7 Best New York Tennis Courts

New York City is home to a vibrant tennis scene, with public courts and facilities available for players of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a casual game with friends or a place to improve your skills, New York has courts that cater to your needs. From scenic parks to iconic venues, the city’s diverse courts provide unique playing experiences. Below is a guide to the 7 best tennis courts in New York City, including key details like court type, amenities, and accessibility.

For players who want to sharpen their skills, there are plenty of New York tennis lessons available across the city. From private coaching to group sessions, you’ll find options tailored to all skill levels and playing styles.

Best New York Tennis Courts

• Billie Jean King National Tennis Courts: World-Class Courts for All Levels
• Central Park Tennis Courts: Iconic Outdoor Courts
• Hudson River Park Courts: Free Courts With River Views
• Riverside Park Tennis Courts: Peaceful Courts With Scenic Surroundings
• McCarren Tennis Courts: Affordable Year-Round Courts
• Prospect Park Tennis Courts: Family-Friendly Year-Round Tennis Facility
• Vanderbilt Tennis Courts: Exclusive Indoor Court Central Location

1. Billie Jean King National Tennis Court: World-Class Courts for All Levels

The best New York tennis court is the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. This world-renowned facility, located in Flushing Meadows, is home to the US Open and offers an incredible playing experience for all skill levels. With 22 outdoor and 12 indoor courts, both hard and clay surfaces, players can enjoy top-tier conditions year-round. The center provides an exceptional opportunity to play on the same courts as professional athletes, making it a bucket-list destination for tennis enthusiasts.

Beyond just the courts, the center offers lessons, clinics, and junior programs, allowing players to sharpen their skills with the help of professional instructors. The atmosphere is unbeatable, with the prestige of the US Open venue elevating the overall experience. Whether you’re a recreational player or looking for serious competition, this facility accommodates all, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about tennis.

Key Insights:

• Home of the US Open.
• Offers both indoor and outdoor courts.
• Suitable for all skill levels, with lessons and camps available.

2. Central Park Tennis Courts: Iconic Outdoor Courts

Another great NYC tennis court is the Central Park Tennis Center, located at 96th Street in the heart of Central Park. With over 30 courts, including 26 clay and 4 hard courts, this venue is perfect for players who enjoy outdoor tennis with a scenic backdrop. The beautiful park setting provides a peaceful atmosphere for a casual game or more competitive play.

The center offers affordable play through a permit system, and there are lessons, clinics, and youth programs available for those looking to improve their skills. The combination of its iconic location and high-quality courts makes it one of the best options for tennis players in the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, playing tennis in Central Park is an unforgettable experience that truly captures the essence of New York.

Key Insights:

• 30+ courts, mostly clay, located in Central Park.
• Affordable play with permits.
• Lessons and programs for all ages.

3. Hudson River Park Courts: Free Courts With River Views

One of the best free tennis courts in New York is the Hudson River Park Courts. These public hard courts are located along the Hudson River between Pier 40 and Pier 34, offering a stunning view of the waterfront while you play. The courts operate on a first-come, first-served basis, making them accessible to anyone without the need for a reservation or membership.

Despite being free, the courts are well-maintained, providing a great experience for casual players looking to enjoy a quick match in a relaxed setting. Open from early morning to midnight, the flexibility of these courts makes them a popular spot for those who want to enjoy tennis without any costs. The picturesque location and convenient hours make this a top choice for both locals and visitors who want to play with a view.

Key Insights:

• Free, public hard courts.
• Located along the scenic Hudson River.
• Open from 6 am to midnight.

4. Riverside Park Tennis Courts: Peaceful Courts With Scenic Surroundings

Another great option for outdoor tennis is the Riverside Park Tennis Courts on the Upper West Side. These courts stand out for their red clay surface, a rarity in New York City, offering a different playing experience from the typical hard courts. Nestled in Riverside Park, these courts provide a peaceful environment for both competitive and recreational players.

Managed by the Riverside Clay Tennis Association, players need a day pass or an NYC Parks tennis permit to access the courts. The scenic setting along the Hudson River adds to the experience, making it a favorite for those who prefer a more tranquil atmosphere. These courts are perfect for anyone looking to play in a serene environment while enjoying the unique feel of red clay courts.

Key Insights:

• Features rare red clay courts.
• Requires a day pass or permit.
• Beautiful Upper West Side location.

5. McCarren Tennis Courts: Affordable Year-Round Courts

Brooklyn’s McCarren Tennis Center is one of the best places for year-round tennis at an affordable price. Located in McCarren Park, the center has five hard courts that are covered by a bubble in the winter, allowing players to enjoy tennis in all seasons. The center is known for its welcoming, community-focused atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both beginners and advanced players.

McCarren offers a variety of programs, including lessons and clinics for adults and juniors, ensuring that players of all ages can participate. Its location in Brooklyn provides a peaceful escape for those looking to enjoy tennis in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re looking for recreational play or a structured lesson, McCarren Tennis Center is a great option for tennis enthusiasts in Brooklyn.

Key Insights:

• Five courts with a winter bubble for year-round play.
• Affordable rates for court rentals and lessons.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with programs for all ages.

6. Prospect Park Tennis Courts: Family-Friendly Year-Round Tennis Facility

Another standout tennis location in Brooklyn is the Prospect Park Tennis Center. With a combination of clay and hard courts, this center offers a versatile playing experience for tennis lovers. The courts are nestled within Prospect Park, providing a calm and scenic backdrop that makes playing here a relaxing experience. In the winter months, a bubble is installed, allowing for year-round tennis.

Prospect Park Tennis Center is also known for its wide range of programs, including group lessons, private coaching, and youth development programs. The family-friendly environment and focus on community make it a popular spot for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re playing for fun or looking to compete in local leagues, this center provides everything you need in a beautiful park setting.

Key Insights:

• Clay and hard courts available in Prospect Park.
• Year-round play with seasonal bubbles.
• Strong focus on community and youth programs.

7. Vanderbilt Tennis Courts: Exclusive Indoor Court Central Location

The most exclusive of the NYC tennis courts is the Vanderbilt Tennis Club, located inside the iconic Grand Central Terminal. This venue features one regulation-size indoor hard court, making it a more intimate and premium experience for serious players. The central location is highly convenient for those living or working in Manhattan, and the quiet, private environment provides a nice contrast to the bustling city outside.

Vanderbilt offers private lessons, group clinics, and a fully equipped fitness room, ensuring that players can work on their skills and fitness in one place. Although the court availability is limited due to its small size, the exclusivity and high-quality facilities make this a top choice for those seeking a premium tennis experience in the heart of New York City.

Key Insights:

• One indoor hard court located in Grand Central Terminal.
• Exclusive, premium playing experience.
• Offers lessons, clinics, and fitness facilities.

New York City Tennis Courts Compared

Tennis Court	Location	Courts Type (Indoor/Outdoor)	Key Features	Cost/Permit Requirement
Billie Jean King National Tennis Courts	Flushing Meadows	Indoor/Outdoor (Hard, Clay)	US Open venue, lessons, clinics	Yes, paid court rental
Central Park Tennis Courts	Central Park	Outdoor (Clay, Hard)	Iconic location, 30+ courts, affordable	Yes, permit required
Hudson River Park Courts	Hudson River Park	Outdoor (Hard)	Free public access, scenic views	No
Riverside Park Tennis Courts	Upper West Side	Outdoor (Red Clay)	Rare clay courts, peaceful setting	Yes, permit or day pass
McCarren Tennis Center	Brooklyn	Indoor/Outdoor (Hard)	Year-round play, community atmosphere	Yes, affordable rates
Prospect Park Tennis Courts	Brooklyn	Outdoor/Indoor (Clay, Hard)	Year-round play, family programs	Yes, permit required
Vanderbilt Tennis Courts	Grand Central	Indoor (Hard)	Central location, exclusive atmosphere	Yes, paid court rental

Methodology for Picking the Best New York City Tennis Courts

When selecting the best tennis courts in New York City, we considered several key factors. First, the availability of courts, including both indoor and outdoor options, was prioritized to ensure year-round play. The surface type (hard, clay, or red clay) was also taken into account, as different players may prefer different playing surfaces.

We looked at accessibility, focusing on public courts versus private or membership-based facilities. Affordability was another important factor, with both free and permit-based options included. Additionally, we reviewed each court’s amenities, including lessons, clinics, and overall environment. Finally, the uniqueness of the location, whether it’s in an iconic park or within a famous landmark, was a consideration to enhance the overall playing experience.

Best NYC Tennis Courts Takeaways

New York City offers a wide range of tennis courts, from free public options like Hudson River Park Courts to premium venues like Vanderbilt Tennis Club. Players can choose between hard, clay, or red clay surfaces, with courts located throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Whether you’re a casual player or looking for serious training, there’s a court in NYC to match your needs.

Each location provides unique features, such as scenic views, community programs, or a chance to play on the same courts as the pros. With options for every budget, tennis enthusiasts can find the perfect place to enjoy the game.

If you’re aiming to improve your technique, consider taking tennis lessons in New York. With a wide range of coaching services offered at different courts, you can find the right fit to help elevate your game, whether you’re just starting out or seeking advanced training.