The Best US Cities to Host Your Next Major Youth Sporting Event
The U.S. hosts a vibrant youth sports scene, with cities competing to attract major tournaments through world-class facilities, airport accessibility, and robust hotel inventory.
Below, we highlight top destinations based on these critical factors, leveraging insights from recent rankings and infrastructure developments:
Orlando, Florida: The Youth Sports Powerhouse
Orlando dominates as the 2024 Best Sports Business City for hosting events.
Its ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort is a crown jewel, offering 35+ sports venues, including baseball fields, soccer pitches, and basketball courts. The city’s Orlando International Airport provides direct flights globally, while its hotel inventory—featuring Disney resorts, budget options, and convention hotels—accommodates teams and families seamlessly.
The Greater Orlando Sports Commission actively attracts NCAA competitions and youth tournaments, cementing its status as a premier destination.
Round Rock, Texas: The “Sports Capital of Texas”
Round Rock’s Round Rock Sports Center and Multipurpose Complex boast six basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, and 47,000+ sq. ft. of open space, hosting events like the Collegiate Table Tennis Championship.
Proximity to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (20 miles away) ensures easy access, while the city’s mix of budget hotels and family-friendly resorts caters to traveling teams. Its reputation as a “Youth Sports Capital” is bolstered by year-round tournaments and partnerships with local organizations.
Lake Charles, Louisiana: A Multi-Sport Hub
Dubbed the “Youth Sports Capital of Louisiana”, Lake Charles hosts nearly 100 annual events across 60+ baseball fields, 50 basketball courts, and 45 soccer fields.
The Southwest Louisiana Convention Center and Lake Charles Civic Center provide versatile indoor/outdoor spaces. While smaller than Orlando, its hotel inventory includes casino resorts and budget chains, and Lake Charles Regional Airport offers regional connectivity.
The city’s affordability and diverse facilities make it ideal for regional tournaments.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Mountain-Ready Infrastructure
Gatlinburg’s Rocky Top Sports World stands out with 86,000 sq. ft. of indoor space, featuring six basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, and spectator-friendly amenities.
The Gatlinburg Trolley System links the venue to downtown hotels, while McGhee Tyson Airport (45 miles away) provides regional access. The city’s mix of mountain lodges and budget hotels suits families, and its proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park adds recreational appeal for off-day activities.
Hoover, Alabama: Southern Hospitality Meets Sports
The Hoover Met Complex offers archery, soccer, and volleyball facilities, alongside a 5,000-seat stadium for football and lacrosse.
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (15 miles away) ensures accessibility, while the city’s hotel inventory includes convention-friendly options like the Hyatt Regency. Hoover’s blend of tax-friendly policies and state-of-the-art venues positions it as a rising star for multi-sport tournaments.
Key Factors for Success
Facilities: Orlando’s ESPN Complex and Round Rock’s Sports Center exemplify multi-sport versatility, critical for hosting diverse tournaments.
Airport Access: Cities like Orlando and Austin (serving Round Rock) provide direct flights, reducing logistical hurdles for teams.
Hotel Inventory: Orlando’s Disney resorts and Gatlinburg’s mountain lodges highlight the need for family-friendly accommodations at varied price points.
Community Support: Lake Charles’ annual event volume and Hoover’s tax incentives underscore the importance of local partnerships in sustaining youth sports ecosystems.
Emerging Contenders
Foley, Alabama: The Foley Events Center (90,000 sq. ft.) near Gulf Coast beaches combines indoor sports with tourism appeal.
Morristown, Tennessee: Morristown Landing offers artistic swimming and cycling facilities, catering to niche sports.
Conclusion
Orlando leads with unmatched infrastructure and accessibility, while Round Rock, Lake Charles, and Gatlinburg offer specialized venues and regional appeal.
Cities prioritizing airport connectivity, versatile facilities, and hotel diversity will dominate youth sports hosting. As demand grows, investing in multi-sport complexes and community partnerships will ensure long-term success for these destinations.
