Pickleball Is Everywhere Right Now

If it feels like pickleball suddenly showed up everywhere around Kalamazoo and Portage…

You’re not imagining it.

What started as a niche, almost “retirement community” sport has turned into one of the fastest-growing activities in the country—and it’s hitting locally in a big way.

Nationally, participation has exploded over the past few years, with millions of players jumping in and new courts being built at a rapid pace.

And here in the Kalamazoo area, that growth is showing up in real numbers.

There are now well over 100 combined indoor and outdoor courts across the region, with new facilities, upgrades, and dedicated pickleball spaces continuing to pop up.

Why It’s Catching On So Fast

Part of the appeal is simple:

• Easy to learn
• Low-impact
• Social without being overly competitive

You’ll see:

• Retirees playing in the morning
• Young professionals jumping in after work
• Groups of friends treating it like a weekly hangout

And It’s Still Growing

New indoor concepts—like large dedicated facilities—are opening or planned around Portage, showing this isn’t just a short-term trend.

Bottom Line

Pickleball isn’t just “having a moment” around Kalamazoo.

It’s becoming part of the routine.

And if you haven’t tried it yet…
there’s a pretty good chance someone you know already has.

Where To Play Pickleball (Kalamazoo & Portage Area)

Outdoor / Easy Drop-In Spots

Ramona Park

One of the most popular outdoor options in Portage. Casual play, good mix of skill levels, and easy to jump into games—especially mornings and evenings.

6th Street Park Pickleball Courts

Dedicated courts in Texas Township. A little more low-key, but a solid option if you want less crowding and consistent space.

LaCrone Park

Smaller, more under-the-radar park courts. Good for casual games or bringing your own group.

Indoor / Year-Round Play

Friendly Pickle

One of the main dedicated pickleball facilities in the area. Indoor courts, leagues, lessons, and a strong local community vibe.

West Hills Athletic Club

Offers indoor courts and structured play. More of a membership-style setup, but great if you want consistency.

Next Level Sports Center

Multi-sport facility just south of Kalamazoo with pickleball included. Good option for indoor play and newer players.

Private / Limited Access

Kalamazoo Country Club

Has courts available for members. Not public, but worth noting for those with access.

New to Pickleball? Start Here

If you’ve been hearing about pickleball but haven’t jumped in yet, the good news is—it’s one of the easiest things to try.

You don’t need a ton of gear.
You don’t need experience.
You just need a place where people are open to new players.

Best First Stop: Ramona Park (Portage)

Ramona Park

This is probably the easiest place to get started locally.

• Regular open play
• Mix of skill levels
• People are generally welcoming to beginners

👉 Translation:
You can show up, watch for a few minutes, and likely get pulled into a game pretty quickly.

If You Prefer Indoors

Try Friendly Pickle

• Structured environment
• Intro sessions and leagues
• Weather-proof option

Good choice if you want a little more guidance your first time

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What You Actually Need

• Paddle (many places have extras)
• Comfortable shoes
• Willingness to jump in

That’s it.

Quick Tip

Go during off-peak times (late morning or early afternoon) your first time—it’s less crowded and easier to learn.

Bottom Line

Don’t overthink it.

Pick a spot, show up, and give it a shot.

There’s a reason so many people around Kalamazoo are getting into it right now.

Your First Game: What to Expect

If you’ve never played before, here’s what your first time will actually feel like:

It Starts Casual

Most places—especially open play—aren’t formal.

You’ll see people:

• Rotating in and out of games
• Waiting along the fence or sideline
• Jumping in when a spot opens

👉 No big introductions or pressure

Someone Will Help You

If you let people know you’re new, most players are more than happy to:

• Explain the basic rules
• Show you where to stand
• Give you a few quick tips

It’s one of the more welcoming sports out there.

You’ll Pick It Up Fast

Within 10–15 minutes, you’ll get the hang of:

• Serving
• Returning shots
• Basic positioning

You won’t be great right away—but you’ll be playing.

It’s More About Fun Than Winning

Especially at beginner level, it’s:

• Light competition
• Lots of laughs
• Easy back-and-forth play

No one’s expecting perfection.

You Might Be Surprised

Most first-time players walk away thinking:

“That was actually… really fun.”

Bottom Line

You don’t need to be good to start.

You just need to show up.

If you’ve played recently (or try it this week), reply and tell me your go-to spot—I’ll share a few of the most mentioned places in next week’s issue.