As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ sponsorship of the US Open Tennis Championships, InterContinental New York Times Square is turning its lobby and restaurant into a hub for tennis fans. Throughout the tournament, the hotel will stage on-property activations and themed food and drink programming at The Stinger Cocktail Bar & Kitchen.
Fan Week brings a meet and greet on Thursday, Aug. 21, from 5 to 6 p.m., where hotel guests and Stinger patrons can share a wine and cheese hour with Alexandra Eala, Jelena Ostapenko, and Ugo Humbert. The session, held in The Stinger’s private dining room, offers selfies, autographs, and a quick hello before the players head to Queens.
Public spaces will carry the theme as well. The lobby and courtyard get tennis inspired décor suited for photos, while a dedicated fan zone off the lobby adds a table tennis setup and live streaming so guests can follow matches between their own outings.
The hotel will also honor Billie Jean King with a special appearance in wax. In partnership with Madame Tussauds New York, a lifelike figure of the trailblazing champion will be displayed on site, a nod to her impact on the sport and to the USTA facility that bears her name.
Tournament themed drinks round out the slate. The Stinger will pour the Honey Deuce with Grey Goose vodka, the Ace Paloma with Maestro Dobel tequila and grapefruit club soda, and a Watermelon Slice spritz with a zero proof option. A complimentary Grey Goose tasting on Thursday, Aug. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. will spotlight the Honey Deuce with giveaways and a match day atmosphere inside the bar.