The New West Ridge Community Center Coming Spring 2026
This spring, construction began on the new West Ridge Community Center, located at the southeast end of West Ridge Park, and is expected to be completed by Spring 2026. The new building will include a gymnastics center, dance room, flexible classrooms, and a community room. The nearby event lawn, enrichment courtyard, and relocated safety village will provide space for indoor and outdoor programs. In the fall, construction began on a new ballfield with 90-foot base paths and a large outfield to accommodate a variety of sport activities, to replace the current field on the southwest side of West Ridge Park. This new field will be the Park District’s first of this size, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for all ages and abilities.
In 2019, the Park District conducted a GreenPrint 2024 Master Plan Review and Amendment. This review expressed the need for a multi-purpose facility to provide flexible, multi-generational programming space for youth and adults, and to expand gymnastics programming. It also highlighted the need to address the aging West Ridge Center. The Park District began designing a new community center at West Ridge Park in 2022. In 2024, the Park District was awarded $1.4 million Illinois Department of Natural Resources Park and Recreational Facilities Construction (PARC) grant to help fund portions of the new center.
“We are excited to open the new West Ridge Community Center this spring. It will be fully accessible, universally designed for inclusivity, and include state-of-the-art safety and security features. It is a facility that addresses community needs and will serve our residents for decades in the future,” said Brian Romes, executive director of the Park District of Highland Park.
The new West Ridge Community Center will provide ParkSchool students and teachers with modern classrooms and enrichment rooms. Early childhood rooms will open to an outdoor play space and access to an educational native planting area, which supports nature-inspired, play-based learning.
The new gymnastics center expands from 3,500 at Centennial Ice Arena to 10,000 square feet at the new facility. This will support our growing gymnastics program and include an area for preschoolers with age-appropriate equipment, state-of-the-art equipment for women’s Olympic events, enlarged pit area, in-ground trampoline, and a 40-foot in-ground Tumbl Trak (see illustration on next page). The new dance studio is designed to meet the specialized needs of performers, with proper size, floor, lighting, sound, and ceiling height.
There will be a beautiful community room for meetings, events, and rentals. “People will be excited to use that room,” said Romes. “It opens onto a large event lawn. Guests at events, parties, or meetings can enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces. The room features sliding glass doors and screens, letting in fresh air. We applied what we’ve learned to this design, creating an extraordinary gathering space for generations.”
“This project leveraged the opportunity to envision the entire West Ridge Park site with a new perspective that would meet the needs of all residents for generations to come,” Romes said. “It will include the addition of our community’s first ballfield with 90-foot basepaths, and future improvements include a universally inclusive sports field, improved pathways and other recreation amenities. We are all excited for the impact this site with have within the community”
Programs will transition to the new West Ridge Community Center when the facility opens in Spring 2026. This project invests in people—from children taking their first gymnastics class, to adults joining community events, to families gathering in this shared space. We can’t wait for you to see it! Watch for Grand Opening announcements, as well as open houses and orientations for ParkSchool and Gymnastics participants.
2025 has been a dynamic year at the Park District of Highland Park, highlighted by new facility construction, park renovations, and a mix of recurring and new recreation services. As always, we pause to reflect and share a recap of our work, the joy we’ve brought to the community, and a preview of what’s ahead.
We are grateful for your support and encouragement. Community feedback and suggestions make this YOUR Park District, helping us add value and enrich community life. There’s a lot to talk about as we look back on the past year and look ahead to 2026. Let’s start by highlighting the District’s current financial position.
Strong Financial Stewardship and Leadership
Our approach continues to reflect responsible, transparent planning, reporting and management of financial resources. In 2025, Moody’s reaffirmed our Aaa bond rating, confirming our commitment to sound financial practices. For 35 years, we have earned the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, demonstrating our commitment to high standards in transparency and accountability.
The work of our professional, talented staff—ranging from landscaping to lifeguarding, preschool, playgrounds, and more—is supported by our Board of Park Commissioners: President Terry Grossberg, Vice-President Jennifer Freeman, Josie Beck, Steve Greenberg, and Rafael Labrador. Their long-range planning and leadership are invaluable to bringing quality services to the community. We thank recently retired Commissioners Cal Bernstein and Barnett Ruttenberg, whose dedication will benefit the District for generations. Each day, the hands-on contributions of our team members led by Executive Director, Brian Romes, make your Park District a special place for us to do the work we love.
GreenPrint: Building Community Well-being
Ten years ago, the Park District of Highland Park introduced GreenPrint 2024, a transformative parks and recreation master plan that shaped the current state of open spaces, facilities, and recreation services in Highland Park. With community input, collaboration, and strategic investment, the initiatives outlined in the plan were implemented over the past decade, enhancing parks, recreation facilities, and natural areas throughout the district. These achievements demonstrate a strong dedication to long-term priorities and lay the groundwork for future planning.
At the beginning of this year, we launched the new “GreenPrint” Comprehensive Master Plan to reassess, refine, and reimagine what comes next. GreenPrint is our commitment to ensuring that your beloved park and recreation system continues to serve all residents, today and well into the future. The plan is taking shape through a three-phased process: engage, analyze, and plan.
We began the Engage Phase by connecting with the Highland Park community, assessing usage, gathering interests, and identifying needs. This phase included a statistically valid Community-wide Survey, as well as additional outreach, including:
Stakeholder Interviews and Focus Group Discussions with Park Board Commissioners, Community Affiliates, Civic Advisory Groups, Government Partners, Park Foundation Members, New Residents, Young Adults, Athletic Teams, and Facility Users.
Pop-up Workshops, including stations at Special Events, Sunset Woods Park, Centennial Ice Arena, Hidden Creek AquaPark, Park Fitness, Danny Cunniff Park, and Olson Park.
Staff analysis of agency’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges.
The information we gathered provided unique insight into our community’s needs and preferences.
We are currently assessing data, reviewing existing planning documents, and evaluating current park and facility conditions to ensure we continue to maintain and grow our facilities and services. This phase includes:
An updated inventory and assessment of parks, open spaces, and recreation facilities
A review of current recreation services and participation trends
An evaluation of past GreenPrint priorities to measure progress and identify new needs
Collaboration with Park District staff and Park Board Commissioners to ensure recommendations are both visionary and feasible
Community input to validate our initial findings
The final phase brings everything together into a New GreenPrint Master Plan—a strategic guide for the next decade. This phase includes:
Testing and refining new initiatives for recreation services, parks, and facilities
Developing actionable strategies for investment in capital development and improvement projects
Ensuring financial stewardship and operational excellence
Finalizing the plan with community input before its release in early 2026
GreenPrint is intended to be a living document, allowing us to quickly adapt to changing conditions—including economic and ecological ones—and recalibrate our path on this journey.
We are deeply appreciative of the cooperation we received from the community. We invite you to learn more about the planning process at pdhpgreenprint.com.
Building for the Future: The New West Ridge Center
One of our most significant projects this year is the construction of the new West Ridge Center. The current building has served the community for decades, but it no longer meets the needs of our resident users.
The new West Ridge Community Center, which is scheduled to open this spring, will provide our ParkSchool students and teachers with modern spaces to support their growth and development. The early childhood rooms will feature secure access to recreational facilities, as well as direct entry to outdoor play areas, native gardens, and a new safety and sustainability village, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience.
The new gymnastics gym increases our current space at Centennial Ice Arena from 3,500 square feet to 10,000 square feet at the West Ridge Community Center. You can imagine what a difference that will make for our fast-growing gymnastics program.
The new dance studio has been designed to meet the specialized needs of performers. The larger size, state-of-the-art floor, new LED lighting, sound system, and vaulted ceilings will provide the optimal environment for learning and growth.
There will be a beautiful glass community room that opens out onto a large event lawn so guests at events, parties, and meetings will be able to take advantage of a wonderful combination of indoor-outdoor space. We put a lot of what we’ve learned over the years into this design, and it’s going to be an extraordinary gathering space for generations to come.
Recreation services at the new West Ridge Community Center will start when the facility opens this spring. In addition to so many of your favorites, we’ll be offering new programs like summer gymnastics camp, and by fall, all classes will be in full swing. We can’t wait for you to see it! Watch for announcements about the Grand Opening and special open houses for ParkSchool and gymnastics participants.
This project represents an investment not just in buildings, but in people—in every child who will take their first gymnastics class here, every adult who will attend a community event, and every family who will gather in this shared space.
Club Pickle & Padel: A Game-Changer Arrives
When we opened Club Pickle & Padel on September 2, 2025, we changed the game. The Club is ahead of any North Shore racquet facility, offering state-of-the-art courts and a one-of-a-kind experience. Here are some highlights. (You really need to experience it yourself!):
50,000 sq. ft. year-round climate-controlled dome, with a 66-foot-high ceiling.
10 dedicated regulation-sized pickleball courts, built to pro tournament specifications.
LED lighting specifically tailored to eliminate glare and optimize the player experience.
4 padel courts, designed in Spain, with glass walls and turf.
Beautifully designed lounge areas and cozy gathering spaces.
Pro Shop with the latest gear, apparel, and trendy accessories.
A variety of refreshments and snacks are available for purchase.
Rental space for meetings and parties
Restrooms and showers designed for comfort and convenience.
Membership perks including early access and affordable pricing for court booking, programs, leagues, lessons and outdoor court reservations
Club Pickle & Padel has its own website and app, where you can find everything about the facility, amenities, memberships, court availability, events, and rentals. The club is open to members and non-members.
Events and parties create more connections. The rental space can host corporate outings, birthdays, special events or casual nights with friends. Combining socializing and sports has made the Club a friendly gathering hub.
You’re invited to experience this one-of-a-kind venue. Reserve your visit with us and see why Club Pickle & Padel is the ultimate destination for pickleball, padel and community connection.
Park Fitness Ushers In a New Era of Physical and Mental Health
For nearly twenty years, the Recreation Center of Highland Park was a hub of health and wellness. In 2025, the facility entered a new chapter with a new name: Park Fitness. It’s more than a fitness center; it is a vibrant gathering place where neighbors connect, and wellness is a way of life.
In 2025, Park Fitness completed a remarkable transformation. The 5,850-square-foot Fitness Floor features a quiet, comfortable layout and a full range of premium equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, cross-trainers, rowing machines, stair climbers, arc trainers, upright and recumbent bikes, and strength equipment. Park Fitness also includes:
A dedicated free-weight area for customizable workouts.
Stages Studio Pro Plus Cycling Studio
Mind Body Yoga and Pilates Reformer Training Studio
Dedicated functional turf training area
As longtime Fitness Manager Jodi DiTomasso shared, “Park Fitness represents a new era in our commitment to the health and well-being of the community.”
Park Fitness is where the community thrives. Schedule a tour today and experience firsthand why Park Fitness is extraordinary.
Celebrating Improved Lakefront Access
In June 2025, we proudly cut the ribbon on the completed Park Avenue North Beach Access Improvements, supported by a $400,000 OSLAD grant. The project includes:
ADA-accessible sidewalk and boardwalk
Reconfigured parking lot
Native landscaping
New signage and site lighting
Lakefront seating areas
The project improves connectivity with the boating facility and creates inviting, accessible spaces for walking, biking, and lakeside relaxation. Future plans include a shaded plaza with a pergola, tables, and chairs. Brian Romes added, “Many of our projects use universal design concepts and focus on inclusivity, and that was the goal at Park Avenue. It’s been well received.”
Your Parks Are Changing with the Times
For decades, Sunset Woods Park has been the central park for residents of Highland Park. 2025 marked the completion of another phase of Sunset Woods Park Improvements, which makes the park more accessible and inclusive for all ages, interests, and abilities. Some of the highlights:
A new multi-use sports court and game area, featuring basketball, ping pong, and bocce ball
A new wheel-friendly plaza
A new skate park
Brian Romes said, “Placing the basketball court at the front of the park improved access and accessibility. The new wheel-friendly plaza appeals to a larger variety of users and enthusiasts. More activities are available, and additions like the bocce court—which the community requested—attract more inter-generational usage.”
Along with improvements to more than a dozen parks, we made major upgrades at Port Clinton Park:
A new playground for ages 2–5
Replacement of panels and a new fence on the playground for ages 5–12
A new loop path and new site furniture
A new game table and shelter seating
A new picnic and gathering area.
At the popular Larry Fink Tot Lot, we completed several community-guided updates, including:
New tot lot play equipment
Site furniture replacement
A new gathering area within the playground
Sustainability with GreenPath
In 2025, after over a year of research, the Park District adopted GreenPath, our most robust Sustainability Plan. This plan will guide efforts to prepare for and adapt to regional climate change threats.
Led by Planning and Projects Supervisor Casey Lawler, GreenPath is the Park District’s roadmap to operational sustainability for the next decade. It is focused, realistic, and actionable, guided by three principles: 1. Build Resiliency to Climate Change 2. Reduce Climate Change Impact 3. Model Environmental Best Practices
With five measurable goals: 1. Maintain clean, healthy air 2. Use energy efficiently 3. Use water efficiently 4. Reduce landfill waste 5. Foster a sustainability identity for the District.
Read more about GreenPath on our website. The new page highlights sustainability at the Park District and showcases past and current initiatives. This collaborative spirit reflects what makes Highland Park special: a caring community and a responsive Park District.
This enthusiasm for new programs is unmistakable. Registrations Are Through the Roof!
We love serving the community. And you love being part of it!
In 2025 we ran 2,532 programs. A total of 16,868 participants registered for programs.
We ran 158 Summer Camps. Total participation increased 7.6%, to 2,131 campers.
Park Fitness memberships increased 11.2%, to 2,289 members.
Golfers played a total of 43,053 rounds at Sunset Valley Golf Club.
Lakefront beach pass holders increased 46.5%.
Your support is indispensable to the success of the District. We appreciate you!
Record-Breaking Pickleball Moment
On Monday, July 21, 2025, we hosted the nation’s largest pickleball lesson! Four hundred and forty kids joined Mark Miller’s Munchkin Program and MPL Chicago Slice player Maddie Moeke at the Cunniff Park Pickleball Complex, breaking the 2024 record of 300 kids set in Arizona. According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, nearly 20 million pickleball players played in 2024, a 45% increase from 2023.
We love our fun and games. And yeah…our world record, too!
The Parks Foundation – Changing Lives Through Access
The Parks Foundation of Highland Park ensures equitable access to recreation. This year, it has awarded over $183,000 in scholarships, memberships, and program or camp registrations.
Through the SMILE program, families in need of financial assistance can participate in Park District programs. In 2025, scholarships were awarded to 79 families—comprising 126 adults and 112 children—with over $172,000 allocated, which funded 42 memberships, 131 programs, and 68 camps.
The FYI Grant-in-aid Program helps Highwood students at District 112 and 113 schools in Highland Park. In 2025, the Foundation awarded over $6,400 to 10 families and 21 children for 6 memberships, 41 programs, and 9 camps.
This year, the Foundation received several grants to support its scholarship programs. The Highland Park Community Foundation, Endeavor Health, and the AYCO Charitable Foundation contributed a total of $24,000. An $8,922 grant from the DuPage County Health Department funded the FYI Learn to Swim program, enabling 71 residents to learn how to swim. Swim Lessons Save Lives.
That’s why this work matters, and we are grateful.
Awards and Recognition
We are always thrilled to be recognized for our communications and marketing efforts. In 2025, the Illinois Parks & Recreation Association honored us with their most of prestigious Marketing awards:
And, your Park District was also received the IPRA Exceptional Workplace Award. Our Park Board, administration, staff, and volunteers are very proud of these important recognitions.
A Year to Remember—And More to Come
From stunning park improvements to expanded wellness opportunities, from sustainable planning to unforgettable community moments, 2025 has truly been an exceptional year at your Park District.
Thank you for being part of everything we do. Whether you joined us on the trails, took a class, played a sport, enjoyed a concert, volunteered, or simply relaxed at one of our beautiful parks—you helped make this year our best yet.
We look forward to serving you in 2026 and beyond, with even more improvements, programs, access, and joy shared across our community.
Looking for a fun way to keep your child active during winter break?
Join us for 2 hours of structured gymnastics play – perfect for burning energy, building confidence, and having a blast with friends! After all the jumping, swinging, and tumbling, kids will enjoy a pizza lunch to refuel.
This is a great opportunity for kids to explore the gym, try new skills in a supervised environment, and enjoy a fun lunch! Limited spots available!
Get out of those house and hit the courts this winter break. Drill and play with our pros and also play some games. New activities for smaller kids and board games.
Looking for a fun activity while school is out? We have you covered at Club Pickle and Padel. Enroll in any or all of the 4 days we offer a kids camp for players of all levels. There will be exciting drills and games planned throughout.
Enjoy all 4 days of Winter Break Camp for one flat fee!
The STREAM Explorers Winter Break program offers a fun and educational four-day camp experience for children when school is out. Split between Heller Nature Center and West Ridge Center, this program features a variety of activities in Science, Technology, Recreation, Environment, Art, and more. We typically end the week with a surprise field trip!
Children will start their day at West Ridge Center, where they will be bussed to Heller Nature Center to explore environmental science projects, interactive nature walks, and creative art activities. Later, they will be bussed back to West Ridge Center for hands-on technology projects, recreational games, and art experiences, where they will also be picked up.
The program provides a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities to keep children engaged and entertained throughout the day. It’s an ideal way for kids to spend their time off of school, having fun and exploring new interests.
Give your tween a winter break they’ll never forget! This exclusive camp offers a unique adventure each day, with hand-picked field trips designed to create unforgettable memories. From exciting destinations to hands-on activities, this premium program ensures personalized attention and a safe adventure your tween will be talking about long after break is over.
Gift the Hometown Experience
GIVE THE GIFT OF STAYING HEALTHY
Passes include a full facility access day to all Park Fitness amenities including equipment on the fitness floor, open/lap swim, running/walking track, open gym, and the entire drop-in group exercise schedule!
Proceeds from your donation will go toward improving our community parks and facilities. For questions and to submit forms, please contact Mike Evans at [email protected] or call 847.579.4085.
Park Tree
Choose from a selection of trees in a selected park. A 2.75” x 5” raised lettering plaque with your personalized message is displayed at the base of your tree. Orders are accepted throughout the year; plantings are dependent upon availability, season and weather.
Park benches are 6-foot-wide with a personalized 2.75” x 5” raised lettering plaque. The exact location will be coordinated at the time of purchase and is subject to approval by Park District staff.
Park Bench: $3,500 (includes warranty for 10 years)
Bricks inscribed with your personal message are available at several locations around the Park District. Orders are sent to the fabricator on March 1 and August 1 of each year.
Honor someone special by dedicating your donation. Your gift helps us provide education, athletics, and outdoor adventure to families throughout our community.
As an independent, community-led 501(c)(3), the Parks Foundation ensures everyone in and around Highland Park can access our world-class Park District programs and facilities.
Celebrate someone you care about with a donation that creates real impact close to home.
The Parks Foundation also offers individuals and organizations the opportunity to give major gifts, such as underwriting the cost of playgrounds, buildings, and additions, or gifting an item to one of our facilities. If you are interested in learning more about these opportunities, please contact Brian Romes, Executive Director of the Park District of Highland Park, at [email protected].
ParkShop: Something Special for Everyone
Check everyone off your list with merch from your favorite Park District facilities! Proceeds from all shop sales go to the Parks Foundation of Highland Park, ensuring that every Highland Park and Highwood resident can access Park District programs.
Glide into a great deal this winter! Highland Park residents can now purchase Glencoe Weinberg Family Recreation Center Ice Skating Season Passes at the resident rate of $69, thanks to a new partnership with the Glencoe Park District. The Weinberg Center features two lighted, outdoor refrigerated skating rinks operating (weather permitting) from the day after Thanksgiving through the end of February.
Your season pass includes access to open skate, open hockey, and open broomball. Please note that only season pass holders will be able to skate at the rink on Saturdays and Sundays. All passes are non-refundable and non-transferable.
The details:
Passes can be purchased online or in person at the Takiff Center (999 Green Bay Rd, Glencoe) and at the Weinberg Family Recreation Center beginning Friday, November 28 (305 Randolph St, Glencoe).
Children under age 3 skate free. Residents over age 65 must still purchase a season pass.
The first day of the season (Friday, November 28) is free for everyone, giving Highland Park residents the chance to try the rink before purchasing a pass!
Guest passes are eligible for resident rates. Daily admission is not included in this offer.
The rinks officially open for the season on Friday, November 28.
Lace up and make the most of winter on the ice! For schedules and additional information, visit the Weinberg Family Recreation Center.
Notice of Proposed Property Tax Increase for Park District of Highland Park
I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for the Park District of Highland Park for 2025 will be held on December 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at 636 Ridge Road, Highland Park, IL 60035.
Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district can attend the hearing so they may have the opportunity to speak.
II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $14,370,538.
The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $15,088,021. This represents a 4.99% increase over the previous year.
III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2024 were $1,887,867.
The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2025 are $1,896,363. This represents a .4% increase over the previous year.
IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2024 were $16,407,541.
The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $16,984,383. This represents a 3.52% increase over the previous year.
Don’t miss the holiday event of the year on Friday, Dec 5, 5:30-8pm. We are so excited about Winter Wonderland, we have dropped the price to $10 per person!!!!!
Meet Elsa, Buddy the Elf, and the Grinch.
But wait! There’s more!
Making a special appearance straight from the North Pole is Santa and his real-life reindeer.
The fun doesn’t stop there!
NEW!!!! Take a spin on our indoor ice rink.
Take a magical train ride through our holiday village.
Savor a yummy hot chocolate and visit our workshops to decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus and make dog toys for Orphans of the Storm.
NEW! Explore our expansive Hanukkah Room.
Kick off the magic of the holiday season with twinkling lights above and laughter all around. Let’s make unforgettable memories at Winter Wonderland!
Registration is per person, and all children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Patrons may begin their Winter Wonderland adventure at any time during their registration window, but the magic ends at 8pm. Arriving within the selected window allows participants to enjoy the event at their leisure.
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
We are batty for Halloween and have a spooktacular lineup of fun events for you and your family!
Fri, Oct 24 • 5-9pm
Halloween Open Play Pickleball
Wear your favorite costume (encouraged, not required) and enjoy festive open play with friends. We’ll have themed music, treats and plenty of pickleball fun!
Get ready for a thrilling night of exploration, mystery, and glowing surprises! Grab your flashlight and your sense of adventure as you step into the shadowy woods for an unforgettable GPS-powered treasure hunt. Using high-tech navigation and clever clues, you’ll track down glowing Jack-o’-Lanterns hidden deep along our forest trails. Can you complete the full Geocache Course and uncover every secret the woods are hiding?
This year there are 2 starting times:
5:30pm
6:30pm
Pre-registration required. All participants, children and adults, must register for the program. Children must be accompanied by a paid registered adult. Program is outdoors so please dress for the weather.
Join us for a frightfully fun evening at Scary Skate, our free community ice skating event celebrating Halloween! Come in costume and enjoy spooky music, festive decorations, and a ghoulishly good time on the ice. All ages and skill levels are welcome—just bring your skates (or borrow a pair) and get ready for a chillingly cool night!
Celebrate the season with a free, family-friendly Trunk or Treat event! Kids are invited to trick-or-treat from car to car, collecting treats from creatively decorated trunks hosted by Park District staff and local community groups. Costumes encouraged—come enjoy a safe and festive Halloween experience!
Registration is per person and all children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Pumpkin Smash is a community-driven event dedicated to sustainability and reducing waste during Halloween. Join us as we come together to compost your carved and uncarved pumpkins, turning them into valuable nutrient-rich soil. This fun and eco-friendly initiative not only helps divert tons of organic waste from landfills but also educates participants on the importance of composting for environmental conservation.
Bring your pumpkins and enjoy a day of smashing, composting, and learning about sustainable practices that benefit our planet. Together, let’s make a positive impact this Halloween season!
The first time you see the massive white dome rising above Skokie Valley Road, you know something is different. This isn’t just another indoor sports complex. It’s not just another makeshift space trying to ride the wave of pickleball’s popularity. This is something bigger. Something bolder. Something that lives up to the promise that your Park District of Highland Park has made: The Game Changes Now.
From the minute you open the doors of the brand-new Club Pickle & Padel, that promise rings true. The space buzzes with energy. There’s laughter from players gathering in the lounge, the rhythmic pop-pop of paddles against balls echoing from the courts, and the unmistakable hum of a community coming together.
“From the moment members and guests step into Club Pickle & Padel, they immediately feel the energy and warmth of the space. The lobby, lounge, pro shop, and rental areas were designed to be welcoming and comfortable, creating an environment where people want to gather, linger, and connect, said Nick Baird, Director of Recreation for the Park District.
You’ve been in a bunch of sports facilities. You’ve probably been in renovated strip-mall stores that just feel weird now that they’re masquerading as a “sports venue.”
The Club is not just another place to play pickleball or padel. This is where the future of paddle sports lives.
A New Kind of First Impression
Step inside and you’re immediately greeted by 50,000 square feet of air, light, and possibility. The dome soars high overhead, but it never feels cavernous. The lighting is flawless. No glare, no shadows, no excuses. Every court looks like it’s been lit for prime time.
Even when the club is bustling, the sound doesn’t overwhelm you. The acoustics have been carefully engineered so the joyful chaos of paddle sports stays contained, allowing conversation to flow naturally on the courts and in the lounge and pro shop.
Let’s talk about the lounge. Imagine the lobby of a boutique hotel, not a sports dome. Comfortable seating, sleek décor, and a vibe that says: stay awhile. Members sip wine, grab a snack, or linger with friends after a hard-fought match. There are private shower rooms and a large indoor rental space we call “The Lawn,” perfect for parties or corporate outings.
This is what happens when you stop thinking of pickleball and padel as hobbies and start treating them like the serious, joyful, community-building sports they are.
Club Pickle & Padel by the Numbers
50,000 sq. ft. year-round climate-controlled facility
10 dedicated pickleball courts built to pro standards
4 padel courts with glass walls and turf for optimal play
Lounge & rental space with snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks
Showers and restrooms designed for comfort
Pro shop with high-quality gear and accessories
The Vision Behind the Dome
This place didn’t happen by accident. It was the product of vision, persistence, and a community that believed in doing something extraordinary.
Highland Park native and Founding member of Club Pickle & Padel Ron Saslow is a lifelong athlete and self-described “Park District kid” who grew up on local courts and fields. When he saw the meteoric rise of pickleball and the untapped potential of padel, he knew this community deserved something world-class.
“Pickleball brings people together in a way few other sports can,” Saslow said. “It’s inclusive, easy to learn, and fun for all ages.”
We worked hard to create a space where people can play every day, at the highest level, in an environment that feels welcoming and premium at the same time.
Your Park District Board of Commissioners and the entire staff have embraced Ron’s vision, replacing an aging seasonal dome with a year-round facility designed for the next generation of paddle sports. The result is Club Pickle & Padel: equal parts competition, community social hub, and game-changer.
What Members Are Saying
“This place is incredible. You feel like a pro the second you step on court.” “Finally, a facility that takes pickleball seriously. The lighting and space are unmatched.” “The lounge feels like a hotel. I stay longer just to hang out.” “I’d never tried padel before. Now I’m hooked. It’s addictive.”
Bigger Courts, Better Play
When you walk from the lounge into the Club, the courts open up in a way that feels almost cinematic. The space is generous. No cramped sidelines, no bumping elbows with the next court over.
This was intentional. “We designed these courts for serious players,” said Robyn Liewehr, General Manager of Racquet Sports for the Park District. “We wanted the spacing, the lighting, the acoustics—absolutely everything in the Club—to support the best possible playing experience.”
And you can feel it. The ball travels cleanly. The courts breathe. The environment elevates your game.
For newcomers, getting started is just as smooth. Head Pro Justin Dill offers quick 15-minute evaluations to assign your skill rating, then guides you toward leagues, drills, or open play that fit your level. There’s no awkward guessing or mismatched pairings. It’s structured, smart, and fun.
Padel’s Big Moment
Pickleball may be the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., but padel is quietly building its own revolution. Hugely popular in Europe and South America, padel is now taking root stateside, and Club Pickle & Padel is one of the few places in the area offering true professional-grade courts.
At first glance, padel looks like a mash-up of tennis and squash. The court is enclosed by glass walls, the paddles are solid, and the ball looks like a tennis ball, but with less pressure. The result? Fast, thrilling rallies that combine power, finesse, and creativity.
“We’re seeing a lot of tennis players come in curious,” Robyn explained. “And once they try it, they’re hooked. The price makes it really accessible, plus it’s just plain fun!”
Come and watch a doubles match in action. The walls come alive with ricochets, the pace is relentless, and the camaraderie is infectious. It’s easy to see why padel is exploding worldwide, and why Club Pickle & Padel is perfectly positioned to ride that wave.
What is Padel?
Invented in Mexico, hugely popular in Spain, Argentina, and beyond
Played on an enclosed court about 1/3 the size of a tennis court
Doubles-only format encourages teamwork and strategy
Uses solid paddles and low-pressure balls
Combines elements of tennis, squash, and pickleball
Fast, social, and wildly addictive
Community at Our Core
For all the innovation and amenities, the heart of Club Pickle & Padel is community. You can see it everywhere you look: friends laughing between games, retirees competing fiercely but shaking hands warmly, and players of all ages drilling under the watchful eye of a generous coach.
Memberships are structured to keep that community spirit alive. There are options for juniors, families, and seniors, each designed to maximize value. And memberships give you sweet perks no private venue can compete with, like priority reservations on outdoor courts in the Park District!
Events and parties bring another layer of connection. The rental space can transform into a corporate team-builder, a birthday celebration, or a casual night out with friends. The ability to blend socializing and sport makes the Club a friendly hub in more ways than one.
Nick expressed what a lot of us who worked on this project are feeling: “It’s incredibly rewarding to hear how much our community enjoys spending time here—not just playing, but socializing, learning, and sharing experiences. This facility truly elevates the way people experience paddle sports, and it reflects our commitment to building spaces that are both extraordinary and inclusive.”
5 Reasons Club Pickle & Padel is Different
Lighting that makes every game feel pro-level. No glare, no shadows.
Sound absorption. Play in a dome that hums, not roars.
Space to breathe. Bigger courts, especially the back court.
Hotel-style lounge & amenities. Showers, snacks, wine, and comfort.
Unmatched membership perks. From outdoor reservations to unbeatable padel pricing.
The Future Is Here
When you come to the Club, pause for a moment at the entrance where the Saslow family’s welcome message greets every guest. It’s warm, it’s personal, and it underscores everything you are about to experience: a facility built not just for games, but for people.
Pickleball and padel aren’t fads. They’re movements. And Club Pickle & Padel has created a space worthy of that momentum. It’s where beginners discover their new passion, where competitors sharpen their edge, and where community thrives.
At Club Pickle & Padel, The Game Changes Now is not a tagline. It’s our promise to you. It’s the truth.
Come see for yourself what the buzz is all about. We’ll meet you at the net!
From September 15 to October 15, we honor and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic communities. This is a time to recognize the resilience, creativity, and diversity that have shaped our nation’s history and continue to enrich our lives today.
Join us in the celebrations by exploring Hispanic art, music, cuisine, literature, and history.
Sat, Sept 20 • 2-3pm | Heller Nature Center
Amazing Alebrijes
Let your imagination take flight with Alebrijes from Nature, a hands-on workshop where art, culture, and the natural world come together. Inspired by the rich Mexican tradition of crafting alebrijes—brightly colored, fantastical creatures—create your own unique animals using materials found in nature.
Join us around the Campfire and listen to tales of Hispanic Folklore. Learn some Spanish words and create a folktale of your own, while we enjoy some campfire churros.
Tiny Altars, Big Meaning Discover the power of remembrance through miniature art. In this creative, hands-on workshop, participants will design and build their own Matchbox Ofrendas—small, personal altars inspired by the traditions of Día de los Muertos. Using matchboxes as your canvas, you’ll honor a loved one, memory, or idea with symbolic decorations, miniature offerings, and heartfelt creativity. One ofrenda per family.
Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Future, and Bridging Our Communities
Join us for a vibrant day of traditional dance, music, and family-friendly fun! This free, all-ages event will feature:
Live music
Dance performances
Hands-on activities and crafts
Sugar skull face painting
Would you like to honor a loved one? You’re invited to contribute to our community ofrenda (altar). To include a photo, please contact Jessica Soto at [email protected] or bring a printed picture to the event.
Pumpkin Smash is a community-driven event dedicated to sustainability and reducing waste during Halloween. Join us as we come together to compost your carved and uncarved pumpkins, turning them into valuable nutrient-rich soil. This fun and eco-friendly initiative not only helps divert tons of organic waste from landfills but also educates participants on the importance of composting for environmental conservation.
