There are plenty of reasons why we all enjoy playing tennis. The competition, the mastery of a skill or the chance to get in a good workout. Often where you play is an insignificant detail. As long as you have lines and a net a scenic public court usually isn’t required. Imagine however, if you were able to play tennis on the most inaccessible and interesting tennis courts in the world? Surely, that would peak your interest.
Over the course of the next few months we’ll reveal some of the most desirable tennis court locations on the planet through our new series, “Tennis Court Bucket List”. No matter the extravagance or remoteness of the tennis court, we’ll let you know where and how you can play on these courts. You never know where life may take you so you might as well be prepared for the ultimate tennis experience.
Vanderbilt Tennis Club: Grand Central Terminal
Who would have guessed that in the busiest railroad terminal in the world there is an exclusive tennis court. Even some lifelong New Yorkers are unaware of the fact that you can play tennis above Grand Central Station.
The court is part of the Vanderbilt Tennis Club, a non-membership club located right in Grand Central Terminal. When Grand Central was completed back in 1913 a whole space above Vanderbilt Hall was left vacant. After serving as a ballroom and television studio, the space was taken over in 1965 by Geza A. Gazdag, a Hungarian immigrant. He built the tennis courts and lounge and in turn founded The Vanderbilt Tennis Club.
In order to access this secret tennis spot you first have to find the elevator on Vanderbilt Avenue. This elevator will take you to the upper floors and to the main court that is located on the 4th floor. Once up there, you have a completely unique view of Midtown Manhattan through the historical arch windows. Besides the stunning main court with official US Open surface, there are also practice courts with installed ball machines.
As you can imagine this court is quite popular making it extremely difficult to secure a court time. If you are interested in playing above this historic building be sure to call in first and make a reservation. Depending on the time the price per hour ranges from $75 to $225. Even if the price sounds overwhelming, it is certainly a once in a lifetime tennis experience.
