The 2026 Bucket List: 8 Most Iconic Pickleball Courts in the U.S.
As frigid temperatures blanket much of the country in snow and ice, it’s the perfect time to dream big and play bigger. 2026 is the perfect opportunity to trade your home court for new horizons—where every trip doubles as a chance to play, explore, and connect. Whether you’re chasing views, history, or that perfect post-game margarita, this vision board of iconic U.S. courts is your invitation to go all in. From celebrated destinations to breathtaking hidden gems, these eight courts are calling.
The Founders Courts — Bainbridge Island, Washington
The Founders Courts at Battle Point Park on Bainbridge Island.
Pickleball’s sacred ground. Bainbridge Island is the sport’s birthplace, and it still hums with the energy of that first makeshift game. Nestled in the evergreen beauty of the Pacific Northwest, The Founders Courts at Battle Point Park are lined with tributes, plaques, and quiet reverence. But it’s not stiff or stuffy—the local community is as warm and open as the history is deep. Grab a paddle and join a drop-in match with players who know they’re walking (and dinking) on legacy.
Play Style: Free public courts, first-come, first-served. Drop-in open play every weekday morning.
Why Go: Every rally here feels like a nod to the game’s humble, backyard beginnings. This is the birthplace, and it still beats with purpose.
CityPickle Times Square — New York, New York
Coming in 2026, CityPickle Times Square is poised to be the crown jewel of urban pickleball. Set inside the historic Paramount Building—once a Broadway theater that hosted legends like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby—this massive 37,000-square-foot venue brings pickleball into the heart of the city’s energy. The seven indoor courts are framed by soaring ceilings, art deco bones, and Time Square’s signature glow just outside. Think pre-show rallies, post-game cocktails, and a steady soundtrack of Midtown buzz.
Play Style: Expect year-round indoor access, open play, court reservations, clinics, and special events. Paddles and gear available on site.
Why Go: You’ll be playing in one of the most iconic intersections on earth. It’s Broadway lights, NYC grit, and pickleball flash all in one electric package.
Flamingo Resort & Spa — Santa Rosa, California
A slice of mid-century Palm Springs tucked into Sonoma wine country. At the Flamingo, bright pink signs and vintage architecture set the mood, but it’s the vibe that wins you over—morning pickleball clinics, afternoons by the pool, and evenings filled with wine, wellness, and live music. Palm trees sway beside newly resurfaced courts where everyone gets a warm welcome.
Play Style: Courts for hotel guests and day-pass holders. Clinics and open play sessions available.
Why Go: It’s retro-chic relaxation meets active escape. Come for the rally, stay for the rosé.
The Oasis — Hocking Hills, Ohio
It’s a retreat in every sense—where the forest, the court, and the quiet combine. Deep in the woods of southeastern Ohio, The Oasis lives up to its name with treehouse-style cabins, luxury amenities, and a private pickleball court that feels dropped into a forest fairy tale. Wake up to birdsong, walk a few steps, and start your rally under a canopy of green (or vibrant fall colors). When night falls, bring the game under the lights or head to the hot tub.
Play Style: Private court for guests staying in cabins or the main lodge.
Why Go: It’s rare to find this level of court quality in such a tranquil setting. Bring friends, book the whole place, and make it a pickleball retreat you’ll never forget.
Skegge Retreat — Cle Elum, Washington
Where wellness and wilderness collide. Tucked into the Cascades and wrapped in pine, Skegge Retreat is the dream mountain escape—one where you can follow up a morning of hard-fought rallies with a cedar sauna and cold plunge. The design is Scandinavian-chic, the vibes are low-key luxury, and the outdoor court is all yours.
Play Style: One outdoor court, private for guests of the lodge.
Why Go: Fresh mountain air, forest views, and a court steps from the cabin? This is high-altitude heaven for players who want serenity without sacrificing their serve.
Sip & Pickle — Miami, Florida
Sip & Pickle in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami, FL.
This is pickleball with a pulse. Set in Wynwood, one of Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods, Sip & Pickle throws out the rulebook in favor of lights, DJs, cocktails, and community. The street art is as bold as the gameplay, and whether you come for competition or just to vibe, you’ll find your court.
Play Style: Bookable courts and walk-ins welcome. Themed events, open play, and beginner-friendly socials.
Why Go: It’s a pickleball block party. Come solo or bring your crew—there’s always a match (and a mojito) waiting.
Steamboat Tennis & Pickleball Complex — Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Colorado cool with a serious pickleball pedigree. With 20 indoor and outdoor courts framed by the Rockies, this award-winning complex serves up epic play year-round. In summer, it’s all sunshine and altitude. In winter, the bubble goes up and après-pickleball includes soaking in hot springs or heading to the slopes.
Play Style: Public facility with drop-in play, lessons, and reservations available.
Why Go: The mountain views are stunning, the court quality is elite, and the community is one of the most welcoming in the country.
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel — Big Island, Hawaii
Seaside Racquet Club at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.
Paradise found. These courts perch above one of Hawaii’s most stunning beaches, with palm trees for shade and the Pacific as your backdrop. Play a few sets, then dip into Kauna’oa Bay, sip a Mai Tai, and watch the sun set from the club’s lanai. It’s the kind of place that feels imagined—until you step onto the court and see the ocean sparkle just beyond the baseline.
Play Style: Resort guest access with reservations encouraged. Gear available on-site.
Why Go: World-class service, postcard views, and whales breaching offshore mid-match? Say no more.
Ready to Rally?
Pickleball has gone far beyond its humble beginnings—now, it’s showing up in places as memorable as the game itself. These eight destinations are invitations to explore, connect, and play without limits. So grab your gear, rally your crew, and start mapping out a year of unforgettable matches in unforgettable places. The world is ready when you are.
