10 Best Public Tennis Courts in New York City

The best public tennis courts in NYC are those that offer a combination of accessibility, affordability, and quality, catering to players of all levels in a city where space is at a premium. These courts provide locals and visitors the opportunity to play in iconic locations without the need for exclusive memberships or exorbitant fees.

Whether you’re a casual weekend player or someone seeking regular court time, New York City’s public tennis courts deliver a range of experiences, from scenic park settings to professional-level facilities. Public tennis courts in NYC are maintained by the city’s parks department or other public facilities, with some offering free access and others requiring a small reservation fee.

1. Central Park Tennis Center

Key Details:

• Location: 96th St. and Central Park Drive, easily accessible via subway (1/2/3/6/B/C trains at the 96th St. station).
• Facilities: 30 tennis courts
• Public Access: Tennis permits are available for booking online or in person at the Arsenal Building.
• Programs Available: The center offers private and semi-private lessons, group clinics, and summer camps for all ages and skill levels.

Central Park Tennis Center stands as one of New York City’s most iconic tennis locations, offering a world-class experience for players of all ages and skill levels. Situated in the heart of Central Park, this vibrant facility is perfect for both casual enthusiasts and serious competitors looking to enjoy tennis in one of the city’s most beautiful and historic settings.

With 30 courts, including 26 reconditioned Har-Tru courts and 4 hard courts, the center provides ample space for singles and doubles matches. The season runs from early April through November, depending on weather, making it a popular choice throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a private lesson, joining a group clinic, or hosting your own tournament, Central Park Tennis Center offers a variety of options to suit your needs.

The center boasts a range of facilities to ensure comfort and convenience. There’s a pro shop with on-site stringing, a snack bar, locker rooms, and a spacious outdoor veranda. Public tennis permits for the courts are available at the Arsenal Building, located at 830 Fifth Avenue (East 64th Street), or through their website.

Key Details:

• Location:725 Gateway Center Boulevard in the Bronx, with easy access from the 2 or 3 subway line.
• Facilities: 16 Tennis Courts
• All-Weather Play: 12 indoor courts under a dome, ensuring year-round play from October to April.
• Public Access: NYC tennis permit holders can use the courts, with options for court rentals and memberships.

Stadium Tennis Center at Mill Pond Park in the Bronx is a fantastic spot for tennis enthusiasts who want to play no matter the weather. With 16 courts, 12 of which are indoors from October to April, this facility ensures you can enjoy tennis year-round. The indoor courts are housed under a state-of-the-art dome, featuring high ceilings and spacious backcourts that allow for a comfortable, uninterrupted game. Whether it’s cold, rainy, or snowing outside, you can still play at your best in this modern facility.

Stadium Tennis Center at Mill Pond Park offers a wide variety of programs for juniors and adults, including private lessons, seasonal court rentals, and off-peak play memberships. The center is known for its excellent staff, which includes some of the most talented and personable racquet sports professionals in New York City.

If you’re looking for competitive play, there are also tournaments, adult leagues, and opportunities to arrange games with others. The clubhouse features a pro shop, light snacks, and beverages for players to enjoy during breaks.

3. Hudson River Park Courts

Key Details:

• Location: 92 Hudson River Greenway, New York, NY 10014
• Facilities: 3 Courts
• Free Access: No permits or reservations needed – courts are first-come, first-served.
• Operating Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM, with a one-hour play limit if others are waiting.
• School Hours: Courts may be reserved for schools from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM on weekdays.

Hudson River Park is home to one of the best free tennis spots in New York City, offering three outdoor hardcourt tennis courts right on the water with a fantastic view of the Hudson River. Located just north of the Holland Tunnel and Tribeca, and west of Soho, this public facility makes it easy for tennis lovers to enjoy a game without the need for a permit or reservation.

The courts are open from 6:00 AM until 1:00 AM daily, and they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This means you don’t have to worry about booking ahead. To ensure everyone gets a fair chance, play is limited to one hour when others are waiting for a court. If all courts are in use, you’ll need to wait in line at the designated area near the benches facing the courts, but it’s a simple system that ensures everyone gets their turn. While courts are free, it’s important to note that there are a few guidelines to follow.

4. Lincoln Terrace Park Courts

Key Details:

• Location: 299 Buffalo Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
• Facilities: 11 Tennis Courts. Well-maintained courts, including lighting until 2 AM
• Family-Friendly: Offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields, making it great for all ages.
• Popular Spot: Courts can get crowded, so plan accordingly, especially during peak hours.

Nestled in the lively Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, Lincoln Terrace / Arthur S. Somers Park is a true community gem, offering tennis enthusiasts a fantastic place to play. With 11 well-maintained outdoor tennis courts, this park is a popular destination for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a casual player looking to hit some balls with friends or a seasoned player preparing for a match, these courts provide a great playing surface, often praised for their smoothness and accuracy.

One of the best features of the tennis courts at Lincoln Terrace Park is the availability of lights, allowing you to enjoy a game even after the sun goes down. Courts are lit up until 11 PM, and recent updates extend the lighting until 2 AM, making it ideal for late-night tennis. However, since the courts can get crowded, especially during peak hours, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and be ready to wait for a court. Players recommend going in groups if you’re planning to play at night for safety reasons.

5. Prospect Park Tennis Center

Key Details:

• Location: 50 Parkside Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226
• Variety of Courts: 9 clay courts and 2 hard courts, ideal for different playing styles.
• Year-Round Access: Seasonal bubble offers indoor play during colder months.
• Great Amenities: Clubhouse with pro shop, locker rooms, and cafe available.

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the Prospect Park Tennis Center is a must-visit for tennis lovers, especially those who appreciate the unique challenge of clay courts. This popular tennis destination offers 11 courts in total, including 9 clay courts and 2 hard courts, making it the perfect spot for players of all skill levels. Many players love the slower pace of the clay, which makes for a more strategic game, allowing you to improve your footwork and stamina.

The center operates year-round, with a seasonal tennis bubble available during the indoor season from October to May. During this time, you can rent one of the 11 bubbled courts, perfect for playing tennis no matter the weather. The rest of the year, the outdoor courts are available for use by Parks tennis permit holders. In addition to the great courts, the Prospect Park Tennis Center boasts a well-kept clubhouse with amenities like a pro shop, locker rooms, and a cafe. Reservations can be easily made online or at the desk, making it convenient for players to secure their preferred court time.

6. ​Linden Park Tennis Courts

• Location: Stanley Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11207
• Seven Well-Maintained Courts: Perfect for tournaments, practice, or casual play.
• Multi-Use Park: Includes a football field, track, basketball courts, and handball walls.
• Shaded Areas and Facilities: Plenty of benches, trees, and exercise equipment for a comfortable experience.

Nestled in the heart of East New York, Linden Park offers a fantastic spot for tennis enthusiasts looking to enjoy well-maintained courts in a peaceful setting. This sports park spans four blocks and features a wide variety of recreational facilities, including seven beautiful tennis courts, all in great condition and perfect for everything from casual practice to friendly matches or even local tournaments.

The courts are clean and well-maintained, providing a great playing surface that makes it easy to focus on your game. The park is especially popular during the warmer months when players gather to practice or enjoy friendly games with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a place to practice, play a match, or simply relax in a green space, Linden Park tennis courts in East New York offer a wonderful option for public tennis in New York City.

7. 96th Street Clay Courts

• Location: Westside hwy & 96th st, Manhattan, New York
• Facilities: 8 court locations
• Unique Red-Clay Courts: The only outdoor red-clay public courts in NYC, providing a slower, more strategic game.
• Great Programming: Offers a variety of tennis programs, including group lessons, summer camps, and competitions for all ages.
• Affordable and Accessible: Reservations are required for $15 per hour; a budget-friendly option compared to other Manhattan tennis clubs.

Nestled along the scenic Hudson River Greenway, the 96th Street Clay courts are a true gem for tennis enthusiasts in New York City. These ten outdoor red-clay courts are not just rare in the city—they’re among the few left in the entire country, making them a must-visit for tennis fans. Managed by the Riverside Tennis Association (RCTA), these courts offer a one-of-a-kind playing experience, surrounded by flower gardens and lush lawns, all right on the water’s edge.

The clay courts here are the perfect spot for both seasoned players and newcomers looking to try their hand at this unique surface. The courts are open year-round, but during the outdoor season, they really shine, with great programming for all ages. From group lessons and summer camps to adult and junior competitions, there’s always something happening at this vibrant tennis hub. For a taste of European-style clay court tennis in the heart of New York City, the 96th Street Clay courts are truly a unique public tennis destination.

Located between the Henry Hudson Parkway and the Hudson River, the 96th Street Clay courts are accessible via Riverside Park, making it a beautiful spot to play while enjoying stunning river views. While there’s a required reservation fee of $15 per hour, it’s a steal compared to many other Manhattan tennis options, and the experience is definitely worth it. Just be sure to bring your own water, as the courts have fountains nearby, but not inside.

8. Fort Greene Tennis Courts

Key Things to Know:

• Location: 136-144, DeKalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
• Free Courts: The courts are free to use, though you’ll need an NYC Parks permit during peak times (spring and summer).
• Great Accessibility: Located in Fort Greene Park with easy access via CitiBike stations and multiple subway lines.
• Perfect for Beginners: The slower courts and welcoming community make it ideal for beginners and casual players.

If you’re looking for a convenient, accessible place to play tennis in Brooklyn, the Fort Greene tennis courts should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the heart of Fort Greene Park, these six outdoor courts offer a fantastic public tennis experience for players of all levels. The courts are open daily, and they follow a first-come, first-serve policy before 8 AM and after 8 PM. During peak hours, however, you’ll need a permit from the NYC Parks Department to secure a spot.

The courts themselves are free to use, and while some areas may have patches that aren’t in perfect condition, they’re perfectly playable. The surface may be a bit slower than other hard courts, but that only adds to the challenge and makes it a great option for beginners and recreational players. For anyone looking to enjoy tennis without the high price tag, Fort Greene tennis courts are an excellent choice.

9. Astoria Park Tennis Courts

Key Things to Know:

• Locations: 80 21st St, Astoria, NY 11105
• 14 Outdoor Courts: With a large number of courts, there’s plenty of space to play and enjoy the game.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy incredible views of the East River and iconic NYC landmarks, especially during sunset.
• Permit Required: You’ll need an NYC Parks permit to play on the courts during peak times (spring and summer).

Astoria Park, one of the most scenic parks in Queens, offers tennis enthusiasts plenty of space to enjoy the game with its 14 outdoor tennis courts. Known for its expansive views of the East River, the Triborough Bridge, and the Hell Gate Bridge, this park provides a unique setting for a match. Whether you’re looking for a casual game or a more competitive match, the courts at Astoria Park are a great choice for players of all levels.

The tennis courts are spread out across the large, sporty riverfront park, and you can easily find a spot to play if you arrive early. But, as with other public courts in NYC, you’ll need a permit to play. The views are truly something special—especially during sunset, when the changing reflections of the city lights on the river offer a breathtaking scene. The courts themselves are in fair condition.

10. Kissena Park Tennis Courts

Key Things to Know:

• Location: Rose & Oak Avenue Kissena Park, Flushing, NY 11355
• 8 Outdoor Courts: Ample space for playing and practicing tennis.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: No strict permit enforcement; everyone is friendly and reasonable.
• Variety of Activities: In addition to tennis, enjoy baseball, bocce, playgrounds, and a peaceful pond with wildlife.

Kissena Park, located in the heart of Queens, is a fantastic spot for a relaxed game of tennis. With 8 outdoor courts, this neighborhood park offers a welcoming environment for players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking for a fun match, Kissena Park’s tennis courts are perfect for a laid-back game with friends or to practice your skills.

While the tennis courts are busy, there’s always space to join in a game. The courts are large, and many players use them to practice. Don’t worry about permits—while some tennis courts in NYC require permits, at Kissena Park, there are no officials checking permits, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Kissena Park tennis courts are a great option for those seeking a stress-free place to enjoy the game, offering an easy-going vibe with lots of amenities to enjoy before or after your match.

Court	Address	Facilities	Access
Central Park Tennis Center	1 West 96th Street &, Central Park W, New York, NY 10025	26 hard courts, pro shop, lessons, restrooms	Public; Permits required
Stadium Tennis Center	725 Gateway Center Boulevard (formerly Exterior Street) At E152nd Street and the Harlem River Bronx, NY 10451	16 courts( 12 indoor), lighting, restrooms	Public; Permits required, fee
Hudson River Park Courts	92 Hudson River Greenway, New York, NY 10014	3 outdoor courts, scenic views, free access	Public; Free, first-come-first-serve
Lincoln Terrace Park Courts	E New York Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213	11 outdoor courts, open space for multiple activities	Public; Free, first-come-first-serve
Prospect Park Tennis Center	50 Parkside Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226	11 clay courts, lessons, restrooms	Public; Permits required
Linden Park Tennis Courts	Stanley Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11207	7 tennis courts, playground, athletic field, restrooms	Public; Free, first-come-first-serve
96th Street Clay Courts	Hudson River Greenway, New York, NY 10025	10 red-clay outdoor courts, scenic views	Public; Permits required, fee
Fort Greene Tennis Courts	136-144, DeKalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217	6 outdoor courts, playground, basketball, restrooms	Public; Permits required, first-come-first-serve
Astoria Park Tennis Courts	80 21st St, Astoria, NY 11105	14 outdoor courts, riverfront views, playground, track	Public; Permits required
Kissena Park Tennis Courts	Rose & Oak Avenue Kissena Park, Flushing, NY 11355	8 outdoor courts, baseball, bocce, playground, pond	Public; No permits required

Methodology for Picking the Best Public Tennis Courts in New York City

When picking the best public tennis courts in New York City, we focused on a few important factors to make sure we included courts that were not only popular but also provided great playing experiences for all levels of players. We wanted to find courts that are easy to access, have good facilities, and are well-maintained. Here’s how we selected the courts in our list:

• Number and Type of Courts

We looked for courts that offered a variety of options for players. Whether it was hard courts, clay courts, or unique red-clay courts, we made sure to include a mix of surfaces. The number of courts was also important—more courts usually mean less waiting time to play. For example, Astoria Park tennis courts has 14 outdoor courts, making it a great option for players looking for space.

• Location and Accessibility

New York City is big, and we wanted to pick courts that are easy to get to, especially with public transportation. Courts like those at Fort Greene and Central Park are located in central areas with easy subway access and even bike racks nearby. Some courts, like the Hudson River Park courts, offer beautiful views along with free access, making them a great choice for people who want a nice place to play without a fee.

• Facilities

The quality of the courts and their surrounding facilities played a big role in our selection. We included places like Prospect Park Tennis Center, which offers 9 clay courts and great amenities. Courts with additional features like restrooms, water fountains, and nearby playgrounds were also considered, such as at Linden Park tennis courts.

• Free Access vs. Permits

We wanted to highlight courts that are either free or have affordable access options. While some courts, like those at 96th Street, require permits, others, like Hudson River Park courts, are completely free to use. Courts with easy access to permits or first-come-first-serve policies made it easier for everyone to play.

• Community and Atmosphere

By focusing on these key factors, we selected the 10 best public tennis courts in New York City that offer great facilities, accessibility, and opportunities for players to enjoy the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these courts provide some of the best spots in the city to hit the tennis ball!