One Of The Nation’s Fastest Growing Sports Opening A New Venue In North Carolina

Is it just me or does it seem like Pickleball suddenly took the world by storm?  Everywhere I turn these days people of all ages are joining the sport.  And, that includes North Carolina.  So, when I ran across a post about Charlotte's newest hot spot for Pickleball I had to look further.  And, that's when I learned about "Rally" Pickleball Charlotte on Southside Drive opening June 28.

According to their website, Rally's founders, Barrett Worthington and Meg Charity originally wanted to connect tennis players with coaches.  However, they soon turned to Pickleball instead, with "Picklefest."   The festival brought a gathering of enthusiasts  from several states together for four days of communing through the love of the sport.   And, since they both share a passion for all things culinary, they saw a great opportunity to combine food, craft cocktails and Pickleball.  So, what followed included a whole new social connection they called "Rally."

How do I begin to explain what's in store at Rally, Charlotte?  In combing their site, I saw a "Main House" that houses several indoor courts along with ping pong tables, a cafe and cocktail bar.  AXIOS Charlotte indicates food offerings include Neapolitan-style pizza, burgers, tacos, charcuteries and many more shareables and pastries.  Plus, guests can choose from an impressive lineup of mocktails and cocktails.  And,  in "The Annex" there's a lounge, private dining space and courtside bar.  Then, there's the outside space with courts, lounges and fire pits.

I think their website sums it up well with "where on-court competition meets first-rate hospitality."  Guests can reserve courts, join a league, take classes and so much more.  I certainly have never played Pickleball myself.  But, the Rally spaces look gorgeous.  And, just like with my experience at  Topgolf, even though I don't play, I love going with other players and enjoying all the facility has to offer.  And, I am willing to learn!   And, with the growing popularity of the sport, I can't wait to see Rally Pickleball Charlotte take off!  See the website for much more and how to reserve your court.

In the mood for a cocktail? Well, it is thirsty Thursday! Today March 24th is the national cocktail day. According to Dictonary.com, a cocktail is an alcoholic drink consisting of a spirit or several spirits mixed with other ingredients, such as fruit juice, lemonade, or cream. If you are looking to enjoy one in the Charlotte area, there are plenty of places to sip them shaken or stirred.

Whether you are looking for a night out or just a stress break, cocktails taste great. We did some research and compiled a list of 15 of the best and coolest cocktail bars in Charlotte, North Carolina. Check out the full list below.

This is the Charlotte speakeasy. You can enjoy a modern cocktail and some grub too. It is located at 2433 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203. You can see more on planning a visit here.

Located at 144 Brevard Ct Ste B Charlotte, NC 28202. They have some cool options including ones on fire! If you don't drink, you can even enjoy a mocktail. You can see more on this cocktail bar here.

I love the look of this place. It is an upscale cocktail bar. Located at 127 N Tryon Suite D 28202 Charlotte. You can see more about this cocktail bar here.

Located at 101 W Worthington Ave. #140 Charlotte, North Carolina. If you scan through their Instagram you just might fall in love. They have some gorgeous cocktails. You can see more on this cocktail bar and eatery here.

This is a classic cocktail lounge in Charlotte. It is located at 4237 Park Rd B, Charlotte, NC 28209. You can see more here.

ldlewild is a cozy cocktail bar in the NoDa neighborhood of Charlotte. It is located at 424 E 36th St Unit 2, Charlotte, NC 28205, You can see more here.

Located at 1221 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205. You can see more on getting a cocktail here.

Located at 1320 S Church St Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28203. The owners designed Lincoln Street Kitchen and Cocktails to be local inside and out. You can enjoy some tasty small plates and innovative cocktails. You can see more about this Charlotte cocktail spot here.

Located at 1957 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204. You can enjoy classic cocktails with a tasty modern twist. You can see more on this cocktail bar here.

Located at 1212 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205. This is an eatery and cocktail bar. There is even a hidden speakeasy! You can see more on this cocktail bar here.

Located inside Optimist Hall you can enjoy fruit-forward flavors and creative spins on classic cocktails. You can see more here.

Located at 1500 B Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205. You can enjoy some fine dining and cocktails at this Charlotte spot. You can see more on the cocktails that Soul Gastrolounge offers here.

Located at 933 Louise Ave Suite 350, Charlotte, NC 28204. This is a tropical cocktail paradise. You can see more on booking a cocktail trip here.

The flowers on this bar are epic. Located at 123 East 5th Street in Charlotte, NC 28202. There is a dress code for this cocktail bar. You can see more on it here.

This cocktail spot is located at 204 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202. They serve food as well. You can see more on this cocktail bar here.