When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Manhattan Badminton Club
Why Manhattan Badminton Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Manhattan Badminton Club stands out as a vibrant venue ideal for meeting friends and engaging in both recreational and competitive badminton. The club appeals to a diverse membership, offering multiple courts for play in singles and doubles formats, making it an excellent spot for players of all skill levels to gather and socialize. The atmosphere is enriched by regular social events, such as season opening cocktail parties and post-play gatherings at nearby bars, fostering a community feel beyond just sport. Furthermore, the club offers structured activities including weekly play sessions, tournaments, and professional coaching by instructor Tiger Tan, who supports all levels, from beginners to advanced players. Its history, dating back to the late 19th century, adds a charming cultural depth to the experience, reflecting a longstanding tradition of inclusivity and passion for badminton. Overall, the club presents a well-rounded environment where friends can meet, improve their game, and enjoy a lively social scene together.
Here's what people think of Manhattan Badminton Club
As of recent, Manhattan Badminton Club holds a 3.6-star rating based on 19 reviews.
Reviewers of Manhattan Badminton Club have a mixed but overall positive perception, reflected in a rating of 3.6 from 19 reviews. Positive feedback commonly highlights the club's welcoming community atmosphere, the quality of play and coaching, and the well-maintained courts that accommodate both casual and competitive players. The social events and tournaments receive praise for enhancing the club experience and encouraging members to connect beyond the badminton courts. On the downside, some reviewers express dissatisfaction with certain organizational aspects, such as limited court availability during peak times, occasional overcrowding, and the aging facilities that could benefit from updates. A few members also mention that scheduling and communication around events and lessons could be improved. Despite these criticisms, the majority of the feedback appreciates the club's rich history and its unique combination of sports and social engagement, concluding that the Manhattan Badminton Club remains a popular and enjoyable place to meet friends and enjoy badminton in New York City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alexandra Stafford
The club meets in the gym of a public middle school on East 76th street. Easily reached by subway. There is no AC in the spring/summer, so make sure you can take off your layers as it gets hot. There is a vending machine for cold water and a 1959 vintage water fountain with impossible-to-reach warm tap water in the gym. The courts are set up via a long rope of nets held up by wooden posts. You will know when your opponent touches the net as it disturbs all the others. Great way to improve your game, right? Towels are placed on the floor at each courts to help you moisten your shoes to prevent slipping. The members are as friendly as New Yorkers, if you get my drift. The best thing is the Coach, Chibing Wu and his assistant, Ivan, who are attentive to the players and place them according to their levels in games. Wu gives productive private lessons and it cost $27 to drop in and play a night. Many international visitors come and play. Meets Wednesday and Friday nights.
Muralikrishna Kavassery (Murali)
I have been playing badminton here for 4 years. This is one of the better places to play Badminton in Manhattan - but definitely could be better. Per session charges are a bit high - consider yourselves warned.
Nathaniel Morrison
it also sucked it was so bad that i even decided not to go
Karthik Krishnan
One of the better places to play badminton in NYC
Christie M
Slippery courts. Low ceiling.
How to reach Manhattan Badminton Club
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Why Manhattan Badminton Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Manhattan Badminton Club with your friends? If you're seeking a vibrant and active venue to gather with friends or family, the Manhattan Badminton Club offers a unique and energetic environment perfect for socializing through sport. The club provides a great opportunity to engage in a fun, fast-paced game that promotes fitness, coordination, and friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner looking to pick up a new hobby, this venue welcomes all skill levels. The camaraderie built on the court naturally extends off the court as well, fostering lasting friendships and enjoyable group activities. Located conveniently in Manhattan, it offers easy access to urban dwellers looking for a break from the typical café or movie night. The club’s accessible pricing structure, offering single and multiple-visit passes, makes it convenient for groups to plan regular meetups without a hefty commitment. This combination of social interaction, physical activity, and location makes rallying here with your friends an appealing way to spend your leisure time.
What activities can you enjoy at Manhattan Badminton Club? The core activity is badminton itself, played on professional-grade courts located in two main gyms in Manhattan. One gym is at Humanities High School on West 18th Street, featuring 9 courts until September 30, 2025, while the other, opening September 10, 2025, is at Robert Wagner Jr. High School on East 76th Street, offering 4 courts. These well-maintained indoor courts provide players with a high-quality experience. The club hosts open play sessions primarily on Tuesday evenings from 7 PM to 11 PM at Humanities HS, and on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30 PM to 9 PM at Robert Wagner Jr. HS. These sessions offer excellent opportunities for group meetups and dynamic matches among friends or new acquaintances. Players can purchase single passes or discounted multiple-visit passes, enabling flexible access to the club depending on their schedule and commitment. The atmosphere is designed to support both casual play and more competitive, organized games, suitable for groups seeking both recreation and serious play.
Why is Manhattan Badminton Club perfect for a group meetup? One standout feature is its capacity to accommodate social groups in a sport-focused setting where everyone can participate, regardless of skill level. The club’s open sessions allow friends and family to rally together, encouraging teamwork, laughter, and healthy competition. The flexibility of time slots and multiple locations means your group can pick times and venues that best suit your needs. The entry system is straightforward, with options to pay per visit or purchase multi-visit passes, making it budget-friendly for groups who want to make badminton a regular social activity. Additionally, the venue’s urban location means easy access by public transportation or car, removing travel hassles often associated with group outings in New York City. The club fosters a welcoming community vibe that can turn a simple game session into an engaging event, perfect for bonding and creating memorable moments.
What additional services support your experience at Manhattan Badminton Club? Beyond the courts, the club ties into a larger badminton community with access to pro-level equipment and stringing services nearby through affiliated organizations like the NY Badminton Center, which is an authorized Yonex retailer and offers customized restringing for rackets. While not directly on-site at Manhattan Badminton Club, these services elevate the overall experience for those serious about their badminton gear and performance. Additionally, participating in local leagues, elite ladder games, or volunteer opportunities related to badminton in New York can enrich your experience and provide social networking beyond casual play. Although Manhattan Badminton Club’s own facility primarily focuses on court access, its connection to these broader resources makes it more than just a place to play—it’s part of a thriving badminton culture in the city where groups can expand their involvement if they wish.
How accessible and welcoming is Manhattan Badminton Club for newcomers? The club’s environment caters well to players of all levels, including beginners who may be trying badminton for the first time. Sessions are designed to be inclusive, providing a stress-free atmosphere to learn and improve your skills. This makes it particularly suited for groups that want a mix of social engagement and recreational activity without the pressure of competitive play. The staff and regular players are generally known to be friendly and supportive, creating an encouraging space for newcomers to feel comfortable and motivated. Moreover, the attendance flexibility allows groups to drop in rather than commit to a membership, lowering barriers for trial visits or infrequent play. For those who want to keep progressing in the sport, there are many options in Manhattan’s badminton community to find instruction, group lessons, and tournaments, but the club itself remains an excellent casual starting point for gatherings of friends and families.
What is the value proposition of Manhattan Badminton Club compared to other venues? While New York City offers a few options for badminton enthusiasts, Manhattan Badminton Club stands out for its combination of location, accessibility, and the quality of court availability concentrated in a central borough. Its pricing is transparent and straightforward, with single passes costing $28 and multiple-visit passes offering savings for regular players. This is competitive given the scarcity of dedicated badminton gyms in Manhattan. The club’s open play sessions are timed to accommodate working professionals and students, making it easier for groups to coordinate schedules. Its indoor location also ensures year-round play, unaffected by weather conditions, unlike some outdoor badminton options. While it may not feature extensive amenities like lounges or cafes on-site, the club’s focus on providing ample court time and a friendly social badminton environment fulfills the core needs groups look for in a meetup venue centered on sport and recreation.
How can you maximize your group’s badminton experience at Manhattan Badminton Club? To get the most out of your visits, planning ahead to buy multiple-visit passes can save money if you expect regular meetups. Scheduling sessions on the primary open play nights lets your group enjoy full access to courts and mingle with the existing player community for new friendships and potential doubles partners. Bringing some light refreshments and taking advantage of nearby Manhattan dining options can extend your meetup before or after playtime, adding to the social experience. It’s also worthwhile to encourage varying skill levels within your group to practice teamwork, and maybe even organize mini-tournaments on court to mix competitive fun with camaraderie. Lastly, staying connected with the broader badminton scene, through social media or local badminton groups, can provide updates on events, tips for improving your game, and opportunities to join community events, making each meetup more enriching.
What should new visitors know before coming to Manhattan Badminton Club? Newcomers should take note that court availability depends on the scheduled open days—Tuesday evenings at Humanities HS and Wednesdays and Fridays at Robert Wagner Jr. HS post-September 2025. They should plan to arrive a bit early to secure court time and complete entry formalities. Appropriate badminton attire and footwear with non-marking soles are recommended for safety and to protect the courts. While the club provides the courts and community, players generally bring their own rackets and shuttlecocks. Beginners might want to borrow equipment from friends or source them nearby via the affiliated pro shops in the city. Being prepared for an intense yet enjoyable workout can help new players adjust comfortably, and bringing water and light snacks is advisable to stay hydrated and energized through matches. Understanding the club’s accessible pricing and policies beforehand ensures a smooth experience without surprises.
What role does Manhattan Badminton Club play within New York City’s badminton community? Positioned in one of the most populous boroughs, Manhattan Badminton Club contributes importantly to New York’s limited but passionate badminton scene. It creates a gathering space focused on the sport’s enjoyment and social benefits while complementing larger centers and outdoor groups around the city. The club’s existence highlights the growing interest in badminton as an urban recreational activity, encouraging a healthier and more connected lifestyle among city residents. Its integration with opportunities like leagues, training camps, and pro shop services via sister organizations fosters a continuum from casual play to more serious involvement. For many, it represents an accessible hub where badminton offers more than a game—it serves as a catalyst for community-building and personal well-being in the fast-paced life of Manhattan.