Urban pickleball returns to downtown San Diego streets

• "You're coming down to play in the streets, not a pristine court. It's a gritty, cool urban feel," Gaslamp Quarter Association executive director Michael Trimble tells Axios.

How it works: The games are ladder-style, like king of the hill, with the winners moving up and collecting points each round. You play to 11, or a 12-minute game, and then change courts.

• If you make it to the top court, you can stay for only three games before cycling back through with a different partner. But you keep your points, which can earn prizes like a new paddle or bag.
• Come with a partner or make a new friend, and you'll be paired to play against teams with similar skill levels, from beginner to expert.

The vibe: This year, there's a Zero-Proof Garden, a new outdoor social lounge with nonalcoholic beer, kombucha and wellness drinks.

• They've also added a market with athletic apparel, pickleball gear, wellness products, healthy snacks and giveaways from local vendors.
• A DJ will be bringing the energy, and you can get "Paddle Hour" food and drink specials at nearby restaurants and bars.

If you go: Play every Thursday from July 30 to Sept. 3 from 4pm to sunset. It's $45 per player.

• Bring your own paddle, but there will be some to rent.
• The courts are on Fifth Avenue between Market and K Street.
• Get your tickets early because the event sold out last year.

State of play: The pickleball craze may be cooling off nationally — especially with padel gaining steam — but the recreational sport is still hot in San Diego.

• We have more courts than any other city in California, and local facilities host pro tournaments throughout the year.