Main-draw US Open tickets cost hundreds, but the week before the tournament is completely free: Fan Week runs August 23–29 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens, with open grounds access. Time Out’s rundown lists 14 free experiences, from watching pros practice inside the stadiums to sponsor activations and a closing block party.
- Watch stars practice — Main Draw competitors hit the courts inside Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong; check the Fan Week schedule for times
- Mixed doubles qualifying at the Grandstand — pairings like Williams/Alcaraz and Sabalenka/Djokovic
- Qualifying tournament — 128 men and 128 women battle for the final 16 main-draw singles spots on outdoor courts
- Marvel comic giveaway Aug 24–28 — an exclusive Spider-Man story for the first 1,000 fans through the gates each day
- Heineken Happy Hour Mon–Fri 5–7pm — live music, DJs, and two-for-one drinks
- Silent disco Monday 7–9pm at the Fountain Plaza Stage (DJs Jasmine Solano, Curly Nez, Whutever)
- Dance performances — lion dance, folk dance troupes, Bollywood, Calpulli Mexican, plus salsa, bachata, and line-dance lessons
- US Open Media Day Friday 1–4pm — WTA and ATP stars interviewed live inside Arthur Ashe
- US Open Block Party Friday 7pm — DJ D-Nice with opener Natasha Diggs
Free grounds access covers most of it, including Louis Armstrong matches; only the Arthur Ashe mixed doubles final and the Roger Federer exhibition need tickets. Bring your own food — the Food Village runs $20+ for a sandwich. Fan Week is the rare chance to soak up US Open energy without spending a dime.