The new concept of pickleball courts finding their place in and around vacant shopping malls looks set to continue with further developments announced in Colorado and Maryland.
Colorado’s Largest Indoor Pickleball Complex
A colossal 35,000-square-foot indoor pickleball complex is set to open its doors this fall in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Tucked within the former Lucky’s Market location at West 38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard, the soon-to-be 3rd Shot Pickleball facility is undergoing a transformation.
Thirteen Courts, Lounge And Bar Area
Reuters reports that plans include an impressive lineup of 13 courts along with a cozy lounge and a well-equipped bar.
The complex aims to become a haven and hub for pickleball enthusiasts of all stripes, offering drop-in play, a range of classes, and thrilling tournaments tailored to various age groups and skill levels.
Co-founder Adam Kahn shed some light on the project, stating, “It’s much harder to find a space for pickleball than you might think.”
The unique requirements of the game found a perfect match in the former Lucky’s building, thanks to its ample space and 25-foot-high ceilings.
Mark your calendars! The complex is set to welcome its first players on October 1.
Camp Pickle’s Grand Vision
If you thought 3rd Shot Pickleball was impressive, brace yourself for Camp Pickle! We featured this new development in an article back in May.
The future 70,000-square-foot pickleball paradise, destined to be built in the municipality of Centennial, Colorado, in 2024, is nothing short of extraordinary.
Camp Pickle plans to encompass 14 indoor and outdoor courts. A restaurant and bar will ensure that players can refuel during their downtime.
Kansas City-based Chicken N Pickle is also joining the pickleball revolution, with plans to introduce two venues in Parker and Thornton next year.
Coming in 2024: Camp Pickle 🏢
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) September 21, 2022
➖ 55,000+ sq. ft.
➖ Indoor, outdoor courts
➖ Scratch kitchens
➖ Duckpin bowling, darts
➖ 1940s rustic “summer camp vibe”
The first locations are planned for Huntsville, AL and Denver, CO. pic.twitter.com/cUpXBD0iWr
Pickleball Courts Open At Westfield Annapolis Mall
Pickleball’s charm continues to spread; this time, it’s taken over what were once parking spaces at the Westfield Annapolis Mall.
Field Of Dreams
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official opening of these courts, celebrated with a lively tournament involving local businesses. Mark Kleinschmidt Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce president alluded to the movie Field Of Dreams, in his introduction of the new project.
“If you build it, they will come”, he said.
Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley also applauded the innovative use of space, expressing his gratitude for the brilliant idea.
Innovative Use Of Space
Co-founders Jeremiah Batucan and Stephy Samaras, both natives of Annapolis, orchestrated the project, creating eight stunning pickleball courts within the mall’s premises.
Reflecting on their journey, Batucan said: “There’s already a space here that’s nice and flat, it has great parking, it has great visibility.”
CBS News released a great video clip which really shows how perfect the site is.
Breathed New Life
Their venture wasn’t just about the game; it aimed to revitalize the mall, embracing the concept of experiential spaces. With pickleball’s accessibility and sociability, Ball at the Mall has breathed new life into the Westfield Annapolis Mall, proving that connecting through play remains an enduring treasure.
For those eager to book a court or learn more about this innovative endeavor, visit ballatthemall.com for your first step toward experiencing this unique pickleball attraction.
