The Uptown Survival Guide: How to Play at Cole Park
Last updated: January 2026
If you live in Uptown, Cole Park is not just a tennis court; it is the town square. Located right in the heart of West Village, it is the place to see and be seen. But with popularity comes a problem: It is nearly impossible to get a court on a weeknight. Here is how to navigate the chaos and find a game without waiting two hours.
1. The Scene (Why Everyone Goes)
Cole Park has 8 lighted tennis courts. On any given Tuesday at 7:00 PM, every single one will be full, and there will be 10 people waiting on the benches. It is the most social tennis spot in the city. If you are single and play tennis, this is your Hinge profile in real life.
2. The "Unwritten" Rules
Because there is no reservation system, Cole Park operates on "Jungle Law." You need to know the code:
- The Queue: If courts are full, you claim "next" by physically sitting on the bench or placing your racket on the fence near the gate. Do not just stand around hovering; make your presence known.
- The Time Limit: Standard etiquette is 1 hour when people are waiting. If you play a third set while people are glaring at you from the fence, you are violating the Uptown Code.
- Doubles Rule: If it's packed, play doubles. It's rude to take up a prime court for singles drills during rush hour (6 PM - 9 PM).
3. The Secret Alternatives
If you drive by Cole Park and it looks like a zoo, don't just go home. Drive 5 minutes to these spots:
Reverchon Park (Oak Lawn)
Just down Maple Ave, Reverchon Park has courts that are often empty while Cole is overflowing. The lights aren't quite as bright, and it's a bit grittier, but you can actually play.
Glencoe Park (M Streets)
Located near Mockingbird and 75, Glencoe is the quieter, cleaner cousin of Cole Park. It has fewer courts, but the M Streets crowd is more relaxed, and the wait times are significantly shorter.
4. Warning: The Highland Park Trap
This is the most important tip in this guide. You will see beautiful, empty courts nearby at Germany Park, Burleson Park, or Curtis Park. Do not go there.
These parks belong to the City of University Park (UP) or Highland Park (HP). They have a strict Resident Permit system. The police strictly enforce this. If you do not have a UP/HP resident permit card, you will be kicked off and possibly fined.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reserve a tennis court at Cole Park?
No. Cole Park is strictly first-come, first-served. The City of Dallas does not accept reservations for these courts, which is why they are so crowded during peak hours.
What is the best time to play at Cole Park?
To avoid the wait, go on weekday mornings (before 4 PM) or weekends before 9 AM. The "Rush Hour" is Monday through Thursday from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Are the lights free at Cole Park?
Yes. The lights are on a timer and usually run until 10:30 PM or 11:00 PM. You do not need tokens or a key to operate them.
Win the Crowd
Playing at Cole Park means playing in front of an audience. If you want to fix that second serve so you don't double fault in front of the Friday night crowd, book a lesson with Golden Racket Academy. We can meet you at a quieter court to build your confidence.