Pickle N Pins Opens in Metairie: Drew Brees, former New Orleans Saints quarterback, has expanded his business ventures with the grand opening of Pickle N Pins, a new pickleball and entertainment venue located in Metairie. After a soft launch last week, the venue opened to the public on Wednesday, with Drew Brees himself in town to mark the occasion. Co-owned by Drew Brees and Darren Balsamo, Pickle N Pins is set to offer a variety of activities for guests beyond pickleball, the rapidly growing sport that has captured the country’s attention.
A Unique Blend of Sports and Games
Pickle N Pins isn’t just about pickleball. This pickleball facility introduces a variety of recreational games, including duckpin bowling, padel, krazy darts, axe throwing, and outdoor yard games such as cornhole and ping pong.
The space is designed to accommodate a range of interests and energy levels. Duckpin bowling, described by business partner Pete Dudchenko as a simpler version of regular bowling, features smaller pins, shorter lanes, and a less challenging setup, making it ideal for casual play.
“It doesn’t require a lot of skills to start out.” – (Pete Dudchenko)
Padel, another sport on offer, is quickly gaining popularity outside the U.S. It combines elements of tennis and racquetball, with fast-paced rallies and a unique twist—the ball bounces off a wall during play. This pickleball venue will also offer instructors to teach newcomers any of these games, along with open-play sessions where beginners can join and learn together.
An Interactive Twist on Traditional Games
For those seeking a different experience, the axe-throwing and dart boards come with a high-tech upgrade. Projected images on the boards allow for more interactive games, such as playing tic-tac-toe with axes or aiming darts at moving balloons. This technology adds an engaging, dynamic element to classic activities, making them more exciting for guests of all ages.
The 38,000-square-foot pickleball facility is entirely indoors, with a spacious outdoor area decked out in string lights, featuring additional yard games like washers and foosball. The variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether they’re looking to break a sweat or relax with friends.
“there are different things that you can do depending on how fast you want your heart rate to get.” – (Pete Dudchenko)
Food, Drinks, and Entertainment Await
Pickle N Pins is more than just a sports venue. With a full bar and restaurant, it also offers a social experience, complete with a giant TV screen for watching Saints games and a stage for live entertainment.
The menu includes popular game-day foods such as nachos, mozzarella sticks, sliders, and pizza, as well as healthier options like salads. In an effort to appeal to the nightlife crowd, the facility is restricted to guests aged 21 and up after 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Pickleball courts and padel courts can be reserved in advance, with ball and paddle rentals available. Membership options are also offered for frequent visitors. As part of the grand opening celebration, guests could enjoy free play on the pickleball courts from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesday.
Drew Brees, alongside his business partner Darren Balsamo, who co-owns Surge Entertainment Centers & Adventure Parks, is no stranger to the entertainment industry. Surge has locations along the East Coast and in various cities across Louisiana, and the Metairie site is set to add a Surge Entertainment center next door in the near future.
Drew Brees’ involvement with Pickle N Pins is just one highlight of his week in New Orleans. On Thursday, he will be inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame, marking yet another achievement in his storied career.
News in Brief: Pickle N Pins Opens in Metairie
Drew Brees’ new pickleball venue, Pickle N Pins, officially opened to the public in Metairie on October 16, 2024. The 38,000-square-foot facility offers pickleball, duckpin bowling, padel, krazy darts, axe throwing, and yard games. It also features a bar, restaurant, and live entertainment.
This pickleball venue caters to a wide range of ages and interests, with 21+ access on weekend nights. Courts for pickleball and padel can be reserved in advance, and prices vary by activity. Drew Brees will also be inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame this week.
ALSO READ: 1st Komodo Pickleball Open in Grand Junction Draws International Pickleball Players
