Kim Bandak
I’m a huge tennis fan, and I’m lucky enough to live equidistant to two amazing professional tennis tournaments. One is the U.S. Open and I’m going twice this year so stay tuned for that post!
Today I’m talking about The Infosys Hall of Fame Open. Last week I traveled to Newport, Rhode Island, home of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. They have hosted this tournament every July for decades. I went twice this year, with two different tennis girlfriends. It’s a must-see, especially if you live on the east coast. Picture a Grand Slam event with a small boutique feeling. They showcase the top 50 professional (only male) tennis players, and every seat is good! Here are some tips if you put this on your bucket list!!
What to bring
A hat and sunscreen, because although SouthStand Section is a great viewing section, it’s all sun! Refillable water bottles are permitted and there is a fill-up station. Put on a fun dress and comfy sneakers or sandals!
Logistics
Newport can get very crowded in the summer months so parking is at a premium. The Newport Gateway Transportation Center offers $2 all-day parking and a free shuttle to the entrance of the Hall of Fame. Make sure you get your parking ticket validated at the Transportation before heading to the tournament. I got an email a few weeks prior about donating $75 to the Tennis Hall of Fame and receiving a donor bracelet that allows you free entry into the International Tennis Hall of Fame (more info on that below), and entry into their donor tent which provides snacks, shade and charging stations!
As I said before, there really are no bad seats in the Stadium Court and a few options. The SouthStand has the most economical seats and great center-court views. You can spend a little extra money for the Court Chairs and Lower Boxes and some have shade. You can tell which ones when buying tickets online.
If you plan to stay over, Newport is home to some of the most beautiful hotels. My friend and I opted to stay at Towne Place Suites by Marriott in North Kingston, about 25 minutes away and much less expensive.
What to see and do
Don’t miss the interactive games and sponsor tents. They have fun games and giveaways for tennis lovers of all ages. Whatever you do, build in about an hour or so to visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame. The cost is minimal and it’s rich with pictures, stories, and mementos of the past that no tennis lover wants to miss. The Roger Federer Hologram that highlights his 10 reasons why he loves tennis is the highlight of the museum!
You also can’t miss what’s happening on the side courts. There are no actual seats for these matches; spectators just lean against the fence or sit on the porch steps for a front-row seat of some amazing matches! My friend and I watched most of van Rijthoven/Purcell’s amazing 7-6, 7-6 match! They showed us how to play doubles!
The Hall of Fame Open does have food options, but they are limited and could be pricey. A better option is to exit the premises (they stamp your hand for re-entry) and walk across the street to A Market Newport, a gourmet grocery store that sells yummy, prepared foods. We spent only $20 on a great lunch! The cocktails are another story! Sipsmith, Volley, and Truly Vodka drinks are poured at many tents across the venue!!
Newport is full of shopping! The Tennis Hall of Fame has a museum shop on its own that sells cute memorabilia, but make sure you walk outside the venue onto Bellevue Avenue and visit the shops! My friend and I both bought an adorable, beaded tennis clutch from Gingy’s and can’t wait to wear it!
On my second visit there on Saturday, we also purchased the $40 tickets to the Hall of Fame Ceremony. It is always broadcasted on the Tennis Channel, and we were lucky enough to see Australian LLeyton HewItt inducted. It was a beautiful ceremony and a great chance to spot some tennis greats and tennis TV celebs like Brett Haber, host of the Tennis Channel!
You know you’re having a great tennis time when there’s a photo op with the host of Tennis Channel, Brett Haber!
2023’s tournament plans are already in the works at the Infosys Hall of Fame Open. Start planning today!
1 comment
That looks like such a fun time! I’ve always wanted to go to the Tennis Hall of Fame, but surprisingly, none of my tennis pals can get away at the same time I can. One of these days, though!