Got Questions?
FAQs
Everything you need to know about playing, booking, membership, and more at PickleBOS.
Getting Started
Do I need to have played before to come to PickleBOS?
Not at all. PickleBOS welcomes complete beginners. We offer the Learn to Play Pickleball Series specifically for players who have never held a paddle. You can also join our Beginner Coached Open Play sessions once you've got the basics down.
What is pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It's played on a badminton-sized court with a wiffle-like ball and solid paddles. It's the fastest-growing sport in the US — easy to learn, incredibly fun, and competitive at every level.
Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Paddle rentals are available through our pro shop. We recommend renting before investing in your own equipment. Wear athletic shoes with non-marking soles — no running shoes.
What should I wear?
Athletic clothing and non-marking court shoes (similar to tennis shoes). Running shoes are not recommended — lateral support is important.
Booking & Court Time
How do I book a court?
Book through PodPlay — either at picklebos.podplay.app or through the PodPlay mobile app (available on iOS and Android). Select your date, time, and court. Members get 14-day advance booking; non-members get 7-day advance booking.
How many people can play on one court?
Standard pickleball is played as doubles (4 players) or singles (2 players). Court bookings accommodate 2–4 players. Open Play sessions allow up to 6 players per court with rotation.
What is peak vs. off-peak pricing?
Peak hours are generally Monday–Friday 5pm–9pm and all day Saturday–Sunday. Off-peak is all other times. Peak court booking: $110 non-member / $88 member. Off-peak: $70 non-member / $56 member.
Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Cancellation and rescheduling policies are managed through PodPlay. Generally, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance for a refund. Check your booking confirmation for specific policy details.
Is there a mobile app for booking?
Yes — PodPlay is available on both iOS and Android. Download it to book courts, view your schedule, check scores, and replay match footage.
Open Play
What is Open Play?
Open Play is a structured session where players rotate between courts and compete with different partners. Sessions are 2 hours, accommodate up to 6 players per court, and are organized by skill level.
How are Open Play sessions organized by skill?
When you register, you'll select a skill bracket matching your DUPR rating or approximate skill level: Beginner (2.0–2.5), Advanced Beginner (2.5–3.0), Intermediate (3.0–3.5), and Advanced (3.5+). Sessions are matched accordingly.
Can I show up without registering for Open Play?
Open Play sessions must be registered in advance through PodPlay. Walk-ins may be accommodated if spots are available, but pre-registration is strongly recommended.
Membership
What does a PickleBOS membership include?
Members receive: 20% off court reservations, 40% off open play sessions, 20% off lessons/clinics/leagues/tournaments, 14-day advance booking access (vs. 7-day for non-members), and access to exclusive member-only events.
What are the membership options?
Standard: $75/month or $825/year. Senior (65+): $40/month. Student (22 & Under): $40/month. All tiers receive the same benefits.
Can I cancel my membership?
Membership cancellations are managed through PodPlay. Month-to-month memberships can typically be cancelled with 30 days notice. Annual memberships have specific terms outlined at signup.
Locations & Facilities
Where is PickleBOS located?
South Boston: 379r Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA — open now with 11 courts. Charlestown: 440 Rutherford Ave #300, Charlestown, MA 02129 — opening Spring 2026 with 10 courts.
Is there parking?
Yes — free onsite parking is available at both locations. No parking hassle.
What type of courts does PickleBOS use?
PickleBOS uses Acrytech Cushion-X courts — a premium cushioned acrylic surface that's easier on joints than concrete or hardwood. All courts are equipped with PodPlay scoring technology and LSI professional uplighting.
What is PodPlay?
PodPlay is the technology platform we use for court bookings, scoring, and replay. It includes live scoring displays, video replay of your sessions, and a mobile app for booking and schedule management.
When does the Charlestown location open?
Charlestown is scheduled to open Spring 2026 with 10 professional indoor courts. Email play@picklebos.com to be notified when bookings go live.
Private Events
Can I host a private event at PickleBOS?
Absolutely — private events are a specialty at PickleBOS. We host corporate outings, birthday parties, bachelorette parties, social events, and more. Both locations have dedicated event space, full bar, and can accommodate large groups.
How do I inquire about a private event?
Fill out the inquiry form at picklebos.com/private-events or email playSB@picklebos.com directly. We typically respond within one business day.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help. Reach out directly and we'll get back to you fast.