The U.S. Senior Open started "as a result of the remarkable growth in senior golf, both at the professional and amateur levels1". The first U.S. Senior Open was contested in 1980 and was hosted on the East Course of Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, N.Y. The winner that year was Roberto De Vicenzo.

Since then, the U.S. Senior Open has continued to be contested at notable sites around the country. The 2018 U.S. Senior Open marks the return of the championship to The Broadmoor East Course after hosting in 2008, becoming the 8th USGA Championship to be contested at The Broadmoor.

The championship is the cornerstone celebration of The Broadmoor Hotel Centennial Celebration, celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the property on the Friday of the championship.