For tennis fans, the U.S. Open is the ultimate bucket list item. Taking place once a year at the end of August and beginning of September, the U.S. Open commences at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York. Sometimes it can be a challenge figuring out how to get to the stadium. Driving a car or taking a taxi may be inconvenient due to abundant traffic, so you might want to stay within walking distance of all the festivities. Book a New York City vacation rental close to the 7 train or the Long Island Railroad — these lines offer stops in proximity to the stadium. That said, we know there are plenty of accommodation options in NYC, so we’ve narrowed down the 10 best places to stay for the U.S. Open!
1. Corona
Corona is just about as close as you can get to the venue as possible. Instead of waiting for a cab or fighting the crowds to the subway, you can easily walk to and from the stadium. You’ll also be right next to the New York Hall of Science, Queens Zoo, and Queens Museum! The area around Flushing Meadows and the rest of Queens is mostly residential, so check for vacation rentals in the area in addition to hotels for the best deal.
2. Long Island City
If this is your first trip to New York and you want to add in some sightseeing, consider staying in Long Island City. You’ll have unparalleled access to the 7 train taking you to the venue as well as easy access to New York’s biggest attractions. In spite of its proximity to Manhattan, Long Island City can feel quieter which is perfect if you want to avoid the bustling city while still being close to it all the action.
3. Midtown West
A lot of New Yorkers try to avoid Times Square at all costs, but if this is your first visit to the Big Apple, you definitely have to check this one off your tourist box. Stay in the heart of the city by booking a room in Midtown West. There will never be a shortage of things to do outside your door like nabbing discount Broadway tickets at the TKTS booth or satisfying your sweet tooth at the famous M&M’s World. When it’s time to head to the stadium, you can easily hop on the Long Island Railroad from Penn Station.
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4. Astoria
There are no hotels located in central Astoria, but there are plenty of vacation rental options, including pet-friendly ones! This unique northern Queens neighborhood is full of mom-and-pop shops and exotic microbreweries. It’s laid-back atmosphere might be exactly what you need after a long day surrounded by people in the hot sun.
5. East Elmhurst
East Elmhurst is the neighborhood surrounding La Guardia Airport, so there are plenty of lodging options nearby. It’ll be a little far to walk, but being close to the airport gives you access to transportation options going anywhere in the city. Plus, many of the airport-area hotels are included in the free U.S. Open Shuttle!
6. Midtown East
Staying near Grand Central Station will let you easily hop to any place in the city. You’ll also be close to major tourist attractions like Bryant Park, the Empire State Building, and the iconic New York Public Library. If you worked up an appetite watching all that tennis, Grand Central’s food court includes many New York City staples like Magnolia Bakery and Shake Shack. Taste all of the NYC highlights all in one place!
7. Flushing
Just east of the stadium is Flushing, Queens. There are a lot of budget-friendly options here in comparison to staying in Manhattan. Many hotels will also offer the free U.S. Open Shuttle, or they’re just a quick one stop away on the 7 train or Long Island Railroad. Flushing is also a great place to grab some authentic dim sum before heading to the stadium. The Chinese-immigrant population of Flushing, Queens, surpassed that of Manhattan’s Chinatown years ago.
8. Bayside
Any die-hard tennis fans that aren’t interested in the city might want to stay in Bayside. Located in the eastern section of Flushing, Queens, Bayside is a safe suburban neighborhood with a stop on the Long Island Railroad. If you do want to get to Manhattan from Bayside, it’s only 30 minutes via the Long Island Railroad, so you can still fit some sightseeing in. For shopping, your best bet is Bell Boulevard for everything from mom-and-pop shops to major chains at the Bay Terrace Mall. There’s also a thriving Italian community, so head to Bayside Milk Farm, an Italian Market and deli, for something yummy.
9. Chelsea
Conveniently located near Penn Station, Chelsea is home to The Highline, an elevated park converted from an old rail track. It sounds unusual, but it’s definitely a must-see on any visit to NYC. Chelsea Market is also a one-stop shop for an eclectic sampling of food and boutiques, and there are many art galleries and nightclubs in the area.
10. Murray Hill
This mellow neighborhood will grant you access to Grand Central Station, Koreatown, and Curry Hill, all within a few tree-lined blocks. This neighborhood often flies under the radar, so you’ll get a great bang for your buck here. Don’t be fooled though, because there’s a spirited bar scene and plenty of diverse and affordable eats.
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