Pickleball Training Camp Details
Dates
2026- Incline Village, NV
September 21-22, 2026
2026- Minneapolis, MN
October 6-7, 2026
2026- Wayne, NJ
October 13-14, 2026
2026- Kingston, Ontario, Canada
October 20-21, 2026
2026- Chandler, AZ Momentum Camp
November 16-18, 2026
2026- Chandler, AZ
November 19-20, 2026
2027- Chandler, AZ Women's Camp
February 25-26, 2027
2027- Chandler, AZ
March 1-2, 2027
Court Locations
Incline Village, NV
Incline Tennis and Pickleball Center
964 Incline Way
Incline Village, NV 89451
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis Pickleball Club
1200 Washington Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Wayne, NJ
Sportime Pickleball
77 Willowbrook Blvd.
Wayne, NJ 07470
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
965 Gardiners Road (lower level of the Cataraqui Town Centre),
Kingston, ON K7M 7H4
Chandler, AZ
Private Courts
22318 S. 132nd St.
Chandler, AZ 85249
Camp Length and Start Times
2 day camps include-12 hours of instruction. 5 hours on court time & 1 hour "lunch and learn." (Unless stated otherwise)
Incline Village, NV - September 21-22
12 PM - 6 PM
Minneapolis, MN - October 6-7
10 AM- 4 PM
Wayne, NJ - October 13-14
10 AM- 4 PM
Kingston, ON, Canada - October 20-21
10 AM- 4 PM
Chandler, AZ Momentum Camp - November 16-18
12 PM- 4 PM
Chandler, AZ November 17-18
9 AM- 3 PM
Chandler, AZ Women's Camp - February 25-26, 2027
9 AM- 3 PM
Chandler, AZ - March 1-2, 2027
9 AM- 3 PM
Camp Size
We maintain a maximum 8:1 player-to-pro ratio to ensure every camper receives personalized instruction and meaningful coaching throughout the camp.
Our small-group camps offer an even lower ratio of fewer than 6:1, allowing for even more individualized attention.
Coached Play
A Better Pickleball Camp is about much more than drills and ball feeding. You'll learn not only how to execute better shots, but also when to use them, why they work, and how they fit into the bigger picture of the game.
One of the most valuable parts of the camp experience is our unique coached play sessions. As you play, CJ provides real-time guidance to help you recognize opportunities, make better decisions, and develop a deeper understanding of strategy.
By experiencing the game in real situations—with coaching and feedback as you play—you'll build confidence, improve your shot selection, and develop the court awareness that helps your game continue to grow long after camp ends.
Lunch and What We Provide
We use small, locally-based businesses to provide lunch daily. This gives players the chance to sample the local cuisine.
Most of the restaurants we use are able to accommodate basic dietary restrictions, but if you have a food intolerance, it would be best to bring your own meal.
There will be water on site to fill your container.
We also provide courts, balls, a Better Pickleball Camp Workbook, unparalleled instruction, positive energy, smiles, and a fun experience.
What to Bring
Please bring your paddle, court shoes, sunscreen, a hat (for outdoor camps), sunglasses or protective glasses, a refillable water bottle, and a towel.
We provide snacks, and no chairs are necessary.
Most importantly, bring an open mind and come ready to learn, laugh, and enjoy the experience. We'll take care of the rest.
Pre-camp Zoom Call
Approximately two weeks before your scheduled camp, you'll be invited to join a pre-camp Zoom call.
This is a great opportunity to meet some of your fellow campers, prepare for your camp experience, and ask any questions you may have before you arrive.
Details about the Zoom call, including your access link, will be sent by email. Please add [email protected] to your contact list so these emails don't end up in your spam folder.
Incline Village - Tahoe Accommodations and Details
Court Location: Incline Village Tennis and Pickleball Center,
964 Incline Way, Incline Village NV. 89451
Tahoe is CJ's home, so we're able to provide you with some insider knowledge about the area.
Lodging on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe
- The Tennis and Pickleball Center is within walking distance of the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and the Hyatt Residence Club Lake Tahoe.
- Incline Village has a limited number of hotels but offers numerous vacation rentals through sites such as Airbnb and VRBO.
- Tahoe Vista is on Highway 28 and is about a 10-minute drive away. There are several nice hotels in Tahoe Vista, often with competitive rates.
- Tahoe City is on Highway 28, about 30 minutes away.
- Northstar Ski Resort is on Highway 267 between Incline Village and Truckee and is about 20 minutes away.
- Truckee, CA, is on Highway 267 and Interstate 80, about 30 minutes from Incline Village and 50 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
Lodging on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe
- South Lake Tahoe is approximately 45 minutes from Incline Village. There are four major casinos in South Lake Tahoe with ample lodging: Harrah's, Hard Rock, MontBleu, and Harveys.
Weather:
Incline Village is located at 6,200 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Mornings and evenings will be cool.
We've chosen this location during an optimal time of the year to help ensure the best chance of good weather. However, it is an outdoor camp. While we don't anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or change based on circumstances beyond our control, such as COVID or weather-imposed restrictions. If you have any concerns, we suggest purchasing travel insurance to cover any non-camp-related expenses.
Kingston, ON, Canada Accommodations and Details
Court Location: Fairgrounds Kingston
945 Gardiners Road (lower level of the Cataraqui Town Centre), Kingston, ON K7M 7H4
Our sessions take place in the Cataraqui Town Centre, right off Gardiners Road — a busy, accessible hub in Kingston’s west end. The area is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and several lodging options, making it convenient for players travelling from out of town.
🚗 Getting to the Camp
Gardiners Road is one of Kingston’s main north–south routes, connecting directly to Highway 401 (Exit 611). Players arriving from outside Kingston will find it easy to navigate, with clear signage and ample parking throughout the area.
Public transit via Kingston Transit also serves the Cataraqui Centre and surrounding hotels, offering reliable access for those without a vehicle. Kingston offers multiple transportation choices:
- By Car Kingston is centrally located along Highway 401:
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- ~2.5 hours from Toronto
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- ~2 hours from Ottawa
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- ~3 hours from Montreal
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- Parking is widely available around the Cataraqui Town Centre and nearby hotels.
- By Train (VIA Rail) Kingston’s VIA Rail station is just a 5–7 minute drive from Gardiners Road. Frequent daily trains run from Toronto Union Station, Ottawa, and Montreal.
- By Bus (Megabus / FlixBus / Rider Express) Several bus companies offer direct service to Kingston from all three cities. Most buses arrive at the Kingston Bus Terminal on John Counter Blvd, a short 7-minute drive from the camp location.
- By Limo or Private Shuttle Kingston is serviced by multiple limo and private shuttle companies offering door‑to‑door transportation from Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. This option is popular for small groups or players travelling with gear.
- By Local Transit Kingston Transit routes serve the Cataraqui Town Centre and surrounding hotels, providing reliable access for those staying nearby.
🏨 Lodging Near Gardiners Road / Cataraqui Town Centre
Kingston’s west end offers a strong mix of hotels within a 2–5 minute drive of the courts:
- Holiday Inn Express Kingston West – Modern, comfortable, and very close to the 401.
- Quality Inn & Suites Kingston – A budget‑friendly option near Gardiners Road.
- Motel Six – Pet-friendly location close to restaurants, Gardiners Road and the 401.
- Courtyard by Marriott Kingston – Located at 103 Dalton Avenue with restaurants and shopping steps away.
Kingston also has numerous Airbnb and VRBO options, especially in the west end and nearby residential neighbourhoods like Cataraqui Woods and Bayridge.
🛍️ Things to Do in Kingston’s West End
While you’re here for pickleball, there’s plenty to explore:
- Cataraqui Town Centre – Kingston’s largest mall with over 140 stores including a food court.
- RioCan Centre Kingston – Big-box shopping, restaurants, and Cineplex (movies) -located just south of the venue.
- Local dining – Options range from casual favourites (Montana’s, Boston Pizza, Milestones) to Kingston gems like The Greek Islands, Go Italian, and Red House West.
- Outdoor activities – Nearby parks, walking trails, and quick access to Lake Ontario waterfront areas.
If you’re extending your stay, downtown Kingston is only a 10-minute drive away, offering historic sites, waterfront patios, and vibrant fall events.
🍁 Outdoor + Nature Activities
- Fall Colours at Lemoine Point Conservation Area: Easy walking trails, lake views, and spectacular autumn leaves. Great for a relaxing stroll before or after camp.
- Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area: Boardwalks, birdwatching, and classic fall scenery. They often run seasonal programs like fall hikes or nature workshops.
- Pumpkin Patches & Fall Farms (West End + Surrounding Area)
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- Wynn Farms (Bath) – apple picking, pumpkins, corn maze.
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- Fruition Berry Farm – fall wagon rides and seasonal treats.
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- Topsy Farms (Amherst Island) – sheep farm tours and cozy fall vibes.
🎃 Seasonal Events & Experiences
- Kingston Ghost & Mystery Trolley Tour A fun, spooky fall tradition — perfect for visitors who want Kingston history with a Halloween twist.
- Fort Henry’s Fall/Halloween Events Depending on the year, Fort Henry hosts ghost tours, night walks, or special fall programming.
- Downtown Kingston Fall Markets The Public Market and various pop‑ups feature local produce, crafts, and autumn-themed goods.
🏙️ City + Cultural Activities
- Historic Kingston Walking Tours Explore the downtown waterfront, limestone architecture, and old military sites with crisp fall air.
- Kingston Penitentiary Tours A major visitor draw — fascinating, guided tours through Canada’s most famous former prison.
- Agnes Etherington Art Centre Exhibits from Queen’s University’s art collection, perfect for a quieter indoor afternoon.
- The Tett Centre & Isabel Bader Centre Art studios, performances, and lakeside views that are stunning in fall.
🚤 Waterfront Activities
- Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises Fall cruises offer beautiful foliage along the islands — a great option for visitors staying a few days.
- Waterfront Walks Confederation Basin, Battery Park, and Breakwater Park are gorgeous in autumn light.
- Tour the Keewatin A tour of the fully restored 1905 Edwardian steamship, offering an immersive step back in time through its elegant staterooms, historic decks, and rich Great Lakes maritime history.
🌦️ Weather in Kingston
Kingston sits on the shores of Lake Ontario, and weather can shift quickly — especially in spring and fall.
- Mornings and evenings may be cool, even when daytime temperatures climb.
- Wind off the lake can make conditions feel cooler than expected.
- We’ve chosen this time of year to maximize good weather and hope for a glimpse at the Fall colours.
While we don’t anticipate issues, camps may be subject to cancellation or adjustment due to circumstances beyond our control (e.g., public‑health restrictions). If you’re travelling from out of town, consider travel insurance to cover any non‑camp‑related expenses.
Chandler AZ Accommodations and Details
Court Location: Private Courts
22318 132nd Street, Chandler, Arizona 85249
Our sessions take place on private outdoor courts in a quiet residential neighborhood in southeast Chandler. Parking and restroom facilities are available on-site.
Because the courts are in a residential area rather than a commercial sports complex, restaurants, hotels, and shopping are spread out. A rental car is likely most convenient but uber is also an option. You may also find an Airbnb or VRBO closer to the courts—and potentially within walking distance—than the area’s hotels.
🚗 Getting to the Camp
Chandler is located southeast of Phoenix and is easily accessible from two airports:
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Phoenix Sky Harbor offers the widest selection of flights and airlines. The courts are approximately 30–40 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. Rental cars and rideshare services are available. The airport’s Rental Car Center is connected to the terminals by the free PHX Sky Train.
Phoenix Sky Harbor transportation information
Phoenix–Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA)
Phoenix–Mesa Gateway is a smaller airport located closer to the courts—typically about a 20–25-minute drive. Flight options are more limited, but it may be a convenient and less hectic alternative if service is available from your home city. Rental cars and rideshare services are available at the airport.
Phoenix–Mesa Gateway transportation information
🏨 Lodging Near the Courts
The private courts are located away from Chandler’s main hotel corridors. Most traditional hotels will require a drive of approximately 10–20 minutes, depending on the property and traffic. Here is a link to Google Maps to find the closest hotels.
Explore Other Chandler lodging options
🍽️ Restaurants, Shopping, and Nearby Conveniences
You’ll find restaurants, grocery stores, and everyday shopping along the main roads surrounding southeast Chandler, particularly near:
- Riggs Road and Gilbert Road
- Ocotillo Road and Arizona Avenue
- Downtown Chandler
- Downtown Queen Creek
- Chandler Fashion Center
Downtown Chandler offers one of the area’s strongest concentrations of local restaurants, breweries, shops, galleries, and evening entertainment.
⚾ Spring Training
Spring is an especially popular time to visit the Phoenix area because it coincides with Cactus League Spring Training. Fifteen Major League Baseball teams play at 10 stadiums throughout the Greater Phoenix area, making it easy to add a game—or several—to your trip.
Cactus League stadium information
Spring Training attracts visitors from across the country, so flights, hotels, rental cars, and game tickets can fill quickly. If your camp falls during Spring Training season, we recommend making your travel arrangements early.
🌵 Outdoor and Nature Activities
Veterans Oasis Park
Located in southeast Chandler, Veterans Oasis Park offers walking trails, a lake, desert scenery, and excellent birdwatching. More than 150 bird species have been observed in the park, and guided bird walks are offered on select dates from November through April.
San Tan Mountain Regional Park
Explore more than 10,000 acres of Sonoran Desert terrain with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trail options range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Desert Botanical Garden
Located in Phoenix, the garden showcases thousands of desert plants along scenic outdoor trails and is particularly beautiful during the cooler fall and spring months.
Hot-Air Ballooning
The Greater Phoenix area is known for sunrise hot-air balloon rides, which offer expansive views of the Sonoran Desert.
Golf
Chandler and the surrounding East Valley offer numerous public and resort golf courses. Fall and spring are among the area’s most popular golfing seasons.
🏙️ Things to Do in Chandler and the East Valley
Downtown Chandler
Explore local restaurants, breweries, shops, public art, and the historic town square.
Chandler Museum
Learn about Chandler’s history and changing community through free exhibitions and programs.
Arizona Railway Museum
Tour a collection of historic railroad cars and equipment showcasing Arizona’s railway history.
Chandler Center for the Arts
Check the calendar for concerts, theatrical performances, comedy, and other live events during your visit.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
Visit Arizona’s working olive farm and mill for tours, tastings, shopping, and casual outdoor dining.
Agritopia in Gilbert
A walkable farm-centered community with restaurants, specialty shops, gardens, and a seasonal farmers market.
Chandler Fashion Center
A major shopping and dining destination with national retailers, restaurants, entertainment, and nearby hotels.
Chandler’s visitor site maintains current information about attractions, festivals, and events.
🍂 Visiting in November
November is one of the most comfortable times of year to visit Chandler. Average temperatures are approximately 75°F during the day and 47°F overnight, although warmer or cooler conditions are possible.
The cooler weather is ideal for:
- Desert walks and hikes
- Golf
- Outdoor dining
- Farmers markets
- Birdwatching
- Exploring Downtown Chandler and nearby communities
Seasonal events vary from year to year, so check Chandler’s event calendar before your visit.
☀️ Visiting in the Spring
Spring days are generally warm and sunny, while mornings and evenings can remain cool. Chandler’s average temperatures are approximately:
- March: 77°F high / 49°F low
- April: 85°F high / 54°F low
Because the camp takes place outdoors, dress in layers and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a refillable water bottle. Arizona’s dry climate can make dehydration less noticeable, even when temperatures feel comfortable.
Chandler monthly weather averages
🌦️ Weather and Travel Considerations
Chandler receives abundant sunshine, but outdoor conditions can still change. Wind, rain, unusually warm temperatures, or other circumstances beyond our control may require adjustments to the camp schedule.
If you’re traveling from out of town, consider travel insurance to protect airfare, lodging, rental-car costs, and other non-camp-related expenses.
Minneapolis, MN Accommodations and Details
Court Location: Minneapolis Pickleball Club
1200 S. Washington Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55415
📍 Location of the Courts
Our sessions take place at the Minneapolis Pickleball Club, a premier indoor facility with seven dedicated pickleball courts in the heart of downtown Minneapolis.
The club is located near the Mississippi River in the historic Mill District, just blocks from U.S. Bank Stadium, Gold Medal Park, the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, and the Stone Arch Bridge. Restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and waterfront walking paths are all nearby. Minneapolis Pickleball Club
✈️ Getting to Minneapolis
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
MSP is approximately 10 miles from downtown Minneapolis and offers nonstop service from cities throughout the United States, Canada, and other international destinations.
Players have two convenient ways to reach downtown:
By Uber, Lyft, or Taxi
A rideshare from the airport to the downtown camp area typically takes approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Light Rail
The METRO Blue Line serves both airport terminals and travels directly into downtown Minneapolis. The trip takes approximately 25 minutes, with trains generally operating every 15–20 minutes.
The Blue Line stops at U.S. Bank Stadium Station, located near the camp area. Depending on your hotel and how much luggage you have, you can walk or take a short rideshare from the station. MSP light-rail information
🚗 Do You Need a Car?
A rental car is generally not necessary for this camp.
The Minneapolis Pickleball Club is in a walkable downtown neighborhood, and several hotels are nearby. Uber and Lyft are readily available for getting to the courts, restaurants, and attractions that are farther away.
A rental car may be useful if you plan to explore areas outside Minneapolis, but parking at downtown hotels can add to the cost of your stay.
🏨 Lodging Near the Minneapolis Pickleball Club
Downtown Minneapolis offers a wide range of lodging, from modern boutique hotels to larger full-service properties.
Aloft Minneapolis
Located at 900 Washington Avenue South, the Aloft is only a few blocks from the club and is the most convenient walkable option. It is also close to the Guthrie Theater, Gold Medal Park, Mill City Museum, and the riverfront. Aloft Minneapolis
Other downtown options include:
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Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District – A historic building converted into a modern hotel near U.S. Bank Stadium.
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Moxy Minneapolis Downtown – A casual boutique-style hotel in the Downtown East neighborhood.
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Radisson RED Minneapolis Downtown – Near U.S. Bank Stadium and the Mill District.
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Hyatt Place Minneapolis/Downtown – A centrally located option with easy access to restaurants and downtown attractions.
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Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown – Located across Interstate 35W in the Seven Corners area.
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The Depot Minneapolis – An upscale hotel in a restored railroad depot near the Mississippi River.
I have stayed at several downtown hotels and found it easy to use Uber or Lyft to get back and forth to the club. If you choose a hotel farther into downtown, a short rideshare may be more convenient than walking with your pickleball gear.
🍽️ Dining Near the Camp
The Mill District, Downtown East, and nearby North Loop offer everything from casual cafés to destination restaurants.
Nearby areas to explore include:
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Washington Avenue – Restaurants, cafés, breweries, and casual dining within walking distance of the club.
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Downtown East and the Mill District – Dining near U.S. Bank Stadium, the Guthrie Theater, and the riverfront.
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North Loop – One of Minneapolis’ most popular dining neighborhoods, with restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and boutiques.
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Nicollet Mall – Downtown dining, shopping, and easy light-rail access.
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Northeast Minneapolis – Known for local breweries, restaurants, art studios, and neighborhood bars.
🌊 Exploring the Minneapolis Riverfront
One of the best things about this camp location is its proximity to the Mississippi River and several of the city’s most recognizable attractions.
Stone Arch Bridge
Originally built as a railroad bridge, the Stone Arch Bridge is now a pedestrian and bicycle route with views of the Mississippi River, the Minneapolis skyline, and St. Anthony Falls. It is particularly beautiful when the fall colours begin to appear.
Mill Ruins Park
Explore the remains of the flour mills that helped establish Minneapolis as an industrial center. The park sits along the river beside St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge.
Gold Medal Park
A landscaped urban park near the Guthrie Theater with walking paths, public art, and views of the downtown skyline.
St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail
This self-guided 1.8-mile loop explores the riverfront’s milling, transportation, and Indigenous history.
🏙️ Things to Do in Minneapolis
Mill City Museum
Built within the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, the museum tells the story of Minneapolis, the Mississippi River, and the flour-milling industry. Its rooftop observation deck offers excellent views of the river and Stone Arch Bridge. Mill City Museum
Guthrie Theater
Attend a performance or visit the building’s public spaces for dramatic views of the Mississippi River and the city.
Minneapolis Institute of Art
A large and highly regarded art museum with free general admission.
Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Explore contemporary art and see the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture.
Minnehaha Falls
Visit the 53-foot waterfall and surrounding park, accessible by car, rideshare, or light rail.
Mall of America
The METRO Blue Line travels directly from downtown to the Mall of America, making it easy to visit without a car.
U.S. Bank Stadium
The home of the Minnesota Vikings is located only a few blocks from the camp. Depending on the schedule, you may be able to attend a game, stadium tour, concert, or other event.
Target Field and Target Center
Check the schedules for Minnesota Twins baseball, Minnesota Timberwolves basketball, Minnesota Lynx basketball, concerts, and other events.
For current attractions, concerts, sporting events, and seasonal festivals, visit Meet Minneapolis.
🍁 Minneapolis in the Fall
Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Minneapolis. The city’s parks, lakes, and riverfront trails provide excellent places to see the changing leaves.
Good locations for fall color include:
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Stone Arch Bridge and the Mississippi Riverfront
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Minnehaha Falls and Minnehaha Regional Park
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The Chain of Lakes
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Theodore Wirth Regional Park
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Lake Harriet
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Boom Island Park
Seasonal activities may include farmers' markets, fall festivals, theatre productions, sporting events, and riverfront walks. Exact event schedules vary by year.
🌦️ Weather in Minneapolis
Fall temperatures in Minneapolis can change considerably from one day to the next. Early October may be mild and sunny, but cool mornings, wind, rain, and occasional early cold snaps are possible.
During October, daytime temperatures generally decline from the mid-60s early in the month to the low 50s near the end. Overnight temperatures can range from the upper 40s to the 30s.
Because the camp is held indoors, play will not be affected by normal fall weather. For exploring the city, bring layers, a light or medium-weight jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Check the forecast shortly before traveling, as Minneapolis weather can shift quickly.
While we don’t anticipate issues, camps may be subject to cancellation or adjustment due to circumstances beyond our control. If you’re travelling from out of town, consider travel insurance to cover airfare, lodging, and other non-camp-related expenses.
Wayne NJ Accommodations and Details
Court Location: SPORTIME Pickleball Wayne
77 Willowbrook Boulevard, Wayne, NJ 07470
📍 Location of the Courts
Our sessions take place at SPORTIME Pickleball Wayne, a climate-controlled indoor facility featuring 18 dedicated pickleball courts, including a stadium court. The facility also offers player lounges, modern locker rooms, a pro shop, and grab-and-go snacks and beverages.
The club is located near Willowbrook Mall and several major highways, including Routes 23, 46, and Interstate 80. Restaurants, shopping, and hotels are available throughout the surrounding Wayne and Fairfield area.
✈️ Getting to Wayne
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Newark is the closest and generally the most convenient airport for this camp. The drive to Wayne is approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Newark offers rental cars, taxis, rideshare services, and public transportation. Because reaching the camp by public transportation requires at least one connection, Uber, Lyft, a taxi, or a rental car will usually be the easiest airport option.
Newark Airport transportation information
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia may offer additional flight choices, but reaching Wayne requires travelling across or around New York City. Allow approximately 60–90 minutes—and potentially longer during peak traffic.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK offers extensive domestic and international service but is the farthest of the three major airports. The drive to Wayne frequently takes 75–120 minutes, depending on traffic.
If fares are similar, Newark will almost always be the more convenient choice.
🚗 Do You Need a Car?
A rental car is helpful but not essential.
Several hotels are located a short drive from SPORTIME, and Uber and Lyft are available throughout the area. If you stay near Willowbrook Mall or on Route 46, you can use rideshare services to travel between your hotel and the camp.
A car will be more convenient if you plan to explore northern New Jersey, visit local parks, or make trips outside the immediate Wayne area. Keep in mind that driving into Manhattan generally means dealing with traffic, tolls, and expensive parking. Public transportation is usually the better option for a New York City day trip.
🚆 Train, Light Rail, and Bus Options
Wayne is part of the NJ Transit system, but there is no light-rail line that travels directly to SPORTIME or Willowbrook Mall. Rail or light-rail travel will require a short rideshare or bus connection for the final portion of the trip.
NJ Transit Commuter Rail
The closest commuter-rail option is the Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, served by NJ Transit’s Montclair–Boonton Line. Service connects the area with Hoboken, Newark Broad Street, and—on certain trains or with a connection—New York Penn Station.
From the Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, SPORTIME is approximately a 5–10-minute rideshare, depending on traffic.
Rail schedules on this line can vary considerably by day and time, especially on weekends. Check the NJ Transit trip planner before relying on this option.
Newark Light Rail Connection
Players travelling through Newark can use the Newark Light Rail between Newark Penn Station and Newark Broad Street Station. From Newark Broad Street, transfer to a Montclair–Boonton Line train serving Wayne/Route 23, then take a short rideshare to SPORTIME.
This is possible, but it is not a direct route. Depending on connection times, a rideshare from Newark Airport may be considerably faster and simpler.
Bus from New York City
NJ Transit operates bus service between New York City’s Port Authority Bus Terminal and the Willowbrook Mall Park & Ride. Willowbrook Mall is very close to the camp location, although the safest and most convenient final connection may still be a short rideshare.
This may be the simplest public-transportation option for players staying in Manhattan before or after camp.
Because routes and schedules change, use the
NJ Transit trip planner and enter the club’s complete address before travelling.
🏨 Lodging Near SPORTIME
The hotels closest to the facility are generally located along Route 46 in Wayne and Fairfield. Most will require a short drive or rideshare to the courts.
Options to consider include:
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Courtyard by Marriott Wayne Fairfield – A modern hotel on Route 46 with complimentary guest parking, a fitness center, and on-site dining.
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DoubleTree by Hilton Fairfield Hotel & Suites – Located near Willowbrook Mall with on-site dining and fitness facilities.
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Home2 Suites by Hilton Wayne – An extended-stay option with suites and kitchen facilities.
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La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clifton/Rutherford – Located farther east but convenient for players combining the camp with time closer to New York City.
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Hilton Garden Inn Wayne – A quieter option in northern Wayne, although it is farther from SPORTIME.
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Residence Inn Wayne – An extended-stay hotel with suites and kitchen facilities, also located in northern Wayne.
When booking, map the hotel to 77 Willowbrook Boulevard rather than relying on a general “Wayne” search. Wayne covers a large area, and some hotels with Wayne addresses may be 15–20 minutes from the courts.
🛍️ Shopping and Dining Near the Camp
Willowbrook Mall
Located next to the camp area, Willowbrook Mall is one of northern New Jersey’s largest shopping destinations. It offers department stores, national retailers, casual food options, and full-service restaurants.
Wayne and Fairfield Dining
Restaurants are spread along Routes 23 and 46 and throughout Wayne, Fairfield, Little Falls, and Montclair. You’ll find casual chains, diners, Italian restaurants, delis, and a wide selection of international cuisines.
Downtown Montclair
Approximately 20–30 minutes from the camp, Montclair offers one of the area’s best collections of independent restaurants, cafés, bakeries, shops, and cultural attractions.
🍁 Outdoor and Nature Activities
Laurelwood Arboretum
This 30-acre public garden in Wayne features woodland trails, ponds, streams, and a diverse collection of trees and plants. It is a peaceful option for an easy walk before or after camp.
High Mountain Park Preserve
The preserve encompasses approximately 1,200 acres, with more than 11 miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands. Some trails lead to panoramic views of northern New Jersey and the New York City skyline.
Garret Mountain Reservation
Located in nearby Woodland Park and Paterson, the reservation offers walking trails, picnic areas, lake views, and overlooks toward the Manhattan skyline.
New Jersey Botanical Garden
Located at Skylands Manor in Ringwood, the gardens offer formal landscapes, woodland paths, and beautiful fall scenery.
🏙️ Local and Cultural Activities
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
Visit one of the largest waterfalls in the eastern United States and learn about Paterson’s role in America’s early industrial development.
Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters
This historic Wayne property served as General George Washington’s headquarters during portions of the Revolutionary War.
Montclair Art Museum
Explore American and Native American art in nearby Montclair.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Tour Thomas Edison’s laboratory and home in West Orange.
The American Dream
Located near MetLife Stadium, American Dream offers indoor attractions, shopping, restaurants, a water park, an amusement park, and an indoor ski slope.
🗽 Visiting New York City
Wayne is close enough to New York City to add a day or several days in Manhattan to your trip.
Rather than driving, consider taking an NJ Transit bus from Willowbrook Mall to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. Depending on traffic and the specific route, the trip generally takes approximately 35–60 minutes.
From Port Authority, you’ll be within walking distance of:
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Times Square
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Broadway theatres
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Bryant Park
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Rockefeller Center
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Fifth Avenue
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Central Park
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The Museum of Modern Art
If you plan to spend several nights in New York City, it may be easier to stay in Manhattan for that portion of your trip and move to a Wayne-area hotel for the camp.
🍂 Visiting Wayne in the Fall
October is a beautiful time to visit northern New Jersey. Fall colours generally develop throughout the month, with timing varying based on weather conditions.
Seasonal activities may include:
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Fall-colour walks and hikes
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Apple picking and pumpkin farms
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Farmers markets
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Historic-site tours
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Outdoor dining in Montclair
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Halloween and harvest events
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Day trips into the Hudson Valley or New York City
Local farms and seasonal-event schedules vary from year to year, so check availability before making plans.
🌦️ Weather in Wayne
October weather in Wayne can range from mild and sunny to cool and rainy. Daytime temperatures generally decline from around 70°F early in the month to around 59°F near the end, while overnight temperatures may range from the low 50s to the low 40s.
Bring layers, a light or medium-weight jacket, and comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore outdoors.
Because the camp is held indoors in a climate-controlled facility, normal fall weather should not affect play. However, camps may still be subject to cancellation or adjustment due to circumstances beyond our control. If you’re traveling from out of town, consider travel insurance to protect airfare, lodging, and other non-camp-related expenses.
Weather
Most of our camp locations are indoor facilities. For our outdoor camps, we've selected locations and dates during the most favorable times of the year to help provide the best possible playing conditions.
While we don't anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or changes due to circumstances beyond our control, such as facility issues or weather-imposed restrictions.
If you have any concerns, we recommend purchasing travel insurance to help cover non-camp-related travel expenses.
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Refunds and Cancellations
You are considered registered for the camp once we have received all information and payment has been made.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel at least 61 days prior to the first day of camp, you will receive a refund, less an $85 administration fee.
If you cancel less than 61 days prior to the camp: (a) AND we are able to refill your spot, you will receive a refund, less a $125 administration fee, or (b) If we are unable to fill your spot, we will issue a credit applicable to a future camp, less the $125 administration fee. Camp credits expire within 12 months of the start date of the scheduled camp.
We chose locations during the optimal time of the year to help ensure the best chance of good weather and conditions. However, it is an outdoor camp. While we don’t anticipate issues, camps are subject to cancellation or change based on circumstances beyond our control, such as facility issues, or weather-imposed restrictions.
Refunds are for camp fees only, not travel-related expenses. If you have any concerns, we suggest you purchase travel insurance to cover any non-camp-related expenses.
Unconditional Money Back Guarantee
Your game improvement and satisfaction are of paramount importance to Better Pickleball.
If you take a Better Pickleball Camp and don't believe that your learning experience was worth the price paid for the camp, tell us. Like all other Better Pickleball products, we'll refund your camp tuition.
Travel costs and associated camp expenses are not included in the Better Pickleball Camp Guarantee.