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Grab your paddles, pickeball fans, because the popular sport is back in Central Park all spring and summer long. CityPickle will open at the park's Wollman Rink as of April 4 through the early fall.
This is the third season for pickleball on 14 courts in the center of Manhattan—the largest pickleball offering in the Northeast. This tennis/ping-pong/badminton hybrid has become the country's fastest-growing sport, with more than 130,000 New Yorkers flocking to Wollman Rink's courts in past years. All skill levels are welcome for court rentals, clinics, open play, and private events from 8am to 9pm daily. Plus, expect summer camps, events, and special free programming.
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The 2025 pickleball season will kick off a month earlier than last year. Reservations will open on Friday, March 28, one week in advance of the opening day on Friday, April 4. Reservations will be available from 8am to 9pm daily. Courts can be reserved for up to eight players, starting at $10 per player during off-peak times and $15 per player during peak hours. Also keep an eye out for daily $5 community play sessions, which include paddle rentals.
People can play in many different ways, with group clinics, private coaching lessons, open play, and leagues to accommodate all schedules and experience levels. If you're new to the sport, don't worry. You don't need any existing knowledge of the game to have fun playing. Plus, lessons and clinics will be available at the Central Park location. Pickleball is also lauded for its inclusiveness, as it's accessible for many ages and physical capabilities. The game is played on a badminton-size court that requires a net, paddle, and wiffle ball. During a single or doubles match, opponents try to hit the ball over the net back and forth.
For children, CityPickle's summer camps are designed to get kids off screens and instead get them exercising and making friends. Full-day and half-day camps are available July 7 to August 15 at Wollman Rink with expert coaching.
On-site food and drink will be provided by Great Performances. Courtside cabanas are available to rent, and the venue also hosts birthday parties, family gatherings, and team building activities.
“Pickleball has grown in popularity because it's a social and accessible sport.”
“Pickleball has grown in popularity because it's a social and accessible sport—values Wollman Park Partners and CityPickle share,” Bret Pidgeon, general manager of Wollman Rink said in a press release. “Wollman Park Partners was founded on the mission of making Wollman Rink an outdoor destination year-round, and we hope everyone will join us in celebrating 75 years as one of the most captivating destinations in New York City.”
CityPickle at Wollman Rink is in partnership with Wollman Park Partners—a joint venture between Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Related Companies, and Equinox. To celebrate Wollman Rink’s 75th anniversary, the organizations will collaborate on special events throughout the season.