While I consider the ability to travel a great blessing, I have to admit that certain complications typically ensue as a result of being away from home. One of those challenges can be how to continue your workout routine (especially as a tennis player). While I don’t have specific recommendations for how to alleviate this situation in all cities, I can provide some assistance when it comes to visiting Manhattan in New York City.
While searching for some “travel tennis” my record has been mixed. For example, on another trip earlier this year I went 0-fer (despite calling and emailing at least half a dozen Clubs). Well no such drama on this trip. My first (and only) call was to the Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club. Their staff was friendly on the phone (and in person) and they did an outstanding job of arranging a Singles match for me (at my ability level) with a member who was also warm and welcoming.
Their 5 indoor courts are well maintained and offer year-round opportunities to play. Quite frankly, when considering all of the times that I’ve attempted to play “travel tennis”, I’ve never encountered a friendlier, more welcoming, or more helpful staff. I merely posed the innocuous question of, “Are there any opportunities to play at your Club while traveling, even though I’m not a member?” I was then so inundated with the options provided to me that I literally needed to take written notes. Sadly, if someone had posed the same question to my tennis club in San Diego the 🚪 would have been slammed so quickly in their face that it would have immediately broken their 👃!
The costs associated with your choice of play here are not insignificant, but a traditional membership is not required.
The locker rooms are also well maintained and the Club was only about a 10 minute walk from our hotel in Time’s Square.
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
#manhattantennis