The pickleball community in fort worth has a new hotspot: Pickle City Fort Worth. This 35,000-square-foot sports complex, located at 8600 N. City Drive, has quickly become a go-to destination for enthusiasts of the nation’s fastest-growing sport.
On June 10, Pickle City Fort Worth celebrated its grand opening, drawing a crowd eager to experience the facility’s 16 courts—10 indoor and 6 outdoor. The complex is more than just a sports venue; it’s a social hub that includes a full gym, wellness spaces, a sports bar, and a pro shop.
The Vision Behind Pickle City Fort Worth
The brainchild of Steve McKeeverPickle City Fort Worth is a family affair. McKeever’s daughter, Hannahserves as the director of sales, with other family members also involved. The idea was born out of McKeever’s love for pickleball and his knack for spotting trends.
“Basically my dad loves pickleball,” Hannah said at the grand opening. “He has a way of finding a trend and figuring out how to make good investments.”
With about 20 million players in the U.S. and an 11.3% forecasted compound annual growth rate through 2028, pickleball is indeed a trend worth investing in. McKeever aimed to create a community where players could not only enjoy the sport but also socialize, work out, and relax—all in one place.
A Community of Pickleball Enthusiasts
Pickle City Fort Worth has attracted a dedicated membership, with around 350 members since its soft opening in January. The complex has become a favorite for players like Don Clessonwho joined almost from the start.
“We were playing somewhere, but it wasn’t focused on pickleball, so when I heard about this I had to check it out,” Clesson said. “This place just has a great vibe and that’s what I’m after. That, and the competition is very high.”
The facility’s success is a testament to the growing popularity of pickleball and the need for dedicated spaces where players can gather and compete. The name change from City Pickle to Pickle City was a friendly resolution with a New York club, ensuring the brand stood out in the Fort Worth market.
Near Southside Real Estate Developments
While Pickle City Fort Worth is making waves in the sports world, the Near Southside is also seeing significant real estate activity. The landmark mixed-use property at 1109-1121 W. Magnolia Ave. has officially sold, marking a notable transaction in the heart of Fort Worth’s Near Southside.
The 8,388-square-foot property, formerly home to Heim Barbecue and currently housing Cherry Coffeehas a market value of $2.25 million. The sale was facilitated by LanCarte Commercial and Transwestern Fort Worthhighlighting the area’s appeal to investors.
“Magnolia Avenue has become one of the defining districts in Fort Worth, and properties like this have played a major role in that transformation,” said Brittany Doyle of LanCarte Commercial. The new ownership plans to maintain the property’s existing mix of retail, restaurant, and residential uses while preserving its character.
The Near Southside is also saying goodbye to some longtime small businesses, including Leaves Bakery & Books and JuJu Knits. Meanwhile, Hotel Revel is looking to change ownership, with real estate firm CBRE marketing the property.
Investing in the Future
In the world of business, Valora Fort Worth-based specialty asset management company, has closed its Series B investment round. Led by Ladd Wilksthe Moncrief family, and the Lamb family of Midland, the funding will advance Valor’s development of artificial intelligence across its software and services platform and accelerate growth through strategic acquisitions.
As Fort Worth continues to evolve, these developments in sports, real estate, and business highlight the city’s dynamic growth and the diverse opportunities it offers.