Support Us Button Widget

Baseline pickleball + dining concept coming to Lakeland’s East Main District

Hit the courts and grab a bite at this development, helmed by local entrepreneurs and pickleball fanatics.

A one-story warehouse-style building with a white exterior, multiple large garage doors, and a parking lot that will be Baseline pickleball

This area will be transformed from an industrial district to a local hangout, starting with pickleball and dining at Baseline.

Photo by LALtoday

Imagine serving a pickleball while being served your new favorite meal, or dinking a shot to your opponents while drinking a cocktail. That’s what it’s all about at Baseline, a new dining + recreation concept coming to Lakeland.

Baseline is heading to a warehouse facility on Rose Street, just beyond the overpass east of The Joinery. The warehouse’s current tenant, Pegasus Medical Storage, will vacate the space early next year. Then, the buildout will begin to add four indoor pickleball courts, plus at least four outdoor courts, kitchen space, a bar, and dining areas.

Instead of waiting around for your spot on a busy court, groups will be able to rent one out, including a lounge area where you can dine and chill together. Think of it like renting a lane at a bowling alley — but with way better menu options.

The project is led by an Avengers-level team: Jon Bucklew of The Joinery, restaurateur Jason Ellis (Cob & Pen, Good Thyme, Rec Room), and Lone Palm Golf Club pickleball pro James Stephens. The three were inspired to join forces for the development through their love of the sport, plus their desire to see more entertainment options in Lakeland.

What will it look like inside? Don’t expect to feel like you’re in a sweaty gym. Bucklew was inspired by the elevated Rally pickleball club in Charlotte, NC, and the team is considering not only gameplay for those on the courts, but also comfort for those just visiting for dinner and a show. Expect to be swinging your paddles by early 2027.

Baseline will be an anchor for the East Main District, or “LoMa.” Developers are also planning a maker’s village, along with aesthetic improvements to give the area a distinct feel.

More from LALtoday
Wellness
Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay connects volunteers and clients with chronic health conditions for Health Buddies, a 12-week telephone call program. Learn how it works and how you can sign up.
Deciding where to eat is hard — these local food halls are making it easier with plenty of options all in the same place.
Skip the pumpkin patch and hire these Central Florida businesses to spruce up your landscaping with a seasonal touch.
Who says you have to go to New England to have an autumn worthy of the “Gilmore Girls”?
Lakeland’s municipal election is coming up on Tuesday, Nov. 4. These are the dates, positions, and resources you need to know before you vote.
Before you go to the polls in November, submit your ideas to help choose the names for three new creatures — both real and artistic.
If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of your newfound time in Lakeland.
All Elite Wrestling will bring AEW Collision to Lakeland’s RP Funding Center for the first time on Thursday, Oct. 2. We sat down with AEW star Big Bill to learn what you can expect if you’re new to the sport or a lifelong fan.
We keep an eye on your clicks to make sure LALtoday is always filled with content you love.
Starting Oct. 13, daily parking will cost you if you’re flying out of LAL. Here’s what you need to know.