Macon's Mall Makeover: A New Era of Indoor Pickleball

The Macon Mall, in Macon GA, is experiencing an electrifying revival, not as a shopping center, but as the world's largest indoor pickleball facility, Rhythm and Rally. With 32 courts occupying an old department store's two floors, this innovative facility is drawing crowds from across the country. It's more than just a sports venue; it's a catalyst for revitalizing the local area and cementing Macon's status as a pickleball destination. The facility features professional courts and a social hub, complete with dining and entertainment, embodying the community's all-in approach to the sport.

Rhythm and Rally isn't just about the courts; it's a comprehensive social sports destination set to open in 2024. Beyond pickleball, the venue will offer paddleboarding, volleyball, golf simulators, and even a dart room, ensuring a vibrant mix of activities. The Lakehouse restaurant and a spacious events center aim to make The Fort a central gathering place, indicative of the city's broader efforts to rejuvenate an iconic mall and foster community engagement through sports and recreation.

Macon's commitment to pickleball is deep-rooted, with the transformation of a large outdoor tennis facility in 2017 marking the beginning of this journey. The city's investment in pickleball infrastructure, along with the support of local champions like Paul Midkiff, has made it accessible and popular among all age groups. With the opening of Rhythm and Rally, Macon is poised to become the pickleball equivalent of Augusta's golf fame, aiming to be the Southeast's premier pickleball hub and a national landmark for the sport.