These tennis courts on the grounds of The Village apartments cater to the community-oriented player, and the courts are available to residents and nonresidents. Although there’s a fee to reserve a court, consider it a steal — especially compared to country club prices. Play solo with a ball machine, and check out the full-service tennis pro shop with apparel and rackets by Head, Prince and Wilson. Need to improve your game? The Village offers private lessons, clinics and group classes. If you’re the competitive type, join the weeknight tennis league. 

If you dare go a north of Preston Hollow, Fretz Park is the place to hit. The facility has 15 lighted outdoor courts so you don’t have to worry about not being able to play (though the pros suggest reserving a court). The tennis mecca has ball machine rentals, a fully stocked pro shop, and it offers private lessons and group classes. All ages are welcome to compete with men’s and women’s leagues and junior tennis camps led by the pros on staff. If you’re a Federer fan, aspiring to be half as good as he is, sign up for an open drill to practice. 

This where the Uptown yuppies play tennis when they aren’t brunching at Nick & Sam’s Grill. In the heart of the cool neighborhood between Cambrick and Elizabeth streets on Cole Avenue are eight lit courts. On a nice sunny day, it’s best to go early before the courts fill up, but evenings are usually empty.

Forget the country clubs. Caruth Park is where the chill Highland Park and Turtle Creek residents go to hit. Two lit tennis courts provide ambient light for those playing on a cool winter evening. It’s not so competitive here — unless you and your friend are the next Venus and Serena — so if you’re looking for challenge, hit elsewhere. But if you relish in the idea of volleying in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city, serve it up here. 

This court is for the laid-back player who wants to volley with no strings attached. There are no fees and no reservations — just tennis. Preston Hollow Park houses two tennis courts that are clean and open to the public. The courts are nestled in the quaint Preston Hollow neighborhood park. So if you don’t mind hearing the occasional kid crying on the playground and prefer a chill tennis vibe, hit here. Bring your own balls and rackets.