The 10 Best Public Tennis Courts in Houston (2025 Guide)
Last updated: December 2025
Houston is a tennis powerhouse, anchored by the "Big 3" municipal centers: Memorial Park, Lee LeClear, and Homer Ford. But sometimes, you just want to play for free without a reservation. This guide covers the best neighborhood gems where you can just show up and rally.
The "Big 3" vs. Neighborhood Parks
Before we list the free spots, know your options. If you want a guaranteed court or league play, you go to the paid centers (Memorial Park, Lee LeClear, Homer Ford). If you want a quick, free hit near home, you go to the neighborhood parks listed below.
Top 10 Free Tennis Courts in Houston
1) Cherryhurst Park (Montrose)
Address: 1700 Missouri St, 77006 • Courts: 1 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. Central, shaded, and perfect for quick hits before dinner in Montrose. Great “pop-in” option if you live near Midtown/Heights.
2) Spotts Park (Near the Heights)
Address: 401 S Heights Blvd, 77007 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: No. Popular green-space overlooking Buffalo Bayou; arrive early on weeknights.
3) Nottingham Park (West Houston)
Address: 14205 Kimberley Ln, 77079 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. Family-friendly park just south of I-10; easy access for Energy Corridor players.
4) Linkwood Park (South Braeswood)
Address: 3699 Norris Dr, 77025 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. Handy option for Med Center/West U — often open at sunrise and near-sunset.
5) Sharpstown Park (SW Houston)
Address: 8200 Bellaire Blvd, 77036 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: No. Good evening spot with nearby food options for post-tennis hangs.
6) Emancipation Park (Third Ward)
Address: 3018 Emancipation Ave, 77004 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. Historic community park; the courts are generally quiet on weekday mornings.
7) Bendwood Park (Memorial)
Address: 12700 Kimberley, 77024 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. Convenient for Memorial City; pairs nicely with quick cardio loops around the park.
8) Alief Park (Far SW)
Address: 11903 Bellaire Blvd, 77072 • Courts: 4 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. One of the better free options for larger groups seeking side-by-side courts.
9) Highland Park (North Houston)
Address: 3316 DeSoto St, 77091 • Courts: 2 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: Yes. A solid neighborhood choice north of the loop.
10) Proctor Plaza Park (Near Northside)
Address: 803 W Temple St, 77009 • Courts: 1 • Lights: Yes • Practice wall: No. Underrated single-court that’s great for focused sessions or serving practice.
Level Up: Gear & Leagues
Once you’ve found your favorite court, the next step is finding a community and making sure you have the right equipment for Houston's hard courts.
- Get Connected: Tired of playing alone? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Houston Tennis Leagues to understand NTRP ratings and find a team.
- Gear Check: Houston hard courts are tough on shoes and strings. See our list of local shops in Where to Buy Tennis Gear in Houston.
Pro tips for busy evenings
- Arrive at sunrise or after 8pm in summer when lights are on and temps dip.
- Bring a small broom or towel for leaves/dust after windy days.
- If a court is full, rotate every 30 minutes — a common courtesy at free parks.
Local resources
- City of Houston — Tennis Programs & Overview
- Official Neighborhood Tennis Courts list (City PDF)
- Harris County Precinct 4 — Nottingham Park details
FAQ — Free Tennis Courts in Houston
Are these courts really free?
Yes. These are neighborhood park courts with no court fee. The large "Tennis Centers" (Memorial, Lee LeClear, Homer Ford) require reservations and fees.
When are lights on?
Hours vary by park; most Tennis Courts in Houston with lights run them around dusk until posted park closing times (usually 10 PM or 11 PM).
Do I need to reserve?
Neighborhood courts are first-come, first-served. If you need a guaranteed time slot, you should book at one of the paid Tennis Centers.