Central Park’s New Pickleball Craze: Pickleball season is back in New York City as 14 new courts open today at Central Park’s Wollman Rink. Starting with a ceremony at 1:40 p.m., the courts will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. through the fall.
To mark the opening, CityPickle is offering $5 community play from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday. The sport, which blends tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has rapidly grown in popularity across the U.S.
This is the third summer that Wollman Rink has hosted pickleball courts. According to organizers, 130,000 people have visited the courts since their debut two years ago.
How to Reserve a Court
Players can book court time online. Prices vary by time of day. One-hour sessions cost $120 during peak hours and $80 during off-peak hours.
CityPickle also offers some $5 community play slots. However, these low-cost options are currently sold out for the upcoming week.
Other Pickleball Programs Available
CityPickle is also hosting $20 community clinics, summer camps for kids, private event bookings, and league play. Coaching is available at Wollman Rink and CityPickle’s Long Island City location.
Wollman Rink is located between East 62nd and East 64th streets off Fifth Avenue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The closest subway stop is 5th Ave.-59th St. on the N, R, and W lines.
Why This Matters
The return of pickleball to Central Park brings more outdoor fun for New Yorkers. With its low barrier to entry and social atmosphere, the sport appeals to a wide range of players. CityPickle’s programming continues to make the game accessible to newcomers and experienced players.
News in Brief: Central Park’s New Pickleball Craze
Pickleball returns to Central Park’s Wollman Rink today with 14 courts now open daily. CityPickle kicks off the season with $5 community play. Court reservations start at $80 per hour. Clinics, camps, and league play are also available. This marks the third season of pickleball at the rink.
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