Playing Tennis at BYU's Outdoor Courts: A Provo Institution
The BYU Outdoor Tennis Courts sit in one of Utah's most distinctive athletic settings, where the Wasatch Mountains frame every serve and the courts themselves represent decades of serious investment in the sport. Located at 900 N 150 E in Provo, just south of South Field on the BYU campus, these courts have become a hub for recreational and competitive tennis players alike—a place where beginners and seasoned players converge under the Utah sky.
A Facility Built to Last
What strikes visitors first is the sheer quality of the infrastructure. A $1 million renovation in 1995 transformed these outdoor courts into something genuinely exceptional. The facility now features 14 fully lighted courts with complete backdrops, arranged in banks of two or four to make spectating comfortable and natural. This isn't a scrappy neighborhood setup; it's the kind of facility that hosts serious tennis and has trained over 30 All-Americans over the years.
The lighting system deserves particular mention. When winter arrives or evening play beckons, the courts remain fully playable under lights that rank among the best in the country. For players accustomed to dimly lit municipal courts, the quality here is noticeable immediately.
Getting There and Finding Your Way
The courts sit directly south of South Field, accessible via the main entrance on the complex's east side. A walkway connects the Tennis Courts Building to South Field, continuing to a parking lot east of the Brick Oven restaurant. The address—900 N 150 E—places you in Provo's central athletic district, close enough to campus life but distinct enough to feel like its own community.
Parking is straightforward. Two dedicated lots serve the courts: a larger "Y" lot north of the Indoor Practice Facility (bounded by Canyon Road, 150 E, and 1060 N) and a smaller lot directly south of the outdoor courts near the Brick Oven. Street parking is also available in the surrounding area if those fill up.
The neighborhood has a distinctly collegiate feel. You'll see student athletes, faculty, and local players moving between facilities. The Brick Oven restaurant nearby provides a natural gathering spot before or after play—a place where the tennis community naturally congregates.
How to Play: Access, Costs, and Booking
The search results don't specify exact court reservation procedures or daily rates, which means your best approach is direct contact with BYU Athletics or checking their website for current booking information. Many university facilities offer both reserved court time and open play windows, though specifics vary by season and demand.
For beginners, the good news is that these courts welcome all skill levels. The facility's design—with courts arranged for easy viewing and a professional setup—can feel intimidating at first, but the tennis community here is generally welcoming. The courts' prominence on campus means you'll find players of every ability, from people picking up a racket for the first time to competitive club players.
Winter and inclement weather can affect outdoor play, though the facility's location in Utah's relatively dry climate helps. The lighted courts extend your playing window well into the evening, which matters in a state where winter daylight is precious.
Practical Considerations for Visitors
Food and Coffee: The Brick Oven sits just east of the courts and has become an informal hub for the tennis crowd. It's the natural place to grab a meal or coffee before heading to play. The location's proximity to BYU campus means other dining options are within walking distance.
Weather: Utah's high desert climate is generally favorable for tennis, with low humidity and clear skies most of the year. Winter temperatures can drop, but the courts' lighting allows play to continue. Summer heat is manageable compared to lower-elevation regions. Spring and fall offer ideal playing conditions.
Safety: The courts sit on BYU's campus, which maintains active security and lighting. The neighborhood is well-maintained and busy during daylight and evening hours. Standard urban precautions apply—secure your belongings and be aware of your surroundings—but this isn't a location where safety is a primary concern.
Seasonal Notes: The indoor facility (four courts in the Tennis Courts Building, located directly south of Smith Fieldhouse) handles winter home matches and inclement weather play. If outdoor courts are unavailable, the indoor option provides a backup, though it operates on a different schedule.
Finding Your People: The Doyouplay Advantage
One of the biggest challenges for any tennis player—whether you're new to Provo or returning after years away—is finding reliable partners at your skill level. The BYU courts draw players from across the community, which is wonderful for the facility but can make it hard to know who to approach or how to organize regular games.
This is where Doyouplay changes the equation. The platform lets you browse players by skill level and preferences without commitment, then connect directly through low-stakes one-on-one chat. For someone moving to Provo or looking to rebuild a tennis routine, it removes the awkwardness of cold approaches at the courts. You can find partners before you arrive, set up a time, and show up already knowing who you're playing with.
The Doyouplay community here is active, which reflects both the quality of the courts and the tennis culture in Provo. You'll find people looking for casual doubles, competitive singles, and everything in between. Recent movers particularly appreciate the ability to build a tennis network without relying on existing connections.
Why These Courts Matter
The BYU Outdoor Tennis Courts represent something increasingly rare: a genuinely excellent public-facing facility maintained at a high standard. The $1 million investment in the 1995 renovation wasn't just about adding courts; it was a statement about tennis's place in the community. That commitment shows every time you step onto the grounds.
Whether you're a serious player seeking competitive matches or someone rediscovering tennis after years away, the facility has the infrastructure to support your game. The lighted courts, professional setup, and active community create conditions where tennis thrives. And with tools like Doyouplay making it easier to find partners, the main barrier to regular play has essentially disappeared.
The courts are waiting. The question is simply who you'll meet there.
