Pickleball Fever: Where to Serve, Rally, and Score in the Gateway

Whether you’re a “kitchen” pro or a newcomer still trying to figure out what a “dink” is, the Twin Cities Gateway is a bona fide pickleball paradise. Spanning across our 11 signature communities, there is no shortage of pavement (or polished wood) to get your game on.

From dedicated outdoor complexes to year-round indoor hubs, here is your guide to playing pickleball in the Gateway.

Outdoor Play: Soak Up the Sun

When the Minnesota weather Cooperates, there’s nothing better than an outdoor match. Most of these locations offer “open play” formats where you can simply show up and rotate in.

• Blaine: Lexington Athletic Complex One of the premier spots in the area, featuring dedicated courts that are often buzzing with high-energy matches.

• Coon Rapids: Riverwind Park A local favorite with a structured schedule. They run organized open play from late April through October, complete with a paddle rake system to keep games moving fairly.

• Anoka: George Enloe Park & Sunny Acres George Enloe offers 4 dedicated courts with permanent nets, making it a reliable spot for a morning game.

• Ramsey: Central Park Located right off 161st Ave, these courts are a staple for the Ramsey community and offer a great atmosphere for all skill levels.

• Lino Lakes: City Hall Park & Tower Park Lino Lakes has invested heavily in the sport, with Tower Park boasting 4 pickleball-only courts for those who want to avoid tennis net height adjustments.

• Fridley: Moore Lake Park Beautifully situated near the water, these courts offer a scenic backdrop for your afternoon rallies.

• Shoreview: Mound Ave Courts A go-to spot for Ramsey County residents, offering well-maintained surfaces for both tennis and pickleball.

Indoor Gems: Rain or Shine

Don’t let a rainy day or a cold snap ruin your win streak. These indoor facilities keep the Gateway swinging year-round.

• Mounds View: Mounds View Community Center Check their seasonal schedules for indoor gym rotations—perfect for staying sharp during the winter months.

• Shoreview & New Brighton: Community Centers Both the Shoreview Community Center and New Brighton Community Center offer robust indoor drop-in schedules. Shoreview even has a “Pickleball Punch Card” for frequent players to save on daily fees

• Ham Lake: While primarily known for its beautiful parks, Ham Lake residents often head to the nearby Andover Community Center (just on the border) for massive indoor sessions featuring up to 9 courts.

• Coon Rapids: Life Time For those with a membership, Life Time in Coon Rapids offers a high-end indoor experience with dedicated pickleball courts, organized mixers, and professional coaching to level up your game.

• Lino Lakes: The Rookery Activity Center A local staple that hosts regular open pickleball sessions across multiple courts. It’s a great community-focused environment where players of all skill levels are welcome.

• Anoka: Sandburg Education Center Run through Anoka-Hennepin Community Education, this spot offers indoor play on select evenings and Saturdays. It’s an affordable way to keep your skills sharp during the winter months.

• Blaine: The Picklr This is a game-changer for North Metro players. Featuring 8 dedicated indoor courts with professional-grade outdoor surfaces, it eliminates the “gym floor” feel. They offer leagues, clinics, and open play, making it a premier hub for serious players.

  Pro Tips for Gateway Players

1. Check the “Paddle Rake”: At busy parks like Riverwind (Coon Rapids) or Lexington (Blaine), look for a rack near the gate. Putting your paddle in the next available slot is the universal sign that you’re next in line!

2. Download the Apps: Many players in Fridley and New Brighton use apps like Pickleheads or Recreation.gov to see how many people are currently at the courts.

3. Know the Rules: While most Gateway parks are free, some indoor community centers (like New Brighton) may have a small drop-in fee (usually around $3–$5).

Join the Community

Pickleball is more than just a sport in the Twin Cities Gateway; it’s a social hour. Whether you are hitting the courts in Ham Lake or joining a league in Arden Hills, you’re bound to find a friendly group of people ready to play.

Grab your paddle—we’ll see you at the kitchen!