Miller Playfield Tennis

Miller Playfield Tennis

Your First Serve of Information

Located on Capitol Hill next to the Miller Community Center, this playfield is a historic and vital green space for one of Seattle's densest and most vibrant neighborhoods. The two lighted tennis courts are a popular and heavily used feature, providing a crucial outlet for athletic activity in a bustling urban environment.  

Facility Snapshot

The Courts: An In-Depth Look

The facility features two concrete hard courts. The courts are equipped with lights, a critical amenity in such a dense neighborhood. However, this facility has a recent history of significant lighting issues. In late 2024 and early 2025, one of the two banks of lights was out of commission for over four months due to vandalism, leaving half the courts dark during the winter. While repairs were eventually made, players should be aware that lighting can be unreliable. The courts are also lined for pickleball, and scheduled open play for that sport occurs here, for example from 10:00 a.m. to Noon.  

The Playing Experience: Atmosphere & Availability

Miller Playfield is an extremely active park. The atmosphere is energetic, urban, and diverse, reflecting the character of Capitol Hill. The courts are in high demand from both tennis and pickleball players, as well as being used by nearby schools. Expect a lively and sometimes loud environment. Due to the high usage and only two courts, finding an open court for drop-in play can be very difficult. Reservations are strongly recommended.  

Strategic Corner: Gaining Your Edge at Miller

The urban setting is the defining characteristic of play at Miller. The courts are surrounded by the constant motion of the city. The ability to maintain deep concentration amidst noise and activity is paramount. The lighting situation is also a strategic factor; when fully functional, the lights are a huge asset for evening play. However, given their history of unreliability, players should always have a backup plan or confirm their status before heading out for a night match. The dual-lined courts require sharp focus on the tennis boundaries.  

Location, Access, and Amenities

The playfield is located next to the Miller Community Center on 19th Ave E. A parking lot is available, and the park is easily accessible by public transit. The park is rich with amenities, including restrooms, a large playground, a popular spraypark for summer cooling, and sports fields for baseball and soccer. The community center offers additional programs and facilities.  

The Neighborhood: Beyond the Baseline in Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is Seattle's vibrant heart of nightlife, entertainment, and counterculture. It is a densely populated neighborhood with an eclectic mix of historic mansions, modern apartments, and endless dining and shopping options. After a match, players are just steps away from some of the city's best restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and music venues. The neighborhood is also home to the beautiful Volunteer Park.  

From the Community: Player Reviews Summarized

Miller Playfield is a cherished and essential green space for the Capitol Hill community. The tennis courts are a popular feature, but the high demand from multiple user groups makes access a constant challenge. The extended outage of the court lights in 2024-2025 was a major point of frustration for the local playing community, highlighting issues with park maintenance and communication.