The 16th Hole: More Than Just Noise

A stadium-style seating area at the 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale creates an atmosphere more akin to a rock concert than a golf tournament, as it accommodates around 20,000 spectators. There are about 3,750 general admission seats available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to catch the best people watching and fan antics.

This isn't just any par-3. Since Tiger Woods' famous hole-in-one here in 1997, the 16th has been the epicenter of golf's biggest party. Over the years, 294 skyboxes have been added, transforming the hole into a full-blown stadium experience. Fans don't just come to watch golf. They come for the cheers, the boos, and an energy level you won't find anywhere else on the PGA Tour.

The tournament, sponsored by Waste Management, is recognized as a zero-waste event, with organizers aiming to divert 100% of materials from landfill through recycling, composting, donation or energy conversion. This commitment creates opportunities for budget-conscious fans to stretch their dollars even further.

Free Recycling Infrastructure

On-site there are thousands of recycling and compost bins, including 4,800 bins plus 29 large compactors and 30 tanks to collect melting ice. What does this mean for you? The infrastructure is already in place to support eco-friendly habits that also happen to be wallet-friendly.

At the 16th hole and other high-traffic zones, even the melted ice from bars is captured and reused for other facilities, showing just how seriously the event takes its green mission. This level of commitment means you're walking into an environment designed to help you reduce waste without extra effort.

Smart Merch Moves That Save Money

Traditional golf tournament shopping can drain your wallet fast with overpriced souvenirs you'll use once. The WM Phoenix Open offers a smarter alternative. Merchandise at the event incorporates recycled-content materials, such as shirts from Peter Millar made from recycled plastic bottles collected at the prior year's tournament.

Investing in these reusable, quality items means you're buying something you'll actually wear for years, not just another throwaway souvenir. A quality piece made from recycled materials might cost more upfront but will last far longer while also supporting the event's sustainability mission. You're making an investment in gear that serves you long after the tournament ends.

Skip Single-Use Costs

Because of the zero-waste mandate, vendors and organizers are required to use compostable or recyclable serviceware. Take it a step further by bringing your own reusable water bottle. The event's reuse focus means you can avoid paying for multiple single-use drinks throughout the day.

Consider packing reusable straws, utensils, or a collapsible cup in your bag. These small items take up minimal space but can save you money throughout a long tournament day. If you're spending eight hours at the tournament and buying water every couple of hours, you're looking at $24 to $30 just on hydration. Bring your own bottle and you've saved enough to cover part of your parking or put toward dinner that evening.

Flights, Hotels, and Green Hacks

You already know how to score affordable flights and budget-friendly accommodations near Scottsdale. Now you can complete the trifecta by layering in these green money-saving strategies. The combination transforms the WM Phoenix Open from an expensive splurge into a sustainable, repeatable experience.

Many fans treat this event as an annual pilgrimage. By aligning your spending habits with smart reuse and recycling, you create a blueprint for enjoying the tournament year after year without breaking the bank. The wild energy, memorable moments at the 16th hole, and festival atmosphere remain just as thrilling when you're not overspending on disposable items.

Party Smart, Spend Smart

The beauty of the WM Phoenix Open is that its sustainability initiatives and party atmosphere aren't at odds. The same infrastructure supporting 20,000 screaming fans at the 16th hole also supports your ability to enjoy the experience responsibly and affordably.

Whether you're part of the legendary Saturday morning Breakfast Club tradition, where fans arrive early for burritos and water, or simply soaking in the unique energy that makes this tournament unlike any other on the PGA Tour, you can do it while keeping more money in your pocket and less waste in the landfill.

The event has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that proves sports entertainment can be both thrilling and environmentally conscious. For the golf vacation planner, this creates a perfect storm of value. You're getting world-class entertainment, a party atmosphere that rivals any sporting event in the country, and infrastructure that supports smart spending habits.

At GolfTripJunkie , we're all about maximizing value on every golf vacation. The WM Phoenix Open proves that the wildest party in golf can also be one of the smartest choices for budget-conscious travelers. Are you looking to experience the WM Phoenix Open without the planning headache? With Golf Trip Junkie, you can create a custom golf vacation that maximizes your budget. Make the most of your day by getting a free quote and letting us handle the details.

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