Pickleball + Travel: Hidden Court Gems in Small Towns
Bicentennial Park Cedar City UT
Discover the small towns serving big-time courts and charm
There’s something magical about rolling into a small town, maybe during a weekend road trip, maybe on the way to visit family, and discovering a perfect little pickleball oasis you absolutely weren’t expecting. The sun hits just right, the lines look freshly painted, and suddenly you’re texting your partner: “Cancel brunch. I found courts.”
Small towns across America are quietly building some of the most charming, surprising, and downright delightful pickleball spots anywhere. They may not have stadium seating or a cold-plunge room, but what they do have is heart, friendliness, and a sense that you just wandered into someone’s community living room. And honestly? That’s the good stuff.
Here are five underrated small-town court gems worth adding to your travel map:
1. Bentonville, Arkansas — “The Art Park Courts”
Bentonville is famous for its bike trails and Crystal Bridges Museum, but tucked behind the town’s leafy paths are a handful of beautifully kept outdoor courts with art installations nearby. Check out Osage Park and Creekside in Bentonville, Locals swear by morning games followed by an iced latte from Onyx Coffee Lab. The vibe is welcoming, and you’ll likely be roped into a game before you even set down your paddle.
2. Cedar City, Utah — “The Red Rock Courts”
The red cliffs tower around the modest but beautiful complex at Bicentennial Park, giving you the feeling you’re hitting dinks on Mars (in a good way). Cedar City players are notoriously friendly and quick to mix in visitors. Add a post-match stop at a local diner, and you’ve got yourself a full small-town pickleball pilgrimage.
3. Brevard, North Carolina — “The Forest Edge Courts”
Just outside Pisgah National Forest, Brevard’s courts feel like a secret carved into the trees. Early mornings are cool and misty, evenings are golden and quiet. Check out Brevard Health and Racquet Club where non members can play for $5. And also visit the not so spooky Transylvania Pickleball Club where play is free. The community is tight-knit but wonderfully inclusive, expect someone to ask where you’re visiting from within the first five minutes. Bonus: the town is home to white squirrels. Yes, real ones.
4. Fairfield, Iowa — “The Town Square Courts”
A quirky, artsy little city with a surprisingly vibrant pickleball energy. 9th Street Lisco Courts sit just blocks off the main square, which means you can tumble off the court and directly into a cozy lunch spot or bakery. There’s a “peaceful Midwest rhythm” here—games are competitive but calm, with a sweet small-town flavor.
5. Dillon, Montana — “The Big Sky Courts”
Picture this: crisp air, mountain views, and a pickup game that includes a rancher, a teacher, and two retirees who could absolutely smoke you at the kitchen line. Dillon’s Beaverhead Pickleball Association two courts capture everything charming about rural pickleball, simple, scenic, and filled with players who genuinely want you to have fun.
The takeaway?
Big-city pickleball is great. Resort pickleball is lovely. But small-town courts deliver something different, connection, charm, and the thrill of discovering a new place through the people who play there.
So next time you’re traveling, keep a paddle in the trunk. You never know when a hidden gem will find you.
