Need more pickleball? You can satisfy your fix at SPF, the pickleball haven that just opened up in the heart of Lincoln Park (2121 N Clybourn Ave).
With more than 42,000 square feet of pickleball, dining and entertainment, SPF is the largest pickleball facility in Chicago.
Not only is the former Brooklyn Boulders space brand new and sparkly clean, the state-of-the-art amenities at every court enhance the experience of America's fastest-growing popular sport. Equipped with instant replay and score-keeping technology, it’s a great way for pickleball advocates to up their game or a great introduction for any first-time players.
Time Out Chicago received a first look at the sprawling indoor sports facility and here are a few reasons you should definitely stop by.
1. You’ll have enough space for everything
The facility comes with eight dedicated indoor pickleball courts, a shuffleboard court, space for cornhole, and indoor turf field. If that’s not enough, there’s even an enclosed, luminescent, glow-in-the-dark court for the most adventurous pickleballers. The indoor facility is the perfect spot for a big game day with several television screens available for viewing.
2. You can play more than just pickleball
Although pickleball is the main lure for the facility, there’s plenty of other activities to partake in. A large astroturf field houses plenty of space for cornhole (or "bags") matches, an entire floor is dedicated to shuffleboard and there are even basketball machines and an air hockey table. In phase two of the facility, a ninth pickleball court will open along with a bocce ball court. If pickleball isn’t your thing, revel in the many other fun options available.
3. You can sip on a drink or grab a bite at the two full cocktail bars and all-day cafe
Food and beverage options showcase local favorites—the teams behind Honey Butter Fried Chicken and Michelin-starred Galit helped develop the food offerings while Chicago-based, family-owned brand Kikwetu Coffee supports the all-day coffee bar. The full menus are expected to be released by summer 2024, but guests can still enjoy the small bites at the coffee bar in the meantime.
4. You can enjoy the facilities without booking a court
SPF is filled with ample courtside and table seatings, available for walks-ins or guests looking to grab a drink at the bar. So whether you’re stopping by to root your friends on or looking for a daytime “sports bar,” SPF is open to all.
5. You can make the most of memberships and special programming at your own leisure
Programming includes special one-on-one coaching available for every level and a specialty Cucumber Club with classes for children ages 3-11, sponsored by Wilson Sporting Goods. For the most serious pickleballers, SPF offers a membership program with exclusive access to luxury locker room saunas, early access to court bookings, club events and food discounts. Court reservations are available for $40/hour on SPF's website.