Forest Hills Stadium
Historic 1923 stadium in Queens, NYC, blending tennis legacy with world-class live music performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect outdoor concert vibe
Forest Hills Stadium
Best Time
Perfect outdoor concert vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1923 stadium in Queens, NYC, blending tennis legacy with world-class live music performances.
"A truly special venue where New York's past and present come together in the best way."
🎯 Take the Train!
LIRR or E/F/M/R subway are best. Avoid driving and parking hassles!
🎟️ Seat Selection Matters
The 'blue line' isn't an aisle. Double-check seat numbers for your desired spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Tennis Roots
Original Tennis Courts
Walk where legends like Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe made history. Feel the echoes of the U.S. Open.
Iconic Concert Performances
Main Stage
Experience live music from global superstars in a venue that has hosted The Beatles and Bob Dylan.
Outdoor Ambiance
Stadium Seating & Pit
Enjoy an open-air concert experience, with many noting the spacious and enjoyable outdoor setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Beat the NYC Transit Hustle
Timing is Everything: Arrive Early, Enjoy More
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Take the Train!
LIRR or E/F/M/R subway are best. Avoid driving and parking hassles!
🎟️ Seat Selection Matters
The 'blue line' isn't an aisle. Double-check seat numbers for your desired spot.
⏰ Arrive Early
Explore the grounds, grab food, and soak in the history before the main act.
🎶 Check Opening Acts
Don't miss out on supporting artists; many shows feature great openers. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Take the Train!
LIRR or E/F/M/R subway are best. Avoid driving and parking hassles!
🎟️ Seat Selection Matters
The 'blue line' isn't an aisle. Double-check seat numbers for your desired spot.
⏰ Arrive Early
Explore the grounds, grab food, and soak in the history before the main act.
🎶 Check Opening Acts
Don't miss out on supporting artists; many shows feature great openers. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle if allowed, or be prepared to purchase drinks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Forest Hills Stadium is lauded for its historic charm and excellent outdoor concert atmosphere, with many praising the sound quality and the unique blend of sports and music heritage. While most seats offer good views, some attendees have noted issues with bathroom maintenance and specific seating arrangements. The venue's convenient public transit access and nearby dining options are also frequently highlighted as positives.
"Forest Hills Stadium is one of New York’s most historic and special venues. Built in 1923 for the West Side Tennis Club, it was the longtime home of the U.S. National Championships (which later became the U.S. Open) and witnessed some of the most significant moments in tennis history.
In 1950, Althea Gibson broke the color barrier of international tennis when she became the first Black player ever to compete in the U.S. National Championships here at Forest Hills. Seven years later, in 1957, she returned to win the singles title — a groundbreaking victory that paved the way for generations of athletes to follow. She would go on to win again in 1958, cementing her place as one of the sport’s all-time greats and a true pioneer for equality in athletics.
Forest Hills also hosted the likes of Billie Jean King, who won multiple championships here and later became a global advocate for gender equality in sports, and Arthur Ashe, who made history in 1968 as the first African American man to win the U.S. Open singles title — right here on these very courts.
The venue has also been a world-class concert venue, welcoming artists like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Jimi Hendrix. Today, it’s been beautifully restored (re-opened in 2013 after a major restoration, and was further modernized and restored from 2013-2017) and continues to thrive as one of New York City’s most unique spaces for live music and events.
I’ve been lucky enough to experience both sports and entertainment — watching tennis and seeing Mumford & Sons perform here — and every visit feels special. The sound, the setting, and the energy of the crowd all combine with that rich history to make it unforgettable. Forest Hills Stadium is truly a place where New York’s past and present come together in the best way."
Ross Iskowitz
"Been to two concerts within weeks of each other (Leon Bridges and Chappell Roan) and both experiences were amazing! The venue is clean, decent food, I even love the staff uniforms and the branding. And honestly I prefer that all shows have to end by 10 because of the sound ordinance. Looking forward to All Things Go this weekend!"
Katharine Phillips
"Absolutely a great place to see concerts. You really can't go wrong with any seats since it's a "smaller" venue. I got tickets for Chappell Roan, I thought the tickets I bought were next to the isle for seats 1 & 2, turns out the seats were in the middle. So word to the isle, when ordering tickets, the blue line going in between the seats is not an isle, it's a small separation between seat 1 & 29.
The bathrooms weren't that well kept up. We got there early around the time doors opened and there was a strong smell of piss.
There's some food spots to go to before getting the stadium. Dirty Pierre was a nice spot to get food. All of it was good - burgers, sandwich etc."
Joseph Lynch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way to reach Forest Hills Stadium is by public transportation. The LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) to Forest Hills station or the E, F, M, and R subway lines to the Forest Hills-71st Avenue station are convenient options. Many visitors suggest avoiding driving due to potential traffic and parking difficulties in the area.
While some street parking might be available in the surrounding Forest Hills neighborhood, it can be very limited and challenging to find, especially on event nights. It's generally advised to rely on public transit for a smoother experience.
Forest Hills Stadium is located in Queens, New York City. Depending on your starting point in Manhattan and the mode of transport, it typically takes around 30-45 minutes by subway or LIRR to reach the stadium.
Yes, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off near Forest Hills Stadium. However, be prepared for potential delays due to traffic, especially after the event concludes.
Yes, the closest train stations are the Forest Hills station for the LIRR and the Forest Hills-71st Avenue station for the E, F, M, and R subway lines. Both are a short walk from the stadium.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Forest Hills Stadium events are typically available through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster, AXS, and directly from the venue's website. It's always best to purchase from authorized sellers to avoid counterfeit tickets.
Operating hours for Forest Hills Stadium are primarily dictated by event schedules. Doors usually open 1-2 hours before the main performance begins. It's recommended to check the specific event details for exact timings.
Yes, Forest Hills Stadium offers various seating options, including general admission (pit), reserved seating, and sometimes premium boxes. Seat views can vary, so it's wise to check seating charts when purchasing tickets.
Generally, Forest Hills Stadium has a strict no re-entry policy. Once you leave the venue, you will not be allowed back in. Plan your visit accordingly.
It's possible to find tickets on the day of the show, especially if there are resale options available. However, for popular acts, tickets often sell out in advance, so purchasing early is highly recommended.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
Many attendees praise the sound quality at Forest Hills Stadium, noting that it's generally good across various seating areas. Some reviews mention that shows have to end by 10 PM due to a sound ordinance, which can be a positive for those sensitive to noise.
Forest Hills Stadium offers a range of food and drink options, with some reviewers finding them decent. There are also food spots nearby, like Dirty Pierre, that are popular for pre-show meals.
Bathroom conditions can vary. Some recent reviews indicate that bathrooms have been significantly upgraded and are clean and well-maintained. However, older reviews or specific instances might mention less ideal conditions.
The general admission or pit area at Forest Hills Stadium can offer great views of the stage, especially if you arrive early. Some artists also utilize a runway, providing good sightlines from the pit.
Yes, Forest Hills Stadium is an outdoor venue, which contributes to its unique atmosphere for concerts and events.
📸 📸 Photography & Memorabilia
Generally, personal cameras (non-professional) and phone cameras are allowed for photos at Forest Hills Stadium concerts. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses are usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's policy. +1
For iconic shots, consider the stadium's architecture, the stage setup during a performance, or the general atmosphere of the crowd. The historic tennis court backdrop can also offer unique photo opportunities.
Yes, merchandise stands are typically available at Forest Hills Stadium for most concerts, offering artist and event-specific items. +1
Views vary greatly depending on your seat location. While it's considered a smaller venue where most seats offer a decent view, seats closer to the stage or in the pit provide the most immersive experience.
While the stadium has been modernized, its rich tennis history is a significant part of its identity. Look for subtle architectural cues or information displays that hint at its past as the U.S. Open venue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning a family outing, consider the show's content and duration. The stadium's policy of ending shows by 10 PM due to sound ordinances can be a plus for families with younger children. Opting for reserved seating might offer more comfort and a guaranteed view, especially for those with strollers or very young kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for general admission tickets if available, as these are often the most affordable option. While they might require arriving earlier to secure a good spot, it's a common strategy for budget-conscious concert-goers.
couples
Consider purchasing seats with a good view for a shared experience, or brave the general admission pit for a more energetic, up-close encounter with the music.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Sports and Sound
The stadium's transition into a premier concert venue began in the mid-20th century, hosting legendary artists like The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Jimi Hendrix. After a period of disuse, it underwent significant renovations, reopening in 2013 and further modernized between 2013-2017. Today, Forest Hills Stadium continues to be a vibrant space where its storied past in sports seamlessly blends with its present as a sought-after destination for live music and diverse events.
This unique blend of historical significance and modern entertainment infrastructure creates an unforgettable atmosphere for attendees. Whether you're there for a tennis match or a concert, the venue's rich heritage adds an extra layer of appreciation to the experience.
Navigating Your Concert Experience
When it comes to seating, reviews suggest that most spots offer a good view, making it a venue where you can generally 'can't go wrong.' However, specific details about seat numbering and aisle placement are crucial; one user noted that a 'blue line' between seats doesn't indicate an aisle but rather a small separation.
Practical tips for a smooth visit include utilizing public transportation like the LIRR or subway lines (E, F, M, R) as driving and parking can be challenging.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit