Pickleball Tournament Review - 2025 Beer City Open- Grand Rapids, MI
Beer City Open 2025 – My Grand Rapids Pickleball & Beer Adventure
The Beer City Open isn't just a tournament—it's a celebration of community, competition, and craft brews. Grand Rapids' hospitality, paired with pro-level pickleball and flawless organization, made this trip unforgettable.
Spots in the tournament are limited—it's lottery-based. If you can get in…. You should jump at the chance. You can learn more about entry and the lottery here.
Getting There & Where to Stay
I flew into Gerald R. Ford International—smooth, clean, and efficient. A quick $24 Uber ride brought me right into the heart of downtown.
If you're heading to Grand Rapids for the beer or the pickleball, do yourself a favor and stay at the Embassy Suites Downtown. It's an easy 15-minute walk to the venue, offers a hot breakfast and evening happy hour, and just makes your tournament mornings way more relaxed and your evenings a breeze.
Crafting the Perfect Warm-Up
Of course, a few local brews were in order during down time:
Let me start with my favorite - I went twice because it was so good. New Holland Brewing Company. The food was delicious - everyone in our party loved their dish. I had the "make your own pizza" with Goat Cheese and Bacon - trust me… you will love it.
- Atwater Brewery kicked things off with a crisp IPA.
- City Built Brewing, just a 10-minute walk from the courts.
- 7 Monks Taproom—taps galore!
A few days before the tournament began I was able to drill at the courts and joined open play. The hospitality was phenomenal—the Grand Rapids Pickleball Club really knows how to make players feel welcome. I met some fantastic folks, including local musician and player Tyler Roy, and got some solid practice before competition.
Pro-Level Play: Watching the Best
One of the absolute highlights of Beer City Open is being able to watch the pros in action—up close. This year included the full Major League Pickleball (MLP) Mid-Season Tournament, with all 22 MLP teams battling it out at Belknap Park.
And the fan energy? Through the roof. The stands were packed, especially for Grandstand matches, and the electricity in the venue was palpable.
Between the roar of the crowd and the talent of players such as Anna Leigh Waters, Tyson McGuffin, and Jessie Irvine, every rally felt like a grand slam.
Tournament Highlights
- Amazing Venue: Matches at both Belknap Park and backup courts inside Grand Rapids Racquet & Fitness—spotless, well-maintained, and with great energy throughout
- Sweet Swag Bag: Included a bag tag, wrist band, hand towel, and a visor/hat of your choice
- Hospitality and support: The Grand Rapids Pickleball Club volunteers coordinated everything seamlessly. Clean, professional, and friendly—that sums up the tournament feel.
Final Thoughts
Beer City Open 2025 did not disappoint—world-class pickleball, warm hospitality, top-notch venues, and the perfect downtown stay at Embassy Suites. If you're looking for a summer escape from the Alabama and Florida heat, this tournament is the place to be. Huge thanks to the Grand Rapids Pickleball Club for hosting such an unforgettable event—the real winners were the players, fans, and community.
Have you heard????
Pickleball players are choosing to call the Alabama–Florida Gulf Coast home! Whether you're a seasoned competitor or newly passionate about the game, this region offers an unbeatable blend of active lifestyle, affordability, and year-round outdoor play.
Let me know how I can help you find a dream home near your favorite pickleball courts!
donnap@levinrinkerealty.com
