So last week I figured I’d finally check out tennis court costs around Larchmont since my elbow stopped hurting after that pickleball disaster. Here’s how I sniffed out the real prices without getting ripped off.
First, The Price Hunt Begins
I grabbed my coffee, fired up my ancient laptop and dug around tennis forums for hints. Total confusion – everyone claimed different rates! Then I called three spots pretending to be clueless:
- Manor Park: Lady said “$25 hourly before 5pm” real fast then hung up. Rude much?
- Beach Club courts: Dude mumbled “membership only” like I asked for his kidney. Click.
- That rec center near downtown: Finally got a human! “$18 weekdays before 3pm” he says. Now we’re talking.
Saturday Sneak Recon
Drove over to Manor Park pretending to walk my sister’s chihuahua. Peeked at the tiny sign near court 3: “RESIDENT $22 / NON-RESIDENT $35.” Are you kidding me? Website said $25! Nearly choked on my iced tea. Snapped pics for proof before Karen walking her poodle gave me side-eye.
Checked that rec center too – their sign matched the phone quote. Big lesson: always verify in person. Places love hiding extra fees online.
My Wallet Rescue Plan
- Off-peak is golden: Booked Tuesday 2pm slots for $18 instead of weekend $38 madness
- Split 4 ways: Made my terrible-at-tennis coworkers chip in. Now $4.50 each!
- Brought my own balls: Court rentals charge $8 for dead ones? Nope. Dug my crusty can from 2018 outta the garage
Played yesterday after work. Total damage? Twelve bucks for two hours including gatorade. Felt like stealing. Moral of this story? Assume every listed price is lying until you see it with your own eyes. Saved enough for pizza afterwards!