10 Things to Know Before You Go to the Credit One Charleston Open Tennis Tournament

The Credit One Charleston Open Tennis Tournament is a prestigious event with a rich history spanning five decades. Established more than 50 years ago, this tournament has evolved into the largest women's-only tennis tournament in the United States. Over the years, it has undergone name changes but has consistently showcased top-tier tennis talent on its courts of green clay. Held at the Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island, just a short distance from downtown Charleston, the tournament offers an elevated experience with a unique blend of competitive matches, coastal ambiance, and Southern hospitality. The tournament unfolds over nine exhilarating days, usually from the last weekend in March to the first weekend in April.

If you're planning to attend the tournament, take a look at my Top 10 Things to Know Before You Go:

Seats There's really not a bad seat in the house. Sitting behind the chair umpire will give you morning sun and afternoon/evening shade, while sitting where you face the chair umpire gives you the opposite. The right side of the chair umpire provides shade for most of the day, due to partial cover overhead. If you sit in the 200 and 300 section, know that there are not concessions or restrooms up there. You will miss more of the matches by having to go up and down stairs every time you leave your seat for something.

COCO App Download the official Credit One Charleston Open app to stay up-to-date on everything happening around the grounds. From live scores to weather updates and match schedules, the app keeps you informed, especially early in the week when multiple matches are played simultaneously. Stay informed of any weather delays and plan accordingly with this handy tool. Also, if you link the app to your Ticketmaster account, it will also display your ticket.

Parking If you're like me and prefer not to use shuttles, use the designated event parking near Blackbaud and enjoy a leisurely walk to the stadium. This will give you flexibility in your arrival and departure from the stadium, and you'll walk right by restaurants where you can get a quick bite at lower costs than dining inside the stadium. If you're not able to walk more than a quarter mile, know that the shuttles run regularly to and from the designated parking lots starting an hour before the first match up until after the last match finishes.

Clear Bag The stadium enforces a clear bag policy, so invest in one or plan to travel light, with essentials stored in your pockets. They also have clear bags for sale in the merchandise tent.

Hydration Bring an empty cup or water bottle with you to the stadium, and fill it up throughout the day for free at bottle fill stations conveniently located around the stadium. Not only does this save you money, it also minimizes waste and is probably faster than waiting in line for a drink at the concession stand.

Photo Ops Keep your camera and a Sharpie® ready as you are likely to encounter tennis players, umpires, and event emcees roaming the grounds - especially in the first half of the week. Players love this tournament, and they really appreciate the fans. So stay alert, and don't be shy! Simply say hello, smile, and snap your selfie :)

Frosé Nothing is more refreshing than a cup of frosé, a delightful wine slush, especially on a hot day while enjoying world-class tennis matches. Also it might be easier to approach a famous tennis player if you've had one. Just saying.

USTA Members If you're a USTA member, visit the USTA member tent for exclusive perks and free gifts. I've received a hat and a phone charger, both very useful for an enjoyable day at the tournament.

Souvenirs You'll definitely want to stop in and check out all the branded apparel, souvenirs, and tennis gear at the merchandise tent. From keychains to tennis shoes, it's a good place to find the perfect memento to commemorate your experience. And if the weather changes (it will), head there to get your blanket, hoodie, hat, umbrella, sunscreen, or whatever you need to stay comfortable courtside.

Extend Your Stay Make the most of your day ticket by staying on the grounds even after the night session begins. If it's early in the week you can watch ongoing matches in the Althea Gibson Stadium and other courts. Explore the food village's dining options, and live music all week long. If you're attending the night session, you can get inside the gate an hour early. Do this so you have time to explore the grounds before matches start, as the shops will be closed when the matches end for the day.

I love the Credit One Charleston Open Tennis Tournament, and look forward to it every year. It's an intimate experience that gets you up close and personal with the current and rising stars of women's tennis. I hope you found these tips helpful while planning your visit, and that you feel prepared to walk into the Credit One Charleston Open informed and ready to enjoy your day.

If you're curious about our real estate market here in Charleston, please reach out to me. I'd be happy to meet you for a cup of coffee to discuss your real estate goals - especially if you're a tennis fan like me :)