Houston’s summer heat hasn’t slowed down the city’s hottest sports trends—pickleball, padel, and tennis. Whether you’re a seasoned tennis player, a curious pickleball convert, or simply seeking a stylish and social way to break a sweat, Houston has no shortage of exceptional venues. From exclusive clubs to buzzy new pickleball lounges, these top five spots deliver first-class courts and the elevated lifestyle experience Houstonians love.
The Houstonian Club – Memorial Area
This private, resort-style oasis offers some of the best racquet sport facilities in the city. With four indoor tennis courts featuring Classic Turf surfaces and five outdoor courts, members enjoy year-round play on courts built for comfort and performance. It’s a haven for casual players and serious competitors—refined and thoughtfully designed.
But the true showstopper is the state-of-the-art pickleball complex. Spanning 28,000 square feet, it features eight dedicated pickleball courts. Four are fully covered with a custom waterproof canopy, and four are open-air so that you can play in any weather, all year.
There’s also stadium seating for 300, an on-site Pro Shop, and a courtside refreshment area that makes post-game hangouts feel like part of the experience.
The Houstonian makes it easy to stay active without ever sacrificing luxury. And when you’re done on the court, the club’s pool, spa, and serene grounds offer the perfect wind-down. This isn’t just a place to play—it’s a lifestyle.
River Oaks Country Club – River Oaks
River Oaks Country Club is one of Houston’s most iconic places to play tennis, and it is known for its beautiful setting and long tradition of the sport. With 14 tennis courts, including clay surfaces, the club is home to the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship and attracts players who appreciate history and high-quality facilities. And in recent years, the club has also embraced the city’s growing pickleball scene, giving members another fun and social avenue to stay active.
Off the courts, the clubhouse offers everything you’d want in a place to unwind—from great food and drinks to comfortable gathering spaces. It’s a place where generations of Houstonians have come to play, relax, and connect—and that tradition continues today.
The Briar Club – River Oaks Area
The Briar Club is located in the River Oaks area and offers top-notch tennis and pickleball courts for players who want quality without fuss. With 10 tennis courts and dedicated pickleball spaces, it’s easy to find a game that fits your pace, whether you’re rallying with friends or honing your skills in a clinic.
The club perfectly balances a competitive atmosphere and a welcoming community, making it a favorite for families and professionals alike. After your match, the casual, friendly environment invites you to relax poolside or grab a bite at the Club Table—because here, it’s as much about the lifestyle as it is about the sport.
The Bumpy Pickle – East Downtown (EaDo)
For a more casual, but no less stylish vibe, The Bumpy Pickle in East Downtown, or EaDo, redefines pickleball culture. With six outdoor pickleball courts, a beer garden, and a laid-back atmosphere, this spot is perfect for summer nights with friends.
The Bumpy Pickle blends sport, food, and fun—think craft cocktails, gourmet bites, live DJs, and open play sessions that feel more like a party than a workout. Whether you’re perfecting your serve or picking up a paddle for the first time, you’ll feel right at home in this lively atmosphere. This is pickleball reimagined—bold, buzzy, and oh-so-Houston.
In Houston, baseball is more than a sport—it’s a source of pride, unity, and city-wide celebration. So it’s no surprise that one of the city’s sleekest new social and athletic spaces comes courtesy of a Houston Astros star. Co-founded by pitcher Lance McCullers Jr., The Solarium is a 9,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor pickleball and padel lounge that blends competitive energy with high-end
hospitality.
Located in Midtown, this reimagined space was developed in partnership with Rex Hospitality Group and The Kirby Group. It features four pickleball courts, two padel courts, and five climate-controlled VIP lounge bays made from repurposed shipping containers. With craft cocktails, stylish lounge areas, and elevated design details, The Solarium is more than just a place to play—it’s a destination to gather, celebrate, and soak in the city’s dynamic energy.
Whether you’re chasing a killer serve or simply want to socialize in a beautifully curated space, The Solarium captures everything we love about Houston: bold, fresh, and proudly local.
If you’re dreaming of a home where your favorite club is just a short drive, or even a golf cart ride, away, you’re not alone. From the charm of River Oaks, to the buzz of Upper Kirby, or the calm of Memorial, I know where luxury meets lifestyle. Wherever you see yourself—hosting post-match dinners, squeezing in a quick clinic before work, or strolling home from a sunset rally—I’m here to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle on and off the court.
Because in Houston, luxury should play as hard as you do.
Until next time,
Dee Dee Guggenheim Howes