1. Overview of the Waste Management Phoenix Open
2. Buying Tickets
3. Getting There and Parking
4. Taking Pictures
5. Getting Autographs
6. What to Bring
7. What to Wear
8. Enjoying the Event
9. Being a Considerate Spectator
1. Overview of the Waste Management Phoenix Open
If you are traveling from out of town to see the Waste Management Phoenix Open, you aren’t alone. If you are looking for a place to stay, here are the best bets for hotels and motels in various price ranges in Scottsdale. Keep in mind that nothing in north Scottsdale will be cheap in January or February. If you’d like to stay a bit farther away, and have a better chance of getting a reasonable room, try hotels and motels in downtown Scottsdale. Another option might be a vacation rental.
2. Buying Tickets to the Waste Management Phoenix Open
There are plenty of tickets to the Waste Management Phoenix Open. In fact, tickets never run out, so make sure you never pay more than the face value of a ticket.
You will hear about many ticket giveaways from radio stations and car dealerships for Waste Management Phoenix Open tickets. It’s a relatively inexpensive marketing method for them.
Moreover, you may have friends who have received tickets. Companies that purchase sponsorships and corporate tents often receive plenty of tickets, so ask around and see if any free tickets to the Waste Management Phoenix Open are available.
Finally, if you decide to pay full face value for a ticket at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, it is advisable to wait until you arrive. The lines aren’t too long, and while ticket scalping was more prevalent in the past, it seems they are cracking down on that activity. If a deal appears in the parking lot or on the shuttle bus, consider taking it because ticket scalpers aren’t allowed closer to the event. Large signs clearly indicate that selling tickets or giving them away is against the rules at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
3. Getting to the Waste Management Phoenix Open and Parking
Initially, you’ll need a car, as public transportation options are limited for the Phoenix Open.
Follow the excellent signage to navigate to the Waste Management Phoenix Open. If you don’t have VIP parking passes, expect to park in the general lots and take a shuttle bus to the golf course and back. The shuttle services are convenient and frequent, so relax and enjoy the ride. There is no charge for the shuttles, and tipping the bus driver is not required. Porta-potties are available at the parking lots.
Please remember your parking location. Counting rows is often ineffective; instead, find a landmark to help you locate your car. If you have a smartphone, consider downloading a GPS-enabled app to help track your car’s location.
4. Taking Pictures at the Waste Management Phoenix Open
Taking photos and videos on mobile devices is allowed every day, starting from the January 2018 event. However, all content must be for personal use only (like social media) and cannot be utilized for commercial purposes. Live streaming or shot-by-shot coverage is still prohibited, though texting and internet browsing remain permitted in all areas throughout the week. Phone calls are limited to designated areas.
Even while players are practicing, it’s important to be considerate. Having a camera in a golfer’s face while he is trying to putt is disrespectful.
Finally, remember to mute the sounds of your camera when taking pictures, as the noise can be distracting even during practice.
5. Getting Autographs at the Waste Management Phoenix Open
The best opportunities for getting autographs at the Waste Management Phoenix Open are on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Even during tournament days, some players will grant autographs after their rounds while moving between practice areas.
It is good etiquette to bring your own item for signatures (hat, shirt, program, ticket) along with a pen or marker. Always be polite when requesting an autograph.
6. What Can You Bring to the Waste Management Phoenix Open
Don’t bring items such as weapons, beverages (except sealed bottled water), food (unless pre-prepared in clear bags), radios, TVs, or any bags larger than 6″ x 6″ x 6″.
Simply bring what you need in an approved bag: a bottle of water, sunscreen, cash, binoculars, autograph pens, and credit cards. It may also be beneficial to carry hand sanitizer or wipes, particularly since all restroom facilities are porta-potties. Apply sunscreen before you leave your car as there are often free samples at the event, and wearing a hat can provide additional protection from the sun.
If you have children, consider bringing simple snacks. Strollers are permitted, and you will see many of them throughout the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Free pairing sheets are available at the event, which will inform you of which players are teeing off and at what times each day. Glossy programs can be purchased on the grounds.
7. What to Wear at the Waste Management Phoenix Open
If you plan to attend the Waste Management Phoenix Open early, dress in layers. Mornings can be quite cool, especially if there is a breeze. However, the temperature often warms up significantly when the sun is out.
Consider that you might end up carrying some of your clothing later in the day when temperatures rise, making it inconvenient to return to your car.
Comfortable shoes are essential. TPC Scottsdale is very expansive, which is why they never run out of tickets, and walking to certain holes can be a long trek. Be prepared for grassy and potentially hilly terrain. You’ll be amazed to see some attendees, mostly women, wearing stiletto heels.
8. Enjoying the Waste Management Phoenix Open
As a spectator, you will have two primary ways to enjoy the Arizona tournament.
1. Walking: You can stroll from hole to hole, following your favorite player or finding good viewing spots on various holes.
2. Sitting: Bringing camp chairs can provide a comfortable option. Arrive early to find a prime location, usually near a green, and you can settle in for the day. Many individuals prefer this option, particularly if they are not comfortable in large crowds.
Be aware that trying to walk around while carrying chairs can quickly become tiring, so it might be best to pursue either option. While walking is the preferred method, many spectators will sit on grassy mounds overlooking the action.
There is also a third social aspect to consider.
3. Schmoozing: It becomes evident that various attendees don’t even watch the golf. With food, drinks, and significant people-watching occurring, many individuals enjoy mingling, making new friends, and simply soaking in the event atmosphere.
9. Being a Considerate Spectator at the Waste Management Phoenix Open
Around a hundred thousand attendees, coupled with professional golfers aiming to perform their best, calls for good behavior from all participants.
When players prepare to hit the ball, absolute silence is expected, with the exception of the 16th hole. If you are disruptive, take pictures when it is prohibited, or do not follow the guidance of the event marshals, you risk being removed without warning.
Be considerate of fellow spectators. It’s essential to manage your children and ensure they can remain quiet. Please do not litter—trash receptacles are readily available. Some areas, particularly around the 18th hole, can become congested, making patience vital. Avoid unnecessarily lingering in traffic areas, as it complicates movement in and out of the Waste Management Phoenix Open.