As one of the fastest-growing sports in America, pickleball is making waves across the Hawkeye State. Fortunately, for both seasoned pickleheads and beginners eager to step onto the courts, Iowa offers a plethora of resources for playing the sport. The following is your comprehensive guide to playing pickleball in Iowa.
Pickleball, a quirky sport that blends elements from tennis, badminton and ping pong, has witnessed an astonishing surge in popularity over the past few years. As the paddle sport spread across the United States, it has found its way into the hearts of Iowans. The sport has become so deeply ingrained in the local paddle community that former tennis court centers are now being transformed and equipped with pickleball courts. If you are looking to venture into the sport or sharpen your skills, below is a digestible breakdown for playing pickleball in Iowa.
Where to Take Lessons:
Council Bluffs Area Pickleball
Council Bluffs
Offering free beginner lessons, Council Bluffs Area Pickleball is perfect for those who want to dip their toes into the paddle sport. The city provides classes on the first and third Tuesdays (5:30 p.m.) and Fridays (1 p.m.) every month. Paddles, balls and all necessary equipment are included; the area just asks that you bring athletic wear and your A-game. For more information, visit cbapb.com.
Smithfield Tennis & Pickleball Center
Cedar Rapids
With six newly constructed outdoor courts to practice on, Smithfield Tennis & Pickleball Center is a favorite among pickleheads. In addition to the stunning courts, the center offers lessons for all skill levels, for those ages 15-plus. Each class, including Intro to Pickleball and Beginners, provides 45 minutes of lessons, followed by 45 minutes of playtime. The classes start at $25 per person. For more information, visit smithfieldtpc.com.
Valley Community Center
Des Moines
For adults looking to get in on pickleball in Iowa, Valley Community Center located in Des Moines has you covered. The site offers pickleball lessons for those 18 plus, including beginner and advanced competitive courses. The advanced classes are designed for those looking to improve specific skills, while the beginner classes are perfect for unseasoned picklers. Class prices vary depending on the date. For more information, visit valleycommunity.center.
Where to Find Supplies:
Play it Again Sports
Clive
With both new and gently used items, Play it Again Sports in Clive has affordable options for your pickleball journey. The shop sells everything from paddles and balls to practice nets and cases. Paddles as low as $12.99 are currently available. For more information, visit playitagainsports.com.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Various
With locations all across Iowa, Dick’s Sporting Goods has everything you need to start your pickleball journey (plus some more). In addition to paddle sets, balls and nets, Dick’s Sporting Goods also sells pickleball court shoes for both men and women, headbands, balance gear, paddles for little ones and more. For more information, visit dickssportinggoods.com.
Dunham’s Sports
Various
With four locations scattered across Iowa, Dunham’s Sports sells pickleball merchandise, including vibrant paddles, outdoor and indoor pickle balls and court shoes. Unique to this sporty shop is a bundle pack that features a half-court net, two paddles and two pickleballs for $69.99. For more information, visit dunhamssports.com.
Where to Play:
Greenstate Family Fieldhouse
Coralville
Greenstate Family Fieldhouse in Coralville takes pride in housing one of the most spacious indoor pickleball facilities, featuring a total of 15 courts. Pickleball enthusiasts can enjoy the sport from 8 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday. For players’ convenience, the Fieldhouse offers rental services for balls, nets and beginner paddles. The daily fee for playing on the courts is just $5. For more information, visit xtreamarena.com.
Smithfield TPC
Cedar Rapids
Situated in Cedar Rapids, Smithfield Tennis and Pickleball Center stands out as an exceptional destination for pickleball enthusiasts. Within this facility, players have two attractive options for enjoying the sport. They can opt for an unlimited pickleball membership at a monthly rate of $55, granting unrestricted access to the courts, or choose to become free members, enabling them to reserve slots on the dedicated pickleball courts for a nominal fee of $7.50 per two-hour session. For more information, visit smithfieldtpc.com.