Dill Dinkers to Open First Atlanta Pickleball Club in West End Development

Atlanta's West End is set to welcome its first dedicated pickleball facility as Dill Dinkers, a rapidly expanding pickleball franchise, announces plans to open a club at the 1200 White Street development. The 35,891-square-foot lease marks a significant milestone for both the sport's growth in the metro Atlanta area and the ongoing revitalization of the West End neighborhood.

Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025, the state-of-the-art facility will feature Pro-Cushion® court surfaces, individually fenced courts, event space, and a pro shop. This addition to the 211,585-square-foot mixed-use development at 1200 White Street underscores the increasing demand for recreational facilities in urban areas and the growing popularity of pickleball as a sport.

The location's proximity to the Atlanta Westside BeltLine was a key factor in Dill Dinkers' decision to open in the West End. Daniel Hardeman, Regional Developer for Dill Dinkers and one of the franchise owners, emphasized the importance of community connection, stating, "We pride ourselves in being part of the community, bringing people together and providing a comfortable place for people to play."

This new pickleball club is poised to have a significant impact on the local community and the broader Atlanta sports scene. As the flagship location for Dill Dinkers in Atlanta, it will serve as a training hub for future franchisees, potentially catalyzing further expansion of the sport throughout the region. The franchise is already exploring several other locations across Atlanta for new clubs.

The choice of the West End for Dill Dinkers' first Atlanta location is indicative of the neighborhood's growing appeal to diverse businesses and retailers. Evan Ziegler, President of Investments for Ackerman & Co., noted that this development "is a testament to this area's growing appeal as a destination for a variety of retailers and businesses."

The club's opening aligns with the broader trend of adaptive reuse and mixed-use development in urban areas. The 1200 White Street project, which will house the Dill Dinkers club, is being transformed to include retail, restaurants, creative offices, and experiential concepts, reflecting a shift towards more integrated and versatile urban spaces.

For the pickleball community and sports enthusiasts in Atlanta, this development represents a significant upgrade in available facilities. Dill Dinkers is known for its champion-sized courts and high-quality playing surfaces, designed to reduce wear and tear on players' joints. This focus on player comfort and safety could attract a wide range of participants, from casual players to serious competitors.

The economic impact of this new facility could be substantial. As pickleball continues to gain popularity, businesses that cater to the sport are likely to see increased demand. The Dill Dinkers club could serve as an anchor for related businesses, such as equipment retailers, sports medicine practices, and food and beverage establishments catering to players and spectators.

Moreover, the club's presence may contribute to increased foot traffic in the area, benefiting neighboring businesses and potentially spurring further development. The direct access to the Atlanta Westside BeltLine could also encourage more visitors to explore the West End, further integrating the neighborhood into Atlanta's urban fabric.

As cities across the country grapple with how to revitalize urban areas and promote healthy lifestyles, the opening of facilities like the Dill Dinkers club offers a model for combining recreation, community building, and economic development. The success of this venture could inspire similar projects in other neighborhoods and cities, contributing to a broader trend of urban renewal centered around sports and community engagement.