Pickleball Courts Near Iowa City IA: Top Spots to Play
Pickleball is a fun sport that’s getting more popular every day. If you’re in Iowa City and want to play, you might be wondering where to find courts.
You can find several pickleball courts in Iowa City and nearby areas. These courts offer different features, like indoor or outdoor play, lighting, and various surfaces. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, there’s a court that’s right for you.
1) Mercer Park Aquatic Center and Scanlon Gym
Looking for a great place to play pickleball in Iowa City? Check out Mercer Park Aquatic Center and Scanlon Gym. You’ll find 8 outdoor pickleball courts here, perfect for your next game.
The courts at Mercer Park have some cool features. They come with permanent nets, so you don’t need to set up anything. Plus, they’re lit up at night, letting you play even when it gets dark.
Good news for your wallet – playing here is totally free. You also don’t have to worry about parking fees. Just grab your paddle and head over.
But heads up! The courts are closed for renovations until July 15, 2024. When they reopen, you’ll get to enjoy brand new courts.
Want to know where to find these courts? Head to 2701 Bradford Drive, Iowa City, IA 52240. It’s easy to get to and a great spot for your pickleball matches.
2) North Dodge Athletic Club
Looking for a place to play pickleball in Iowa City? You might want to check out North Dodge Athletic Club. This fitness center is located at 2400 North Dodge Street in Iowa City.
The club offers 3 indoor pickleball courts for members to enjoy. This means you can play your favorite sport regardless of the weather outside.
You’ll need a membership to use the facilities at North Dodge Athletic Club. But don’t worry, it’s not just about pickleball. The club also provides other fitness services and personal training options.
If you’re new to pickleball or want to improve your skills, North Dodge Athletic Club could be a great place to start. You might find other players there to practice with or even join a game.
Remember to call ahead and check the court availability. Pickleball is becoming more popular, so the courts might get busy at peak times.
3) University of Iowa Campus Rec & Wellness Center
The University of Iowa’s Campus Recreation and Wellness Center is a top-notch facility for students and community members. You’ll find a wide range of activities here, including pickleball.
This center opened in 2010 and boasts impressive features. You can enjoy 20,000 square feet of fitness space spread over three levels. There’s also a huge climbing wall and multiple swimming pools.
While pickleball isn’t specifically mentioned for this location, you can likely play on the center’s multi-purpose courts. The facility includes basketball and volleyball courts that may be used for pickleball too.
If you’re looking to play pickleball at the university, you might want to check out the UIowa Field House Main Deck. It has several courts that can be used for pickleball.
You can also join the Iowa Pickleball Club if you’re a student. They offer weekly practices and tournaments for members.
4) Hickory Hill Park
Want to enjoy some outdoor activities near Iowa City? Check out Hickory Hill Park! This park is a great spot to spend time in nature.
Hickory Hill Park offers walking trails for you to explore. You can choose from limestone, wood chip, or dirt paths. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike.
Looking for a place to have a picnic? The park has you covered. There’s a picnic shelter where you can relax and enjoy a meal with friends or family.
While Hickory Hill Park doesn’t have dedicated pickleball courts, it’s still worth a visit. You can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery before heading to one of Iowa City’s pickleball locations.
Remember to check the park’s website for any updates or rules before you go. Hickory Hill Park is a local treasure that offers a peaceful escape from the city.
5) Coralville Rec Center
Are you looking for a great place to play pickleball near Iowa City? Check out the Coralville Rec Center. It’s a popular spot for pickleball enthusiasts in the area.
The center has 2 outdoor hard courts for you to enjoy. These courts have lines overlaid on tennis courts, so the net is a bit taller than a standard pickleball net.
You’ll find the Coralville Rec Center at 1506 8th St, Coralville, IA. It’s just a short drive from Iowa City.
Want to play at night? You’re in luck! The courts are lighted, so you can keep the games going after dark.
Before you head out, it’s a good idea to call ahead. The center’s phone number is (319) 248-1750. This way, you can check court availability and any specific rules or fees.
Remember to bring your own equipment. The center doesn’t provide paddles or balls, so come prepared for a fun game!
Pickleball Court Features
Pickleball courts have specific features that make the game enjoyable and fair. These include different surface options and standard dimensions.
Playing Surface Options
You’ll find pickleball courts with various surface types. Outdoor courts often use asphalt or concrete. These materials are durable and weather-resistant. Some outdoor courts have special coatings for better traction and ball bounce.
Indoor courts usually have wood or specialized sports flooring. These surfaces are easier on your joints and provide consistent ball response. In Iowa City, you can play on both indoor and outdoor courts.
Some facilities offer temporary courts set up on tennis courts or gym floors. These use tape or removable lines to mark the playing area.
Court Dimensions and Layout
A standard pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. This size is the same for both singles and doubles play. The net height is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the center.
Key areas on the court include:
- Non-volley zone: A 7-foot area on each side of the net, also called the “kitchen”
- Baselines: The back lines of the court
- Sidelines: The lines marking the court’s width
- Centerline: Divides the service areas on each side
Iowa City’s courts follow these standard dimensions. When you play, you’ll notice clear markings for all these areas, helping you stay within bounds during your game.
Best Times to Play
Picking the right time to play pickleball in Iowa City can make your experience much better. You’ll want to think about both the weather and when courts are busiest.
Weather Considerations
Iowa City’s climate can affect your pickleball plans. In summer, try to play early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat. Temps can reach the 80s and 90s, making afternoon games uncomfortable.
Spring and fall are great for outdoor pickleball. The weather is milder, with temps in the 60s and 70s. Just watch out for spring showers!
Winter can be tricky for outdoor play. You might want to look for indoor courts when it’s cold or snowy. The Robert A. Lee Rec Center has 3 indoor courts you can use year-round.
Peak Hours and Popular Times
Pickleball courts often get busy during weekday evenings and weekend mornings. Many players hit the courts after work or before starting their weekend activities.
If you prefer a quieter game, try playing on weekday mornings or early afternoons. You’ll likely find more open courts and shorter wait times.
Some Iowa City pickleball locations may have specific league or club times. Check with local rec centers or parks for their schedules to avoid conflicts.
Remember, popular times can vary by location. The UIowa Field House Main Deck might be busier when classes are in session, while outdoor courts may see more action on nice weather days.
