Overview
Althea Gibson Tennis Courts is an outdoor public tennis facility in Newark, New York, located at 173-235 Heller Pkwy in the Forest Hill neighborhood. The courts are open to the public. Most suburban municipal courts are free or low-cost for residents, but many require a town recreation permit or resident ID — check the local parks department. There are 18 courts. Courts are floodlit for evening play. Althea Gibson Tennis Courts is one of 6 tennis venues in Newark — nearby options include Naimoli Tennis Center (4.0 km away) and NJIT Tennis Center (4.0 km away).
What players say Positive
Players say Althea Gibson Tennis Courts offer numerous well-maintained, free-to-use outdoor courts with good lighting for evening play, making it an attractive spot for tennis in Newark. The facility is praised for its spaciousness, cleanliness, and respect for tennis-only use. However, some note parking challenges and occasional limited access to lit courts for public use.
There are about 18 tennis courts and 4 pickleball courts, with surfaces described as new, blemish-free, and well maintained. Multiple reviewers mention courts recently redone and in impeccable shape, supporting a consistently high-quality playing surface.
About 12 out of 18 tennis courts have lights allowing decent evening play until around 10 pm, although some note limited availability of lit courts for public use. The courts are outdoor and located near transit, with a generally pleasant and respectful atmosphere honoring tennis icon Althea Gibson.
Courts are free and open to the public with usually ample availability. Some players describe the courts as almost always empty with drop-in play possible. Parking is mainly curbside street parking and can be difficult depending on time of day.
The facility is frequently described as clean and well-maintained, including clean bathrooms when open. Patrol by sheriff ensures tennis use only, contributing to a well-kept environment.
Players appreciate the respectful community and safe environment with sheriff presence. The atmosphere is friendly though some reviews mention that court 17 is overcrowded due to rising pickleball popularity, causing some wait times.
Hours & Popular Times
- Thursday · Today 7 AM–9 PM
- Friday 7 AM–9 PM
- Saturday 6:30 AM–8:30 PM
- Sunday 7 AM–9 PM
- Monday 7 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday 7 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday 7 AM–9 PM