Pickleball has quickly gone from a niche backyard pastime to one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, it offers an accessible, fast-paced, and social experience that draws players of all ages and skill levels.
Pickleball is played on a smaller court, roughly the size of a badminton court, with a lowered tennis-style net. Players use lightweight paddles and a perforated plastic ball (similar to a wiffle ball). Because of the smaller court and slower-moving ball, rallies last longer and the learning curve is gentler than in many racquet sports. This makes it especially inviting for beginners while still challenging for advanced players.
Pickleball is an easy-to-learn social sport that offers a great source of exercise without being overwhelming. One of the most compelling aspects of pickleball is its strong sense of community. Many parks now convert underused tennis or basketball courts into dedicated pickleball spaces, and entire neighborhoods, especially retirement communities, have embraced the sport as a staple for social gatherings and healthy living. The welcoming atmosphere keeps new players coming back and encourages multi-generational play.
As participation continues to surge, more investments are being made in professional events, televised matches, and dedicated pickleball facilities. Locally, we’ve seen an array of courts and facilities open up. We recently visited Chicken N Pickle to find out what they have to offer.
Chicken N Pickle opened its first location in 2016 in Kansas City. They now have venues all over the country, including one right here in Southern Nevada. The three-acre venue, located off of St. Rose Parkway, is family-friendly and includes both indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, food, outdoor games and a separate bar area serving craft cocktails.
The facility offers eight outdoor covered courts and six indoor courts, which can be reserved online. They also offer early morning open play every day from 7 am to 9 am for participants of all ages and skill levels. Throughout the week, a variety of clinics and classes are also available. Out in the yard, patrons will find cornhole, ping pong, Battleship, and Jenga.
The menu includes an array of chef-driven, comfort food options, including appetizers, sandwiches, salads, pizza, and desserts. They also offer, as the name suggests, quite a few chicken dishes. Our faves included the Chicken n’ Waffles and the Honey Brew BBQ Chicken Pizza. Going early? Check out their breakfast menu. Chicken N Pickle’s bar has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy everything from craft cocktails and mocktails to local beer and wine.
Chicken N Pickle is the perfect place to improve your game, bring the family, or hang out with friends. They are located at 3381 St. Rose Parkway in Henderson, NV. For more information, visit chickennpickle.com.
