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Battle Point Park

4.7
·849 reviews·Bainbridge Island, United States

Battle Point Park: The birthplace of pickleball, featuring a unique ferry playground, sports fields, trails, and a historic radar tower.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Less crowded pickleball play

CrowdLow
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Watertower in the Spring

Battle Point Park

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Less crowded pickleball play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Battle Point Park: The birthplace of pickleball, featuring a unique ferry playground, sports fields, trails, and a historic radar tower.

4.7
(849 reviews)

"A must-visit for pickleball fans and families, offering a unique blend of sport, play, and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Pickleball Open Play

Join open play 9 AM-12 PM weekdays at Founders Courts for a chance to play with locals.

🅿️ Parking Strategy

On busy weekends, drive to the far end of the park for better parking, especially for sports fields.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Founders Courts - Birthplace of Pickleball

Founders Courts - Birthplace of Pickleball

Pickleball Courts

Experience the thrill of playing pickleball where it all began! Open play sessions are popular.

Ferry-Themed Playground

Ferry-Themed Playground

Playground Area

A multi-level, fenced playground designed like a Puget Sound ferry, perfect for imaginative play.

WWII Radar Tower & Observatory

WWII Radar Tower & Observatory

Near Observatory

Explore a historic WWII radar tower and enjoy stargazing opportunities at the astronomical observatory.

Scenic Trails & Open Fields

Scenic Trails & Open Fields

Throughout the park

Wander through open fields and along scenic trails, ideal for walking, biking, and dog-walking.

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Pickleball Paradise & Family Fun

Battle Point Park is a must-visit on Bainbridge Island, especially for pickleball enthusiasts, as it's considered the birthplace of the sport! Families will love the unique ferry-themed playground. Arrive early on weekends as parking fills up fast.

Seasonal Surprises & Observatory Views

Beyond sports, this 90-acre park offers seasonal delights like blackberry picking and spooky haunted hayrides. Don't miss the chance to stargaze at the Battle Point Astronomical Association's telescope, a unique feature for park visitors.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Less crowded pickleball play
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Free concerts & pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall Weekends
Why
Haunted hayrides & foliage
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Battle Point Park is my favorite park on Bainbridge Island! Located on the north end in the Battle Point neighborhood, this 90+ acre park has it all—open fields, scenic trails, sports courts (yes, plenty of pickleball!), and even a historic WWII radar tower. It’s perfect for walking, biking, picnicking, and stargazing at the observatory. A must-visit for locals and visitors alike! #bainbridgeisl...
neesha.garcia.realtor
7 likes • 453 views

🎯 Pickleball Open Play

Join open play 9 AM-12 PM weekdays at Founders Courts for a chance to play with locals. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Strategy

On busy weekends, drive to the far end of the park for better parking, especially for sports fields. Reddit

Battle Point Park. ⚲ 11299 Arrow Point Dr NE, Bainbridge Island, WA. What I liked the most about this park: 𓊝 The boat playground. It was nerve-wracking with my toddler, so better suited for older kids, as there are a few open spaces for the ladders and it's high. ō͡≡o˞̶ The pump track. There were no kids with bikes, so everyone was running around. 𓅭 The lake. Bonus: lots of geese to watch....
flawvorful
69 likes • 3.5K views
⸻ Bainbridge Island Celebrates Pickleball’s 60th Birthday! 🎉🏓🎂 On Friday, August 8, the pickleball community gathered at the Founders Courts at Battle Point Park to celebrate the game’s 60th birthday—right where it all began! Players of all ages and abilities came together for an evening of fun, friendly matches, and shared stories about the sport’s history. Bainbridge Island, the birthplace of...
frogrockpickleball
25 likes • 558 views

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Playground Fun

The ferry playground is a hit, but can be nerve-wracking for toddlers; better for older kids. Instagram

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture the unique ferry playground and the historic radar tower for memorable shots. Instagram

🥒🎾🏓 WHO ELSE HAS A PARTNER OBSESSED WITH PICKLEBALL? If you’re visiting @visitbainbridgeislandwa, the birthplace of pickleball, play at founders courts at battle point park, and stop by @islandlifebi and @millstreambainbridge for pickleball swag. Then head to @bihistoricalmuseum to see their exhibit of the history of pickleball. #LocalAdventurer #PickleballFriendsClub #PBFC #stateofwashington @...
jacobthefu
109 likes • 4.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Pickleball Open Play

Join open play 9 AM-12 PM weekdays at Founders Courts for a chance to play with locals. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Strategy

On busy weekends, drive to the far end of the park for better parking, especially for sports fields. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Playground Fun

The ferry playground is a hit, but can be nerve-wracking for toddlers; better for older kids. Instagram

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Capture the unique ferry playground and the historic radar tower for memorable shots. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of open fields and picnic spots make it ideal for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon. Instagram

👻 Spooky Season

Don't miss the popular haunted hayrides during the fall for a festive Halloween experience. Instagram+2

🚶‍♀️ Dog-Friendly Strolls

A beautiful place to walk your dog, with open areas and paved trails suitable for all. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(849 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Battle Point Park's diverse offerings, from its status as the birthplace of pickleball to its fantastic ferry-themed playground. The park is praised for its well-maintained sports facilities, scenic trails, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some minor drawbacks include parking that fills quickly on busy days and occasional restroom closures.

"We planed the trip to Bainbridge Island and spare some visit for my daughter to enjoy too. We love it.

There are also a Giant Telescope from Battle Point Astronomical Association in the area that are very interesting."

Melanie Y.

"This is a very nice park for soccer. It has two nice turf fields on the back of the park. There is several other options, such as walking trails in a large child playground in the center area.

If you’re playing soccer, I would recommend driving around to the far end of the park and parking not where Google takes you. There’s a picture attached to show where to park."

Keith Petersen

"Beautiful place to walk your dog. Beautiful open areas. Large playground for children. Made like a ferry! Fenced. Popular pickle ball courts, soccer and baseball fields. Paved trails good for a wheelchair or motorized wheelchair.
A small fishing pond. Small
dirt bike area.
Clean and lovely park. Great day use area. Lots of parking, but it fills up quickly on nice weekends.
Porta potty available, trash cans conveniently located."

Karen Cloud

What People Like

Birthplace of pickleball
Unique ferry playground
Sports facilities

What People Dislike

Parking fills fast
Restroom availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Seattle, take the Bainbridge Island ferry. Once on the island, Battle Point Park is located on the north end. Driving directions will typically lead you to 11299 Arrow Point Dr NE, Bainbridge Island, WA. Instagram

While direct public transport to the park might be limited, local bus routes on Bainbridge Island can get you close. It's often easier to drive or use ride-sharing services once on the island. Reddit

The park is quite large. Familiarize yourself with the main areas like the playground, sports fields, and pickleball courts. Signs are generally helpful, but a park map can be useful. Reddit

Yes, many paved trails are good for wheelchairs and strollers. The playground also has some accessible features, though some areas might be challenging. Reddit

Information on EV charging stations at the park is not readily available. It's advisable to check local Bainbridge Island resources or charge your vehicle before arriving.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Battle Point Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee for general admission. Instagram

The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like sports fields or restrooms may have their own hours. Reddit

For open play, no booking is required, but courts can get busy. For organized events or tournaments, booking might be necessary. Reddit

Yes, the park hosts events like free summer concerts on Wednesday evenings and popular haunted hayrides in the fall. Instagram+1

Information on reserving picnic shelters or sports fields is not widely available online. It's best to contact the Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation Department for reservation details. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the Founders Courts for pickleball, a unique ferry-themed playground, walking trails, open fields, and a historic WWII radar tower. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The ferry playground is a major draw for kids, and the open fields are great for running around. Some areas of the playground might be better suited for older children. Instagram+1

The park boasts popular pickleball courts, large soccer and baseball fields, tennis courts with pickleball nets, and a roller hockey rink. Reddit

Yes, Battle Point Park is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of trails and open spaces for them to enjoy. Reddit

The park offers a mix of paved trails suitable for walking, biking, and wheelchairs, as well as natural walking paths through wooded areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Battle Point Park. Visitors typically bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Instagram

The park has numerous open fields and grassy areas perfect for picnics. You can find spots near the playground or sports fields. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food and beverages is encouraged for picnics and day use. Remember to use the provided trash cans to keep the park clean. Reddit

Yes, the town of Winslow on Bainbridge Island, a short drive away, offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. Instagram

Alcohol policies can vary. It's best to check with Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation for current regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public parks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ferry-themed playground, the historic WWII radar tower, and the scenic trails offer great photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, the Battle Point Astronomical Association's observatory offers opportunities for stargazing, making it a potential spot for astrophotography, especially during organized events. Reddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful lighting for landscapes and portraits. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant colors of the playground. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors. Instagram

Drone usage in parks is often restricted. It's recommended to check with Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation for specific drone regulations before flying. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Battle Point Park is a fantastic choice for families. The ferry-themed playground is a major highlight, offering hours of imaginative play for children. Instagram+1 While it's great for most kids, parents of very young toddlers might want to supervise closely due to some open areas. Instagram The park also features ample open fields perfect for running around, kicking a ball, or having a picnic. Reddit Don't miss the chance to explore the trails, which are generally stroller-friendly. Reddit

👟 Pickleball Enthusiasts

As the birthplace of pickleball, Battle Point Park is a must-visit for any serious fan of the sport. The Founders Courts are iconic, and the park offers regular open play sessions during weekday mornings, typically from 9 AM to 12 PM. Reddit This is a great opportunity to meet local players and experience the game in its original setting. Be prepared for a friendly but competitive atmosphere. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Dog Owners

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Pickleball Legacy of Battle Point Park

Battle Point Park holds a special place in pickleball history as the birthplace of the sport. It was here that Joel Pritchard, Barney McCallum, and Bill Bell invented pickleball in 1965. The park's Founders Courts are a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts, offering a chance to play on hallowed ground. Visitors can often find open play sessions during weekday mornings, providing a friendly atmosphere to join games and experience the sport's roots. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond just playing, the park's connection to pickleball is celebrated. Local businesses and the historical museum often highlight this unique heritage. For those visiting Bainbridge Island, a stop at Battle Point Park to witness or participate in a pickleball game is a quintessential experience, connecting you to the sport's fun and accessible origins. Instagram

Family Adventures at the Ferry Playground

The ferry-themed playground at Battle Point Park is a standout feature, designed to spark imagination and active play for children. This multi-level structure, resembling a Puget Sound ferry, allows kids to climb, steer, and pretend to navigate the waters. Instagram+1 It's a fenced area, offering a sense of security for parents. While it's a hit with many kids, some reviewers note that the open spaces and heights might be more suitable for older children rather than very young toddlers. Instagram

Complementing the playground are other park amenities that cater to families, including spacious open fields for running and games, and paved trails that are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Reddit The park's overall design encourages exploration and outdoor fun, making it a beloved destination for families visiting Bainbridge Island. Instagram

Seasonal Charm and Unique Features

Battle Point Park transforms with the seasons, offering unique experiences throughout the year. In late summer, visitors can enjoy blackberry picking within the park grounds, a delightful activity for all ages. Instagram As autumn arrives, the park becomes a hub for spooky fun with its highly anticipated haunted hayrides, drawing crowds for a festive Halloween experience. Instagram+2

Beyond seasonal events, the park boasts a historic WWII radar tower, a fascinating relic of the past that adds a layer of historical interest. Adjacent to this, the Battle Point Astronomical Association operates an observatory, providing opportunities for stargazing and learning about the cosmos. Reddit These distinctive features, combined with the park's natural beauty, make Battle Point Park a multifaceted destination offering more than just sports and playgrounds.

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