Hidden Pickleball Gems: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Play
Our top 5 underrated pickleball places to visit
If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you probably know about the usual hotspots—Naples, Arizona, Palm Springs. They’re great, sure, but what about the places that don’t make every “Best Pickleball Destination” list? You know, the ones where the courts aren’t packed shoulder to shoulder with snowbirds duking it out for court time, and the locals actually welcome visitors instead of side-eyeing them like invaders?
We’re talking about underrated pickleball towns—places with strong local communities, great courts, and the kind of charm that makes you want to linger for a long weekend…or maybe even buy a little place and “accidentally” never leave.
Here are a few hidden gems where the pickleball is hot, but the crowds are (mostly) not.
1. St. George, Utah – Pickleball Paradise with a View
If you’ve never been to St. George, imagine playing pickleball surrounded by stunning red rock cliffs that look straight out of a Western movie. This Southern Utah town has quietly become a pickleball mecca, with over 50 outdoor courts and an incredibly welcoming community. It’s home to the annual Huntsman World Senior Games, which means players 50+ are not just welcome here—they’re celebrated.
Off the court, you’ve got Zion National Park just an hour away, some of the best hiking in the country, and plenty of great places to fuel up after a long day of dinking, Cliffside Restaurant’s views alone are worth the trip, and the Farmstead is the best bakery in the state, trust us, it’s amazing.
2. Bend, Oregon – Where Pickleball Meets Laid-Back Cool
Bend is known for craft beer, outdoor adventure, and a general “hey, let’s just enjoy life” vibe—which makes it the perfect pickleball town. The Pine Nursery Park Pickleball Complex has 16 dedicated courts, and you won’t find a friendlier group of players anywhere. The locals are serious about their game but also serious about post-match socializing—don’t be surprised if you’re invited to a brewery afterward.
And trust me, you’ll want to say yes. Bend has over 30 craft breweries, plus fantastic food and scenic spots along the Deschutes River where you can relax after working on your third-shot drop.
3. The Villages, Florida – The OG Pickleball Hotspot (Still Worth a Visit)
Okay, The Villages isn’t exactly “underrated” in pickleball circles, but it is overlooked by people who assume it’s only for retirees in golf carts. Here’s the reality: This place is a pickleball empire. With over 200 courts, non-stop social events, and more drop-in play than you could dream of, it’s basically Disneyland for pickleball players.
Even if you’re not ready to move in full-time (yet), it’s a great place to visit. The competition level varies from super casual to highly competitive, and the energy is downright contagious. Plus, the live music and dancing every night in the town squares? A very fun bonus.
4. Chattanooga, Tennessee – Southern Charm & Surprise Pickleball Action
Chattanooga is one of the coolest small cities in the South, and its pickleball scene is growing fast. The Summit of Softball Complex has great courts, but the real magic happens at local rec centers where you’ll find friendly, competitive play with a laid-back Southern attitude.
Beyond pickleball, Chattanooga has a gorgeous riverfront, incredible hiking, and some of the best food in Tennessee (try Flying Squirrel for cocktails and small plates). And bonus—there’s almost always live music somewhere. It’s the kind of place where you show up for the pickleball and stay for everything else.
5. Asheville, North Carolina – Pickleball & Blue Ridge Beauty
Asheville is mostly famous for its arts scene, the Biltmore Estate, and being the kind of town where people play the banjo on the sidewalk just because. But what many don’t realize is that pickleball is booming here. The Asheville Racquet Club has solid courts, and the community is a mix of competitive and social players who love welcoming newcomers.
And when you’re not playing? Hit up one of Asheville’s incredible restaurants, take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or check out a brewery (yes, Asheville has a lot of them). This is a place where the pickleball is great, but the vibes are even better.
St. George, Utah
Final Thoughts: The Best Pickleball Trips Are About More Than Just the Courts
Sure, you can head to the well-known pickleball destinations and battle it out for court space with the masses. Or—you can try one of these underrated gems, play great pickleball, meet incredible people, and actually enjoy the experience without feeling like you’re in a tournament every time you step on the court.
After all, isn’t that what pickleball’s all about?
Now, who’s up for a road trip? 🚗🎾