Expansion of Pickleball Facilities in Pennsylvania Reflects Growing Popularity

The rapid rise of pickleball in the United States is leading to the opening of a new indoor facility in Pennsylvania. The Picklr is set to launch a 27,000-square-foot club in State College, featuring nine courts and an academy for players of all skill levels. This expansion reflects the growing commercial interest in pickleball, with over 500 new clubs and 5,000 courts in development across North America. As the sport continues to gain popularity, it is transforming into a significant commercial industry, attracting investments from various sectors.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2026, 21:33 IST

New Indoor Pickleball Club Set to Open

The surge in pickleball's popularity in the United States is leading to significant changes in recreational and retail environments. A new indoor facility is set to debut in Pennsylvania as franchise owners strive to cater to the increasing interest in the sport. The Picklr is gearing up to unveil a 27,000-square-foot indoor pickleball club in State College this summer, further expanding its presence across North America.

This new venue will occupy the space of the former Big Lots store at Benner Pike Shops and will feature nine courts, a pro shop, and areas for private events. The courts will utilize a specialized outdoor-style surface created by Just Courts, which is recognized as the official court layer of the Professional Pickleball Association.

Additionally, the club will house an academy where players of all skill levels can receive training from certified instructors. Membership options are anticipated to include unlimited open play, access to leagues and tournaments, and some tiers will allow entry to Picklr locations nationwide.

Steve Smith, a former Penn State football fullback and a 1999 graduate of the university, will oversee the State College facility. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Bringing The Picklr to State College means the community will enjoy the finest indoor pickleball experience available.” Smith added, “Returning to my alma mater to create a premier home for pickleball is incredibly meaningful to me.”

The establishment of the State College club is a notable advancement in The Picklr’s ambitious growth strategy, as participation in pickleball continues to rise throughout North America. The company is currently working on developing over 500 new clubs and 5,000 courts across the continent, highlighting the increasing commercial potential of the sport.

Pennsylvania has emerged as a vibrant pickleball market, with The Picklr already operating facilities in Exton and Newtown. While the membership fees for the State College location are yet to be announced, existing clubs in Pennsylvania offer basic monthly memberships starting from $89 to $99.

In recent years, pickleball has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, attracting substantial investments in indoor clubs, franchise operations, and large-scale sports facilities. Former athletes, real estate developers, and private investors are increasingly entering the market as demand escalates at both recreational and competitive levels. The development in State College underscores that pickleball is evolving beyond local recreation centers and temporary court setups, transforming into a robust commercial sports industry across North America.