The Waste Management Phoenix Open is the largest attended golf event in the world, with over 700,000 fans during tournament week. Transportation planning is essential.
WM Phoenix Open Transportation Guide
The Waste Management Phoenix Open is the largest attended golf event in the world, with over 700,000 fans during tournament week. Transportation planning is essential.
Why Transportation Matters
- 700,000+ weekly attendance - Largest golf tournament crowds
- The 16th Hole - 20,000-seat stadium experience
- Parking nightmare - Main lots fill before 10 AM on weekends
- Post-round parties - Old Town Scottsdale goes wild
Tournament Schedule (Typically Late January/Early February)
- Monday: Pro-Am
- Tuesday: Practice rounds
- Wednesday: Practice + AJGA
- Thursday-Sunday: Main tournament
Transportation Options
Party Bus Package
Best for: Groups wanting full experience
- Pre-game party en route
- Drop-off at VIP entrance
- All-day availability
- Post-tournament to Old Town
- $1,200-1,800 (8 hours, 20 passengers)
Sprinter Van Service
Best for: Groups of 8-14
- Comfortable captain's chairs
- Cooler for beverages
- Flexible timing
- Multiple stop capability
- $800-1,200 (8 hours)
Executive SUV
Best for: Corporate entertainment
- Client-ready presentation
- Privacy for business discussions
- Premium amenities
- $600-900 (8 hours)
TPC Scottsdale Logistics
Location
- North Scottsdale (Hayden & Bell Road)
- 25 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale
- 35 minutes from downtown Phoenix
- 45 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport
Gate Options
- Main Gate: General admission
- North Gate: Less crowded, longer walk
- VIP Entrance: Charter vehicle access
Traffic Patterns
- Thursday: Moderate
- Friday: Heavy, especially afternoon
- Saturday: Extreme - the "party hole" day
- Sunday: Heavy through awards
Sample Tournament Itinerary
Full Tournament Day (10 hours)
8:00 AM - Hotel pickup
9:00 AM - VIP gate drop-off
9:30 AM - Walk course, morning groups
12:30 PM - Lunch at hospitality area
2:00 PM - 16th Hole stadium experience
5:00 PM - Final groups finish
5:30 PM - Tournament pickup
6:30 PM - Dinner in Old Town
8:30 PM - Nightlife begins
2:00 AM - Return to hotel
Pricing Guide
| Service | Weekday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|
| SUV (6 hrs) | $750 | $900 | $850 |
| Sprinter (8 hrs) | $1,200 | $1,500 | $1,400 |
| Party Bus (10 hrs) | $2,000 | $2,500 | $2,400 |
Saturday "16th Hole Day" commands premium pricing
Booking Timeline
- 3+ months ahead: Guaranteed availability, standard pricing
- 1-2 months: Good selection, 10-15% premium
- 2-4 weeks: Limited options, 20-30% premium
- Week of: Emergency rates, very limited
Pro Tips
- Saturday is madness - Best for party, worst for actual golf watching
- Thursday/Friday - Best for seeing players up close
- Dress layers - February mornings are chilly
- Bring cash - Vendor lines faster
- Wear comfortable shoes - 10,000+ steps typical
Book Phoenix Open transportation before it sells out.