A Hidden Tennis Gem Above Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal, a major transit hub in New York City, not only serves as a passage for many commuters and visitors but also hosts a unique attraction: a tennis club. Nestled four floors above the train tracks and behind one of the station’s iconic arched windows, Vanderbilt Tennis Club offers a solitary full-sized tennis court.
Open from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., the club provides one full court and two practice courts. The cost for the full court begins at $100 per hour and can exceed $400 based on the time of day. With the limited indoor space in Manhattan, the club remains fully booked through December, coinciding with the start of many fall classes.
A Day at Vanderbilt Tennis Club
On a bustling Friday, the court welcomed diverse patrons. People from various walks of life, including commuters, tourists, retirees, and children, joined to play tennis. Meanwhile, others boarded trains en route to the U.S. Open in Queens. While professionals competed there, enthusiasts practiced their swings here on the fourth floor.
At 7 a.m., Grand Central was quiet when the first players began their matches. The historic Oyster Bar below remained closed for a few more hours as early commuters trickled in. Nearby, Metropolitan Transportation Authority workers started their shifts, while club members like Charlotte and Brian played tennis to kick off their day.
Charlotte and Brian, coworkers who cherished their privacy, spent their morning duel before heading to see the U.S. Open. Charlotte was looking forward to attending the quarterfinals as well.
Later in the morning, more players arrived. Among them was Arthur Zabarkus, a regular for 30 years. He started playing here to avoid social obligations with a heavy-drinking friend, which led him to frequent the club consistently.
The Club’s Storied History
While amateurs enjoy the court, professionals have graced it over the years. Austria’s Lilli Tagger played here recently due to rain delays at Flushing Meadows. Since its inception in the 1960s, the court has witnessed numerous professional matches and events. The old space on the third floor transitioned from an art gallery to CBS studios, and finally to its current form after significant renovations.
Managed by Dadi Zvulun since 2011, the club maintains a welcoming community feel. Zvulun, a jazz pianist and tennis enthusiast, values the connections made with long-time members. Among them is Arthur Zabarkus, who joins Zvulun and his wife for dinner each Wednesday.
Over the years, Zvulun has played with numerous notable figures. The court also witnessed a memorable proposal, highlighting the special moments that occur here.
From Visitors to Night Owls
In the afternoon, groups of tourists, including those from Rose Gold Rally Trips, arrived for lessons. These tourists got their first New York experience at Grand Central before heading out to explore more tennis venues.
By evening, the terminal filled with commuters. Many had come from or were heading to Flushing Meadows to catch the U.S. Open. The nearby Oyster Bar, a Grand Central staple since opening, experienced a surge in customers, many of whom also attended the U.S. Open.
As night settled, Coach Leena Banchong, after arriving from the U.S. Open, offered lessons at the club. Banchong, previously a Division II tennis player, transitioned to coaching after realizing the high playing costs. To save money, young professionals like Penny and her husband opted for late-night play, enjoying the vintage charm of the court.
As midnight passed, the tennis activity continued, although Grand Central’s corridors grew quieter. The terminal’s restaurants and rail lines slowed their operations, setting up for another bustling day to follow. With each dawn, the routine at Grand Central restarts; trains rumble, passengers chatter, and tennis balls echo from above.