2025 U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills: Everything Spectators Need to Know Before Attending
As the 2025 U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills approaches, fans are gearing up for world-class golf—but those attending in person must also be ready to follow some very specific rules. Much like Augusta National’s famously strict policies, the USGA has laid down its own set of detailed regulations that spectators must follow. Here’s a full breakdown of what to expect so you don’t get caught off guard at the gate—or worse, escorted out of the venue.
<strong>Bag and Item Restrictions</strong>
Fans are only allowed to bring bags no larger than 6 inches in any direction. Clear plastic bags up to 12 inches are acceptable. Leave your laptops, tablets, drones, selfie sticks, and camera stabilizers at home—they’re all banned. Empty water bottles up to 32 ounces are permitted.
<strong>Photography and Phone Use</strong>
Cameras are allowed—but only during the practice rounds from May 26 to 28. Once championship play begins on May 29, all photography must stop the moment a player addresses the ball until their swing is complete. While mobile phones under 7 inches are allowed all week, they must be kept in silent mode. Video recording is strictly prohibited at all times. Live streaming is grounds for immediate ejection. However, fans are encouraged to share still images on social media using the hashtag #USWomensOpen.
<strong>Movement and Etiquette on Course</strong>
Spectators must stay behind gallery ropes and only cross fairways at designated crossing zones. Conversations should be kept quiet—especially when players are preparing to hit. During weather delays, a color-coded alert system will be used on scoreboards for crowd guidance.
<strong>Security and Enforcement</strong>
Security at Erin Hills will be firm. The USGA has a zero-tolerance policy: any violation, including unapproved photo-taking or straying from designated paths, can lead to immediate expulsion with no warning and forfeiture of all ticket privileges for the remainder of the tournament.
<strong>How It Compares to Other Majors</strong>
While Augusta National is famously the strictest—with no phones allowed at all—the U.S. Women’s Open rules fall somewhere in the middle. Compared to regular LPGA Tour events, the Open has much tighter controls. However, it’s more lenient than The Masters, and less intense than the PGA Championship, which limits media access even further.
<strong>The Takeaway</strong>
With the tournament set from May 29 to June 1, fans attending the U.S. Women’s Open will enjoy close access to elite competition—if they follow the rules. From what you bring to how you act, every detail matters. The USGA aims to preserve a respectful, championship-level atmosphere, and those who follow the guidelines will have the chance to witness one of the sport’s most prestigious events up close.