• FORT PICKLEBALL FAQs

  • Our goal is to deliver best-in-class customer service at all times.

Let's knock out the most frequent questions

so you can hit the courts, and get straight to great games and good times

with friends at The Fort.

FAQ - Membership

Is The Fort open to the public or private membership only?

The Fort is open to everyone. Anyone is welcome to walk in, hang out, grab a drink at the bar, or enjoy a meal at the restaurant. To play pickleball, guests simply need a play pass, a court rental, or a membership. Membership comes with added perks and benefits, but at its core, the Fort is a public destination and we welcome everyone to come enjoy the experience.

What membership tiers are available?

All-Hours, Humana Off-Peak, and Social. All-Hours and Humana Off-Peak are available as Single, Couples, and Family memberships. Social memberships are for individuals only.

What does All-Hours include

Play anytime from 6am to close, a 14-day booking window, open and skill-rated play, member discounts, full access to programming, and discounted guest passes.

What is the Humana Off-Peak membership?

It includes the same benefits as All-Hours but is limited to Monday through Friday, 6am–4pm. This membership is in partnership with Humana, but you do not need Humana insurance to join.

What is a Social Membership?

Includes 5 all-hours visits per month, a 7-day booking window, and league access. Ideal for those who want member perks and discounts but plan to visit five times or less per month.

Can I upgrade my membership?

Yes. You can upgrade at any time by visiting the front desk.

Can I switch membership types later?

Yes. Call, email, or visit the front desk and our team will assist you.

Are memberships month-to-month or annual?

All three membership options have monthly and annual plan options.

Is there an initiation fee?

The initiation fee is currently waived but will be introduced later in 2026.

Are any discounts available?

Fort Lauderdale residents, military, teachers, and first responders receive 10% off memberships.

If I sign up for a membership and a promotion runs later, can I receive that promotion?

We typically do not run promotions on memberships. However, if we do choose to run a promotion, we will honor the promotion for anyone who purchased a membership within the prior 7 days. If this occurs, please speak with an Orange Hat to request any applicable adjustment.

Can I bring a guest with my membership?

Yes. Members receive 40% off guest passes. The current member guest pass is $15 per day.

Do guests need to check in?

Yes. Guests must check in at the front desk, sign a waiver, and provide their name and email before playing.

How do I renew my membership?

Memberships renew automatically unless cancelled in advance.

Can I freeze my membership?

Annual memberships may only be frozen with a legitimate doctor’s note. Monthly memberships renew each month and can be cancelled prior to the next monthly renewal date.

How do I cancel my membership?

You can cancel auto renewal in the app, in person, or in email with at least 7 days’ notice before your billing date. Billing cycles begin on your sign-up date, not the first of the month.

FAQs - Play Options

What is Open Play?

Drop-in style play using formats like 4-on/4-off or winner stays on. Available approximately 16 hours per day for all skill levels. Please check with front desk as our busy and slow hours vary by day and time.

What is Skill-Rated Reserved Play?

Skill-Reserved Play is the Fort’s version of open play, organized by skill level so you get guaranteed games with players at your level, from 2.0 to 5.0. Sessions can be booked up to 14 days in advance. A skill rating is required to participate, and we offer rating reviews at no charge. We also accept DUPR ratings and convert them to our club rating system, allowing both members and non-members to take part in Skill-Reserved Play.

What is League Play?

We offer singles, doubles, and mixed leagues for all ages on both outdoor and covered courts. Leagues are typically run in 5-week blocks and scheduled based on member feedback around preferred days and times. We also make a point to avoid peak hours whenever possible, so leagues do not limit access to open play or Skill-Reserved Play.

What is ladder play?

Player-managed ladders where you challenge others, climb rankings, and track standings.

Do you host tournaments?

Yes. We host tournaments for the public and for members only. We also partner with reputable organizations and groups to host tournaments at the Fort. When a tournament is run by an outside group, it will be clearly stated that they are producing the event and The Fort is providing the facility. While we always aim to deliver a best-in-class experience for everyone on site, we can only guarantee the full event experience for tournaments produced directly by The Fort.

Can I still play as I normally do when tournaments are happening?

In most cases, yes. Most tournaments use only a portion of our courts, allowing regular play to continue as usual. For larger tournaments that require more courts, we communicate in advance and typically hold courts for members during peak times, often from 6–11am and again from 5pm to close. Availability can vary by event, but we are intentional about limiting how often large-scale tournaments occur and always aim to respect our members and guests. And while tournaments may slightly change the flow on certain days, they also add to the energy of the club and can be a lot of fun, whether you are playing, cheering on friends, or watching the pros compete.

Do you offer group clinics for non members and members?

We offer clinics and bootcamps for all skill levels, taught by Fort Pros and covering a wide range of topics and schedules. These programs are open to both members and non-members, with pricing that varies by clinic or bootcamp.

How do I book a private lesson?

Book through the Play The Fort app or call the front desk and we will match you with the right teaching pro.

FAQs - Skill Ratings

I am new to pickleball, is The Fort the right place for me?

Absolutely. While the Fort is a premier facility, it is also one of the best places to learn the game and make new friends. Public parks can feel intimidating and often come with long wait times if you lose a game. At the Fort, we work hard to ensure you get the right amount of playing time and are matched with players at a similar level. We offer free intro to pickleball classes, help new players find the right partners, and separate play by skill level so you are never overwhelmed. And here’s a little secret, we actually love newer players. Simply put, you are more fun to be around.

Why do skill ratings matter?

Ratings matter because they create safe, fair, and enjoyable games for everyone. Newer players do not want to be matched against highly experienced players, and higher-level players typically do not want to play with much lower skill levels. That imbalance can be unsafe and not fun for anyone. For parity, safety, and the overall experience at the Fort, we aim to operate as a full ratings-based club.

I feel intimidated by the idea of ratings. Should I be?

Not at all. Ratings are simply a tool to help you have better, more enjoyable games. They are not labels and they are not permanent. The goal is to place you with players at a similar level so games feel fun, safe, and competitive, not stressful. Many players start without a rating, and our team helps guide you along the way. Some people’s ratings never change, and they often have the most fun. Truthfully, lower-rated players tend to laugh more and enjoy the social side of the game, while higher-level play becomes more competitive which can be fun too, just with a little less laughing, unless you body-bag your friend 😉

How do I get rated?

Schedule a rating in the app or ask a teaching pro or Orange Hat during your visit. If you are a member, your rating is included when you sign up. If you are not a member and would like to play in Skill-Reserved Play, you will be asked about your playing experience or to submit a DUPR rating. If needed, we can quickly rate you and place you on the right court so you have the best possible experience.

No rating yet? No problem. You can jump into our regular open play or challenge courts, and an Orange Hat or teaching pro can quickly confirm your rating. And if you are brand new, even better. Come on out for a free intro to pickleball class and we will get you started on the path to having a great time playing with friends you may not even know yet.

Why should I get skill-rated?

Ratings ensure fair, fun matchups and unlock access to leagues, skill-based play, and tournaments.

Can I play at The Fort if I am not rated?

Absolutely. Most people do not have a DUPR rating, and even when they do, accuracy depends on how regularly scores are submitted. Please come on out, play, laugh, learn, or compete. Our team can help guide you to the right courts, but the most important thing is to get on the court and have a good time.

What if someone is rated incorrectly?

Skill ratings are one of the more challenging aspects every club must manage. Unless match results are consistently submitted into DUPR, ratings can be more generalized, and it is common for players to be rated about half a point higher or lower than their true level. We ask players to use good judgment and self-awareness. If games feel consistently too difficult or too easy, please excuse yourself and move to a more appropriate level. If you are unable to resolve the situation, notify an Orange Hat for assistance. Please also keep in mind that age, gender, and overall pickleball IQ can influence how games feel. This is a sensitive topic, and approaching it with self-awareness and respect helps keep play safe, competitive, and fun for everyone.

 Is skill rating required?

Required for certain leagues and skill-based sessions, but not basic open play.

FAQs - PRO Shop

What’s available in the pro shop?

A full range of paddles, footwear, apparel, and accessories from top brands. Members receive discounts, and non-members often have promotions.

Can I try paddles before buying?

Yes. Paddle rentals are available, and the rental fee is applied to same-day purchases. Members can demo paddles for free with reasonable limits.

FAQs - Orange Hat Team

Who are the Orange Hats?

Think of Orange Hats as your on-court concierge, helping with court assignments, gear questions, and overall experience.

FAQs - Court Etiquette & Sportsmanship

What are the basic etiquette rules?

 Be respectful, call scores clearly, rotate promptly, and have fun.

How should I handle line calls?

Call your side honestly and give the benefit of the doubt. Replay the point if unsure.

How do I report unsportsmanlike behavior?

Notify a staff member or Orange Hat.

FAQs - Stay Informed

What’s the best way to stay updated?

Use the Play The Fort app, opt into SMS, join WhatsApp groups, check signage and TV monitors, and visit PlayTheFort.com.

Does The Fort send emails?

Yes. We send occasional newsletters with important updates.

Is The Fort on social media?

Yes. Follow @PlayTheFort on Instagram and Facebook.

FAQs - Parking

Where can I park?

Free on-site parking is available.

Is there overflow parking?

Yes. During peak times, overflow parking is available across the street under I-595 when signage indicates availability.

FAQs - Family, Safety & Miscellaneous

Is The Fort family-friendly?

Yes. Families and spectators are welcome. Non-players must stay off the courts.

What if I lose something?

Check the front desk or the lost and found near Serves & Thirds. Items are held for two weeks.

What if I get injured?

Notify staff immediately. First aid kits and ice are available.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Outside Outside food and beverages are not permitted on the premises;
however, refillable water containers are allowed.

FAQs - Getting Started

How do I get started?

Walk in anytime to check out the Fort, try a free intro to pickleball class, purchase a play pass, or book a court. Our team is happy to help you find the best membership fit.

FAQs - Hours of Operation

What are your hours?
  • Pickleball Courts & Pro Shop:
    - 6am–10pm
  • Florida Room Restaurant:
    - Supper: Wed–Sun, 4pm–close
    - Brunch: Sat & Sun, 10am–2pm

FAQs - Check-In Process

How do I check in?

Scan your Fort App or Play by Point QR code at the front desk or kiosk.

Do I need to sign up for play ahead of time?

Yes. Please sign up in advance so we can allocate the correct number of courts and avoid overcrowding.

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FORT FaCTS

43

Pro Regulation Courts

5418

Court Hours Available Per Week

8

Beers On Tap At The Clubhouse