The Best Pickleball Courts in NYC: Where to Play in 2026 (Public & Private)
Last updated: December 2025
Playing pickleball in New York City is a contact sport—not on the court, but in the fight to get a court. With the explosion of the sport in 2025, finding open asphalt in Manhattan or Brooklyn can feel impossible. This guide cuts through the noise, listing the best pickleball courts in NYC, breaking down the confusing permit rules, and revealing where the locals actually play.
The "Big 3" Outdoor Destinations
If you want the quintessential NYC pickleball experience, these are the heavy hitters. Expect crowds, but also expect a scene.
1. Brooklyn Bridge Park (Pier 2)
The Scenic King. Located directly under the skyline, Pier 2 offers 5 dedicated pickleball courts. The surface is excellent, the breeze from the East River is refreshing, and the views are unbeatable.
- Cost: Free (Public).
- Official Site: Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 2
2. CityPickle (Wollman Rink / Hudson Yards)
The Premium Experience. In the summer, Wollman Rink in Central Park transforms into a massive pickleball venue run by CityPickle. It’s paid, reservable, and features cabanas and food. It is the safest bet if you need a guaranteed court time.
- Cost: Hourly Rental (High).
- Bookings: CityPickle Official Site
3. Riverside Park (West Side)
The Local's Favorite. Stretching along the Hudson, Riverside Park has several designated zones (notably near roughly 100th St). It has a strong community feel with a dedicated paddle-stacking culture.
- Permits: Often checked. See below.
- Info: NYC Parks - Riverside
The Indoor Survival Guide (Winter 2026)
NYC winters are brutal. When the temps drop, you need indoor options. The landscape is shifting fast with new clubs opening in Long Island City and Gowanus.
- Life Time (Sky & Penn 1): High-end luxury clubs with dedicated indoor courts. Requires membership. Life Time Pickleball.
- Sportime (Randall's Island): A massive facility that has pivoted heavily to pickleball. Great for leagues. Sportime Pickleball.
- Court 16 (Brooklyn/Queens): Originally for tennis, they now offer pickleball programming on specialized surfaces.
The NYC Parks Permit Reality
This is where beginners get tripped up. Most "public" tennis/pickleball courts in NYC technically require a permit to use, especially if you are organizing a lesson or a large group.
Get your NYC Parks Permit Here
Hudson River Park: The Sleeper Pick
Don't sleep on Hudson River Park (Pier 76). It often has pop-up courts and open play sessions that are less cutthroat than Pier 2. Check the Hudson River Park Trust website for seasonal schedules.
Don't Want to Fight for a Court?
The hardest part of playing in NYC isn't the game; it's the logistics. Finding a court, stacking paddles, and navigating permits can be a headache.
We make it simple. We send a vetted coach to your building's amenity court, or we handle the logistics at public courts so you just show up and play.