Once a niche backyard pastime, pickleball has exploded into the mainstream, becoming one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, this paddle sport has captivated players of all ages. Over the past few years, pickleball has seen a meteoric rise, with courts popping up in public parks, recreational centers, and even private clubs.
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), the number of pickleball players in the U.S. has more than doubled in the past five years, with millions picking up a paddle for the first time. What originally started as a popular sport for older people has since skyrocketed into a multi-generational game. You can play anywhere — in the driveway, the street, etc. — all you need is a net, ball, and paddles!
“It’s easy to play, fun, contagious, and addictive,” said Paul Olin, a professional pickleball player from Crownsville, MD, noting the variety of pickleball facilities around the area. “Many locations have beginner courses and lessons that are relatively inexpensive. The cost of court rentals and equipment, when compared to tennis, is much less expensive; another contributing factor to its popularity.”
Some of the most notable leagues and locations are:
Ball at the Mall
Groups will need three to four members to play on the court, with the option of playing with the on-staff pickleball instructor! Drop-in play and classes for beginners, kids, and those looking to teach are also available. You can even reserve a court for personal use! Convenietly located at the Annapolis Mall, Ball at the Mall is open all week, with operating hours spanning from 9:00 am to 8:30 pm. As the weather warms up, stay tuned for outdoor events!
TGA of Greater Annapolis
TGA’s enrichment classes, camps, and clinics are designed to teach the fundamentals of pickleball in a fun and supportive environment. Kids can enjoy engaging pickleball programs for youth, combining skill development with life lessons. TGA provides all necessary equipment and welcomes players of
all skill levels to progress at their own pace.
The PutAway
Nestled just off I-97, this location is open to members and non-members alike. Offering leagues, open play, clinics, and lessons, The Putaway has it all. Open 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, the facility holds seven fully fenced, tournament-grade courts along with three outdoor courts. Individual memberships are $50 a month, with family memberships (four people) costing $145 a month. Teachers, law enforcement officers, and first responders are eligible for a 10% discount on membership dues.
Peake Social
One of Annapolis’ most popular adult sports leagues, Peake Social provides a charitable reason to hop on the pickleball court. With leagues during every season, the profit from each player’s registration fee will go to the winning team’s choice of charity for a donation! With novice to experienced leagues, the average cost per person ranges from $45 to $60 for the two to four-month leagues. Games take place at The Putaway in Millersville or Ball at the Mall in Annapolis.
Life Time Fitness Annapolis
In October 2024, Life Time in Annapolis opened a 46,000-square-foot pickleball expansion, taking over the former Bed, Bath and Beyond. With 11 pickleball courts, players have the opportunity to explore classes, leagues, lessons, and a pickleball pro shop. You must be a Life Time member to make court reservations or partake in leagues. Memberships not only include access to pickleball, but the state-of-the-art gym, personal training, classes, pool, childcare, and more. Fees start at $199 a month for an individual membership.
PickleRage – Open seven days a week from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, this Glen Burnie facility offers multiple courts for classes and leagues. Membership fees run anywhere from $59 to $129 for an individual and $109 to $309 for a family. Memberships do not include fees for leagues but do give a discount. Members can reserve courts up to 14 days in advance.
Pip Moyer Recreation Center
Annapolis’ Play Pickleball at Pip Moyer holds six indoor courts and is the most affordable on this list. With a one-time fee of $8 for city residents and $10 for nonresidents, open play is available for all, with individual lessons offered for an additional cost.
Rates are subject to change. Please contact the businesses mentioned for current pricing.
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