Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis, is rapidly gaining popularity across the United States. Major cities on the East Coast, including New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C., are embracing this trend by introducing pickleball courts in prominent urban spaces. Here’s a look at how these cities are making waves in the pickleball community:
Washington D.C.: Pickleball Takes Over the National Mall
The iconic National Mall, often referred to as “America’s front yard,” is not one to be left behind in the pickleball movement. From September 28-30, the “National Mall of Pickleball” event will transform the JFK Hockey Fields near the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool into a pickleball haven. Organized by the Trust for the National Mall and health insurance company Humana, this event aims to promote athletic activity, especially among Americans over 55, It will also raise awareness for preservation efforts on the National Mall. Discover more about this event here.
Philadelphia: Dilworth Park Welcomes CityPickle
Philadelphia’s Dilworth Park has joined the pickleball movement by hosting two pop-up CityPickle courts from September 7th to October 21st. This marks CityPickle’s first venture outside of New York. The company has plans for a more permanent presence in Philadelphia. The courts are open daily, offering one-hour reservations for up to six people. With partnerships in the pipeline, CityPickle aims to provide free pickleball sessions to various communities throughout the city. Learn more about CityPickle in Philadelphia here.
New York City: Randall’s Island
But the pickleball craze doesn’t stop there. SPORTIME Randall’s Island has announced the addition of 12 indoor pickleball courts this fall. This move is in response to the sport’s growing popularity, with the aim to keep the momentum going year-round. The facility is undergoing an expansion, adding 10 new tennis courts, making it one of the largest in the world. Five of its tennis courts are being retrofitted to create 12 hybrid pickleball courts, open seven days a week. The goal is to welcome thousands of NYC’s most committed picklers during the indoor season, offering them best-in-class facilities, programs, and amenities. Read more about the Randall’s Island expansion here.
The rise of pickleball courts in major East Coast cities is a testament to the sport’s growing appeal. As urban spaces transform to accommodate this trend, residents and visitors alike can look forward to more opportunities to engage in this fun and inclusive sport. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newbie, there’s no better time to pick up a paddle and join the pickleball revolution!
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