Reviews of Courts, Associations and Places to Play
Welcome to the "Places to Play" section of Pickleball Wizard! Here, we'll be sharing our favorite places to play pickleball across the country, from public courts to private clubs and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to get started, we've got you covered with our comprehensive reviews and recommendations. So grab your paddle and let's explore some of the best places to play pickleball in the United States!
Boca Raton, Florida
The Boca Raton Resort
The Boca Raton Hotel is a luxurious resort located in Boca Raton, Florida, offering several recreational activities, including pickleball. The hotel features six professional-grade pickleball courts, including two stadium-style courts, with ample space and excellent lighting. The courts' surface is made of premium materials, providing a consistent and predictable bounce for the ball.
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One of the best aspects of the Boca Raton Hotel pickleball courts is their location. The courts are located in a beautiful outdoor setting, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere for players to enjoy.
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The staff is also very friendly and accommodating, ensuring players have everything they need for a great game, including pickleball equipment, water, and towels. The hotel also provides lessons for beginners and advanced players with experienced coaches.
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Overall, the Boca Raton Hotel pickleball courts offer a top-notch experience for pickleball enthusiasts. With excellent facilities, a stunning outdoor setting, and friendly staff, it's no surprise that it's a popular destination for pickleball players visiting Boca Raton.
The Woodlands, Texas
Rob Fleming Rec Center
I recently played pickleball at the Rob Fleming Rec Center in the Woodlands, Texas and have mixed feelings about the experience. On the positive side, the nets were already set up which made getting in and out a breeze. The center is a great option for those looking to escape the extreme Texas heat or rainy days.
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However, there were several downsides to the facility. The lighting was not great, making it difficult to track the ball, and the court was slicker than most, causing the ball to skid and not bounce as high as it should. Additionally, the two courts are relatively close together which leads to interference calls if someone is playing nearby. The lines on the court are black, and with the overall lighting, line calls can be difficult to make.
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Overall, while the Rob Fleming Rec Center is not a terrible option for pickleball, it is definitely not designed for the sport and is inferior to facilities that are. If you're looking for a great pickleball experience, I would recommend finding a facility that is specifically designed for the sport, but if you're just looking for a place to play on a hot or rainy day, the Rob Fleming Rec Center is an option.
Houston, Texas
The Bumpy Pickle
I visited this location in March, 2023. The location in Houston is called Bumpy Pickle and it's situated in the heart of the city. The facility features six outdoor pickleball courts and other courts for volleyball and ping pong players. They offer plenty of seating for spectators and a small pro shop for equipment needs. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a mix of players of all levels, from beginners to more experienced players.
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They had a full bar on site, had a great selection of beverages. Despite the windy and cold conditions, they had space heaters to help keep players warm.
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We played in their Saint Patrick's day tournament. Despite the tournament organization being a bit confusing, the staff and players were friendly and helpful, making for an overall enjoyable experience. Overall, I would recommend checking out these courts if you're ever in the Houston area.
Vail, Colorado
Golden Peak Pickleball Center
The Golden Peak Pickleball Center in Vail Colorado is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and picturesque locations to play pickleball. Set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the facility offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes, making for a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
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For beginners or those looking to improve their skills, the center offers drop-in sessions and coaching services to help players learn the basics and improve their game. The coaches are friendly and knowledgeable, providing tips and advice to players of all skill levels.
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While the altitude can be a bit challenging at first, the breathtaking scenery and fresh mountain air make playing at Golden Peak Pickleball Center a must-do for any pickleball enthusiast. Overall, the Golden Peak Pickleball Center is a top-notch facility that provides a unique and unforgettable pickleball experience.