Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, RI to learn all about the sport: its history, legends, and current stars. Maybe you can even get in a game on one of the grass courts!
The International Tennis Hall of Fame was established in 1954 by Jimmy Van Alen, an American tennis official. His goal had two parts. The first was to preserves and promote the history of tennis and celebrate its champions.
The other goal was to save the historic, 1880 Newport Casino, which has also played a role in U.S. tennis history. In 1881 the Newport Casino served as the birthplace of American tournament tennis.
Thanks to Jimmy Van Alen, this elegant example of Victorian Shingle-Style architecture is still with us. One could not ask for a better place to spend the afternoon.
The International Tennis Hall of Fame
The International Tennis Hall of Fame grounds include a museum, indoor/outdoor courts, and The Casino Theater.
The museum is a tribute to the history of tennis, with more than 2,000 tennis-related artifacts in its collection. There are plaques, trophies, photos, videos, and other memorabilia from some of the sport’s greatest players. The interactive exhibits are fascinating and entertaining, even if you’re not that much of a tennis fan. Plus you’ll get a nice, close look at this beautiful building’s classic architecture.
Play Tennis at the Hall of Fame
The International Tennis Hall of Fame has 13 grass courts, 6 hard courts, and 1 clay court.
The Hall of Fame hosts several tournaments in the summers, including the Hall of Fame Tennis Championships. The championships are part of the men’s ATP World Tour and the only grass court event in North America. Past champions include Americans John Isner, and Mardy Fish, as well as two-time champion Fabrice Santoro of France.
But you can play here, too!
The Hall of Fame Tennis Club is open to the public daily for court time, May through September. They also offer lessons and clinics.
Tour the International Tennis Hall of Fame
You can tour the International Tennis Hall of Fame and choose from a variety of tour experiences.
Self-Guided Group Tours for large groups can be scheduled, as well as Docent-Led Tours. The Hall of Fame also offers free, guided tours, 11am to 2pm, on a seasonal basis.
Learn more by visiting the International Tennis Hall of Fame online at www.tennisfame.com. You can also follow the Hall of Fame on Facebook.
International Tennis Hall of Fame
194 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island 02840
Rhode Island Lodging
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