Getting Pickled
Pickleball's soaring popularity has led hotels globally to embrace the sport, creating dedicated courts and offering unique pickleball packages. With a staggering 36 million Americans playing last year, pickleball courts are now the latest social hubs, drawing attention from renowned brands.
Gone are the days when brands like Veuve Clicquot and Whispering Angel were exclusive to poolside or ski resorts. Now, they're making a splash courtside. Carneros Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, for instance, has introduced two pickleball courts in association with Veuve Clicquot, coining the term “après-play.” Adjacent to these courts, the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar & Lounge offers a luxurious post-match relaxation spot, complete with bottle service. Their "Rally, Relax and Repeat" package is a treat, offering dedicated playtime, champagne, and a curated food menu.
The Del Mar Wine & Food Festival in San Diego this September will feature a celebrity pickleball tournament sponsored by the famed Whispering Angel rosé brand and hosted by ex-NFL star Drew Brees.
West Hollywood's Kimpton La Peer Hotel has unveiled a rooftop pickleball court in collaboration with Grey Goose vodka. Evan Thomas, the hotel's general manager, emphasized pickleball's role in promoting both wellness and community fun. Guests at Kimpton can enjoy signature Grey Goose cocktails, including the quirky 'Pickleball Punch.'
Grey Goose also marks its presence at M Social Hotel Times Square New York with a unique pickleball court offering stunning views of Times Square. Players can enjoy the U.S. Open's official drink, the Honey Deuce cocktail, during their game.
While branded collaborations are trending, some hotels are innovating with their own pickleball-themed offerings. Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club in Massachusetts boasts six courts and a pickleball-inspired cocktail menu. This autumn, Cliff Drysdale, a tennis development division of Troon, is organizing a wine and pickleball weekend at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort in Georgia, blending sport and luxury.
In conclusion, as the world of hospitality recognizes pickleball's potential, simply having a court isn't enough. It's the unique, immersive experiences around the sport that are drawing guests in droves.
