The Indian Wells Tennis Garden sits in Indian Wells, California, a desert city in the Coachella Valley. It is a premier tennis venue, best known as the home of the BNP Paribas Open, one of the sport's most prestigious tournaments. The event is also known by its earlier name, the Pacific Life Open, and many visitors still refer to it that way.
What to expect
The centrepiece is Stadium 1, which seats roughly 16,000 spectators. That makes it one of the largest tennis-specific venues in the world, so even a seat far from the court gives a clear view of the play. The grounds are laid out as a garden, and a visit is as much about the setting as the matches.
Planning a visit
- The venue is the setting for a major tournament, so the atmosphere is liveliest during the event.
- Stadium 1 is the largest court on the site, and its size shapes the feel of a match, with a crowd that fills the seats.
- Indian Wells lies in the Coachella Valley, so the surrounding desert towns of the valley are within easy reach for those staying longer.
For anyone who follows tennis, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a rewarding place to spend a day. Check the event dates and ticket details before you travel, as these vary from year to year.