Pickleball – the sport with the funny name that has been sweeping the nation – was first played in 1965. The approachable pastime combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, with participants playing singles or doubles. The list of Valley venues to play at is growing along with the popularity of the sport. If you’re interested in giving it a go, check out these five places with pickleball courts.
G.R. Herberger Park
This outdoor park is a great place to gather with friends and pop into a few games of pickleball. You don’t need a membership, as this is a public park. 5802 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 602-262-6696, phoenix.gov/parks
FLC Fitness
Family Life Center is a church that boasts six indoor pickleball courts. Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., you can play at this air-conditioned venue. FLC does require a membership, but it offers pickleball-specific versions that are less expensive than general memberships. 5757 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, flcfit.com
Valley Presbyterian Church
This location is another indoor, air-conditioned venue – because playing outside is a bit much in this heat. VPC is free and open to everyone. There are three pickleball courts, and games take place most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. You can join a mailing list to get updates. 6947 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley, vpc.church
Paradise Valley Community Center
Paradise Valley Community Center has four indoor courts that are open to pickleball players on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-8:45 p.m. 17402 N. 40th St., Phoenix, phoenix.gov/parks
Washington Activity Center
Washington offers pickleball on the weekends for those who cannot play during the week. Four courts are available on Wednesdays from 6-8:45 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 2240 W. Citrus Way, Phoenix, phoenix.gov/parks
Check out the Places 2 Play app to find more courts around the Valley and also nationwide!
