Overview
Riverside Park Tennis Courts is an outdoor public tennis facility in New York, located at W 119th 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 2 courts with a hard surface. Courts are floodlit for evening play. Riverside Park Tennis Courts is one of 53 public tennis facilities (157 tennis venues in total) in New York — nearby options include Tennis Innovators Riverside Park (133 m away) and Riverside Park Pickleball Courts (828 m away).
What players say Mixed reviews
Players say Riverside Park Tennis Courts offer a scenic outdoor tennis experience with several courts available, mostly hard surfaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. Booking can be challenging due to a problematic sign-up system and some courts needing resurfacing. While the location and vibe get praise, maintenance issues and court quality remain a concern for serious play.
The facility has many hard courts with some shading from trees in the mornings. Courts vary in condition: several have large cracks making gameplay difficult, with a few courts recently resurfaced but many still needing repair. A set of red-clay courts also exist, but are private and member-only. The courts’ quality is described as mixed with casual play possible but challenging for serious games.
Courts include free hard courts with a sign-up list used for reservations. However, the sign-up system is frequently abused by users booking courts for the day with multiple names and not showing up, which frustrates others. Online sign-ups are available for some courts and are checked by personnel for identification. Some courts require membership to access, though many are public.
Players report a friendly, down-to-earth crowd that makes the experience pleasant compared to other city locations. There is a strong Sunday morning tennis vibe, though some noise and attitude issues come from adjacent players on courts. The community seems organized with enough space for practice and casual matches.
The courts are generally clean and well-maintained in some areas, but many courts suffer from major cracks affecting gameplay. Restrooms are available nearby and noted positively. Overall upkeep is inconsistent with some calls for urgent resurfacing and repairs.
The courts are outdoor and enjoy a beautiful riverside location with a natural wooded path nearby. There is no clear mention of lighting for evening play. The atmosphere is appreciated for its scenic views and relaxed vibe.
Hours & Popular Times
- Thursday · Today 7 AM–8 PM
- Friday 7 AM–8 PM
- Saturday 7 AM–8 PM
- Sunday 7 AM–8 PM
- Monday 7 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday 7 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday 7 AM–8 PM
Programs
Lessons are only available through the three tennis clubs, not at the courts themselves.