Open Play Pickleball in Miami: How It Works at The Lab
The short answer
Open play is drop-in pickleball: you book a session, show up, and play games with other players instead of organizing your own group. At The Lab in Miami, open play runs 7 days a week, courts are split by DUPR level, there's no waiting between games, and a session is $18 with a free account.
What is open play pickleball?
Open play is the easiest way to play pickleball without organizing anything. You book a session, show up alone or with friends, and rotate into games with other players.
No partner, no group chat, no court booking.
The catch at a lot of open play: you can wait a long time between games, and you may end up on a court with players far above or below your level.
How does open play work at The Lab in Miami?
The Lab fixes both problems:
- Courts are split by level. Every session is DUPR skill-verified, with courts for 3.0–3.6, 3.7–4.4 and a 4.5+ Challenge Court.
- No waiting between games. You play 2+ hours nonstop.
- The goal is every game at your level. That's the point of the split.
Level-matched games are longer, closer and more useful. You get more of the rallies that actually make you better.
When is open play in Miami?
Open play runs 7 days a week:
| Day | Open play |
|---|---|
| Monday–Thursday | 6–9 PM |
| Friday | Friday Socials (times coming soon, included in membership) |
| Saturday–Sunday | 9 AM–12 PM |
Weeknights work after the office in Downtown or Brickell. Weekend mornings let you play before the afternoon heat. Always check the current open play schedule.
Where is open play, and who plays?
The Lab is at 1255 NW 135th St, North Miami, FL 33168, with free on-site parking. It's close to Miami Shores, North Miami Beach and Aventura, and a straightforward drive from Wynwood and Midtown.
Open play is for players who want competitive, level-matched games. That includes locals, snowbirds here for the season, and visitors on a short trip. See a snowbird's guide to pickleball in Miami or playing pickleball on vacation in Miami.
Do you need a DUPR rating for open play?
You need a level so the club can place you. Two ways:
- Bring your DUPR rating. It decides your court from your first visit.
- No rating yet? Attend the weekly club rating session first. The day and time aren't announced yet, so message us to book.
Read more in how DUPR ratings work and what pickleball skill levels mean.
How much does open play cost?
| Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Drop-in | $18 per session, with a free member account |
| 10-pack | $150, valid 60 days, for free members |
| Founding membership | $99/month for the first 50 members, then $139/month. Members play unlimited. |
Six drop-ins a month cost $108, more than the $99 founding membership. We run the full math in drop-in or membership: what's cheaper. Compare options on the membership page.
How do you book open play?
- Create a free member account on Playbypoint.
- Know your level: DUPR rating, or a booked rating session.
- Book the session for your level from the schedule.
- Show up and play. Park for free. Rent or demo a paddle at the pro shop if you need one.
What are the basic open play etiquette rules?
These are common courtesy at most clubs:
- Arrive a few minutes early so you're ready when your game starts.
- Call your own lines fairly. If you're not sure, it's in.
- Call the score before you serve.
- Mix in with everyone. Open play is social. Play with whoever you're paired with.
- Keep it friendly. A quick "nice shot" goes a long way.
What should you bring?
- Court shoes and water.
- A paddle, or rent one at the pro shop. It carries RPM and Joola, plus demo paddles if you're shopping for a new one.
- Light snacks and drinks are available at the club.
The quick version
Open play is drop-in pickleball with no partner or group needed. At The Lab in Miami, it runs 7 days a week (Mon–Thu 6–9 PM, Sat–Sun 9 AM–12 PM), courts are split by DUPR level, there's no waiting between games, and it's $18 a session or unlimited for members.
See the schedule · Compare memberships · Book on Playbypoint
FAQ
What is open play pickleball?
Open play is a scheduled session where players show up on their own and rotate into games with others. You don't need to bring a group or a partner.
Do I need a partner for open play?
No. Come on your own. You'll play with and against other players at your level.
How long is an open play session at The Lab?
Weeknight sessions run 6–9 PM and weekend sessions 9 AM–12 PM. With no waiting between games, you play 2+ hours nonstop.
How much is open play in Miami at The Lab?
$18 per drop-in with a free member account, $150 for a 10-pack valid 60 days, or unlimited for members ($99/month founding price for the first 50, then $139/month).