From HBCU Tennis to the US Open: My HBCU Live Day
A $50 roundtrip Amtrak ticket, a 5 AM train from DC, HBCU pride, courtside tennis, an unexpected upgrade, and a little rain. Here’s how I spent one very full day at the US Open for HBCU Live Day.
There are some experiences that hit a little differently when you’ve actually lived the story. For me, attending HBCU Live Day at the US Open was one of those experiences.
As someone who played college tennis at an HBCU, walking into the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center surrounded by HBCU pride, music, fashion, and tennis was more than just a fun day at the US Open. It felt a little full circle.
I decided to make it a day trip from DC to New York City which gave me a full day in New York without the cost of a hotel.
The $50 Amtrak Day Trip
The adventure started very early.
My Amtrak ticket from DC to New York was only $25, and I caught the 5:00 AM Northeast Regional from DC.
Was getting up that early fun? Absolutely not.
Was it worth it? Absolutely.
I wanted to maximize my time in New York without paying for a hotel, and taking the early train made it possible. Once I arrived at Moynihan Train Hall, I made my way to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and headed toward the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. By approximately 9:45 AM, I was inside the US Open and ready to make the most of the day.
And this is where things got really good.
First Stop: The American Express Fan Experience
My first stop was the American Express Fan Experience, and it was a great way to kick off the day.
There were interactive experiences, photo opportunities and plenty to explore.
I also got a custom tennis ball and a phone chain, so I already had a couple of souvenirs before the day really got started.
But then American Express surprised me with something I definitely wasn’t expecting.
I GOT UPGRADED.
American Express unexpectedly upgraded me to courtside tickets in Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Yes. Courtside.
As someone who played college tennis, sitting courtside at the US Open was definitely one of those “Wait… is this really happening?” moments.
I came to New York expecting a fun day at the Open.
I did not expect to be sitting courtside.
HBCU Live Day Was the Heart of the Experience
While the tennis was obviously a huge part of the day, HBCU Live Day was what made this visit especially meaningful to me.
Because of my unexpected courtside upgrade, I caught the tail end of the Morgan State University marching band, and naturally, there was no way I was walking past that without stopping.
There’s just something about hearing an HBCU band that immediately changes the atmosphere.
The music. The energy. The crowd.
It felt familiar.
Then there was the HBCU Live Day DJ, who had everybody outside enjoying themselves.
But what I really loved were the HBCU installations throughout the experience.
As an HBCU alum and former college tennis player, seeing HBCU culture represented at one of the biggest tennis events in the world was special.
It wasn’t just about watching tennis. It was about seeing a part of my own college experience represented in a space like the US Open.
And that’s something I don’t take for granted.
The Weather Had Other Plans
Now, let’s talk about something that was definitely NOT on my itinerary.
RAIN.
The forecast said it wasn’t supposed to rain.
The weather apparently didn’t get the memo.
And guess who didn’t have an umbrella?
Me.
It wasn’t enough to ruin the day, but it definitely added another layer to the experience. One minute I was walking around enjoying the grounds and the next I was trying to figure out how to keep myself, and my belongings, from getting soaked.
So here’s my Geauxceauxchic lesson:
Bring the poncho. Even when the weather app says you don’t need one.
Let’s Talk About the Food
Of course, I had to try some of the food while I was there.
I made my way to COQDAQ and decided to try the chicken nuggets.
And…
I didn’t like them.
There was no sugarcoating it.
But, I did try the chicken sandwich, and that was MUCH better.
So my official Geauxceauxchic food ranking:
COQDAQ Chicken sandwich > COQDAQ chicken nuggets.
You’re welcome.
And Then I Found the mini Wilson Racquet Bag
As if I hadn’t already collected enough souvenirs, I managed to score a mini Wilson racquet bag.
And honestly, this might have been my favorite souvenir of the day.
As a former college tennis player, there was something nostalgic about leaving the US Open with a Wilson racquet bag.
It felt like a little reminder of the version of me who spent her college years on the tennis court.
Another full-circle moment.
Back to DC
Eventually, it was time to leave.
My Amtrak back to DC was scheduled for 7:50 PM, so I made my way back to Moynihan Train Hall after a very full day.
By this point, I had:
- Taken a 5 AM train from DC
- Taken the LIRR to the US Open
- Spent the day at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
- Visited the American Express Fan Experience
- Received an unexpected courtside upgrade
- Watched part of the Morgan State band performance
- Enjoyed HBCU Live Day
- Checked out the HBCU installations
- Tried the food
- Got caught in unexpected rain
- Scored a Wilson racquet bag
- And somehow still had enough energy to make the train home
And the best part?
I didn’t need a hotel.
My Amtrak ticket was $50 roundtrip, making this a surprisingly manageable way to experience the US Open from DC.
Was a DC-to-NYC US Open Day Trip Worth It?
Absolutely.
Was it a long day?
Also absolutely.
But that’s what made it fun.
For me, HBCU Live Day wasn’t just another day at the US Open.
It was a reminder of where I started as a college athlete, an opportunity to celebrate HBCU culture, and a chance to experience professional tennis from a perspective I never could have imagined while I was playing.
I went from being the girl playing college tennis at an HBCU to sitting courtside at the US Open.
That’s a pretty good full-circle moment.
And sometimes you have to stop and appreciate those moments.
Would I Do the Day Trip Again?
Yes.
If you’re in the DC area and want to attend the US Open without paying for a hotel in New York, I absolutely think a day trip is worth considering.
Just remember:
- Start early.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Plan your train times carefully.
- Bring an umbrella.
And if you see the $100 caviar and chicken nuggets from COQDAQ? Get the sandwich instead.
First-Time Guide to the Mubadala Citi DC Open: Tips for Beating the Heat and Making the Most of Your Day
Thinking about attending the Mubadala Citi DC Open? After spending a full day at Rock Creek Tennis Center, I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite 2026 summer experiences in the DMV. Whether you’re a longtime tennis fan or simply looking for something fun to do in Washington, D.C., the tournament offers exciting matches, player sightings, interactive sponsor activations, and a great atmosphere. If it’s your first visit, here are my biggest tips to help you stay comfortable, maximize your time, and enjoy every minute.
1. Arrive Before 10 a.m. During Qualifying Weekend
If you’re attending during the qualifying rounds, getting to Rock Creek Tennis Center before 10 a.m. is one of the best decisions you can make.I made it through security in about 15 minutes, giving me plenty of time to explore before the crowds arrived and temperatures climbed.
2. Your Entrance Matters
One thing I didn’t know beforehand is that the Uber/Lyft entrance and the parking /shuttle entrance are different experiences. Each entrance features different photo opportunities, so if creating content is part of your day, keep that in mind when planning your arrival.
3. Visit the Practice Courts and Players Area
Before settling into a stadium seat, head to the practice courts and players area. This was one of my favorite parts of the day. Not only are you closer to the players, but you’ll often have better opportunities for photos and videos before the crowds build. I even caught Francis Tiafore passing by before his practice.
4. Know What VIP Includes
I purchased VIP access because I thought food was included with the ticket.
It wasn’t.
While the lounge offered a nice place with shade and air conditioning, especially during the hottest part of the afternoon. If you’re considering VIP, check exactly what’s included before purchasing.
5. Beat the Heat
Washington summers are no joke.Here’s what I’d recommend bringing:- A large sun hat (it made a noticeable difference)- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated- Lotion or stick sunscreen instead of aerosol sunscreen, which isn’t allowed through security- Comfortable walking shoes, because you’ll spend more time exploring than you think
6. Explore Every Activation
Don’t spend your entire day in one stadium.
Walk around the grounds, visit every sponsor activation, take photos, and enjoy everything happening between matches. Some of my favorite moments happened away from the courts.
7. Watch Out for Bees & Wasps
One tip I never expected to give…Keep an eye out for bees and wasps. I was stung on the back of my leg while walking around the grounds. Thankfully, it wasn’t serious, but it’s something to be aware of while eating outdoors or relaxing between matches.
Final ThoughtsThe Mubadala Citi DC Open is much more than a tennis tournament. It’s a full-day summer experience. From watching elite athletes compete to spotting players around the grounds, discovering sponsor activations, and soaking up the atmosphere, I left already thinking about next year’s tournament.
If I could do it all over again, I’d still arrive early, spend time at the practice courts, bring my trusty Mackenzie-Childs water bottle, wear my oversized sun hat, and embrace everything the tournament has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for the qualifying rounds or later in the tournament, come prepared for the heat, explore beyond the courts, and most importantly, enjoy the experience. I know I’ll be back.
My Sweethearts’ Nite Plan vs. What Actually Happened
(From a Walt Disney World Girl Who Just Wanted One More Hour)
Sweethearts’ Nite is not a night to wing it. Here’s exactly how I planned it — and what actually happened.
The Sweethearts’ Nite Plan I Walked In With
Before the event started, this was my strategy:
First thing first. I search the internet (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) for information from current and prior year Sweethearts’ Nite.
Then, I write/print my game plans. As the chief Disney app navigator in my party, it has been easier for me to have a paper copy of my plan and navigate the app. This is probably the Type-A millennial coming out. But, it works for me.
My Top Priorities
- Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Photo Opportunity (Mickey’s Toontown)
- Sweethearts’ Nite Exclusive Food:
- Heart-shaped Ravioli,
- Chocolate Heart-shaped Beignets,
- Duo of Hearts,
- Strawberry & Chocolate Churro,
- Passion Fruit-Strawberry Lemonade, and
- Strawberry Shortcake DOLE Whip Sundae
- Celebrate Love Cavalcade
- Fond Farewell
- Key of Disneyland Interactive Experiences (At least 5 Key Lock Stations)
Secondary Goals (If Time Allowed)
- Any other Sweethearts’ Nite Exclusive Food
- Entertainment
- Once Upon a Dream – A musical look at love and romance in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle
- Lou-Ray Jazz Club
- Step into the Scene Photo Opportunities
- Bayou Country’s Princess and the Frog Storybook
- Main Street, USA’s Sweethearts’ Nite Welcome
- Fantasyland’s Aristocats
What I Intentionally Deprioritized
- Merchandise
- Disney Duets/Dance Party/DJ
- More than one PhotoPass Character Photo Opportunities
- Rides
My Overall Game Plan
- 8:00 AM: Mobile Order Food
- 6:15 PM: Enter Disneyland Park
- 6:15 PM – 7:45 PM: Rides and Key to Disneyland Lock Stations
- 8:00 PM Enter Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Photo Queue (if forming) & Cafe Daisy Mobile Order
- 9:30 PM First Cavalcade Opportunity (if done with Mickey and Minnie)
- 9:45 PM Pictures of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle Projections
- 10:00 PM Tiana’s Palace Mobile Order
- 10:40 PM River Belle Terrace Dining Reservation
- 11:45 PM Second Cavalcade Opportunity (if first was missed) or Once Upon a Dream
- 12:45 PM Fond Farewell
Why this felt realistic to me:
Since I have party experience from Walt Disney World, I knew my Sweethearts’ Nite priorities were clear. However, I still had back up options in case things went left. On paper, nothing about my plan seemed unmanageable.
How the Night Actually Unfolded
Now here’s how it really played out.
- 8:00 AM: Mobile Ordered Food
- 6:15 PM: Entered Disneyland Park
- 6:25 PM: Emporium
- 6:55 PM: Tomorrowland Key to Disneyland Lock Station
- 7:25 PM: Fantasyland Key to Disneyland Lock Station
- 7:35 PM: Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride (Less than 5 minute wait)
- 7:45 PM: Snow White’s Enchanted Wish (Less than 3 minute wait)
- 8:00 PM: Mickey’s Toontown Key to Disneyland Lock Station
- 8:05 PM: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Photo Opportunity Queue & Cafe Daisy Mobile Order Pick Up
- 9:20 PM: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Photos
- 9:25 PM: Mickey and Minnie’s Runway Railroad (Walk On)
- 9:45 PM: It’s a Small World Projections
- 9:45-9:48 PM: Latin and Pop Music DJ (This was really fun!)
- 9:50 PM: Sleeping Beauty Projections
- 10:00 PM: Tiana’s Palace Mobile Order
- 10:20 PM: New Orleans Square Key to Disneyland Lock Station
- 10:30 PM: Lottie Photo Opportunity (Had to see my fellow New Orleans Girl)
- 10:35 PM: River Belle Terrace Dining Reservation Mobile Check-in (10:40 PM Reservation)
- 10:38 PM: Seated at River Belle Terrace Table
- 11:15 PM: Departed River Belle Terrace
- 11:30 PM: Adventureland Key to Disneyland Lock Station
- 11:40 PM: Strawberry Shortcake DOLE Whip Sundae at Tropical Hideaway
- 11:55 PM: Second Celebrate Love Cavalcade near turn toward It’s a Small World
- 12:10 AM: More Pictures of Sleeping Beauty Projections
- 12:15 AM: Castle Churro Cart Line for Strawberry & Chocolate Churro/ Side views of Once Upon a Dream
- 12:30 PM: Main Street Projections
- 12:45 PM: Fond Farewell
- 12:50 PM: Disneyland Fire Station Key to Disneyland Lock Station
- 01:25 PM: Entered line for Step into the Scene: Sweethearts’ Nite Welcome
- 01:35 PM: Step into the Scene: Sweethearts’ Nite Welcome (PhotoPass was gone, but a lovely couple took photos of so many people. We appreciated them pixie dusting us.)
- 01:40 PM: Departed Disneyland Park
Where the Gap Really Was
This really wasn’t a failed plan. It was a timing reality check because I still wanted to do more..
Here’s what limited us:
- Event length vs. the number of activities
- Walking time between experiences
If I’m honest, what I underestimated most was:
The need to sit down. While Disneyland is a smaller park, we were really thankful for the 10:40 PM River Belle Terrace reservation. It forced us to sit down. We walked nearly 18,000 steps that day with 14,000 steps during the party.
What Went Exactly According to Plan
We achieved all top priorities:
- Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse Photo Opportunity (Mickey’s Toontown)
- Sweethearts’ Nite Exclusive Food:
- Heart-shaped Ravioli,
- Chocolate Heart-shaped Beignets,
- Duo of Hearts,
- Strawberry & Chocolate Churro,
- Passion Fruit-Strawberry Lemonade, and
- Strawberry Shortcake DOLE Whip Sundae
- Celebrate Love Cavalcade
- Fond Farewell
We achieved one additional entertainment item: Due to the Castle Churro Cart line, we caught part of the Once Upon a Dream entertainment. It was truly a side view, but we got to see part of this show.
We did the Main Street, USA’s Sweethearts’ Nite Welcome Step into the Scene Photo Opportunity. This was after the night technically ended. But, Cast Members allowed everyone in line to take their photo with this opportunity. We were near the end of the line, but it took no longer than 10 minutes to finish.
These parts validated that my strategy wasn’t wrong. I was just ambitious for the entertainment and photo opportunities portions.
What I Wish I’d Had More Time For
More food and photo opportunities. I don’t regret what we did, but I wish I could have had one extra hour!
If I could redo one choice, I would:
Not redo any choices. I just wish I had more time.
My Adjusted Sweethearts’ Nite Plan (Version 2.0)
If I were going again,
- No Key to Disneyland: Since we completed it, I would not have to do the Key to Disneyland experience (We finished over two days):
- New Foods: All the foods were great (My Food Review Post Coming Soon). But, since I couldn’t do it all, I would focus on new things I didn’t get to try this time.
- 5 More Minutes: I would spend more time at the Latin and Pop Music DJ entertainment spot we were literally walking through from Toontown towards New Orleans Square, but the DJ was really good so I would want to spend an extra 5 minutes there.
And I’d mentally accept that:
Just like Walt Disney World special events, I still can’t do it all.
The Real Lesson: Sweethearts’ Nite Is About Choosing
The biggest takeaway?
You can plan well.
You can prioritize smartly.
You can move efficiently.
And still not do everything.
Sweethearts’ Nite isn’t about perfect execution. It’s about intentional choices with someone you love.
And next time, I’ll choose even more strategically…
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Lagniappe
Here are two videos I watched during my research phase prior to any 2026 videos.
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