New to Padel
How to Start Playing Padel Near DC
Book a court at Glassbox Padel Club on Playtomic, bring three friends and a pair of sneakers, and rent rackets for $5. A court is $60 an hour on weekdays before 4 pm and $80 after, so a first game costs about $15–$20 per person.
Your First Visit
Everything Beginners Ask Us
What is padel?
Padel is a racket sport that mixes tennis and squash. It is played in doubles on an enclosed court smaller than a tennis court, with glass walls that stay in play, an underhand serve, and a solid stringless racket. It is easy to pick up, and most new players are enjoying competitive games after a few sessions.
How much does it cost to play padel at Glassbox?
A court costs $60 per hour on weekdays before 4 pm and $80 per hour after 4 pm and on weekends. Padel is played with four people, so that works out to $15–$20 each. Rackets rent for $5. Membership is optional: All-You-Can-Play is $240 per month, and the $100 per month membership takes 20% off everything at the club.
What do I need to bring?
Sneakers or court shoes and water. If you don't have a racket, rent one for $5 or try a demo racket. Our pro shop also sells rackets if you want your own.
How do I book my first game?
Download the Playtomic app or go to playtomic.com, search for Glassbox Padel, then pick a date, time, and court. You can invite the other players to your booking in the app. Book a court on Playtomic.
What if I don't have three other players?
Join our WhatsApp community, where players post open spots and find games at their level, or come to a Beginner Weekly Mexicano, a social format that rotates partners every round.
Should I take a lesson first?
You don't have to, but a clinic is the fastest way to learn the walls and the serve. Our adult clinic series starts with Padel Foundations for complete beginners, and we run kids clinics too.
How do I get to Glassbox from Washington, DC?
Take the Metro Green Line to College Park–U of Md and walk straight across the street to 4928 College Avenue. Some Yellow Line trains and MARC's Camden Line also stop at the station. Driving? Park free on College Ave or 50th Ave.
Is Glassbox open in the winter?
Yes. Glassbox is open year-round and the courts are lit for night play. We close only when it is raining or snowing. Hours are 8 am – 11 pm daily.
Ready to Try It?
Your First Padel Game Is One Booking Away
Open daily, 8 am – 11 pm, at 4928 College Avenue, directly across from College Park Metro.