Move over tennis, pickleball is the new 'it' sport. Here's where to play in metro Phoenix
You’ve heard of soccer, basketball, football and baseball. But the sport that is taking the nation by storm is no other than pickleball.
The sport combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis and it's typically played with two or four players on a court that's smaller than a tennis court. Pickleball grew in popularity due it being accessible to people of various ages and skill levels. Here in Arizona, you can find indoor and outdoor courts, different leagues and even tournaments where pickleball pros battle it out.
Here are four awesome pickleball venues avid fans and aspiring pickleballers should check out.
Ultimate guide to pickleball: Here's everything you need to know to get started in Phoenix
Chicken N Pickle
The newest addition to the Westgate Entertainment District brings together rotisserie chicken and pickleball in Glendale. Chicken N Pickle opened in August and is already drawing crowds to its five indoor and six outdoor courts, multiple bars and restaurant serving a vast menu on which chicken is king.
Details: 9330 W. Hanna Lane, Glendale. 623-352-8950, chickennpickle.com.
Pickleball Kingdom
If you want somewhere you can play pickleball regularly, Pickleball Kingdom is the spot thanks to 15 indoor courts, ball feeder machines, locker rooms with showers, a mezzanine viewing area and a snack bar. You can join tournaments, leagues and they offer daily drop-in games.
Details: 4950 W. Ray Road, Chandler. 480-818-9980, pickleballkingdom.com.
Pickleball Backyard
This 15,000-square-foot pickleball destination features six indoor courts and classes for beginners of all ages. Got a competitive spirit? Pickleball Backyard also hosts various tournaments such as men’s doubles, women’s doubles and singles matches. Pickleball Backyard also offers options for pickleball parties and events.
Details: 868 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert. 480-803-4431, pickleballbackyard.com.
The Orchard Indoor Pickleball Club
Calling all pickleball pros! The Orchard is a premier indoor venue for pickleball events with two pickleball courts, a bar and lots of seating areas to watch the competition go down. The Orchard is also home of the Arizona pickleball league of pro pickleballers. Anyone can participate in competitions and anyone can watch.
Details: 9035 E. Pima Center Parkway Suite #16, Scottsdale. 480-433-9187, jigsawhealth.com.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Best places to play pickleball in metro Phoenix for newbies and pros
