How to Find Pickleball Courts Near Me
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the U.S. People love the game because it's easy to play, yet challenging. Plus, it's great exercise and provides social opportunities. If you're new to the game, one of the first things you're likely to wonder is, "Is there a pickleball court near me?" Experienced players may also be asking, "Where are there pickleball courts near me?" if their usual court is full. Following these tips can help you locate nearby pickleball courts that are ideal for both beginners and seasoned players.
1. Use Google Maps to Find Pickleball Courts Near Me
The quickest and simplest way to find a place to play is to search "pickleball courts near me" or "indoor pickleball courts near me" on your favorite search engine. When you check out the map that returns the search results, click on court names to learn more about them. Often, you'll see information about hours and any fees that you need to play right on the court's Google or Bing page.
In some cases, an Internet search may not return any results. This doesn't mean that you can't find a place to play pickleball. Because the sport is new in many areas of the country, pickleball courts may not show up or be properly labeled. Try searching for rec centers in your area. You can also search "tennis courts near me." If you absolutely can't find a pickleball court, a tennis court may be an acceptable substitute. Check out our article on pickleball vs. tennis to see how the courts compare.
2. Use the Pickleball Court Finder App
Mobile apps offer another convenient way to find pickleball courts in your area. Our favorite app is USA Pickleball Places2Play. USA Pickleball, the official body of pickleball in the U.S., maintains the app, so its information is updated frequently and trustworthy. The search tool is powerful, giving you the ability to customize your search to focus on indoor or outdoor courts or to only show courts that allow you to play for free. If you prefer, you can enter a city or state to simply see all the registered courts.
Click the courts to see pictures and upload your own as you begin to explore the facilities in your area. The app even lets you check the weather with one tap. Best of all, it's free to download and use. A web-based version is also available.
3. Ask Around on and off the Court
With new courts opening all the time, there may be pickleball courts in your area that have yet to make it onto Google or pickleball court finder apps. That's why word of mouth is sometimes the best way to discover new places to play. If you arrive at a court to find it full, ask players if they know of another location. Call the YMCA, parks and rec centers to find out if they have or are planning to open a pickleball court.
Another idea is to contact USA Pickleball. The organization has ambassadors located in many regions. Connecting with one can give you the opportunity to find new courts and learn about clinics, tournaments and leagues in your area.
4. Connect with Other Players
Connecting with other players not only allows you to discover new courts but can also enable you to meet new opponents and partners for doubles pickleball. Some ways to meet players include:
- Attending a meetup: Use Meetup.com or public events listing pages to search for informal pickleball meetups in your area.
- Using social media: Join national and local Facebook pickleball groups. Check out r/pickleball on Reddit to meet other players, read pickleball stories and get tips and advice.
- Joining a league: Look for pickleball leagues in your area and sign up to play. Not only will you meet new people, but you'll also likely visit new courts.
- Taking lessons: Visit a clinic in your area to develop your skills, meet other players and discover courts.
5. Make Your Own Court
When all else fails, you can create your own pickleball court. Portable nets and lines are available on Amazon and other sites. Buy a kit and all you'll need is a flat, paved surface like a cul de sac, driveway or parking lot to set up. Even if you do find a pickleball court in your area, having a portable net at home can give you a chance to practice your skills.
If you prefer to build a pickleball court from scratch, here are key dimensions to help you:
- 44' ft long from baseline to baseline, each side is 22' long
- 20' wide from side to side, composed of two service boxes that are each 10' wide
- 7' no volley zone, called the kitchen, on either side of the net, making each service area 15' long
- Net is 34" high in the center and runs the entire width of the court
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