Dubbed the fastest-growing sport in America by NPR in 2022, the paddle sport that combines tennis, badminton and ping-pong continues to gain attraction in Austin. To soak up the last bit of summer and feed into the pickleball frenzy, The Daily Texan compiled a list of courts to visit near campus.
Austin Parks and Recreation Department Pickleball
Austin holds over 15 sites of public pickleball courts across the city, free to use for anyone with a paddle and, with the exception of Austin Tennis Center, no reservation is needed. Westenfield Neighborhood Park (located at 2008 Enfield Rd.), Shipe Neighborhood Park (located at 4400 Avenue G) and Hancock Recreation Center (located at 811 E 41st St.) are the closest places to UT with a seven-minute or under drive. Westenfield and Shipe host open play seven days a week from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. while Hancock’s hours vary day-to-day.
Austin Pickle Ranch – Braker Lane – 11000 Middle Fiskville Rd. (10 minutes)
Home to 16 sets of indoor courts and just under 10 minutes from campus, Austin Pickle Ranch sets the bar. This court offers clinics and lessons for first-time players, and for those seeking a competitive open play, “Ranch Play” stands as their version of a drop-in league. With no partner needed, regular open play offers an opportunity to play with other Austinites with different skill levels, ages and styles.
Austin Tennis Center – 7800 Johnny Morris Rd. (13 minutes)
Austin Tennis Center remains the largest public tennis and pickleball center in Austin. With eight lighted pickleball courts, players don’t need to stop when the sun sets. If new to the sport, students may learn the game from experienced and certified teaching pros only thirteen minutes from campus. Players can learn to step out of their comfort zone and onto the court with this lively sport.
The Pitch – 13000 Harris Ridge Blvd. (14 minutes)
The Pitch offers quality equipment and a vibrant atmosphere. After a game of pickleball, grab a bite to eat – whether street tacos or burgers – at one of its four restaurants. Within 14 minutes from UT, The Pitch hosts events from live music to movie nights for players to enjoy after a hot day on the court.
Little Zilker Neighborhood Park – 1900 Bluebonnet Ln. (16 minutes)
Little Zilker Neighborhood Park contains two first-come, first-served outdoor courts that are shared with tennis courts. While payers may need to provide a net, this pickleball location doubles as a picnic outing with tables nearby. Though the 16-minute travel proves the lengthiest, the sunset at this park compensates for the drive.
UT Recreational Sports Facilities
According to the UT RecSports website, “Pickleball on the Forty” provides students and RecSports members the opportunity to reserve courts at two locations: Caven-Clark Courts and Whitaker Courts. Located between Caven-Clark Field and Brazos Garage, Caven-Clark contains four new pickleball courts and Whitaker, located at 51st Street and Guadalupe Street, contains 18. If up to the challenge, students may also join an intramural sports league and compete for an intramural championship.
