The Fort, a 43-court pickleball complex, stadium and entertainment center, is coming to Florida as part of a public-private partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale.
In addition to outdoor pickleball courts, the campus will feature a dedicated pickleball stadium with 14 weatherproofed courts, an on-site pro shop, locker rooms, a post-play recovery center, and food and beverage options.
Also featured is a 4,000 square foot event center, golf simulators, a dart room, volleyball, paddleboard, game yard with live music, and more. The Fort will sit within the 93-acre Snyder Park, adjacent to the FLL Airport.
“This collaboration showcases the incredible possibilities that arise when the public and private sectors work together for the benefit of our community, creating more than 100 jobs and making a significant economic impact on our city; aligning perfectly with Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to be a world-class live-work-play city,” said Fort Lauderdale’s Mayor Dean Trantalis, in a statement.
“Pickleball is a cultural phenomenon and having the world’s first official pickleball stadium is a perfectly timed addition to Greater Fort Lauderdale’s portfolio of premier sporting facilities,” added Stacy Ritter, the president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, in a statement. “Way more than a pickleball hub, this innovative recreational facility pairs well with our destination’s love of play, entertainment and dining and will surely be a draw for enthusiasts of the sport worldwide.”
The grand opening is scheduled for 2024.
With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
