Pickleball has officially taken the country by storm and for good reason. This approachable and ultra-fun sport was created in the summer of 1965 by Congressman Joel Pritchard when he and his family went to play badminton and couldn't find their rackets. They improvised and used ping-pong paddles instead and lowered the net to 36 inches, thus creating the game of pickleball. While many think the name has to do with the delicious snack, it's actually a reference to the pickle boat of crew races. As pickleball is an aerobic exercise, it helps to enhance your cardiovascular fitness, regulate your blood pressure, lower your blood sugar and enhance your lung function. We've rounded up the best places to get your game on in NYC, whether you've played for years or you're just getting started.
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1st Ave. &, E. 35th St. / 212.639.9675 / Website
One of Manhattan’s top spots to play pickleball has to be St. Vartan Park. With annual tournaments and an uplifting atmosphere, this park is the perfect place for those looking to enjoy this sport.
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830 5th Ave. / 1.833.615.3500 / Website
New York’s first pickleball club, CityPickle, has brought the sport to Wollman Rink. With 14 available courts, Wollman Rink has the largest pickleball offering in the Northeast. From newbies to those who know their way around the court, all levels are welcome here. In addition to the private events, leagues, open play, clinics, and lessons that are available, CityPickle also offers a professional playing experience with the court surface provided by Pickleball United USA, the official court partner for MLP and APP professional leagues and the nets provided by CD Pickleball Nets, the official net partner of the PPA and APP.
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Hudson St. / 212.639.9675 / Website
Two new pickleball courts were just added to James J. Walker Park in 2022, making this court a hot spot for players. Since space is limited, this court can get packed rather quickly. Also, as there are no nets here, be sure to bring a portable one!
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Middletown Road & Stadium Ave., Bronx / 718.430.1891 / Website
For our pickleball fans in the Bronx, this one’s for you. Four hard outdoor courts are available for play at Pelham Bay Park. While playing at the court is free, you cannot schedule or reserve a court as it operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The lines are permanent but you’ll still need to bring your own net.
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Fort Hamilton Pkwy. / 718.439.4296 / Website
John J. Carty’s four courts are welcome to all and even have their own nets! Between tournaments and private lessons, this court is jumping with activity. While some say that the courts are free, others report that you need a membership, so it’s best to call ahead before arriving.
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Shore Front Parkway and Beach 102nd St., Queens / Website
Looking to play with the ocean breeze? Then the Rockaway Beach court is perfect for you! Although there are handball courts along the boardwalk, there’s only one solely dedicated to pickleball, so we recommend coming early to ensure you get a spot!
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150 Furman St. / Website
Play with a beautiful skyline view at the Pier 2 Pickleball courts. As an added bonus, these four courts are both covered and have additional lighting for nighttime play. Similarly to many of the other courts, Pier 2 also operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and via their website, they recommend that “waiting players should stack their paddles in a single line (left to right) to claim the next open court. When the game finishes, a new set of 4 players can enter the court. Court time should be shared equally.”
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Bricktown Way & Tyrellan Ave., Staten Island / 212.639.9675 / Website
For those in the often-forgotten borough, we didn’t forget about you. Three fully dedicated courts occupy Fairview Park at, you guessed it, open play times. Players here also frequent the JCC indoor courts as well. Stay up to date on this court’s pickleball happenings through their Facebook page.
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W. Houston St. &, 6th Ave. / 212.639.9675 / Website
With eight outdoor courts, there’s room for everyone at the William F. Passannante Ballfield. Another popular court in the city, to have fun here, all you’ll need to bring is your own net and good vibes.
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500 Dean St. / 212.639.9675 / Website
While Dean St. is known for its basketball courts, their courts are loved by Brooklynites. A net is necessary to play on these asphalt courts.
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62 Chelsea Piers / 212.336.6666 / Website
Chelsea Piers offers competitive adult pickleball leagues in their cutting-edge, climate-controlled facilities. However, adult gamers of all ability levels can also enjoy team play and games. This indoor hardwood court offers a great escape from the NYC heat.
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100 W 84th St. / 212.877.3614 / Website
Now that school’s out, this Prospect Heights court is available for all-day play! These six asphalt courts come with tape lines, and portable nets are available for use. Since these courts are privately owned, a reservation is required in order to play here.
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Riverside Dr. and W 110th St. / 917.692.4531 / Website
Play a game surrounded by luscious greenery on the UWS. Common play here most days takes place in the mornings, afternoons, and weekends. Players also have access to restrooms and water, a rarity on NYC's courts.
Regardless of which court you select, these NYC pickleball courts will have you enjoying the game in no time!
Photography by: Bill Oxford / iStock
