Pickleball has been having a moment as one of the fastest growing sports in America. As the official sport of the State of Washington, pickleball's origins can be traced back to the year 1965, when a group of friends came up with the game on Bainbridge Island, located just 20 miles west of Bellevue. Their rules are still used today by the USA Pickleball Association, and with rumors of it being inducted into The Olympic Games, it's really time to brush up on your serves and smashes. There are plenty of places to pick up a game of pickleball in Bellevue, where you'll meet and mingle with the sport's local picklers. Here's where to go.
BELLEVUE CLUB HOTEL
The Bellevue Club Hotel is a premier boutique hotel with 66 luxurious rooms and suites for guests, along with a 200,000 square foot world-class Athletic Club that is open to the exclusive member list and guests of the hotel.
Book a stay and you'll be able to access the 2 indoors and 2 outdoors pickleball courts. If you want to really perfect your swing, serve, and game, book a private class with one of the trainers on the property before you arrive in Bellevue for your Pickleball getaway.
ENATAI NEIGHBORHOOD PARK
Enjoy the naturalized landscape and varied topography at Enatai Neighborhood Park, home to four outdoor tennis and sport courts that are often used as pickleball courts. Experience the perfect blend of competition and leisure here as you challenge your buddies or new friends for some competitive zest and camaraderie on the courts.
HILLAIRE PARK
On the east side of town, Hillaire Park is a quaint little park located in the Crossroads neighborhood area. Serving tennis, pickleball, baseball, and a playground, this park has its own dedicated pickleball court and two tennis court for picklers to enjoy. Afterwards head to Crossroads Bellevue for some Korean Kimbap at Brunsik, delicious local burgers at Dick's or pizza and pasta at Tutta Bella.
CROSSROADS PARK
There are two outdoor courts used for pickleball at Crossroads Park, which spans over 34 acres. There's also a horse shoe pit, a skate bowl, a par-3 golf course, picnic and play areas, and jogging paths. Located in one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in Bellevue, you'll hear dozens of languages being spoken, unified by play and recreation.
ZUMDIECK PARK
Small and cozy, Zumdieck Park is located in a quiet and relaxing part of town, almost as if it is buried in the woods. There's a little picnic area, a playground, a short trail, restrooms, and two tennis courts. One of the courts is lined for pickleball using the tennis net. It's a short jaunt from the downtown core, and a quick walk to the Redd Dogg for self serve beers on tap and brewery grub.
HIDDEN VALLEY FIELD HOUSE
Hidden Valley Park in Bellevue is a 17.31 acre park with 3 pickleball courts inside the Hidden Valley Field House. The park also features 3 softball fields, play and picnic areas, tennis courts, and much more. You can find drop-in pickleball classes for 2-hour sessions here, and you'll need to bring your own paddle and balls.
NORTH BELLEVUE COMMUNITY CENTER
The North Bellevue Community Center hosts pickleball on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays every week for the 2024 schedule. During opening hours, the Billiards Room, Coffee Bar, and Library are available for the public when they are not being used for programs.
SOUTH BELLEVUE COMMUNITY CENTER
In south Bellevue, there is a 2,500-square-foot fitness center at the South Bellevue Community Center. Picklers can enjoy drop-in classes for $5, you just need to bring your own paddles and balls.
CROSSROADS COMMUNITY CENTER
Find drop-in pickleball classes at the Crossroads Community Center in their two indoor courts on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Here, you'll find a range of recreational activities. Be sure to check the drop-in schedule to plan your visit. No reservations required here - it's a first come, first serve kind of spot.
Eastside Pickleball Group
Want to meet the local picklers around Bellevue? The Seattle Eastside Pickleball Facebook Group is a wonderful resource for pick-up games, clinics, and open play.
