May 22, 2024
4 Tips for Maximizing Your U.S. Open Experience
For the first time in 10 years, golf’s greatest players will go head-to-head in Pinehurst, N.C., for the 124th U.S. Open. USGA’s flagship tournament takes place June 13-16 at Pinehurst No. 2, just minutes away from Forest Creek Golf Club, promising to be another thrilling major championship.
With round one just weeks away, it’s a good time to start planning your tournament stay. From on-course essentials to must-see attractions around Pinehurst, here are four tips to make the most of your time visiting the home of American golf.
1. Book Your Lodging
Immerse yourself in North Carolina’s natural beauty at Forest Creek—an ideal option for last-minute rentals. Forest Creek Golf Club and Colony Partners Realty Group are proud to offer rental houses and suites for people visiting Pinehurst for the championship.
Clubhouse Suite reservations come with access to the Pool, Fitness Center, Pickleball and Tennis Courts, dining and golf on a “pay as you go” basis.
Reservations require a two-night minimum (June 10-17). To create a reservation and check availability, contact Todd Camplin at tcamplin@colonypartners.com.
2. Take Advantage of Ticket Discounts for Children
The USGA provides complimentary Gallery tickets for children 12 and under for practice and championship rounds. For juniors ages 13-17, Gallery tickets for practice rounds are free of charge, and championship round tickets are discounted to $50.
Junior tickets for premium spaces are also available at a discounted rate. Note that all junior tickets are limited to four per ticketed adult. Visit the USGA’s junior ticket policy for more information.
3. Don’t Forget the Basics
Stay on top of your packing list with these essentials. Attending the U.S. Open in Pinehurst involves a lot of walking and time in the heat, so if you have questions or should a medical emergency arise, notify a volunteer, USGA official or security member who will be happy to assist you.
Bring a Water Bottle – Following the USGA’s official fan guide, patrons can bring empty water bottles up to 32 ounces (no glass), fillable at water stations throughout the course.
Wear Your Tennis Shoes – Save your sandals for trips to the pool. Choose athletic shoes with plenty of tread and support for walking the course’s sandy, hilly and uneven terrain.
Pack Sun Attire – Bucket hats, visors, breathable long-sleeve shirts, sunglasses and other protective clothes will be your friend—just avoid white garments that are easily dirtied.
Regularly Apply Sunscreen – June in N.C. gets hot! Apply sweat-proof, broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or higher and reapplying every two hours.
Check the Forecast – Roll a raincoat into your bag and bring an umbrella if needed. Note that the USGA’s security policy only allows small handbags and “transparent/clear plastic hand and shoulder bags no larger than 12” W x 12” H x 6” D.”
4. Explore Unique Fan Experiences
There are plenty of things to see in the Sandhills beyond the 2024 U.S. Open. Make the most of your visit with some of these golf-themed activities around Pinehurst.
Tour the World Golf Hall of Fame
The World Golf Hall of Fame has an all-new look after recently relocating to Pinehurst. This state-of-the-art museum showcases extensive player memorabilia and collections honoring the game’s greats—a must-see experience during your visit.
Tufts Archives
Free and open to the public, the Tufts Archives display an impressive collection of Donald Ross course maps and over 125,000 photographs of historic Pinehurst Village. The Archives are located in the Given Memorial Library and open Monday through Saturday. Hours of operation vary seasonally, so check before you go.
Visit Golf Pride’s Retail Lab
The #1 grip on Tour is headquartered in Pinehurst just a short drive from downtown. At the Global Innovation Center and Retail Lab, golf fans and equipment enthusiasts get an up-close look at the latest grip technology and history. Visitors can also test exclusive grips and get grip fit from an official Tour technician.
Meet the Golfer’s at the Autograph Zones
Complete your U.S. Open golf experience with player signatures, which you can obtain at specified Autograph Zones and at the end of player’s rounds. Getting autographs on the course and in practice areas is NOT permitted.
Be mindful of each player’s space and focus when getting autographs. Adhere to all USGA policies around fan etiquette and safety, including for use of mobile devices and things like ticketing re-entry.
U.S. Open Week at Forest Creek
Forest Creek members are invited to a full schedule of events during U.S. Open week. If you have any questions, please reach out to our member services office.
If you’re a non-member and have an interest in joining Forest Creek Golf Club, contact Amanda McGovern, our Director of Membership, at Amcgovern@forestcreekgolfclub.com, or by filling out the form below.