9 best places to play pickleball in Madison

Hop on the bandwagon and enjoy America’s latest sporty craze: pickleball! Here are the nine best places to play in Madison. 

Move over football — America has a favorite new sport. Pickleball has taken the US by storm and remains one of the fastest-growing sports. In fact, pickleball has seen an impressive 223.5% increase since 2021. But what’s all the fuss about? Why do people love to play pickleball so much?

Even though pickleball has been around since the ‘60s, many attribute the growing love for the game to a few things — it’s perfect for everyone (regardless of age or ability), it’s a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, and it’s a great (and easy) way to get out and about. Not to mention, it’s a relatively low-stakes way to get movement in while having fun (who doesn’t love exercise that isn’t exacerbating?).

So whether you’re already an avid fan or want to try out this sport that’s become a “big dill” (see what we did there?) for players of all ages, explore these nine places to play pickleball in Madison and what each location includes. 

Garner (Harrison) Park

333 S Rosa Road

Garner (Harrison) Park has everything you need to get your pickleball game on. This park features six outdoor, asphalt permanent courts that are free to the public. Did you know that most pickleball courts are double-lined and also used as tennis courts? Garner Park is the only public park in Madison with dedicated pickleball-only courts. There are also restrooms and water available on-site. 

Walnut Grove Park

202 N Westfield Road

The courts at Walnut Grove Park are some of the most popular places to play pickleball in Madison. The park offers two courts with pickleball lines laid over tennis lines, and the net is slightly taller than a regular pickleball net. Access to the park is free for everyone and includes a water station and restrooms.

Heritage Heights Park

701 Meadowlark Drive

Make it a pickleball and picnic afternoon at Heritage Heights Park on Madison’s east side. There are two outdoor courts available for pickleball (reservations are recommended). Additionally, pavilions are available when you want to take a break, plus a playground for the littles, but be aware there aren’t restrooms available on-site.

Reindahl (Amund) Park

1818 Portage Road

Visit Reindahl (Amund) Park to play pickleball and enjoy even more. Get your game going on one of eight outdoor courts that are lined and have permanent nets. Once you’ve wrapped up your games, consider visiting the splash pad at the park to cool off — restrooms and drinking water are also available on-site.

Tenney Park

1414 E Johnson Street

There’s a lot to see and do at Tenny Park, including playing pickleball on three outdoor asphalt courts. The courts are double-lined (as tennis courts), use permanent tennis nets, and are lighted in the evenings. While you’re there, check out the boat launch, the playground, and the gorgeous scenery compliments of Lake Mendota.

Elver Park

1250 McKenna Boulevard

Elver Park in Southwest Madison is home to three lined outdoor pickleball courts with permanent nets. But playing your favorite game isn’t all there is to do here. This park is also home to a splash pad (only available at three Madison locations) as well as an inclusive playground for kiddos of all abilities. 

Door Creek Park

7035 Littlemore Drive

Door Creek Park in Eastern Madison has everything you need for an enjoyable pickleball experience. In addition to the eight outdoor courts that are available, there’s also a playground, basketball court, and hiking trails. All amenities, including restrooms, are free of charge.

Olbrich Park

3527 Atwood Avenue

Check out four newly resurfaced (2023) dual pickleball/tennis courts at Olbrich Park. These outdoor courts have portable nets available for your game, and the rest of the park facilities include restrooms and a water station — all for free! While you’re there, you can also check out the Gaga Ball pit (BYOB), which (just like pickleball) has also been on the rise. 

Brittingham Park

829 West Washington Avenue

Last but not least on our list of places to play pickleball in Madison is Brittingham Park. This pickleball location is unique and free! Although it has four outdoor asphalt pickleball courts with permanent lines, remember to bring your own net. In addition to playgrounds and reservable shelters, you can find Brittingham Boats offering watercraft rentals and a small cafe for lunch or a sweet treat.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.