Overview
Frederick Johnson Tennis Courts is an outdoor public tennis facility in New York, located at W. 151st St & in the Manhattan neighborhood. The courts are open to the public. NYC Parks permit required: $100 adult / $20 senior / $10 youth full season, or $15 single-play (1 hr, any court). There are 8 courts with a hard surface. The courts are unlit, so play is best during daylight hours. Frederick Johnson Tennis Courts is one of 53 public tennis facilities (157 tennis venues in total) in New York — nearby options include Tennis World NYC Harlem (18 m away) and Tennis Court 7 (18 m away).
What players say Positive
Players say Frederick Johnson Tennis Courts offer a well-lit, public tennis facility with a good number of courts and convenient transit access. Though some courts show wear and maintenance like nets and pruning needs attention, many appreciate the friendly community atmosphere and ease of drop-in play without permits or fees. Coaching from instructors such as Pedro is available, enhancing the playing experience.
The facility has about 8 courts (7 soft courts and 1 hard court) with some reviews describing additional 3 hard courts. Courts are generally playable but some have hollow spots where you can sink, nets sometimes break, and surfaces could be better maintained.
Courts are well lit for evening play with bright lights on timers. They are outdoor courts located in a neighborhood park setting with a favorable vibe and decent security patrols.
The courts are free and open to the public with no permits required. There is a one-hour limit per session enforced by a coordinator, but no reservation system was mentioned. Players recommend arriving early on weekends to secure a court due to crowding.
Private tennis lessons are offered by coaches such as Pedro, who received positive mentions. However, some users feel certain instructors monopolize courts, indicating a need for clearer usage policies.
Players describe a friendly and welcoming community, with a mix of ages including juniors and families. Long-time players appreciate the sense of camaraderie.
The courts and surroundings require better maintenance; trees overhanging courts need pruning and occasional nets are down. Bathrooms are noted as brand new in some areas but inconsistent mentions about restroom availability.
Hours & Popular Times
- Thursday · Today 8 AM–8 PM
- Friday 8 AM–8 PM
- Saturday 8 AM–8 PM
- Sunday 8 AM–8 PM
- Monday 8 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday 8 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday 8 AM–8 PM
Programs
Operated by Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program, Inc.
Offers private and semi-private group lessons