Wheaton Picklr Facility: A new Picklr pickleball facility is set to open in Wheaton by July 1 and is requesting a liquor license to sell beer, wine, and spirits. The Wheaton Liquor Commission will review the request on Thursday, as franchisee John Williams seeks to add alcohol sales to enhance the experience for members and guests.
14-Court Indoor Facility Coming to Rice Lake Square
The new Wheaton Picklr is taking over the former Stein Mart department store at 191 Rice Lake Square. Construction on the 40,000-square-foot facility began last week, and workers are already on-site preparing for the opening. The facility will feature 14 indoor pickleball courts, offering a premier playing experience for members.
“It’s just a charming little town. The folks I’ve met out there embraced the idea. Everybody has been a pleasure to deal with. We’re not used to that being in the Philly area. We’re used to pushing the rock uphill.” – (Williams)
Liquor License Request and Responsible Service
Williams has applied for a Class Z liquor license, which allows beer and wine sales to members and their guests. In addition, he is seeking an exemption to also offer spirits at the facility.
The Class Z license was first introduced in 2023 for another local pickleball facility, Pickled!, and city records show there have been no incidents related to alcohol at that location. A city memo confirmed that all Picklr employees will undergo responsible alcohol training upon hiring.
More Than Just Pickleball
Beyond the courts, Wheaton Picklr will offer:
- Locker rooms
- Youth programming
- Pickleball equipment
- Lessons
- Wheelchair accessibility
Food options will include grab-and-go meals and food trucks during tournaments and corporate events. This facility is one of seven Picklr locations planned for the Chicago metro area, including Kildeer and St. Charles.
News in Brief: Wheaton Picklr Facility
The Wheaton Picklr pickleball facility, opening by July 1, is requesting a liquor license to serve beer, wine, and spirits. The 40,000-square-foot venue will feature 14 indoor courts, locker rooms, and youth programming. The liquor commission will review the request Thursday. Membership is required to play.
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