The Ultimate Guide to Indoor Pickleball in NYC (Winter 2026)
Last updated: December 2025
When the temperature drops below 40°F and the wind whips off the Hudson, the outdoor courts at Riverside and Pier 2 become ghost towns. But the game doesn't stop. New York City has seen a surge in indoor pickleball courts, ranging from luxury health clubs to converted warehouses in Queens. This guide shows you where to play this winter so you don't lose your touch.
1. CityPickle (Long Island City)
This is NYC's first dedicated pickleball club. Located in Long Island City (just one stop from Grand Central on the 7 train), it offers climate-controlled courts, a pro shop, and a full bar/restaurant. It’s the "country club" experience without the pretension.
- Vibe: Social, polished, and energetic.
- Booking: Open to the public (hourly rental).
2. Life Time (Sky & Penn 1)
If you want the ultimate luxury experience, Life Time is it. With locations at Sky (Hell's Kitchen) and Penn 1 (Midtown), they offer pristine indoor courts. However, there is a catch: you generally need a pricey monthly membership to access them.
- Best For: Serious players who want gym access + pickleball.
- Warning: Courts book up instantly when reservations open.
3. Sportime (Randall's Island)
Known for tennis (it hosts the John McEnroe Academy), Sportime has pivoted hard to pickleball. It is one of the largest facilities in the city. It’s a bit of a trek without a car, but they offer a shuttle from Manhattan.
- Space: Massive bubble structure with plenty of room around the courts (a rarity in NYC).
4. Court 16 (Brooklyn & Manhattan)
Originally a tennis club for kids, Court 16 has embraced pickleball at its locations in Downtown Brooklyn, Long Island City, and FiDi. The surface is a unique cushioned tile that is easy on the knees—perfect for a long winter session.
5. The Budget Hack: NYC Rec Centers
You don't need to spend $80/hour. Many NYC Parks Recreation Centers (like the Gertrude Ederle Rec Center on W 60th St) offer indoor pickleball for the cost of a rec center membership (~$150/year).
Comparison: Where Should You Play?
| Venue | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| CityPickle | High (Hourly) | Groups & Social Events |
| Life Time | Membership | Daily play & Gym users |
| Sportime | Medium/High | Leagues & Tournaments |
| Rec Centers | Low (Yearly) | Budget & Drop-in |
Winter Training Strategy
Indoor courts in NYC are expensive. If you are paying for court time, don't waste it just hitting the ball aimlessly. Winter is the perfect time to fix your mechanics.
Our coaches can meet you at many of these facilities (or your building's amenity court) to turn that expensive hour into a game-changing training session.