US Open Shade Map - how to avoid the heat at the US Open


Summer Heat Waves
Most of the USA in late summer can go through a heat wave! NYC heat indexes can go over 90 or even 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix that with bad ozone day conditions (code orange or red) and it's a bad idea to be outdoors for long.

Health Risks of staying in the Sun too long
I often hear the reason most fans avoid attending the US Open is that this heat for a whole day can be very draining. It can even be a danger to your health if you have any elderly fans with heart or lung problems. I highly recommend that fans drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and stay out of the sun.

Shade at the US Open
I have created a US Open Shade Map to help anyone find a cooler place to watch your tennis match. This one illustrates how the sun will move the shade line inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

US Open Shade Map
(Ashe Stadium with roof)
How to Find Shade at a Tennis Event
An easy rule of thumb to find shade (or at least a slightly cooler area) is look for the side with the umpire chair.

The Umpire chair is located on the West Side of any US Open tennis court or stadium. As you can see in the illustration, the shade line will slide slowly toward the East over time.

Buyer's tip: Look to buy Ashe tickets in Sections 340 to 324. They will generally be the most shaded areas to purchase tickets inside while the roof is open. Also if you need some relief away from the sun, it may be wise to move further up to the top under the edges of the roof.