Did you know the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells is the fifth-most attended tennis tournament globally? It trails only the four Grand Slams. Over 450,000 fans come every year, making it a top event on the ATP and WTA Tours.
In the heart of the Coachella Valley, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden turns into a tennis paradise in March. You’ll see top athletes play on perfect courts. They do it all against beautiful mountain views.
The tournament has an amazing lineup, with the top 75 male and female players. You’ll see exciting matches and meet famous players. The BNP Paribas Open is a unique tennis experience that fans love to return to.
Whether you love tennis or just enjoy watching, this guide will help you at the BNP Paribas Open. We cover everything from tickets to local spots. Get ready for your trip to Tennis Paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Indian Wells hosts the fifth-most attended tennis tournament globally
- The event features top 75 male and female players worldwide
- BNP Paribas Open attracts over 450,000 fans annually
- The tournament offers various ticket options, from grounds passes to premium seating
- Indian Wells Tennis Garden provides a unique blend of world-class tennis and scenic beauty
Introduction to the BNP Paribas Open
The BNP Paribas Open is a top tennis event held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. It’s a Premier Mandatory Event that draws in the best players and thousands of fans every March. This tournament is known as “Tennis Paradise” for good reason.
What is the BNP Paribas Open?
The BNP Paribas Open is a big deal for both ATP and WTA tours. In 2024, it marked its 50th year for men and 35th for women. With a prize pool of $17,991,110, it’s one of the richest events outside the Grand Slams.
| Category | Prize Money | Change from Previous Year |
|---|---|---|
| Men’s Singles Champion | $1,100,000 | -12.85% |
| First Round Losers | $30,050 | +61.04% |
Why it’s called “Tennis Paradise”
The Indian Wells Tennis Garden, owned by Larry Ellison, is a beautiful place with top-notch facilities. Fans get free entry for the first two days and can choose from various ticket options. It’s a perfect setting for enjoying high-quality tennis.
Tournament significance in the tennis world
The BNP Paribas Open is a Premier Mandatory Event, meaning top players must participate. It’s one of the most watched tournaments, second only to Grand Slams. Its fame and importance make it a key event on the tennis calendar, drawing players and fans to the Tennis Garden every year.
“The BNP Paribas Open is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of tennis in paradise.”
Getting to Indian Wells
Planning your trip to the BNP Paribas Open? Let’s look at how to get to Tennis Paradise. Indian Wells is easy to reach through several airports. Palm Springs International Airport is the closest and most convenient.
Nearest Airports and Transportation
Palm Springs International Airport is just a 15-minute drive from Indian Wells. If you’re flying from far away, Los Angeles International Airport and San Diego International Airport are good options. However, driving from these airports takes 2 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Driving Directions
Driving from Los Angeles? Take I-10 East for about 130 miles. From San Diego, head north on I-15, then east on I-215 and I-10. Both routes offer beautiful desert views as you get closer to Indian Wells.
Car Rental Tips
Renting a car is a good idea because the area is spread out. Car rentals in Indian Wells cost about $120 per day. Compact cars are 41% cheaper than other options. The most popular choice is the Intermediate class, like a Chevrolet Bolt EUV. Gas prices average $3.56 per gallon in Indian Wells.
| Car Type | Average Daily Rate | Price Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Compact | $71 | 41% cheaper |
| Intermediate | $120 | Standard rate |
| Full-size | $168 | 40% more expensive |
With free parking at the tournament venue, driving to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is easy. Now you’re ready to enjoy the BNP Paribas Open!
Accommodation Options Near the Tennis Garden
Finding the right place to stay for the BNP Paribas Open is key. Indian Wells hotels offer comfort and convenience. Palm Desert lodging provides a peaceful desert setting. La Quinta accommodations mix luxury with easy access.
The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa is a top choice. It has two tennis courts open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. There’s also an outdoor heated pool open daily. Fitness lovers can enjoy mapped runs, keeping them active.
For Palm Desert lodging, the Westin Desert Willow Villas is great. It’s close to golf courses like Desert Willow Golf Resort. This is perfect for those who love both tennis and golf.
La Quinta accommodations, like the Residence Inn, feel like home. They’re perfect for longer stays or groups at the tournament.
| Accommodation | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hyatt Regency | Indian Wells | Tennis courts, heated pool, fitness center |
| Westin Desert Willow Villas | Palm Desert | Near golf courses, spacious villas |
| Residence Inn | La Quinta | Extended stay options, home-like amenities |
Book early, as spots fill up fast during the tournament. There are many dining options within 7 miles. Attractions like The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens are nearby, making your stay fun and comfortable.
Indian Wells Tennis Garden: The Venue
The Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a top-notch place for tennis. It hosts the BNP Paribas Open every March. The facility has amazing courts and amenities, loved by players and fans.
Stadium 1: The Crown Jewel
Stadium 1 is the main attraction at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. It can hold 16,100 people, making it one of the biggest tennis stadiums. Its $77 million price tag shows its grandeur and advanced features.
Other Court Facilities
The Tennis Garden has 29 courts in total. Stadium 2 has 8,000 seats. There are nine match courts and six practice courts for fans to enjoy.
The venue’s purple court color was made for the ATP Masters Series. It’s a unique touch.
Amenities and Services
Indian Wells Tennis Garden is more than tennis. It has the Tennis Garden Village with food, shops, and sponsor activities. There are 2,000 parking spots, making it easy to get around.
The garden opens at 10 am every day. This gives you time to explore before matches start at 11 am.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Courts | 29 |
| Match Courts | 9 |
| Practice Courts | 6 |
| Stadium 1 Capacity | 16,100 |
| Stadium 2 Capacity | 8,000 |
Ticket Types and Purchasing Guide
Planning your visit to the BNP Paribas Open? Knowing about ticket options is crucial for a great experience. The tournament has various tickets for different tastes and budgets.
Grounds passes are the cheapest. They let you watch matches in all courts except Stadium 1. For a guaranteed spot, choose reserved seats in Stadium 2. Stadium 1 tickets offer the best views of big matches.
Stadium 1 tickets start at $57. Top seats can cost thousands. The Daily Double ticket gives all-day access to the same seat in Stadium 1, ideal for seeing many matches.
Buying tickets is easy through the BNP Paribas Open app or at the box office. All tickets are sold via The AXS Tickets App for a secure purchase.
| Ticket Type | Access | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Grounds Pass | All courts except Stadium 1 | Lowest |
| Stadium 2 Reserved | Guaranteed seat in Stadium 2 | Mid-range |
| Stadium 1 Reserved | Guaranteed seat in Stadium 1 | $57 – $1000+ |
The Indian Wells Tennis Garden is cashless. Use digital payments for a smooth visit. Stay updated on ticket policies for the best Tennis Paradise experience.
Best Seating Options for Optimal Viewing
Choosing the right seat at the BNP Paribas Open can make or break your tennis-watching experience. Let’s explore the best spots for unbeatable views and comfort in Indian Wells.
Stadium 1 Seating Tips
Stadium 1 offers the most sought-after seats. For the best views, aim for spots perpendicular to the court in the lower bowl. These provide a clear line of sight to all the action. The seating chart shows sections 09 to 19 offer afternoon shade coverage, perfect for those hot desert days.
Stadium 2 and Other Courts
Stadium 2, with its 8,000 seats, provides a more intimate setting. It’s half-shaded in the afternoon, offering a mix of sun and shade options. When selecting seats here, consider the sun’s path using the Sun Trajectory Map to plan your seating based on game times.
Shade Considerations
With temperatures reaching up to 102°F, shade is crucial. In Stadium 1, sections 07 and 08 provide consistent shade due to the broadcast box. For Stadium 2, book early to secure the best shaded spots. Remember, shaded seating significantly enhances your game-watching experience in the desert heat.
| Stadium | Best Sections for Shade | Best Views |
|---|---|---|
| Stadium 1 | 07, 08, 09-19 | Lower bowl, perpendicular to court |
| Stadium 2 | Varies, check Sun Trajectory Map | All seats offer good views |
Tournament Schedule and Key Dates
The BNP Paribas Open, known as “Tennis Paradise,” starts with qualifying rounds on March 6th, 2024. This event lasts for two weeks, ending on March 17th. The main draw begins in the first week, leading up to the exciting finals weekend.
Mark your calendars for these key dates:
- March 6-7: Qualifying rounds
- March 8-10: Main draw begins
- March 11-14: 4th round and quarterfinal matches
- March 15-17: Finals weekend
The BNP Paribas Open has a total financial commitment of $12,418,990. The prize money is $9,495,555. Singles champions win $1,100,000 and 1000 points. Finalists get $585,000 and 650 points.
| Stage | Prize Money | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | $1,100,000 | 1000 |
| Finalist | $585,000 | 650 |
| Semifinalist | $325,000 | 390 |
| Quarterfinalist | $180,000 | 215 |
Plan your visit to see the action from the qualifying rounds to the finals weekend. Experience the excitement of the BNP Paribas Open.
Food and Drink at the BNP Paribas Open
The BNP Paribas Open is a feast for your taste buds, just like the tennis. With over a dozen new food and drink options in 2024, you’re in for a treat at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.
On-site Dining Options
Nobu, a famous Japanese fusion restaurant, is back in Stadium 2. For Italian-inspired California cuisine, check out Porta Via in Stadium 1. Moto Pizza offers award-winning pizzas with a twist of Filipino flavors.
Chef Tanya’s Kitchen has tasty plant-based dishes. Love Love Lionel’s and Love Love Chicken serve amazing burgers and chicken in Stadium 2. Don’t miss Sumo Dog’s Japanese-inspired fusion hot dogs, created by Jeffrey Lunak of Morimoto’s Restaurant Group.
Local Restaurants Near Indian Wells
Explore local spots outside the venue. Tac/Quila in Palm Springs offers a modern Mexican twist. Ristorante Mamma Gina, a family-owned Italian place, has been serving the Coachella Valley since 1986.
Beverage Choices and Restrictions
Find your favorite drink at the two champagne bars at the Circle of Palms and in the Courtyard. Maestro Dobel and Corona offer refreshing drinks throughout. For coffee, visit Coachella Valley Coffee or Dragon Lili Boba Bar & Cafe.
| Dining Spot | Location | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|
| Nobu | Stadium 2 | Japanese Fusion |
| Porta Via | Stadium 1 | Italian-Californian |
| Chef Tanya’s Kitchen | Food Village | Plant-based |
| Sumo Dog | Food Village | Japanese-inspired Hot Dogs |
Tips for First-Time Attendees
Planning your first trip to the Indian Wells Masters? You’re in for a treat! This tennis paradise offers an unforgettable experience. Here are some essential tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
First, familiarize yourself with the clear bag policy. Bring a transparent bag to breeze through security checks. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a refillable water bottle. The desert sun can be intense, but free purified water stations are available throughout the grounds.
Arrive early to explore the venue and avoid long lines. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden boasts the second-largest outdoor tennis stadium globally, seating 16,100 fans. Take time to discover practice courts where you can watch players up close.
- Download the tournament app for real-time updates on match schedules and venue information
- Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes from day to night
- Consider a grounds pass for the first week – it offers great value and access to outer courts
Food options abound, but local favorites include Karen’s Cafe and In-n-Out. For a special dinner, try LG’s Prime Steak House or Okura Sushi. Remember, parking costs $25 per day, so plan accordingly.
“Watching these incredible athletes showcases what the human body is capable of. It’s truly awe-inspiring,” shares a three-time attendee.
With these tips in mind, you’re set for an amazing experience at the BNP Paribas Open. Enjoy the world-class tennis and soak in the atmosphere of this prestigious tournament!
Conclusion
The BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells is truly a “Tennis Paradise.” It offers an unforgettable experience for tennis fans. From its start in La Quinta to its current home, the event has become a major spectacle.
The tournament’s atmosphere is unique. You’ll see young stars like Jenson Brooksby and Leylah Fernandez alongside veterans like Andy Murray and Victoria Azarenka. This mix makes the event exciting, with new stories and unexpected winners.
Indian Wells is more than tennis. It’s a luxurious desert setting with great amenities. The $77 million Tennis Garden has the second-largest outdoor tennis stadium. It’s getting even better with plans for a new 5,000-seat Stadium 3.
When you visit, there’s more than tennis to enjoy. Check out the Living Desert Zoo, play golf at the Indian Wells Golf Resort, or just relax in the sun. For any local needs, Local Roofer Pros is ready to help at 951-666-5881.
FAQ
What is the BNP Paribas Open?
Why is it called "Tennis Paradise"?
What is the significance of the BNP Paribas Open in the tennis world?
Where is the nearest airport to Indian Wells?
What are the accommodation options near the Indian Wells Tennis Garden?
What facilities are available at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden?
What ticket options are available for the BNP Paribas Open?
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