U.S. Open Sets Up Shop On Independence Mall
By Tim Jimenez
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- If you can't make it out to Merion for the U.S Open, you can still get the Open experience in Philadelphia. This weekend, Independence Hall is hosting the Merion Experience.
"Merion was a small facility and we knew we were going to have limited access and limited space on the golf course," says Sarah Hirshland with the USGA. "We really wanted to create an experience for all the City of Philadelphia."
So here you can pick up a club and recreate Merion moments of your own, like the 13th hole swing simulator and even try to get out of a Scottish-style bunker. There's also a U.S. Open merchandise store and you can even watch the pros.
"When you're done showing your golf talents and skills, Hirshland says, "you can join us in front of the big screen and watch the broadcast down here live, see all the action that's happening."
Entrance is free, and a $5 donation will be made to youth golf organization, First Tee of Greater Philadelphia, for every person who visits.
