Vancouver is full of free, outdoor tennis courts. If you’ve played your whole life, of just want to get some exercise, you’ll find a spot to get a game in. It might not feel like it today, but the recent good weekend weather is reminding us that summer is coming.
The City’s Free Tennis Courts
The free tennis courts are located all across Vancouver, many of them located in popular parks and recreation areas. Others are in neighbourhood parks in residential areas. Check out the Vancouver Park Board website for a full listing.
Of course, on a warm, summer day, the popular courts are often full. However, there are enough courts to find somewhere. There is also a 30 minute time limit on occupying a court, if someone is waiting, so you should never have to wait too long.
Get the Gear
Great part about tennis is that you really only need a racquet and some balls. Even better is the fact that you can find these things cheap, across Vancouver.
If you’re looking for new equipment, you’re probably best checking out a sporting store – Racquets and Runners is meant to be good. You could also take a look at sports chains like Sportsmart and Sportscheck. Prices might be better, but the service is likely worse.
If you’re really looking for the best price on a new racquet, you can try somewhere like Canadian Tire – however, you have to know exactly what you’re looking for. The salespeople will be no help and they will likely have low quality brands mixed with the better ones.
Unless you’re a serious player, however, buying used equipment is probably the way to go. For supreme el cheapo route, check out your closets thrift store. For a dollar or two you’ll be able to find a racquet. Of course, it is probably either 30 years old or completely broken – but you never know, you could find exactly what you’re looking for.
If you don’t want to take the risk on a thrift store, try one of Vancouver’s used sports store – Sports Junkies on Broadway near Main and North Shore Sports Swap on Old Dollarton Highway in North Van are both good. You’ll still have to carefully check the racquet, but you’ll likely find much better quality than at a thrift store, and it will still be a reasonable price.
Get Out There!
Spring’s here, summer’s coming, so it’s time to get out and have some fun on the tennis court. It really doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner – you won’t be alone. If you’re solo and looking for a game, try craigslist for finding a partner
Vancouver does a great job of offering up free space for tennis – why not go out and take advantage?
