Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Tennis Fans
Top Things to Do in New York City for Tennis Fans
1. USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
The epicenter of American tennis and home of the US Open, this sprawling complex in Flushing Meadows features 22 outdoor courts, practice courts, and legendary arenas where the sport’s greatest moments unfold.
✓ Why Go:
It’s where tennis history is made—from night matches under the lights to Fan Week practices. Off-season, you can even book courts or clinics to play where the pros do.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late August to early September for the US Open and Fan Week; spring and fall for pleasant outdoor hitting without peak crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
During Fan Week, arrive early for player practices and autograph sessions; inside the grounds, don’t miss the Althea Gibson statue and photo ops by Ashe and Armstrong.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans describe the buzz as electric, with efficient operations, great sightlines in most courts, and a festival atmosphere that converts casual viewers into diehards.
2. Forest Hills Stadium
The former home of the U.S. Nationals, this evocative horseshoe arena sits within the West Side Tennis Club and oozes pre-Open Era charm, now hosting concerts and occasional tennis-related events.
✓ Why Go:
Pilgrimage-worthy for tennis history buffs: imagine Ashe, Laver, and Billie Jean competing on these grounds while exploring a leafy Queens neighborhood with café-lined streets.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Summer event season for access and ambience; otherwise, swing by daytime to appreciate the exterior and historic neighborhood setting.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a coffee on Austin Street first, then walk up Tennis Place for classic photos of the brick façade and archways.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the nostalgia and human scale—calling it a serene counterpoint to the mega-venues of today.
3. Central Park Tennis Center
Nestled mid-park near 96th Street, these coveted public hard courts deliver skyline peeks, leafy surrounds, and the quintessential New York hitting session.
✓ Why Go:
You’ll play in the heart of Manhattan with easy access to park paths and post-match picnics—an only-in-NYC tennis experience.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall for prime conditions; early mornings secure better court availability.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve online as soon as slots open and carry a current NYC Parks tennis permit; ball machine rentals help tune up your game.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Players praise the vibe, friendly competition, and location—though they note reservations are a must during peak times.
4. Prospect Park Tennis Center
Brooklyn’s flagship public tennis facility offers indoor bubbles in winter and outdoor courts in warmer months near the park’s southern edge.
✓ Why Go:
Strong coaching, a local community feel, and a post-play lineup of nearby cafés and bars around Park Slope and Ditmas Park.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Year-round, with indoor options November–March and best outdoor conditions May–October.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check for off-peak weekday court rates and bring a picnic—Prospect Park’s Long Meadow is a short stroll away.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Frequent players call it welcoming and well-run, with reliable surfaces and a neighborhood warmth.
5. Vanderbilt Tennis Club
A singular indoor court experience tucked above Grand Central Terminal, pairing luxe amenities with a dramatic cityscape backdrop.
✓ Why Go:
It’s tennis inside an NYC icon—perfect for squeezing in a premium hit between Midtown sightseeing or meetings.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late evenings for more availability; book well in advance around the US Open.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early to navigate the terminal and enjoy a pre- or post-match bite at Grand Central Market downstairs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests rave about the novelty and convenience, noting professional staff and meticulous upkeep.
6. Roosevelt Island Racquet Club
A riverside complex with year-round bubbles and views of Manhattan’s skyline—reached by subway, ferry, or the photogenic tram.
✓ Why Go:
Consistent indoor conditions, solid programming, and a scenic setting make it a reliable choice for travelers chasing guaranteed court time.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Year-round; winter for climate-controlled play, golden-hour evening slots in summer for stunning light on the East River.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ride the tram from 59th Street for the best arrival views; ask about same-day cancellations for last-minute bookings.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Players appreciate the friendly desk staff, well-lit courts, and easy logistics once on the island.
7. Sportime Randall’s Island
A major multi-court venue set amid parkland, offering clay and hard surfaces, adult programs, and junior development in a resort-like layout.
✓ Why Go:
Top-notch surface variety and coaching close to Manhattan, with space to breathe and warm up along waterfront paths.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring–fall for outdoor clay; mornings on weekends book fastest in peak season.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the pedestrian bridge from East 103rd Street for a scenic approach; ask about non-member day passes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight professional instruction, well-maintained courts, and an away-from-the-city feel minutes from it all.
8. Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning
A community-forward Bronx hub in Crotona Park with show courts, indoor bubbles, and programs that blend performance with accessibility.
✓ Why Go:
Train on excellent courts while supporting a mission-driven center that champions youth development and equity in tennis.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Year-round programming; summer evenings are lively with league play.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about open court times between academy blocks; Crotona Park Lake loop makes a good cooldown walk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the welcoming atmosphere, strong coaching, and the sense of purpose behind the facility.
9. Stadium Tennis Center at Mill Pond Park
A sprawling Bronx complex beside the Harlem River with hard courts under seasonal bubbles and impressive Manhattan views.
✓ Why Go:
Reliable court availability near Yankee Stadium, with programs for all levels and convenient transit connections.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through fall for outdoor play; winter bubbles ensure continuity in colder months.
✓ Insider Tip:
Time your session on non-game days to avoid Yankee Stadium crowds; check for discounted off-peak bookings.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Players like the spacious layout, easy check-in, and value compared to pricier Manhattan clubs.
10. Mason’s Tennis NYC
A long-standing Midtown pro shop stocking racquets, strings, shoes, and the latest pro apparel—ideal for restring emergencies or souvenir gear.
✓ Why Go:
Expert stringers and knowledgeable staff help you dial in tension, grips, and demo racquets before you hit NYC’s courts.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays before lunch to avoid post-work crowds; plan ahead during US Open week when demand spikes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Call ahead for same-day stringing and ask about demo programs to test frames at nearby parks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers commend the personalized advice, quick turnaround, and broad selection at fair city prices.
