Insider Tips From Local Experts

Scottsdale Stories

The Insider's Guide to the WM Phoenix Open

For fans, whether they’re golfers or not, the annual WM Phoenix Open (WMPO) is known as the “Greatest Show on Grass.” In addition to playing host to the greatest players in the game, the tournament is the PGA TOUR’s best-attended event – drawing over 500,000 enthusiastic spectators each year. As one of the first events on the PGA TOUR calendar, The WM Phoenix Open kicks off the year with a bang. Unlike any other tournament in the world, spectators become central to the event – helping to transform the famous 16th hole into “The Coliseum” – and the loudest hole in golf.

This week-long event takes place Feb. 5-11, 2024.

Whether you want to party with friends (if that’s the case, don’t miss out on the 16th hole!) or actually watch golf, keep reading for our insider tips.

 

WHERE IS THE PHOENIX OPEN PLAYED?
 

The WM Phoenix Open is played at TPC Scottsdale.

17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

 

DO I HAVE TO PAY FOR PARKING?
 

No! There are a variety of free parking lots with shuttles to the event. 

WESTWORLD (Lot A)

We recommend drivers exit coming from the East on the Loop 101 exit on Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., then drive north to Bell Road to 94th Street, then into the parking lot entrance. Coming from the West on Loop 101 take the Bell Road exit.  The FREE shuttles from Lot A will operate Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

HAYDEN/MAYO (Lot C – LIMITED PARKING)

We recommend Loop 101 drivers exit at Hayden and drive south into the parking lot. The FREE shuttles from Lot C will operate on a limited basis from Thursday-Sunday

SALT RIVER FIELDS (Lot B)

Free parking is also available at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick at the Loop 101 and Via de Ventura.  Shuttles to and from the tournament entrance are available at this location as well and will run Wednesday – Sunday only, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

RIDESHARE DROPOFF AND PICKUP

Getting a ride to the WM Phoenix Open? Great call. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are an excellent way to stay safe on your way to and from “The People’s Open.” Pickup locations will be located at Lot A at Westworld near Raintree Dr. and Thompson Peak Pkwy.

 

HOW MUCH ARE TICKETS?
 

General Admission

  • Monday-Tuesday - FREE
  • Wednesday | Thursday | Sunday - $50
  • Friday | Saturday - $75

Other Tickets & Packages:

Ticket prices and availability are subject to change. For the most up-to-date ticket information visit WMPhoenixOpen.com.
 

TELL ME ABOUT THE 16TH HOLE
 

Also known as the loudest hole in golf, the par-3 16th hole at the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course draws a historically raucous crowd. Surrounded on all sides by very vocal fans, the 16th is a sight to be seen - especially during Saturday’s third round, when it can be a long wait for general admission seats. 

 

CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS WHEN I ARRIVE?
 

Yes! You can purchase tickets on-site at ticket booths located at the tournament entrance as well as Van's Golf Shops and PGA TOUR Superstore locations around the Phoenix Metro. 
 

CAN I BRING A BAG INTO THE GAME?
 

Your opaque bag must not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" in its natural state. Clear bags cannot exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. There is no bag check available, so make sure you’re prepared, otherwise, you will have to return to the car. If you’re taking rideshare, you will have no other option than to throw everything away. You can find a list of non-approved bags here.

 

WHEN DO THE GATES OPEN?
 

Gates open each morning at 7 a.m.
 

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO?
 

Our favorite days to go are Wednesday, Thursday, or Sunday. You might think Sunday’s final round would be the busiest, but it’s usually less crowded since it coincides with the Super Bowl. And remember, Monday and Tuesday are free!

 

IS THERE FOOD AT THE TOURNAMENT?
 

Yes! This year all concessions are cashless. Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card & American Express are accepted. Find concessions stands on this map.

 

WHAT IS THE COORS LIGHT BIRDS NEST?
 

The Coors Light Birds Nest is the hottest nightclub in Scottsdale four nights out of the year. Enjoy live music Wednesday through Saturday. Tickets sell out almost immediately when they go on sale. 

Gates open at 3:00 p.m. and the headliner takes the stage at approximately 8:30 p.m. each night. Purchase tickets here

 

HOW DO I WATCH THE WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN ON TV?
 

If you can’t make it to the tournament in person, the WMPO is nationally televised on GOLF Channel on Thursday and Friday, and GOLF Channel and CBS on Saturday and Sunday. Times are subject to change. Check your local listings. 

 

If you still have questions or want a more in-depth WM Phoenix Open spectator guide, be sure to check out the tournament website and FAQ section!