The best tennis courts in New York to play this weekend

Next week, starting August 29, the iconic USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing-Meadows Corona Park will host the 142nd US Open tennis tournament.

And as tennis enthusiasts, that excitement inevitably drives us to the courts. So whether you’re ready to rally with your tennis buddies or are looking for new opponents (we get programs like Play Your Court and Tennis Pal), our city’s boroughs are full of great places to practice your strokes. straights, your backhands, and volleys.

From scoring a season or unique playing permit for the public court crowd courtesy of NYC Parks to renting a jaw-dropping stadium spot, channel your inner Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal. Here are the best tennis courts prepared to play a few sets in New York.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Nothing motivates your game more than playing on legendary courts where history’s most beloved tennis stars faced off in epic hour-long battles. Hosting the US Open since 1978, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center has become an iconic sporting symbol across the world. If you’re looking to tap into some of that talent, starting September 18 (after this year’s tournament ends), the facility’s indoor and outdoor hard courts will be available for hourly rentals, as well as seasonal contracts. Plus, if you fancy going solo, ball machine rentals are also available.
Cost: Hourly rate for outdoor and indoor terrain starting at $38; seasonal contract costs vary; Hourly ball machine rental starting at $15
How to reserve a court: Website

central park
Known for its devoted fanbase ranging from celebrities and pro players to novices and spectators, the Central Park Tennis Center has been a long-loved New York mainstay. Plan a weekday or weekend adventure to gather around one of the 24 green clay courts or four hard courts available on site, but keep in mind that athletes are recommended to book ahead a court in advance (as it is one of the most popular places to play in the city). Plus, if you’re looking to hone your skills, there are private and semi-private lessons for all ages and skill levels, as well as adult group clinics and cardio tennis classes. Plus, the tennis club is a great place to unwind after the game, with an on-site pro-shop with stringing, a snack bar, changing rooms and an outdoor terrace.
Cost: Free with a NYC Parks tennis permit
How to reserve a court: NYC Parks Website

Hamilton Heights
Along with a host of indoor and outdoor activities on the banks of the Hudson River, Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park is a local favorite that offers four well-maintained hard courts on its expansive grounds. Colored in classic green and red, this outdoor facility is open through November 30 and only requires an NYC Parks tennis permit to secure a court. In addition to the tennis area, the 28-acre recreation property includes an indoor sports complex, lap pool, basketball courts, softball court, and outdoor skating rink.
Cost: Free with a NYC Parks tennis permit
How to reserve a court: Email riverbanktennisreservations@parks.nyc.gov

Hudson Square
Picturesque waterfront views and three newly remodeled hard tennis courts are the stars of the show at Hudson River Park. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis from 6 a.m. to midnight, players here are not required to have an NYC Parks tennis permit and reservations are not permitted. Basically, the only rules at this idyllic West Side park are to be courteous. Time on the court is limited to one hour if there is a queue and a maximum of six balls is allowed per court, but other than that, play your heart out.
Cost: Free
How to reserve a court: No reservations allowed

Williamsburg/Greenpoint
As a cherished green space shared by Williamsburg and Greenpoint, McCarren Park is also a favorite spot for Brooklyn residents looking for idyllic picnics, dog-walking trails and sports facilities. Along with exciting new additions like the McCarren Park House, the park’s tennis center is an exceptional place to challenge new competitors to a match or two. With 6 hard outdoor courts in the warmer months, with 7 indoor available from October to April, the courts can be hired for an additional fee any day of the week, and there are a variety of specialist clinics and of private lessons to choose from.
Cost: Hourly court rentals on weekdays starting at $42; weekend court rentals from $50
How to reserve a court: Email support@mccarren.tennis or create an online account

Prospect Park
As part of a $74 million restoration by the Prospect Park Alliance, this Brooklyn oasis is home to eight beautiful green clay courts. For all tennis novices, green clay courts are made of crushed basalt (a natural green stone) and are renowned for their ability to let players slide, while being a faster surface than red clay courts. . Day and night courts are available, as well as private or group lessons led by Prospect Park tennis coaches.
Cost: Court rental reservations start at $15 per hour; private lessons from $80, with NYC Parks tennis license
How to reserve a court: Website

South Bronx
Just south of Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, the spacious Stadium Tennis Center at Mill Pond Park is an impressive place to drop by for your next court rental. Containing 16 hard courts, 12 of which are covered by “The Bubble” dome for indoor play from October to April, this property offers athletes a state-of-the-art facility and clubhouse. Take a private lesson from the pleasant tennis staff; sign up for group clinics and cardio tennis; or participate in a tournament and a seasonal adult league. Plus, during outdoor season (which ends in October), you can use your NYC Parks tennis permit to play on the court without a reservation with the option to email ahead.
Cost: Free with a NYC Parks tennis permit
How to reserve a court: Email reservations@stadiumtennisnyc.com

South Shore
Wolfe’s Pond Park is one of Staten Island’s largest and most idyllic waterfront parks and also offers an extensive recreation center with two hard-sided tennis courts. Surrounded by foliage and playgrounds, here the vibes are primed for low-pressure play, whether it’s a relaxing rally with a friend or a practice session armed with a ball hopper. After working up a sweat, check out the outdoor roller hockey rink, walk your dog along the trails, or stroll along the beach that overlooks Raritan Bay.
Cost: Free with a NYC Parks tennis permit
How to reserve a court: None

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