Jacksonville has officially caught pickleball fever, and we’re here to tell you the best places to play on the First Coast.
Pickleball, in case you didn’t know, is an addictively-entertaining blend of badminton, tennis and ping-pong that has recently taken the nation by storm. A large part of its appeal is that almost anyone can play, regardless of experience or physical prowess. The court is only a third the size of a tennis court and the game is slower paced than most other racquet sports, which makes it fun for people of all ages and fitness levels, this includes kids.
No wonder the game is becoming the fastest-growing sport in the USA, the numbers say it all. According to the 2022 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) Single Sport Participation Report on Pickleball, there are already 4.8 million pickleball players and 10,320 pickleball courts in America. In the last 5 years alone participation in pickleball has grown an average of 11.5% each year.
New pickleball courts and facilities are popping up all over the country and we’re delighted to say that Jacksonville has embraced pickleball’s meteoric rise. It’s easy to see why—with our mild climate and outstanding public spaces, pickleball is thriving in the city and suburbs.
Are you looking for somewhere to play pickleball in Jacksonville? Take your pick from a few of our favorite spots or browse all the pickleball courts in Jacksonville here.
Argyle Forest Park
Recently renovated, Argyle Forest Park now has the largest number of courts in Duval County. In addition to the 12 courts, there are also picnic tables, restrooms and a playground. The park is located in the Argyle East Village subdivision of southwest Jacksonville, just north of the Orange Park area.
Address: 8533 Acanthus Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32244
Ortega Life Center
The Ortega Life Center offers a multitude of sports & fitness options for people of all ages. Aside from sports like volleyball, soccer, and basketball, this has become a popular venue to play pickleball in Jacksonville. There are 3 indoor pickleball courts available. Social events are a regular feature here, including pickleball potluck evenings and blind draw tournaments once a month. The center also offers Friday evening pickleball sessions for all levels from 6:30pm to 8:00 pm. Take note that these sessions are limited to only 20 players, so if you’re interested make sure you reserve your spot ahead of time.
Address: 4807 Roosevelt Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32210
Boone Park
Another option in Jacksonville is at Boone Park in Avondale. There are two outdoor courts that are free to the public. The lines are permanent, but you have to bring your own net. There is access to flood lights for nighttime play. This scenic setting is a fantastic place to play pickleball. The well-maintained park, with a picturesque creek and tree-lined trails is a wonderfully serene venue. There’s also a fantastic playground, making it a perfect spot to take the kids for a day of fun activities!
Address: 3730 Park St, Jacksonville, FL 32205
Duval Pickleball at Toon Town
If you want to play pickleball in one of the coolest places in Jacksonville, then head over to Duval Pickleball at the Toon Town street market in Talleyrand. There are two courts available here with permanent nets and lines. There’s also an awesome pizzeria in the same building. Reservations are not available at this facility.
Address: 444 Talleyrand Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Fort Family Park
Fort Family Park has four courts available to the public, for free, from 8am to 8pm. These are dedicated courts with permanent nets and lines, so all you have to do is reserve your spot and get playing. As these courts get busy, it’s best to book a spot in advance. The courts are outdoor, with flood lights.
Address: 8000 Baymeadows Rd E, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Walter Anderson Memorial Park
The Walter Anderson Memorial Park has a wide range of sporting facilities, including six outdoor courts. These courts have permanent lines and nets as well as flood lights. There are also public restrooms available. It’s free to play, with the possibility of reserving a court.
Address: 2780-2818 Orange Picker Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32223
Join the Fun
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport today, and it’s easy to see why. It’s not only addictively fun, it also packs a whole lot of health benefits. Since pickleball is less strenuous than other racquet sports it’s accessible for people of all ages. Studies have shown that seniors playing pickleball at least three times per week for one hour every time felt enhanced blood pressure.
Not only that, but pickleball players who took part in the study showed increased cognitive function, more active social lives and better moods!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s play, Jacksonville!
