Cary is quickly becoming a hub for pickleball enthusiasts. In recent years, pickleball has become increasingly popular as more people are drawn to its fun, competitive nature. Our town offers a variety of courts and clubs that cater to beginners and players of all levels. Check out this list of pickleball courts in Cary to find out where you can play in your area.

Pickleball is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played with paddles and a perforated plastic ball. It is played on a court approximately one-third the size of a tennis court, and is slower paced compared to other racquet sports.

Currently, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, boasting over 36.5 million players, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals. With over 10,320 pickleball courts scattered across the US, the pickleball community has ample opportunities to play anywhere in the country.

Why Pickleball is Growing in Cary

Mike Walsh, former U.S. Pickleball Association ambassador for Cary, was the one who introduced pickleball to the town in 2010, setting the stage for its thriving popularity. According to him, “the biggest challenge was introducing the sport to a new audience. But once players gave it a try, they were immediately hooked and couldn't help but spread the word”, he added.

True to Walsh's words, Cary residents quickly embraced the game. In fact, the Town of Cary has the 4th largest number of pickleball locations in North Carolina, with 10 facilities, and 33 courts to date. More locations are popping up as the sport continues to grow. 

People love the sport because it is easy to learn, but challenging to master, making it the perfect sport for players of all ages and abilities. In addition to being enjoyable, pickleball helps to improve muscle strength and flexibility.

If you're interested in trying the sport, we've compiled a list of the best pickleball locations in town for you to experience firsthand.

Where to Play Pickleball in Cary

Below are some of our favorite places to play pickleball in Cary:

1. Popular public courts

1. Ed Yerha Park - Ed Yerha Park, previously known as White Oak Park, features three hard pickleball courts that are available on a first come, first served basis. In addition, the park also has a picnic shelter that can be reserved, a playground for kids, and restrooms for your convenience.

2. Cary Tennis Park - Cary Tennis Park offers not only tennis but also pickleball, with four dedicated outdoor hard courts equipped with permanent lines and nets. The courts are free for all, however, only annual and hourly passholders can reserve them. The park also features a pro shop where you can buy basic pickleball equipment.

1. Popular private courts

1. Weatherstone H.O.A. - Weatherstone is a welcoming neighborhood in northwest Cary, where residents can invite guests to come and play pickleball. It offers three outdoor hard courts with permanent lines in place, but you'll need to bring your own nets. 

2. Life Time - Life Time is a fitness oasis in Cary, offering far more than just a gym. This 110,000 square foot facility boasts six hardwood pickleball courts and other amenities. You'll also find resort-style pools and top-notch workout facilities where you can just relax or work up a sweat. The facility has expert trainers who are available for private lessons, group classes, or even on-court tutoring.

1. New courts openings planned

1. McCrimmon Park - The soon-to-be-constructed McCrimmon Park is set to be a pickleball paradise, with six lighted pickleball courts. The park's rolling landscape, lush tree canopy, and tranquil creeks offer a beautiful backdrop for your game. 

2. Western Cary Community Center - This is the next big thing for indoor recreation and gathering in the western part of Cary. The town council is carefully considering residents’ recreation needs, and pickleball is high on the list. The center set will offer three multi-purpose courts where pickleballcan be played.

Pickleball continues to grow in Cary, and it's not hard to see why. People of all ages enjoy playing this social and competitive sport, which is a great way to stay active and make friends. If you haven't tried it yet, grab your paddle now and see what the hype is about!