Tennis courts at UCLA built for the Los Angeles Olympics

Los Angeles Tennis Center

Los Angeles Tennis Center Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Los Angeles Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled within the dynamic UCLA campus in Westwood, the Los Angeles Tennis Center (LATC) stands as a premier venue for tennis enthusiasts, sports historians, and visitors eager to experience one of the city’s landmark athletic facilities. Since its founding in 1984 for the Summer Olympic Games, LATC has played a pivotal role in shaping Southern California’s tennis culture, hosting a lineage of local, national, and international tournaments. Its legacy is deeply interwoven with Los Angeles’ tennis history, attracting icons such as Rod Laver, Billie Jean King, and Andre Agassi, and serving as a vibrant community hub for both competitive and recreational play. (davidrshane.com, uclabruins.com, Wikipedia)

This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details for planning your visit to the LATC, including historical background, visiting hours, ticketing information, accessibility, travel tips, nearby attractions, and answers to frequently asked questions. For the latest updates, official resources such as the UCLA Bruins Athletics website and UCLA Recreation site are recommended.

Tennis courts built for the Los Angeles Olympics on the UCLA campus

Introduction
Historical Background
Facility Highlights
Visiting Information
Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Background

Early Tennis in Los Angeles

Tennis flourished in Los Angeles during the early 20th century, fueled by the region’s favorable climate and a burgeoning affluent community. The establishment of the Los Angeles Tennis Club (LATC) in 1920 marked a turning point, making the city a destination for tennis development and regional tournaments. The proliferation of private clubs and courts laid the foundation for Los Angeles to become a premier tennis locale in the U.S. (davidrshane.com)

The Pacific Southwest Championships and the Rise of Pro Tennis

The Pacific Southwest Championships, inaugurated in 1927 and organized by Perry T. Jones, was hosted at the original LATC and quickly gained international stature. Champions such as Bill Tilden, Ellsworth Vines, Don Budge, and Fred Perry graced its courts, with the tournament’s prestige growing through the Open Era and subsequent sponsorships, including the Farmers Classic and the Los Angeles Open. Jack Kramer, a tennis legend, later took over as tournament director, further enhancing its reputation. (Wikipedia)

Construction and Olympic Legacy

Construction of the modern Los Angeles Tennis Center on UCLA’s campus culminated in its 1984 dedication, just in time to host the tennis demonstration events at the Summer Olympics. This event introduced the LATC to a global audience and established it as a state-of-the-art facility. The venue features eight lighted hard courts, a 5,800-seat grandstand (Straus Stadium), and a two-level clubhouse, setting a new standard for tennis facilities in the region. (uclabruins.com)

Collegiate and Professional Legacy

Post-Olympics, the LATC became home to the UCLA Bruins men’s (from 1985) and women’s (from 1997) tennis teams, hosting multiple NCAA championships. It also served as the venue for the Los Angeles Open, attracting ATP stars such as Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, and the Bryan brothers. The LATC has hosted events beyond tennis, including concerts, talent shows, and charity fundraisers, demonstrating its versatility. (uclabruins.com)

Continuing Impact

Despite the discontinuation of the Los Angeles Open in 2012 due to changing sponsorship and attendance, the LATC remains a vital center for collegiate matches, youth development, and community engagement, nurturing new generations of players and hosting a range of athletic and cultural events. (davidrshane.com)

Facility Highlights

Eight lighted hard courts for day and night play
Straus Stadium: 5,800-seat main court grandstand
Times-Mirror Center Court: Secondary show court
Two-level clubhouse with locker rooms, team spaces, and hospitality areas
Pro shop and concessions (during major events)
Southern California Tennis Association offices
Accessible design: Ramps, elevators, and ADA-compliant seating/restrooms
Address: 555 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

General Public Access: Typically open for events, tournaments, and recreational play; public hours may be weekends from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, or daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM depending on programming.
Court Reservations: Required for play; book via UCLA Recreation or by phone at (310) 825-3671 (12–5 p.m., one day prior).
Event Hours: Vary by tournament or match; always check the latest schedule on the UCLA Athletics site or LATC site.

Tickets

Collegiate Matches: Often free or low-cost.
Professional/Special Events: Tickets required; purchase online via UCLA Athletics or LATC official site.
Memberships: UCLA Recreation membership grants priority access; see UCLA Recreation for options.

Accessibility and Amenities

ADA-Accessible Seating and Restrooms
Locker Rooms and Showers
Pro Shop: Racquet stringing and gear (event-dependent)
Concessions: Food and drink available during tournaments
Wheelchair Access: Elevators and ramps throughout facility

Getting There and Parking

Address: 555 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Parking: Available in UCLA structures nearby; parking fees apply and may increase during events. Early arrival is recommended. (UCLA Parking)
Public Transit: Metro bus lines serve UCLA; rideshare drop-off is convenient.
Walking: Close to Westwood Village and other UCLA attractions.

Nearby Attractions

Pauley Pavilion (basketball arena)
Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden
Hammer Museum
Westwood Village (dining, shopping)
Fowler Museum (cultural exhibits)

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours offered occasionally during major events or special programs.
The LATC hosts concerts, charity events, and UCLA’s Spring Sing talent show.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings or late evenings for recreational play; check schedules for tournaments.
What to Bring: Tennis shoes, racquet, water bottle, sun protection.
Reservations: Strongly recommended for court use; walk-ins rarely available.
Accessibility: Contact ahead for specific ADA accommodations.
COVID-19 Protocols: Check UCLA Recreation site for latest guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Los Angeles Tennis Center visiting hours?
A: Generally 7:00 AM–10:00 PM, but hours may vary. Always confirm via the official website.

Q: How can I buy tickets for LATC events?
A: Visit UCLA Athletics or LATC site for ticket sales.

Q: Is the LATC accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, accessible seating, and restrooms.

Q: Can the public rent courts?
A: Yes, with advance reservation via UCLA Recreation.

Q: Are there lessons and clinics available?
A: Yes, LATC offers group and private instruction, junior camps, and clinics. (LATC Summer Camps)

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, in nearby UCLA structures; fees apply.

Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Occasionally during special events; contact LATC or UCLA Recreation for details.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Los Angeles Tennis Center is a cornerstone of Southern California’s tennis heritage and a vibrant venue for competition, recreation, and community events. From its Olympic legacy and role as UCLA’s home court to hosting major tournaments and engaging the local community, LATC offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of Los Angeles.

To plan your visit, check current hours, reserve courts, and secure tickets through the UCLA Bruins Athletics website, UCLA Recreation, or LATC official site. Download the Audiala app for real-time event updates, travel tips, and exclusive content. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the tradition, excitement, and community spirit that define the Los Angeles Tennis Center.