By local contributor
Lauren Topor Reichert
Pickleball is America’s fastest-growing sport. And pickleball’s popularity in Scottsdale is growing, too. From resort courts and public parks to indoor facilities and pro shops, here’s where you can really rally while visiting Scottsdale.
The Boulders Resort & Spa is a hotspot for racquet sports. In fact, the North Scottsdale resort has been ranked as one of “The Top 50 Tennis Resorts in America'' by Tennis Magazine. And, with 12 newly-enhanced pickleball courts, Boulders may be on its way to nabbing another top ranking. Here, guests can reserve the Pickleball Package, a resort exclusive that includes nightly accommodations in a private casita, food and beverage credits, and unlimited pickleball play across the resort’s premier hard and cushioned courts. Picklers can also take advantage of services like 24-hour re-gripping or join an instructor-led clinic. Searching for pickleball lessons in Scottsdale? Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate player or a high-level pickler looking for strategy tips, Boulders offers private and group lessons for athletes of all skill levels.
This luxury five-star resort is best known for its sparkling pools, award-winning dining, world-class spa treatments, and premier golf courses. And now, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale has another amenity to offer guests: pickleball courts. The resort’s newly-added pro-quality courts are designed with state-of-the-art technology to keep you cool and reduce impact on your body. Plus, the resort offers private one-on-one lessons for picklers looking to ACE their next serve.
A destination for dark skies and patio dining, ADERO Scottsdale has captured the affection of both outdoorsy types and foodies alike. Now, ADERO Scottsdale is after the hearts of a new crowd, pickleball players. With six pickleball courts that are exclusively accessible to club members and hotel guests for daily play, ADERO is on its way to becoming a destination for pickleball in Scottsdale. Traveling light? Equipment rentals are available. And, don’t get pickled. Book your court time in advance at the fitness desk.
Paradise Valley’s Sanctuary Camelback Mountain was recently named “The No. 1 Hotel in Arizona” by U.S. News & World Report. With 53-acres of lush desert grounds, outdoor swimming pools, and award-winning amenities, it’s no wonder why this five-star resort nabbed top honors. Adding to its scenic, luxury atmosphere, Sanctuary features four pickleball courts, all positioned within the desert mountain landscape. While the addition of pickleball courts is relatively new, Sanctuary’s relationship with racquet sports goes way back. throughout the 1950s the property was recognized as the Paradise Valley Racquet Club. Later in 1965, the property was renamed to John Gardiner’s Tennis Ranch, after tennis entrepreneur John Gardiner, and quickly became a see-and-be-seen hotspot, catering to tennis stars and the celebrity crowd. Today, Sanctuary guests can enjoy the resort’s open-air courts or even reserve a private, semi-private, or group lesson under the instruction of a professional coach.
Desert views and palm trees abound at this Arizona AAA Five Diamond Resort. The Phoenician’s two outdoor pickleball courts are cozied up to Camelback Mountain. And, with postcard-perfect views of the desert landscape, towel service, an onsite pro shop, and lessons available from Seidwinder Pickleball, The Phoenician is undoubtedly one of the best places to play pickleball in Arizona. For the ultimate warm up or cool down, picklers can check out The Phoenician’s two-story Athletic Club.
Beyond the resort courts, you can play at the public outdoor Scottsdale pickleball courts around the city, including Cholla Park, Thompson Peak Park, and Horizon Park. No reservations are required as these courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Rain or shine, you can play year-round at Picklemall. Tempe’s Picklemall offers an indoor pickleball experience and features 24 climate-controlled courts. Picklemall’s premium pickleball courts are even equipped with tech like score-tracking, court cameras, and video replays. Courts can be reserved via the Picklemall app.
You also can add some pickleball swag to your pro bag at Armour Pickleball. Founded by six-time USA Pickleball National Champion and Pickleball Hall of Fame inductee Steve Wong, Armour is Arizona’s premier pickleball pro shop. You can browse the latest pro-backed gear, paddles, and more online or in-store.