Last week we kicked off the US Open with American Express. This is probably one of my favorite sporting events of the year to watch. I grew up playing tennis and was on the varsity team in High School and College and a junior national champion so walking into that stadium where so many of my heroes and have played their hearts out always gives me chills. Having been an American Express member since 2008, and now an ambassador for their Blue Cash Everyday Card, being invited to the event as their guest is an absolute dream come true and totally epic experience.

All card members get exclusive perks like access to the American Express outdoor suite, which features complimentary hand massages by Exhale Spa, L’Occitane samples, and a relaxing, air-conditioned space to purchase food and drink in. American Express also opened the ground floor of the tent to the public for fans to experience the #AmexTennis Pro Walk. The walk enables guests to virtually experience the journey a pro would have as they walk from the player locker room to center court. Highlights of the walk include replicas of the player locker room, and tunnel, and holograms of tennis legends like Pete Sampras and Monica Seles. They also constructed a tennis court inside the tent with activities for kids and playing opportunities.

Outside the stadium and the Amex Tent area are all of the outdoor vendors –selling everything from sporting equipment and clothes, logoed US Open merchandise, food, drink – and my much needed Lavazza coffee. I took a little less guilt in shopping considering the Blue Cash Everyday card offers 1% cash back on purchases, such as my food and event swag. Although I didn’t go too crazy!

This was James’ first time to the US Open so I wanted him to have the full experience. From watching the practice sessions at the outdoor courts, visiting all of the outdoor spaces and lounges we toured around the space in between watching the major matches inside the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

We ended the day with another epic experience from American Express by being invited into their new 70-person luxury suite, the Center Court Club in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Our tickets were amazing but the suite experience one floor above was at a whole other level. Featuring outdoor seats to watch the game coupled with an indoor space that’s air-conditioned with food, drink and screens of all the games happening at the same time, the suite was pretty amazing. Even the bathroom had a TV in it, so you don’t miss a beat.

Having cash back rewards on a zero annual fee card is amazing in and of itself, along with all of the other perks that come with having an American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card. But the access that all American Express Card Members get to amazing events, experiences and offers in music, theater, sports, and more is what sets American Express apart. This includes everything from early pre-sale offers to more exclusive invitation-only events and premium experiences. (You can check out the Membership Experiences website for more info and upcoming events.)

Learn more at americanexpress.com

Big thanks to my American Express family for making my US Open experience that much more awesome and sponsoring this post!