🍪🏓 Cookies N Court: Joseph R. Russo Athletic Complex & Southern Belle's Cakery

The holidays are officially sweeter at Shake N Bake Pickleball, and this December edition of Cookies N Court brings festive fun to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. We’re combining two of our favorite things:  pickleball and cookies, with a stop at the Joseph R. Russo Athletic Complex pickleball courts, followed by a well-earned dessert run to Southern Belle’s Cakery. Whether you’re searching for the best pickleball courts in Palm Beach Gardens or the best chocolate chip cookies, this holiday adventure delivers competitive play, community, and sweet treats.

Joseph R. Russo Athletic Complex PIckleball Courts Review 

Located within a family-friendly sports complex surrounded by tennis courts, soccer fields, and basketball courts, these outdoor pickleball courts in Palm Beach Gardens, FL attract everyone from beginners to advanced competitors. This makes it an ideal destination for players looking to stay active.

Address: 
5110 117th Ct N, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418. 

HOURS:
The pickleball courts are open daily from sunrise until 10:00 PM, with lighted courts available for evening play - perfect for cooler nights after work. Hours may vary due to special events or programs hosted at the complex.

Price:
Court reservations for pickleball can be made by calling the Palm Beach Gardens Tennis and Pickleball Center at 561-630-1180.
Daily Fees:

• Residents: $12

• Non-Residents: $24

• Pass Holders: $0

More information: https://www.pbgfl.gov/1027/Pickleball


Parking: 
There is plenty of free parking available at the Palm Beach Gardens Tennis and Pickleball Center which is where the courts are located. 

Courts: 
The complex features six outdoor pickleball courts with a reservation-style system, so you can book your court and play uninterrupted with your crew; no waiting in line! Call 561-630-1180 to book!

Paddle System:
The courts operate on a reservation-style system, meaning you typically play on your reserved court with your group rather than rotating through a traditional paddle system. However there are paddle stations available. 

Court colors:
The pickleball courts feature a classic blue and green color scheme, providing good visibility and a clean, professional look.

Court Condition: 
The courts remain fully playable and well-maintained for recreational and competitive play.

Surface Material:
The courts feature a standard outdoor material suitable for all levels of play

Dimensions:
Standard  (4 ft x 40 ft for playing area)

Net Condition:
All nets are in good condition, with no holes or tears, and maintain standard height and tension for fair play. 

Seating:
Benches are available around the courts for players and spectators to relax between matches or cheer on friends.

Safety Features:
The complex includes a water station directly on the courts to stay hydrated and bathrooms within walking distance. Some courts also feature gate dividers to reduce ball interference, creating a safer and more comfortable playing environment.

Cleanliness: 
Both the pickleball courts and surrounding park areas are clean and well-kept, adding to the overall positive experience.

Lighting: 
There are lights so you can enjoy evening pickleball matches after work or during cooler Florida nights.

Wind Guards: 
Wind guards are installed on the courts, helping reduce interference on breezy days and improving overall playability.

Indoor or Outdoor?
Outdoor!

Are lessons offered? 
Yes! The complex offers lessons and organized beginner open play, where an instructor is present to organize games and provide instruction. This is a great way for new players to learn pickleball in a welcoming environment. Sometimes tournaments occur as well on the grounds. Learn more: https://www.pbgfl.gov/1300/Pickleball-Open-Play

Type of Play:
The courts attract a mix of casual players, competitive intermediates, and advanced pickleball athletes, making it a well-rounded playing environment.

The Vibe:
Competitive yet friendly, with players looking for quality matches. The reservation system allows you to play uninterrupted with friends, and the surrounding sports facilities add to the energetic atmosphere.

Overall Rating:
⭐ 8 out of 10

The reservation system guarantees court time, making it ideal for group play. While you can’t always walk on, the courts are well-maintained and offer a strong community vibe.

🍪 Cookie Time: Southern Belle's Cakery

After burning calories on the court, it’s time to indulge! Just a short drive away in North Palm Beach, is  Southern Belle’s Cakery.They are a custom bakery specializing in desserts such as cakes, cupcakes and cookies for birthdays and weddings.

Address: 
12224 U.S. Rte 1, North Palm Beach, FL 33408

Hours: 
Sunday: CLOSED
Monday: 10:00 AM–5  PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM–5  PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM–5  PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM–5  PM
Friday: 10:00 AM–5  PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM–3  PM

Price:
Cookies are priced at $4.25 each, making them a sweet (and totally worth it) post-pickleball treat.

Size:
These are palm-sized cookies, flat and generous—perfect for sharing, though you might not want to.

Taste: 
This Chocolate chip cookie hits every note: buttery sweetness, gooey chocolate, and a warm, nostalgic flavor. 

Texture:
The perfect combination of sweet and decadent. Definitely a customer favorite and always coming back for another!

Creativity: 
Big, bold chocolate chips take center stage, making every bite feel extra indulgent.

Balance:
These cookies are rich, decadent, and dangerously addictive. 

Round or Flat?
Flat.

Crunchy or Chewy?
Crisp on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside!  

Overall Rating:
🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪 10 out of 10

Whether you’re rewarding yourself after a win or stress-eating post-match losses (no judgment), this bakery earns a flawless 10 out of 10 cookie rating and a permanent spot on our Cookies N Court nice list.

SHAKE N BAKE’S RATING RECAP:

Final Serve:

If you’re looking for the best outdoor pickleball courts in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, paired with an unforgettable dessert stop, Russo Athletic Complex and Southern Belle’s Cakery are the ultimate holiday combo. It’s the perfect blend of fitness, friendly competition, and festive flavor—ideal for locals, snowbirds, and anyone searching for fun things to do in South Florida this December.

Got a favorite pickleball court and cookie combo in South Florida? Want to see your go-to spot featured next? Slide into our DMs at @snbPickleball or email Joseph@snbpickleball.com. You might just see your pick featured in the next Cookies N Courts!