushing; it’s about a 30-minute ride from Times Square (express trains run during rush hours and event times to shorten the trip). The LIRR from Penn Station or Grand Central takes under 20 minutes on the Port Washington line and can be a comfortable option (with an added cost, since LIRR fares are higher than the subway). From within Queens or Long Island, you can also use these same routes or local buses to reach Flushing.
For those staying in Flushing itself, you might even be within walking distance of the tennis center many hotels are about 1-2 miles away. A quick taxi or rideshare from downtown Flushing to the stadium is just a 5-10 minute hop (approx 2 miles distance). During the tournament, some local hotels might offer shuttle services, so it’s worth asking. Biking is another option NYC has CitiBike rental stations in many areas, though you’ll want to confirm docking stations near Flushing Meadows (and be prepared for crowds when departing).
Driving/Parking: If you have a car or are driving in for the day, follow the official directions to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The Grand Central Parkway, Long Island Expressway (LIE), and Whitestone Expressway all have clearly marked exits for the tennis center. Once near the venue, NYPD and parking staff will direct you to the available lots. On non-conflict days (no Mets baseball game), attendees usually park in the Mets Stadium lots (Yellow Zone) right next to the tennis grounds. On conflict days when a Mets game coincides, you’ll be redirected to park in designated areas of the park (Blue/Orange Zones) a bit further away, with shuttle buses provided. Parking costs around $40 per vehicle (and $80 for buses), cash or card. Note that parking lots can fill up, especially on weekends or finals days. It’s wise to arrive early if driving, or better yet, take the train and avoid the parking hassle altogether.
Sightseeing and Activities Beyond the Tournament
One of the perks of coming to New York for the US Open is that you also get to enjoy New York City itself! When you’re not watching matches, carve out time to explore this world-famous metropolis. There’s no way to see it all in one trip, but there are several must-see attractions first-time visitors shouldn’t miss:
- Central Park: This sprawling oasis in the middle of Manhattan is a delightful escape from the urban bustle. You can stroll the paths, row a boat on the lake, visit the Central Park Zoo, or just relax on the lawns. Central Park offers something different in every season and is a must-see for any New York traveler.
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Take a ferry from Lower Manhattan (Battery Park) to visit the iconic Statue of Liberty, which has welcomed visitors and immigrants to NYC for over a century. You can tour Liberty Island and even go up to the statue’s crown (advance tickets required). Nearby Ellis Island houses a moving Immigration Museum together, these make for an unforgettable, quintessential NYC experience.
- Times Square & Broadway: The bright lights of Times Square are world-famous this plaza is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions and is especially awe-inspiring after dark, illuminated by gigantic neon billboards. It’s chaotic, crowded, and completely New York. While you’re there, consider seeing a Broadway show. The Times Square area is the heart of the Theater District, and dozens of shows (musicals, plays, etc.) run nightly. From long-running classics to the latest hits, you’re bound to find a show that interests you catching a Broadway musical or play is a classic NYC entertainment highlight.
- Skyscraper Views: Manhattan’s skyline is best appreciated from above. Popular observation decks include the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center), One World Observatory (atop the Freedom Tower), and the new Edge in Hudson Yards. Each offers panoramic views of the city. Going up around sunset for daylight and night views is a pro tip (though be sure to reserve tickets in advance).
- Museums: If you have an interest in art, history, or science, New York’s museums are second to none. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) on Fifth Avenue is enormous and legendary, featuring everything from ancient Egyptian temples to Van Gogh masterpieces. Other top picks: the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) for contemporary art, the American Museum of Natural History (great for families, with dinosaur fossils and a planetarium), and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for a poignant tribute. Many museums are located along Central Park or in neighborhoods like Midtown and Lower Manhattan, which can fit into your sightseeing itinerary.
Beyond the big attractions, consider exploring New York’s diverse neighborhoods for a more local vibe. Each area of the city has its own character and cuisine. In Queens, you have the multicultural enclaves of Flushing (Chinese, Korean), Jackson Heights (South Asian and Latin American), and Astoria (Greek, Middle Eastern, and a growing arts scene). In Manhattan, neighborhoods range from SoHo’s trendy shops and galleries, to Greenwich Village’s brownstone charm and jazz clubs, to Harlem’s historic music culture. Even a short walk in these areas can be rewarding sometimes the best New York moments come from wandering through a street market or stumbling upon a cozy café.
Dining and Nightlife
New York City is a food lover’s paradise. You’ll find every cuisine imaginable at all price points, from street-cart snacks to Michelin-starred dining. While attending the US Open, be sure to experience some local flavors. At the tournament grounds, the food options are famously varied (including the event’s signature Honey Deuce cocktail and gourmet offerings) but save room to eat around the city too!
- Queens Food:Queens is often hailed as NYC’s culinary melting pot. Flushing in particular is renowned for its Chinese eateries dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, Sichuan spicy specialties, you name it. In fact, many locals will tell you that the best Chinese food in New York is found in Queens. Take a stroll down Main Street in Flushing and you’ll be surrounded by authentic Asian restaurants and food courts (try the New World Mall food court for a variety of regional Chinese cuisines under one roof). Elsewhere in Queens, you can find amazing Indian, Tibetan, and Bangladeshi cuisine in Jackson Heights, Korean BBQ in Flushing’s Murray Hill, Greek tavernas in Astoria, and much more. If you’re a foodie, consider dedicating an evening to a Queens food crawl it’s a delicious way to experience the borough’s diversity.
- Manhattan Food:Manhattan’s dining scene is vast. For quick bites, don’t miss classic New York pizza grab a slice from a famous spot like Joe’s Pizza, or a whole pie at a coal-oven pizzeria like John’s. Bagels are another NYC staple (try an everything bagel with schmear from a local deli for breakfast). Of course, Manhattan also boasts high-end restaurants (many require reservations weeks or months ahead, especially during event weeks). If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you could splurge on a steakhouse or a celebrity-chef restaurant. But often the most memorable meals are the simple ones: a hot dog from a street cart, cheesecake from a diner, or noodles in Chinatown. For an entertaining dinner, consider taking the 7 train to Long Island City’s waterfront or Williamsburg, Brooklyn both areas have trendy eateries and skyline views.
After long days of tennis, you might want to unwind in the evenings. NYC’s nightlife has something for everyone. If you’re up for more action, catch a late-night show in the Theater District, or head to a jazz club in Harlem or Greenwich Village. Love rooftop bars? There are plenty enjoy a cocktail with a glittering skyline view (the Skylark, 230 Fifth, or Westlight in Brooklyn are popular choices). Near Flushing, nightlife is more low-key, but you can find some bars and karaoke lounges catering to the local crowd. And if you simply need to relax, many Manhattan hotel bars or lounges provide a classy setting to toast your day. Always remember to pace yourself New York is the city that never sleeps, but getting enough rest will help you enjoy those long matches at Arthur Ashe Stadium the next day!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The 2026 US Open will take place in New York City from August 31 to September 13, 2026. The tournament is held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens (in NYC). This is the same venue that has hosted the US Open for decades, featuring Arthur Ashe Stadium and other courts.
New York City has three major airports JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR). If you’re coming from overseas, JFK or Newark will likely be your best options as they handle most international flights (JFK is a major global hub with flights worldwide). LaGuardia is closest to the tennis site (only ~5 miles away) but primarily serves domestic flights. Consider flight availability and price: for example, a domestic traveler might choose LGA for proximity, whereas an international traveler might have to use JFK or EWR. All three airports have ground transportation into the city, so use whichever flight is most convenient just plan extra travel time if coming from Newark (which is about 33 miles from Flushing Meadows).
Probably not. In fact, renting a car in NYC is not recommended for most visitors due to traffic, parking difficulty, and cost. The US Open and NYC attractions are well-served by public transport. You can easily get to Flushing Meadows by subway or commuter train, and use the subway, buses, or taxis to explore the city. Parking at the US Open costs $40 and is limited, and driving in Manhattan can be more hassle than it’s worth. The only reason to rent a car would be if you plan side trips outside the city (e.g. visiting friends on Long Island or doing some regional tourism). Otherwise, save money and stress by using NYC’s extensive transit network and rideshares.
The easiest way is to take the 7 subway (purple line) to Mets-Willets Point station, which is at the northeast corner of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The 7 train runs frequently and stops right by the tennis center’s entrance. If you’re in Midtown Manhattan, you can catch the 7 at Times Square or Grand Central. Another great option is the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Penn Station or Grand Central Madison take any Port Washington Branch train to Mets-Willets Point. The LIRR ride is about 15-20 minutes and trains run more frequently during the Open. Both the subway and LIRR will drop you within a short walk of the East Gate of the USTA complex. After evening matches, the MTA usually adds extra 7 trains to accommodate crowds. If you’re coming from Queens or Brooklyn, you can also use bus connections (e.g. the Q48 bus) to reach Flushing. Overall, public transit is the recommended way to go it’s inexpensive and you’ll avoid traffic jams and parking issues.
Yes, there is parking, but it’s limited and comes with some caveats. The USTA operates designated parking lots in and around Flushing Meadows-Corona Park for US Open attendees. On days with no Mets baseball game, you’ll typically park in the Mets Stadium (Citi Field) lots adjacent to the tennis center. On days when the Mets have a home game, those lots aren’t available to tennis fans instead, you’ll be directed to park in other areas of the park (further from the stadium) and take a shuttle or walk to the tennis grounds. Parking costs about $40 per car (and $80 for larger vehicles like buses). Expect traffic control as you approach; police will guide you to the open lots via specific exits (such as off the Grand Central Parkway or College Point Blvd). If you do plan to drive, go early, especially on popular match days, as lots can fill up. And keep an eye on the US Open official site for any updated parking advisories.
It depends on your priorities. If your main focus is the US Open and you value convenience, staying in Queens (near Flushing) is great. You’ll be very close to the action possibly even walking distance or a quick subway stop away and Queens accommodations tend to be more affordable than Manhattan. Many fans stay in Flushing or neighboring areas and enjoy the local food scene when not at the matches. On the other hand, if you want to do a lot of classic sightseeing (Times Square, museums, etc.), you might opt for Manhattan and commute to the Open each day. Manhattan has the bulk of NYC’s hotels and you’ll have endless restaurant and nightlife options at your doorstep. A good strategy is to stay near a direct transit line to the Open: for example, a hotel in Midtown Manhattan near Grand Central (7 train) or near Penn Station (LIRR) makes the daily trip to Queens relatively easy. Some visitors choose Manhattan for a more “touristy” experience and accept the 30-minute train ride to the Open. In summary: for full immersion in the tennis and local Queens culture, stay in Queens; for a broader NYC experience, Manhattan is ideal. Either way, book early because hotels fill up during the tournament.
Plenty! New York is one of the most vibrant cities in the world, so you can build an entire vacation around the tournament. In between match sessions, you can visit famous landmarks like Central Park, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty all iconic attractions that draw visitors year-round. Love the arts? Catch a Broadway show in the evening the theater scene is unmatched. Interested in history or art? Explore museums such as The Met, MoMA, or the 9/11 Memorial Museum. Foodies will have a field day sampling New York’s diverse cuisine, from Queens’ authentic ethnic eateries to Manhattan’s delis, pizzerias, and fine dining. If time allows, you could take a stroll over the Brooklyn Bridge for skyline views, hang out in trendy neighborhoods like Williamsburg (Brooklyn) or the West Village, or even catch another sporting event (the Yankees and Mets baseball seasons overlap with the Open, and both stadiums are in the NYC area). The city also offers organized tours (bus tours, harbor cruises, walking tours of various neighborhoods) which can be a fun way to see a lot in a short time. In short, there is no shortage of things to do the challenge is choosing what to fit in! Prioritize a few must-sees based on your interests, and remember that the energy of NYC itself is something to savor. Whether you’re wandering Fifth Avenue or enjoying a late-night slice of pizza, you’ll be soaking up the full New York experience during your US Open trip. Safe travels and enjoy the tournament!