New York City, a bustling metropolis renowned for its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and vibrant communities, is also becoming a hotspot for one of the fastest growing sports in the country – pickleball.
With its popularity soaring, both longtime enthusiasts and newcomers are on the lookout for the best spots to play.
Ryan Van Winkle
Here’s a guide to the top 10 places to engage in pickleball across the five boroughs, catering to a variety of preferences from public accessibility to community vibes.
Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 2, Brooklyn
Location: 150 Furman St.
Access: Public
Courts Available: 4 outdoor courts
Lighting: Yes
Community Vibe: A mix of competitive and casual play, with a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers
Facilities: Wheelchair accessible, food, restrooms, locker rooms and water
Join open play at Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 2
Hudson River Park Interim Pickleball Courts
Location: 12 W 33rd St.
Access: Public
Courts Available: 4 outdoor courts
Lighting: Yes
Community Vibe: Family friendly with a strong sense of community
Facilities: Restrooms
Join open play at Hudson River Park Interim Pickleball Courts
Leif Ericson Park
Location: 66th St & 8th Ave Kings County
Access: Public
Courts Available: 4 outdoor courts
Lighting: No
Community Vibe: Diverse, with a range of skill levels from beginner to advanced
Facilities: Restrooms
Join open play at Leif Ericson Park
Riverside Park
Location: Riverside Drive and, W 110th St.
Access: Public
Courts Available: 5 outdoor courts
Lighting: No
Community Vibe: Young and energetic, with frequent casual tournaments
Facilities: Restrooms and water
Join open play at Riverside Park
Rockaway Beach, Queens
Location: Beach 102nd St & Shore Front Pkwy.
Access: Private (membership required)
Courts Available: Public
Lighting: No
Community Vibe: Mixed, catering to both competitive players and those looking for recreational play
Facilities: Restrooms
Join open play at Rockaway Beach
Westhampton Country Club, Westhampton
Location: 35 Pontuk Lane, Westhampton
Access: Private (membership required)
Courts Available: 2 outdoor courts
Lighting: No
Community Vibe: Young and energetic, with frequent casual tournaments
Join open play at Westhampton Country Club
Dodge YMCA, Brooklyn
Location: 225 Atlantic Avenue
Access: Private (membership required)
Courts Available: 4 indoor courts
Lighting: Yes
Community Vibe: Active and sports oriented
Facilities: Locker rooms, restrooms, water, lights, training
Dr Gertrude B Kelly Playground
Location: 317 W 16th St.
Access: Public
Courts Available: 2 outdoor
Lighting: Yes
Community Vibe: Family oriented, with a strong beginner and intermediate presence
Facilities: Lights
Join open play at Dr Gertrude B Kelly Playground
Chelsea Recreation Center
Location: 430 W 25th St.
Access: Private (membership required)
Courts Available: 2 indoor courts
Lighting: Yes
Community Vibe: Welcoming to all skill levels, with a good mix of competitive and social play
Facilities: Restrooms and locker rooms
Join open play at Chelsea Recreation Center
Highbridge Recreation Center
Location: 2301 Amsterdam Ave
Access: Private (membership required)
Courts Available: 2 indoor courts
Lighting: Yes
Community Vibe: High Energy and competitive
Facilities: Locker rooms, restrooms, water and lights
Join open play at Highbridge Recreation Center
New York City's pickleball scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From the scenic riverside courts in Fort Washington Park to the competitive indoor facilities in the Bronx, there's something for every pickleball enthusiast in the Big Apple.
Whether you're looking to play casually with friends or compete in high stakes tournaments, these top 10 locations offer the best the city has to offer.
Don't forget to check out each location's website or call ahead for the most current information on court availability and open play schedules. Here's to great games and new friendships on the pickleball courts of New York City.
