Pickleball, the sport that’s taken America by storm with its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is about to get a major boost in Utah County. Set to open on June 21, 2025, a state-of-the-art, 40,000-square-foot indoor pickleball arena in Saratoga Springs, near the Lehi border, promises to redefine how the game is played, watched, and experienced. Known as The Picklr Lehi, this 13-court facility is not just a new venue—it’s a transformative milestone for pickleball’s growth, offering players and fans an unparalleled environment to engage with the sport. In this article, we dive into the details of this groundbreaking arena, explore its impact on pickleball’s trajectory, and encourage players to upgrade their gear to match the professional-grade experience awaiting them.
A New Era for Pickleball in Utah County
Utah has long been a hotbed for pickleball, with the state nurturing more professional players in 2022 than any other, according to The Picklr’s chief marketing officer. Yet, Utah County’s passionate pickleball community—part of the sport’s 19.8 million US players in 2024—has lacked a premium indoor facility tailored to its needs. The Picklr Lehi, located at 629 N. Saratoga Rd., fills this gap with a sprawling setup designed to elevate the game for players of all levels.
The arena boasts 13 indoor courts, including two championship-sized courts that offer extra space for high-stakes matches. These courts, while regulation-compliant, provide additional length and width, enhancing visibility and strategy for professional play. Beyond the courts, the facility includes full locker rooms with showers, a players’ lounge for relaxation and socializing, private event spaces for tournaments and gatherings, and even a podcast studio to capture the sport’s growing cultural footprint. At 40,000 square feet, it’s one of the largest of The Picklr’s 47 locations nationwide, surpassed by only six others.
The Picklr, a Kaysville-based company founded in 2021, has been eyeing Utah County since its first facility opened in Uintah. “This region has an incredible base of pickleball enthusiasts, but they’ve been underserved by the lack of a top-tier indoor space,” said co-founder Austin Wood, the company’s chief visionary officer. With seven locations already operating in Utah and expansion into 29 other states, The Picklr is leveraging its expertise to make the Lehi arena a flagship destination for pickleball excellence.
Features That Set the Arena Apart
The Picklr Lehi isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality and innovation. Here’s a closer look at what makes this arena a game-changer:
Championship-Sized Courts
The inclusion of two championship-sized courts is a nod to pickleball’s professional evolution. These courts, slightly longer and wider than standard 20x44-foot regulation courts, provide extra room for strategic play, making them ideal for tournaments and pro exhibitions. The additional space enhances player movement and shot variety, offering a glimpse into the sport’s future as it eyes Olympic inclusion by 2028.
Climate-Controlled Indoor Environment
Unlike outdoor courts, which are subject to Utah’s variable weather, the indoor setup ensures consistent playing conditions year-round. No wind, rain, or scorching sun will disrupt matches, allowing players to focus on their game. This reliability is a major draw for both recreational players and professionals training for high-stakes events like the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour.
Premium Amenities
The facility’s locker rooms, showers, and players’ lounge create a club-like atmosphere, fostering community and comfort. The lounge is a hub for post-match debriefs, strategy discussions, or simply unwinding with fellow players. Private event spaces accommodate corporate outings, birthday parties, or competitive tournaments, while the podcast studio reflects pickleball’s growing media presence, offering a platform to share stories and insights from the court.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
The arena is designed to welcome players of all skill levels, from beginners to pros. Open play sessions, clinics, leagues, and tournaments cater to diverse interests, while ADA-accessible courts ensure inclusivity, aligning with 2025 USAP Rule 12.A.4 for wheelchair players. The facility’s location near Lehi and Saratoga Springs makes it easily accessible, with ample parking and proximity to dining and lodging for out-of-town visitors.
Impact on Pickleball’s Growth
The opening of The Picklr Lehi is poised to have a profound impact on pickleball, both locally and nationally. Here’s how this arena is set to reshape the sport:
Elevating Professional Play
Pickleball’s professional scene is booming, with leagues like the PPA, Association of Pickleball Players (APP), and Major League Pickleball (MLP) drawing millions of viewers. The Lehi arena’s championship courts and pro-level amenities make it a prime venue for hosting televised tournaments or training sessions for top players. Utah’s legacy of producing elite talent—coupled with this facility’s infrastructure—positions it as a hub for professional development, potentially attracting stars like those seen at the 2024 PPA Utah Open.
The arena’s podcast studio also amplifies the sport’s visibility, providing a platform for pros to share strategies, stories, and advocacy for Olympic sanctioning. As pickleball gains traction with organizations like the NCAA, as noted by franchise developer Aaron Scholl, facilities like The Picklr Lehi could inspire high school and college programs, building a pipeline to professional play.
Meeting Community Demand
Utah County’s pickleball community has outgrown its existing infrastructure, with over 50 dedicated courts struggling to keep up with demand. The Lehi arena’s 13 courts add significant capacity, reducing wait times and enabling more consistent play. Its indoor setting addresses a key pain point—court availability during Utah’s winter months or rainy seasons—ensuring players can stay active year-round.
The facility’s programming, including clinics and leagues, will nurture new players while sharpening veterans’ skills. By offering skill-level tiers and youth programs, it aligns with the sport’s 311% growth over three years, particularly among players under 24, who now represent the largest age group at 28.8%. This focus on youth could cement pickleball’s staying power, moving it beyond “fad” status, as Scholl emphasized.
Boosting Economic and Social Benefits
The arena is a boon for Utah County’s economy, drawing players, spectators, and sponsors to Saratoga Springs and Lehi. Local businesses, from restaurants to hotels, stand to benefit from tournament weekends, while sponsorships from companies like The Picklr create jobs and investment. Socially, the facility fosters community connections, offering a space for families, friends, and coworkers to bond over a low-impact, high-fun sport. Its inclusive design ensures players of all abilities can participate, reinforcing pickleball’s reputation as a sport for everyone.
Inspiring Infrastructure Nationwide
The Picklr Lehi is part of a broader trend, with The Picklr planning 350 new courts across the US and 500 clubs sold nationwide. Its success could serve as a blueprint for other communities, encouraging investment in premium indoor facilities. As cities like Bozeman and Fair Lawn open their own Picklr locations, the Lehi arena’s innovative features—championship courts, event spaces, and media integration—may set a new standard for pickleball venues, accelerating the sport’s mainstream acceptance.
Players Should Upgrade Their Gear
The Picklr Lehi’s professional-grade environment demands equipment that matches its caliber. Upgrading your gear not only enhances your performance but also prepares you for the elevated experience of playing in a top-tier facility. Here’s why and how to gear up:
Paddles for Precision and Power
The arena’s championship courts reward strategic play, requiring paddles that offer control and spin. Look for USAP-approved paddles with textured surfaces for enhanced grip on the ball, ideal for dinking rallies or powerful smashes. Lightweight composite or carbon-fiber paddles reduce fatigue during long matches, while cushioned grips ensure comfort in high-pressure moments. Visit our retail site for a range of paddles designed to meet 2025 USAP standards, including allowances for autographed paddles (Rule 2.E.5.c).
Balls for Consistent Performance
Indoor courts like those at The Picklr Lehi demand balls with reliable bounce and durability. Choose USAP-approved pickleballs with precise hole patterns to maintain consistency in climate-controlled conditions. Stock up on high-quality balls from our site to ensure you’re ready for intense rallies without worrying about wear and tear.
Footwear for Agility and Safety
The arena’s professional surfaces require shoes with excellent traction and lateral support to prevent slips during quick movements. Non-marking tennis or pickleball-specific shoes are ideal, offering stability for NVZ play and cushioning for long sessions. Upgrading to performance footwear from our retail collection can boost your confidence and reduce injury risk.
Apparel for Comfort and Style
The Picklr Lehi’s club-like atmosphere calls for apparel that blends function and flair. Moisture-wicking shirts, breathable shorts, and supportive socks keep you cool during intense matches, while stylish designs let you stand out in the players’ lounge. Explore our retail site’s 2025 pickleball fashion line to match the arena’s upscale vibe.
Accessories for Convenience
Bring a durable pickleball bag to carry your gear, complete with compartments for paddles, balls, and personal items. Insulated water bottles and sweat-wicking wristbands, available on our site, keep you hydrated and focused. For those eyeing tournaments, consider investing in a portable scoreboard to practice scorekeeping under 2025 USAP rules, like rally scoring (Rule 12.B.1).
Preparing for the Picklr Lehi Experience
To make the most of The Picklr Lehi, players should:
- Join Open Play or Clinics: Sign up for sessions to familiarize yourself with the courts and connect with the community.
- Train for Tournaments: Practice under 2025 USAP rules, such as immediate NVZ fault calls (Rule 13.D.1.c), to compete confidently.
- Engage with Pros: Attend exhibitions or clinics to learn from top players, leveraging the arena’s pro-friendly design.
- Bring Your A-Game: Upgrade your gear to match the facility’s professional standards, ensuring you’re ready for championship-level play.
Conclusion
The Picklr Lehi, opening June 21, 2025, is more than a new pickleball arena—it’s a catalyst for the sport’s next chapter. With its 13 courts, championship-sized setups, and premium amenities, this 40,000-square-foot facility in Saratoga Springs is set to transform Utah County into a pickleball powerhouse. By elevating professional play, meeting community demand, and inspiring nationwide infrastructure, it’s a game-changer for pickleball’s growth. Players, now is the time to upgrade your gear with high-quality paddles, balls, footwear, and apparel from our retail site. Step into The Picklr Lehi ready to play, connect, and experience pickleball like never before. Let’s make 2025 a landmark year for the sport we love!
