Jefferson Park Lid Tennis Court

Jefferson Park Lid Tennis Court

Your First Serve of Information

Perched atop Beacon Hill, the Jefferson Park tennis courts offer one of the most comprehensive and well-regarded public tennis experiences in Seattle. With four lighted courts, this facility is a major hub for tennis in the southern part of the city, providing ample space for casual matches, lessons, and competitive play in a large, scenic park setting.  

Facility Snapshot

The Courts: An In-Depth Look

The facility boasts four concrete hard courts, split into two sets of two, located in the northeastern section of the park. All four courts are equipped with lights, which are operational year-round, making this a reliable destination for evening play even in the winter months. The courts are generally considered to be in good shape and are among the best-maintained public courts in the city. To ensure public access, one of the upper courts is designated as a non-reservable, walk-on court at all times.  

The Playing Experience: Atmosphere & Availability

Jefferson Park is a major tennis destination, attracting a large and diverse community of players. The atmosphere is active and can be competitive, but it remains welcoming to players of all skill levels. With four lighted courts, availability is significantly better than at most other public facilities. However, due to their popularity, especially in the evenings and on weekends, making a reservation is a smart strategy to guarantee a court. The courts are situated under a flight path, so players should expect some periodic aircraft noise.  

Strategic Corner: Gaining Your Edge at Jefferson Park

The lights are the biggest strategic asset at Jefferson Park. This is one of the few facilities where you can reliably play a match at 7 PM in December. Players who are comfortable under artificial lighting will have an advantage. The courts are well-spaced and in good condition, rewarding a solid, all-court game. The occasional noise from overhead planes can be a test of concentration; players who can quickly reset their focus after such a distraction will perform better during long matches.  

Location, Access, and Amenities

The courts are located within the expansive Jefferson Park, adjacent to the Jefferson Community Center. A dedicated parking lot is available next to the courts, but it is shared with other park users and can fill up quickly. Restrooms and other amenities are available at the community center a short walk away. The park itself is a major attraction, featuring a golf course, a driving range, lawn bowling, a skatepark, and one of the city's best playgrounds.  

The Neighborhood: Beyond the Baseline in Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a large, vibrant neighborhood with a rich history and a diverse cultural landscape. After a match, players can explore the fantastic array of international restaurants and cafes along Beacon Avenue S. The neighborhood is also known for its beautiful green spaces and commanding views of downtown Seattle, the Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains.  

From the Community: Player Reviews Summarized

Jefferson Park is consistently ranked among the best public tennis venues in Seattle. Players praise the high quality of the four lighted courts, the excellent amenities of the surrounding park, and the convenience of the adjacent community center and parking. The courts can get busy, making reservations advisable, and the noise from the flight path is a minor drawback for some, but most players find it easy to ignore once they get into their game.