Tennis in Walt Disney World Orlando

Walt Disney World

Tennis

You can play tennis at any number of Disney hotels, and you may find the courts a pleasant respite from the milling throngs in the parks. All have lights and are open 7 AM to 8 PM, unless otherwise noted, and most have lockers and rental rackets for $3 to $5 a day. There seems to be a long-term plan to move from hard courts to clay. Most courts are open to all players—court staff can opt to turn away nonguests when things get busy, but that doesn't often happen. Disney offers group and individual tennis lessons at all of its tennis complexes.

The Contemporary Resort,with its sprawl of six HydroGrid courts, is the center of Disney's tennis program. It has two backboards and an automatic ball machine. Reservations are available up to 24 hours in advance, and there's an arrange-a-game service. 407/939-7529 reservations. Free; lessons $80 per hr or $40 per half hr per individual and $15 per person for group lessons. Daily 7-7.

Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground has two tennis courts in the middle of a field. They're popular with youngsters, and if you hate players who are too free about letting their balls stray to their neighbors' court, this is not the place for you. There's no instruction or court reservations. 3520 N. Fort Wilderness Trail. 407/824-2742. Free. Daily 8-6.

The Grand Floridian has two Har-Tru clay courts that attract a somewhat serious-minded tennis crowd. Court reservations are available up to 24 hours in advance. Courts cost $80 hour, $40 per half hour, and $15 person for groups. 407/939-7529. Free. Daily 8-8.

The Yacht and Beach Club Resorts have two blacktop tennis courts. Court reservations are not required. Equipment is available at the towel window at no charge. 407/939-7529. Free. Daily 7AM-10PM.