6 Things to Know Before Attending the 2026 Cincinnati Open
Blog by Stacha Yundt
Ah, summertime in Warren County. Wet and wild waterparks, big thrills on record-crushing coasters, lazy afternoons floating on the Little Miami River and of course world-class tennis.
Every August, the Cincinnati Open draws some of the world's top players in the game to Mason to battle it out in the third-largest tennis event in the U.S. Following the decision to remain in Mason in 2023, tournament organizers more than $250 million in campus upgrades and extended the length of the tournament.
This year’s tournament will run from August 8th until it closes on the 23rd.
As we (impatiently) wait to see some of the biggest stars in tennis go head-to-head (and racket-to-racket) in Ohio’s Largest Playground, here are just a few insider tips to get the most out of your Cincinnati Open experience!
1. Dress for the Heat!
August in Warren County can get pretty steamy, and even watching world-class tennis matchups can work up a sweat! Be sure to wear light, comfortable clothes and to slather on plenty of sunscreen when you come for the tournament. As part of the new campus upgrades, there are plenty of shady spots to watch the action. Guests can also bring in one unopened and see-through plastic water bottle per person. With water refill stations around the campus, you’ll have no problem staying hydrated!
2. Download the Cincinnati Open App
We know, we know — another app? But the Cincinnati Open app will come in handy while you’re here for the tournament. With up-to-date match information and updates, mobile tickets, schedule changes and more, the Cincinnati Open app is the best way to stay in the know. With free wi-fi on campus and phone charging stations available to use, you’ll never miss a beat.
3. Check out the Interactive Map on CincinnatiOpen.com
With the recent campus renovations and upgrades, even veterans of the Cincy Open might find the interactive map handy as they plan their visit! Guests can also take advantage of the free wi-fi on campus to pull the map up on-site whenever they need a refresher on where to find any of the awesome tournament amenities and features.
4. Make your Transportation Plan
Traffic can get heavy during tournament days, so be sure to arrive with plenty of time to spare so that you don’t miss any of the action. Parking is included for all ticketholders, and you can check to see if your hotel is offering any shuttles to and from the tournament. If you opt to use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, they’ll be directed to a designated drop-off and pick-up location near the East Entrance of the tournament.
5. Bring Your Appetite!
This year’s tournament will feature a variety of different restaurant options. Restaurants include regional favorites like Graeter’s Ice Cream (perfect for beating the heat in between matches!), LaRosa’s Pizza, and Skyline Chili (did you even visit the Greater Cincinnati area if you didn’t enjoy some chili on spaghetti?). Chow down in style in the freshly renovated dining area. Guests can also wet their whistles at two different bars, including the Sonder Brewing Bar, one of Warren County’s local craft brewers. And if that’s not enough, there are plenty of stand-alone concession vendors scattered across the campus.
6. Don’t Skip Practice!
Practice makes perfect, and it makes for even more fun at the Cincinnati Open. While the on-court match action tends to draw the biggest crowds (and for good reason!) guests can catch their favorite players up-close and personal on the practice courts throughout the tournament. These can also be good autograph and photo opportunities, making your tournament experience that much more unforgettable!
Whether you’re brand-new to the Cincinnati Open or a veteran fan, 2026’s tournament promises to be one to remember! It all starts right here in Ohio’s Largest Playground on August 8th!