When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Vanderbilt Tennis Club
Why Vanderbilt Tennis Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Vanderbilt Tennis Club offers a unique tennis experience right inside the iconic Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. Located on the 4th floor, the club features one regulation-sized indoor hard court, one junior court, and two dedicated practice lanes equipped with ball machines — perfect for players of all skill levels. The club’s setting inside a busy transit hub provides an unexpected and convenient oasis for tennis enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a game in an urban environment. With operating hours from 6 am to 2 am, Vanderbilt Tennis Club accommodates early birds and night owls alike. Unlike traditional clubs, Vanderbilt does not enforce a strict dress code, allowing visitors to wear comfortable clothing, though non-marking flat-soled shoes are required to maintain court quality. Additional amenities include a fully equipped fitness room and provision for stringing services and re-gripping. The club’s historical setting adds to its charm, having evolved from an art gallery and CBS recording studio to a tennis haven. Its location near prominent landmarks with straightforward access routes makes it not only a convenient but an adventurous place to meet friends, practice, or enjoy organized adult programs in tennis. This intimate, somewhat secretive facility is highly regarded as one of New York City's best-kept tennis secrets.
Here's what people think of Vanderbilt Tennis Club
As of recent, Vanderbilt Tennis Club holds a 4.1-star rating based on 60 reviews.
User reviews for Vanderbilt Tennis Club reflect a generally positive experience, with an average rating of 4.1 from 60 reviewers indicating overall satisfaction. Many patrons appreciate the club’s convenient location inside Grand Central Terminal, highlighting the ease of access both from within the terminal and the street. The indoor hard courts and practice lanes equipped with ball machines are frequently mentioned as excellent for practice and training sessions. Reviewers also commend the extended opening hours, which allow flexibility for busy schedules, and the relaxed dress code which adds to the welcoming atmosphere. The ‘hidden gem’ reputation aligns with users enjoying the unique and somewhat exclusive feel of the club nestled inside a bustling transportation hub. On the downside, some users point out that space can be limited, which may affect availability during peak times due to the club having only one full-sized court and two practice courts. A few mentioned the elevated pricing compared to other facilities, which some consider a trade-off for the central location and unique setting. Despite minor concerns, many conclude that Vanderbilt Tennis Club offers a valuable and enjoyable urban tennis experience. In summary, reviews suggest it is ideal for tennis players seeking convenience, quality courts, and a distinctive environment, albeit with some limitations in court availability.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
HH G
If you’re looking for a good tennis instructor, you must avoid Mel. I’m actually surprised that he’s allowed to “teach” when he’s hostile and he bullies players in front of others. Based on other reviews, it seems like he kicks people out for being “bad” which is inappropriate. He’s hired to teach and guide- not to bash people down with his hasty attitude. Do not trust him.
Ter Fra
Right above the Campbell Bar is a unique tennis club. watch your head on the sideline and the one backcourt but so convenient and with nice views down Park Ave and w the arched and oval windows w their decorative metal detailing presiding over the court is a fun place!
Vignesh Theetharappan
Avoid this place at all costs. They completely screwed me over and the customer service is some of the worst I’ve ever dealt with. First off, it took me nearly 25 minutes on the phone just to book a simple ball machine session. The system they use is old and archaic and there were already a myriad of issues from the beginning. 3 different people I spoke with all told me different things. I’m a regular tennis player and I expected to get access to a full court with a ball machine on the other side like any other tennis facility sets up for you. The person I spoke to originally on the phone told me that’s what I would be getting. I was absolutely shocked to come in and get a dinky little QUARTER court as seen in the picture and no one gave me a heads up. It’s unacceptable for them to mislead people like this. I didn’t pay an exorbitant amount of money to play in a freaking shoe box. I knew from the minute I stepped onto the practice court that this was not the experience I signed up for. It felt like a batting range for baseball players. I specifically asked for a ball machine with a full court so I could see where my shots land on the other side. Those are the kind of ball machine experiences I had in the past, as well as any other regular tennis player. I did not want to hit against a wall.... The person I initially spoke to on the court told me I would be getting a full practice court and I did not get that. Paying $85+ for 30 minutes to hit against a wall is borderline unethical.
Galuh
A hidden tennis court above grand central station. It took us a bit to find the place. But we enjoy the place. The changing room is clean. The waiting room is a bit small but okay. It’s a fun place to play tennis indoor
Hong Shi
The followings are my real experience with the tennis couch Danny from Vanderbilt Tennis Club. We met him at a group class at Vanderbilt Tennis club and purchased a ten-session semi-private class package from Danny in August 2022, and my experience has been incredibly disheartening. We only managed to complete six classes in one and a half years due to his consistent inability to adhere to the scheduled classes. He frequently canceled sessions at the last minute or changed the class time with little notice. Communication regarding these changes was almost non-existent, leaving us in a constant state of uncertainty. Moreover, Danny used the excuse of the facility being crowded and cold during the winter months to postpone classes repeatedly from November to June. Despite our requests for him to keep us updated on when he could resume classes, he never took the initiative to contact us. Feeling frustrated and disappointed, we eventually ceased contacting him, unwilling to waste any more time on his unreliable services. However, last month, we randomly encountered him at a tennis court, where he promised to complete our remaining classes within two months. Skeptically, we scheduled the class for the last time, confirming five times in the ten-day waiting period that our class would not be canceled. Regrettably, it was canceled four hours before the class, with the coach suggesting we wait for a warmer time to resume classes. Frustrated beyond tolerance, we requested a refund, only to face resistance and baseless accusations from him. He accused us of being inactive in scheduling classes and claimed we lacked a flexible schedule, proposing class times as late as 11 pm on weekdays. This was clearly impractical and unrealistic for any tennis lesson. Furthermore, Danny suddenly claimed that our sessions had been expired for several months, something he had never communicated to us before. Despite numerous last-minute cancellations, he conveniently cited an expiration date as a reason to deny our refund request. This inconsistent and unprofessional behavior has left us with a profound sense of dissatisfaction and regret. We no longer expect a refund but feel compelled to share our genuine experience to caution others considering classes with Danny.
How to reach Vanderbilt Tennis Club
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Why Vanderbilt Tennis Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Vanderbilt Tennis Club with your friends? This distinctive tennis club, nestled inside New York City’s iconic Grand Central Terminal, offers a unique urban tennis experience that combines convenience, quality, and fun. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, enjoy a thrilling match, or just hang out and rally with friends, Vanderbilt Tennis Club is a perfect choice. Unlike typical outdoor courts that are weather-dependent, Vanderbilt’s indoor facility ensures you can play year-round in a controlled environment. The club embraces inclusivity, welcoming everyone from beginners to seasoned players, which makes it an inviting spot for group outings. Additionally, its location within Grand Central Terminal means it's easily accessible by public transit and surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafés, ideal for socializing post-match. The blend of a top-tier tennis facility with the vibrant energy of Manhattan sets the stage for memorable meetup experiences. Friends and family can enjoy a relaxed but engaging day of sport and camaraderie, proving this is more than just a tennis club—it's a community hub perfect for rallying together.
What activities can you enjoy at Vanderbilt Tennis Club? The club provides a variety of engaging tennis-related activities tailored to players of all levels, making it a versatile venue for group meetups. First and foremost, there is the main regulation-sized hard court, where groups can book time to play friendly matches or organized competitions. For those who want to improve their game, Vanderbilt offers specialized programs like Cardio Tennis, which combines fast-paced drills and constant footwork to boost fitness while having fun. There are adult clinics with small group lessons, perfect for friends or family members who want personalized coaching in a supportive setting. The club also features two automated practice courts equipped with ball machines and a unique retrieval system, allowing players to practice strokes and shots without interruption. This facility is excellent for groups who want to rotate through drills or hold skill-focused sessions with guidance from professional instructors. Beyond tennis, there is a fully-equipped fitness gym on-site, offering personal training and open sessions for those who want to complement their tennis activity with strength and conditioning work.
Why is Vanderbilt Tennis Club ideal for group meetups? One of the biggest advantages of Vanderbilt Tennis Club is how well it caters to diverse needs within a group. The combination of a full-sized court and practice courts means groups of varying skill levels can participate simultaneously. Beginners can start on the practice courts with ball machines and receive pro instruction, while more experienced players can engage in competitive matches on the main court. The club’s flexible booking system accommodates different group sizes and schedules, making it simple to organize get-togethers on weekends or after work hours, with operating hours stretching from early morning to late at night. The location inside Grand Central Terminal means friends coming from different parts of New York City have an easy time arriving without needing a car, plus there are ample dining options nearby for post-match meals — ideal for extending the meetup experience. The friendly, community-focused atmosphere encourages social interaction beyond the courts, making it a natural space for bonding. All these elements combine to create a destination that supports both recreational fun and skill development in a social atmosphere.
What junior and family programs does Vanderbilt Tennis Club offer? The club is committed to fostering a love of tennis across all ages, notably through its comprehensive junior programs. Weekend play sessions for kids aged 4 to 17 are available, focusing on games and points to put skills into action in a fun setting. For families who value skill progression, there is a High Performance Program for advanced juniors preparing for competitive tennis, as well as Teen Programs designed for intermediate players who enjoy group learning experiences. Beginners also have dedicated classes, ensuring that children can start from scratch with supportive coaching. These structured programs not only teach tennis fundamentals but also promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness. For families hosting meetups with younger members, these programs provide an excellent way for kids to stay engaged and active, often while adults participate in their own clinics nearby. The presence of experienced coaches and the safe, vibrant environment make it an excellent place for family-oriented tennis activities, ensuring every generation can enjoy the sport together.
How does Vanderbilt Tennis Club enhance player development with technology and coaching? Vanderbilt Tennis Club incorporates advanced technology and professional coaching to deliver effective and enjoyable tennis training. One standout feature is their use of video analysis; with high-speed cameras capturing strokes at 210 frames per second, players can instantly review their technique frame by frame. This allows coaches and players to target specific areas for improvement with visual feedback that is far more detailed than verbal instruction alone. The ball machines on the practice courts add another layer of precision, enabling players to focus on particular shots and consistency without interruption. From private lessons and semi-private clinics to flexible group sessions, the coaching staff at Vanderbilt is dedicated to creating tailored experiences that meet the goals of each player or group. Such technology-driven, expert instruction transforms typical group meetups into productive and rewarding tennis experiences, encouraging players to continually improve while enjoying time with friends or family.
What practical amenities and policies make Vanderbilt Tennis Club convenient and comfortable for visitors? Vanderbilt Tennis Club is designed with player comfort and convenience in mind, enhancing the overall meetup experience. The club is fully indoors, so weather is never an issue, and the courts have high-quality surfaces suitable for competitive play. Operating hours, which span from 6 AM to 2 AM daily, offer exceptional flexibility for visitors to schedule around busy lifestyles. There is no strict dress code aside from non-marking flat-soled shoes, which reduces barriers to participation and makes it easy for casual players to join in. The location within Grand Central Terminal provides seamless access via multiple subway lines and regional trains, along with ample parking nearby for those who prefer to drive. On-site, visitors can find a welcoming staff ready to assist with court bookings and lesson arrangements. These practical considerations ensure that group meetups run smoothly from start to finish, minimizing hassle and increasing enjoyment.
How can you book and prepare for a successful meetup at Vanderbilt Tennis Club? Organizing a meetup at Vanderbilt Tennis Club is straightforward, whether you’re planning a casual rally or a more structured event. Interested groups can reserve courts ahead of time through the club’s official website or by contacting the front desk directly, which is recommended given the club’s popularity. Rates vary depending on the day and time, but the venue offers transparent pricing and assistance for groups looking to customize their experience with lessons or clinics. Before arriving, it's beneficial to familiarize yourself with the club’s map and access points within Grand Central Terminal for a smoother entry. Bringing appropriate tennis gear, especially shoes with non-marking soles, is essential. If your group is new to tennis or includes participants with different skill levels, consider booking a session with a pro who can provide tailored instruction or facilitate drills that accommodate everyone. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the club’s unique amenities and professional expertise, your meetup will be both fun and memorable, strengthening friendships through the shared joy of tennis.