When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
CityPickle at Wollman Rink
Why CityPickle at Wollman Rink is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
CityPickle at Wollman Rink offers a unique and vibrant setting for friends and pickleball enthusiasts to come together and enjoy the nation's fastest-growing sport amid the iconic surroundings of Central Park in New York City. Featuring 14 state-of-the-art outdoor hard courts with permanent lines and nets, this venue provides ample space for both casual play and competitive matches. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the courts are designed to deliver a top-tier playing experience from early morning until late evening. The facility supports a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where players of all skill levels can connect and enjoy physical activity in a social environment. Amenities such as food and drinks, locker rooms, restrooms, water stations, and lighted courts enhance the overall experience, making it an ideal place to meet friends for either a day's play or evening sessions. For those new to pickleball or looking to improve their game, coaching sessions and clinics are available, including options at various skill levels ranging from introductory to intermediate, often in partnership with reputable health institutions. The venue also offers equipment rentals and a pro shop, making it easy for visitors to engage in pickleball without prior gear. With convenient online court reservations, CityPickle at Wollman Rink is both accessible and accommodating, catering well to local residents and tourists looking for an active and social pastime in Central Park.
Here's what people think of CityPickle at Wollman Rink
As of recent, CityPickle at Wollman Rink holds a 3.8-star rating based on 60 reviews.
Reviews of CityPickle at Wollman Rink present a mixed yet generally positive sentiment, reflecting its popularity as a vibrant pickleball hub in New York City. Many users have praised the quality and number of courts, highlighting the 14 new, dedicated pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets as a significant upgrade that enriches the playing experience. Positive reviews frequently mention the friendly, welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels, and the convenience of booking courts online to guarantee playtime. Visitors appreciate the additional amenities such as restrooms, locker rooms, food and drink availability, and the availability of coaching sessions that help players get started or improve their skills. Moreover, the location in the iconic Wollman Rink within Central Park is seen as a unique and attractive venue, adding to the enjoyment of the sport in a renowned urban setting. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on occasional issues such as crowding during peak times, which may affect the overall experience, and concerns about the reservation system's flexibility. A few reviewers also expressed a desire for more frequent maintenance or improvements to court conditions, especially during busy periods. Despite these critiques, many players find the overall experience enjoyable and worth visiting. The balance of positive community spirit, well-maintained facilities, and the novelty of playing pickleball in Central Park contributes to CityPickle at Wollman Rink's reputation as a premier destination, with room for ongoing enhancements as patron feedback is incorporated.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dave Stern
Amazing .. playing pickleball right in iconic central park! reserved courts here for a special family event and had the best time. It did rain in the morning which caused some scheduling issues .. the staff did an amazing job drying the courts off and did the best that was possible to address the schedule problems the rain caused. and, they were super nice and accommodating. Overall was so cool to play in the park and they have a LOT of courts. And they are in great condition and the nets are top quality. Can't thank them enough for making such a great part of our special family day come to life!
Hank Chang
Wollman Rink is converted in the summer to a pickleball court! This is great, staff is fun and coach well, although you do have to watch when it rains, it gets very slick on the court, so end up inside a tent or the building playing table tennis... we had to wait for it to dry out (cutting down on playing time). Wind is also a challenge .... definitely blew the balls around. This is closed as they convert to ice skating for the winter months, so only open in the spring/summer/fall. Watch the entrance, it's a steeper path down to the bottom. A viewing area above.
Ray
Just played at CityPickle in Central Park. Showed up on time with good energy, ready to celebrate Mother’s Day. From the jump we were met with attitude. Vibe went from light and fun to weird and tense real quick. Still, we kept it polite. Then we realized we got charged twice. Brought it up, got told we were wrong. Instead of arguing, we paid again just to keep things moving. By the time we actually started playing we’d already lost 19 minutes. End of our session, we’re rushed off the court with a cold “you guys need to leave.” No grace, no heads-up. Finally showed receipts—turns out yes, we were overcharged. Not a single apology. Just smirks on the way out. Unprofessional, rude, and honestly disappointing.
A R
While expensive, CityPickle at Wollman Rink is an awesome experience to play a really cool game within Central Park. The views from the courts are amazing. I highly recommend trying this experience at least one time if you can.
Dan Bilen
This is the most obscene, exclusionary priced place I’ve seen. Courts are almost fully empty at $120/hr. When I was visibly shocked at the insane price the staff started to laugh, because they were aware of how silly this model is. NYC, make this more accessible please. This is meant to be fun for all. Beautiful place. Nonsense price. That’s a no from me.
How to reach CityPickle at Wollman Rink
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Why CityPickle at Wollman Rink may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at CityPickle at Wollman Rink with your friends?
Choosing to rally with your friends at CityPickle at Wollman Rink means embracing a unique blend of sport, community, and the iconic atmosphere of Central Park in Manhattan. This venue is not just a place to play pickleball; it’s where energy meets camaraderie in one of the most celebrated urban parks in the world. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or someone new to this rapidly growing sport, CityPickle offers an inclusive environment that encourages group fun, friendly competition, and active engagement. The rink has been transformed from its traditional ice-skating roots to feature 14 state-of-the-art pickleball courts, making it the largest pickleball venue in the Northeast—a vast space perfect for accommodating groups of all sizes. The natural beauty of Central Park combined with well-maintained courts means you get to experience the excitement of sport while surrounded by New York’s urban oasis. Additionally, the venue is open daily with flexible hours from morning until late evening, giving groups the freedom to plan meetups that work around everyone’s schedules. The sense of community is palpable here, where people of all ages come together, turning the time spent at CityPickle into lasting memories of shared activity and laughter. All these elements make rallying at this place with your friends a refreshing, social, and physically rewarding way to reconnect and celebrate together.
What activities can you do at CityPickle at Wollman Rink?
CityPickle at Wollman Rink offers a variety of activities tailored to make every group meetup dynamic and entertaining. Primarily focused on pickleball, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, the venue boasts 14 specially designed courts, ensuring ample space for multiple games to run simultaneously. Visitors can book courts for private games or join in open play sessions that welcome players of all skill levels, making it easy for beginners and veterans alike to participate. For those looking to sharpen their skills or try the sport for the first time, CityPickle offers clinics at different proficiency levels, including introductory, advanced beginner, and intermediate. These sessions are affordable and professionally guided, often run in partnership with reputed organizations like Mount Sinai Health System, emphasizing safety alongside fun. Beyond standard gameplay, the venue also hosts leagues and cardio pickleball sessions, adding layers of competitive thrill and fitness to your visit. In addition to regular programming, CityPickle organizes special events such as summer camps for children and adults, professional tournaments, and themed community play days with reduced fees and equipment rentals included. Whether you want to casually enjoy a few rounds with friends, engage in structured training, or attend an exciting pickleball event, CityPickle at Wollman Rink caters to a wide array of interests and group dynamics.
Why is CityPickle at Wollman Rink perfect for a group meetup?
CityPickle at Wollman Rink provides an ideal gathering spot for group meetups because of its unique combination of spacious, modern facilities and an inviting communal atmosphere. The scale of the venue—featuring 14 courts—allows larger groups to play simultaneously without feeling crowded or rushed, promoting a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. The venue’s location in Central Park adds aesthetic and cultural value to your meetup, offering iconic Manhattan views and a refreshing natural setting that appeals to visitors from all walks of life. The daily operating hours from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. accommodate a broad range of scheduling needs for groups, whether you prefer an early morning workout, a midday social, or an energetic evening game. Additionally, the flexible pricing structure and variety of play options, from open play and court rentals to discounted group community sessions, make it accessible for diverse budgets. CityPickle's collaboration with Wollman Park Partners ensures the site is professionally managed to maintain clean, well-resurfaced courts and high standards of safety and customer service. The space also supports inclusive group activities, encouraging participation regardless of skill level, so no one feels left out. The addition of pro shops on-site selling gear and apparel adds convenience, turning meetups into full-day outings. All these factors combine to make CityPickle at Wollman Rink a vibrant, welcoming, and practical venue for friends, families, or coworkers looking to bond over an engaging sport in one of New York’s most cherished outdoor locations.
How accessible and user-friendly is CityPickle at Wollman Rink for all skill levels?
CityPickle at Wollman Rink is deliberately designed to be highly accessible and user-friendly for people at every level of pickleball experience. Newcomers to the sport can jump into the game with introductory clinics that teach fundamental rules and techniques in a supportive, encouraging environment. These clinics are affordable and structured to build confidence and skills step-by-step. For those who have played before but are not yet advanced, intermediate and advanced beginner lessons provide the tools to improve with more targeted coaching. The courts themselves are thoughtfully laid out to accommodate players comfortably, including those who might need extra space or assistance. Open play sessions and community play are inclusive, encouraging players of mixed abilities to socialize and enjoy the game together. Equipment rentals are conveniently available on-site, removing any barriers for groups who might not have their own paddles or balls. Sessions are often designed to foster a welcoming vibe, where learning is part of the fun, and the pace can be adjusted to meet participants' levels. Moreover, the urban location in Central Park means public transportation and pedestrian access are easy, ensuring that all group members can arrive without hassle. Overall, CityPickle at Wollman Rink succeeds in balancing professional-grade facilities with an approachable, beginner-friendly setup, making it a great choice for groups with varied pickleball experience.
What special events and community programs enhance the experience at CityPickle?
CityPickle at Wollman Rink regularly enhances the pickleball experience through a vibrant lineup of special events and community programs, making it more than just a sports venue. Each year, the season kicks off with celebrations and special programming that ties into Wollman Rink's cultural significance, including this year’s 75th anniversary festivities that add a historic flavor to the pickleball fun. The venue hosts professional tournaments, including one of the most exciting pickleball competitions of the year, drawing skilled players and fans alike. This provides an entertaining spectacle for visitors and raises the profile of the sport. Beyond competitive events, CityPickle runs summer camps and clinics which cater to all ages, encouraging family participation and youth engagement. Community play sessions with reduced fees are scheduled regularly to ensure that pickleball remains affordable and accessible to all New Yorkers, fostering social equity and inclusion. Collaborations with health organizations, like Mount Sinai Health System, help promote wellness through sport, with clinics that emphasize fitness, health, and skill development. Additionally, seasonal special events, including themed tournaments and holiday celebrations, keep the venue lively and culturally connected. These programs create a festive, communal atmosphere where groups can enjoy not only playing but also socializing and learning together, enriching the overall meetup experience at CityPickle.
How does the location of CityPickle enhance the overall meetup experience?
The location of CityPickle at Wollman Rink in Central Park is central to its appeal and greatly enriches the meetup experience. Situated at 830 5th Avenue in Manhattan, it places players in the heart of one of the world's most iconic and beloved green spaces, surrounded by scenic landscapes and the vibrant hum of New York City. The park's natural beauty offers an inviting backdrop that transforms a simple game into a memorable day outdoors. After games, groups can easily extend their gathering by exploring nearby park features such as walking trails, benches, and picnic areas, adding leisurely activities to the agenda. The rink's proximity to major subway lines and bus routes ensures easy access for visitors coming from various neighborhoods or even tourists looking for an authentic local activity. The outdoor setting also encourages fresh air and daylight hours of play, which are especially welcome for those who spend most of their time indoors or in offices. This combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and city vibrancy makes CityPickle at Wollman Rink not just a place to play but a destination where friends and family can fully enjoy New York’s urban outdoors together. The unique melding of sport, community, and location is a key reason the venue is perfect for hosting group meetups.