Where to Play Pickleball in Chicago? Ultimate Playing Guide
Pickleball in Chicago is more than just a sport; it’s a thriving community of enthusiasts coming together for fun and fitness. If you’re wondering, “Where to play pickleball in Chicago?” you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the Windy City‘s top pickleball destinations, showcasing the best courts, clubs, and venues for players of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, Chicago offers a vibrant pickleball scene that’s waiting for you to join in on the action.
Get ready to explore the ideal places to enjoy this exciting sport and connect with fellow pickleball aficionados in the heart of Chicago.
From parks with free courts to gyms with pro lessons, I’ve got all the insider information you need. Read on to become a pickleball pro in Chicago!
Best Place to Play Pickleball in Chicago
Maggie Daley Park
Hands down, one of the best spots for pickleball in Chicago is Maggie Daley Park. This downtown park has six high-quality outdoor pickleball courts open daily. Courts are first come, first served, and it’s free to play if you bring your own paddle and balls. You can also borrow equipment onsite.
The courts are right by the epic Maggie Daley Park rock climbing walls and skating ribbon. So you get amazing city views while playing! Hit up Maggie Daley for competitive pickup games in a prime location.
Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 312-552-3000
Website: maggiedaleypark.com
“I love playing pickleball outside with the Chicago skyline in view!”
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Where to Play Pickleball Indoors in Chicago
When the weather turns cold or wet, head indoors to these stellar indoor pickleball facilities:
XL Sports World
XL Sports World in Chicago Heights is one of the top indoor pickleball places in the whole Chicagoland area. They have eight indoor courts ready for pickleball action, from beginner to advanced. You can reserve courts online for $28 per hour.
XL Sports World also offers weekly clinics, lessons, tournaments, and more. Their pro shop sells top-quality paddles, balls, shoes, and other essential gear. This is an amazing indoor pickleball facility.
Address: 16630 S Rte 59, Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Phone: 708-755-GYM1
Website: xlsportsworld.com
Lifetime Athletic Clubs
Lifetime Athletic clubs in Schaumburg, Warrenville, Algonquin, and Vernon Hills have indoor pickleball courts and programming. You need to be a member to play or take lessons. Memberships start at around $59 per month. You can reserve courts online as a member too.
Locations: Various clubs in Chicagoland suburbs
Phone: (847) 969-5300
Website: lifetime.life/chicago
Buffalo Grove Fitness Center
The fitness center in Buffalo Grove has two indoor pickleball courts available for members to use. They offer lessons, competitive leagues, tournaments, and open play times. Nice community of players here.
Address: 330 Commerce Dr, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Phone: (847) 913-9200
Website: bgfitnesscenter.com
“Indoor pickleball is great when the weather is frightful outside!”
Where to Play Pickleball in Chicago for Free
If you’re looking for low-cost or free pickleball, these spots offer outdoor courts to use for cheap or nothing:
Wilson Park
Chicago’s Wilson Park in Uptown has two outdoor pickleball courts that see a lot of pickup games. It’s free to play if you bring your own paddle and balls. The courts are small but fun for casual play.
Address: 4630 N Clifton Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (773) 262-6626
Lincolnwood Community Center
The community center in Lincolnwood has two outdoor pickleball courts that are free for residents in the summer. Non-residents can buy a daily pass. Nice amenity for North Shore players on a budget.
Address: 6900 N Lincoln Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Phone: (847) 677-9740
Apartment and Condo Complexes
Some apartments and condos, like 400 Grove in Glenview, The New Eastside in Chicago, and others, have outdoor pickleball courts for their residents to use for free.
“I love playing pickleball for free at my apartment’s court!”
Where can I learn pickleball in Chicago?
Want to quickly improve your pickleball skills? Take some lessons! Here are top spots for pickleball instruction in Chicago:
XL Sports World
XL Sports World offers private and group pickleball lessons for all levels. Rates are very reasonable at just $30–60 per hour per long session. Their coaches are fantastic.
Address: 16630 S Rte 59, Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Phone: 708-755-4200
Lifetime Athletic Clubs
The lifetime clubs around Chicagoland offer private and small group pickleball lessons for members. Non-members can also take lessons for a daily guest fee.
Locations: Various clubs in suburbs
Website: lifetime.life/chicago-lessons
Master the Game Chicago
This club affiliated with Master the Game offers top-notch private and group pickleball instruction across Chicago. Rates start at $68 per hour.
Phone: (312) 762-5608
Website: mtgchicago.com
“Taking lessons really levelled up my pickleball skills quickly.”
Chicago Pickleball Meetup Groups
Joining a pickleball meetup group is a great way to find regular games, tournaments, and new friends. Here are some top groups:
Search Meetup for more Chicago area clubs. It’s free to join most groups!
“I’ve met so many cool people through pickleball meetup groups.”
Indoor Pickleball Courts in Chicago Suburbs
In addition to the prime indoor pickleball facilities in the city, there are some great options in the northern and western suburbs, including:
- Courtside Racquet & Fitness Club in Elk Grove Village
- XSport Fitness clubs in Skokie, Schaumburg, and St. Charles
- Downers Grove Park District Rec Center
- Elmhurst Pickleball at The Abbey Senior Center
- Premier Fitness Club in Algonquin
Check your nearby suburban park districts, rec centers, and health clubs for indoor pickleball options too.
“Having good indoor pickleball courts near me in the suburbs is really convenient.”
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Chicago Area Pickleball Teams and Tournaments
For some friendly competition, join a Chicago pickleball team or play in a tournament!
Teams
- XL Sports World Leagues: All levels
- Windy City Outdoor Pickleball men’s and women’s Teams: Advanced players
- The Glen Adult Center 60+ team: seniors
Tournaments
- Maggie Daley Park outdoor tournaments
- Premier Athletic Club indoor tournaments
- Buffalo Grove Fitness Center skills tournaments
- XL Sports World Cup challenges
“Playing pickleball tournaments is so much fun; I love the competitive vibe!”
Gear Up for Pickleball in Chicago
You just need a few key items to get started with pickleball:
- Paddle: Good beginner paddles cost $50–100. Many places let you borrow paddles too.
- Balls: Indoor and outdoor balls are different. Usually $2–3 per ball.
- Court Shoes: Cross trainers, running shoes, or tennis shoes are best.
- Athletic Wear: stretchy, sweat-wicking clothes like t-shirts, shorts, leggings, etc.
- Water Bottle: Hydration!
Now get out and play!
Alright, you’ve got all the inside scoop on the best pickleball places and resources in Chicago and the suburbs. Now it’s time to grab your paddle and balls and hit the courts! I guarantee that once you start playing this addicting sport regularly, you’ll be obsessed with pickleball. See you out on the courts!
Let me know your favourite Chicago pickleball spots or tips in the comments!
FAQS
How many pickleball courts are in Chicago?
Chicago boasts a total of 43 pickleball courts, with 24 of them being indoors. You can easily find the indoor courts by searching for “indoor pickleball courts” on Pickleheads. Additionally, there are 23 outdoor pickleball courts in the city.
Where do most people play pickleball?
New York takes the top spot, excelling in every category. The city is home to an impressive 75 pickleball facilities and 279 courts, leading the way in both categories.
Where is pickleball most popular in the US?
Florida is the most popular state for pickleball.
Why do people love pickleball?
Engaging in pickleball enables you to enhance your balance, agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination without subjecting your body to excessive strain.
