Birdland Sports Park

Set right along the Des Moines River off Birdland Drive, Birdland Sports Park serves local tennis players with reliable outdoor hard courts in a classic municipal setting. Managed by Des Moines Parks and Recreation, the facility provides an accessible space for casual baseline hitting, league matches, and pickup games. The acrylic-topped asphalt courts feature clear regulation striping, enclosed chain-link fencing, and benches for changeovers. Because of its riverside location next to the Neal Smith Trail, the park regularly attracts active cyclists and runners alongside court players, creating an energetic community rhythm throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Court availability is primarily first-come, first-served for general play, with priority reservations managed through the city recreation portal for organized leagues and regional tournaments. Clean sightlines, open tree-lined surroundings, and easy access from north Des Moines make Birdland a dependable training spot for local singles and doubles players looking to work on their groundstrokes without club membership fees.