The Indian Wells Tennis Garden is one of the premier tennis venues in the world and the centerpiece of the BNP Paribas Open each spring. During tournament season, it’s impressive, sprawling, and buzzing. Outside of that window, it’s quiet, purpose-built, and mostly unused.

When events are happening, it delivers a top-tier experience. When they aren’t, there’s not much reason to visit. Timing matters here more than almost any other venue in the Valley.

The overall experience

During the BNP Paribas Open, the Tennis Garden feels like its own small city. Multiple stadiums, dozens of outer courts, food vendors, shaded seating areas, live music, sponsor activations, product installations, and a constant flow of people moving from match to match.

The main stadium is excellent, with strong sightlines and a surprisingly intimate feel for its size. Outer courts are where the magic often happens, especially if you enjoy watching players up close and stumbling onto unexpected matches.

Be prepared to walk. A lot. Most people underestimate just how large the grounds are and how much time they’ll spend moving between courts.

Things to know before you go

• This is a seasonal venue. The experience people rave about is almost entirely tied to the BNP Paribas Open.
• Walking is unavoidable. Comfortable shoes are not optional.
• Shade exists, but you’ll still be in the sun. Even in March, heat and exposure sneak up on people.
• Parking is free during the tournament. General Parking is free and available in the General Lot accessed via Miles Avenue, though traffic builds quickly during peak arrival times.
• It’s not walkable from most accommodations. Unless you’re staying directly across the street, you’re driving, ridesharing, or using event parking shuttles.

Amenities that actually matter

During the tournament, the Tennis Garden is well-equipped for long days on site. You’ll find plenty of restrooms, water refill stations, shaded seating areas, merchandise shops, sponsor lounges, and casual gathering spaces spread throughout the grounds.

Premium hospitality areas, including suites and club-style seating, significantly change the experience. These options reduce walking, provide more shade, and offer better food access. If you plan to be on-site all day, they can be worth considering.

Food and drinks: better than expected

For a large sporting venue, food options during the tournament are actually solid. You’ll find a wide range of choices, from quick snacks to sit-down meals, along with coffee, cocktails, and drink stations spread throughout the grounds.

Prices are elevated, but not outrageous by major event standards. Eating on-site is reasonable if you plan for it, especially if you’re settling in for a long day.

Do they do anything other than tennis here?

These days, not much. While the venue previously hosted outdoor NBA games and major concerts, it now primarily comes alive for the BNP Paribas Open.

Outside of tennis, parts of the property are used for ticketing and operations related to Coachella and Stagecoach. There may be occasional special events or niche tournaments, but for the most part, this is a single-purpose venue built around one very big annual moment.

Who this venue works best for

Good fit if you:

• Are visiting during the BNP Paribas Open
• Enjoy tennis or live sporting events
• Like wandering, exploring, and discovering matches organically

Maybe skip if you:

• Are visiting outside tournament season
• Dislike long walks or standing for extended periods
• Are sensitive to heat or prolonged sun exposure

Practical tips that actually help

• Wear comfortable shoes. This cannot be overstated.
• Arrive earlier in the day if possible. Mornings are cooler and less crowded.
• Bring sun protection even if the forecast looks mild.
• Use official parking shuttles when available. They simplify arrival and departure.
• Don’t over-plan your matches. Some of the best moments happen on outer courts.
• Plan rest breaks. Benches and shaded zones fill quickly during peak hours.

Venue policies worth knowing

Indian Wells Tennis Garden enforces event-specific policies, especially during the tournament.

• Bag policies are enforced. Only small bags are allowed, and size limits are strictly checked.
• Security screening is mandatory. Expect bag checks and metal detectors at all entrances.
• Outside food and drinks are limited. Rules vary by session and ticket type.
• Re-entry policies vary. Not all tickets allow leaving and returning, so check before exiting.

Policies can change year to year, so it’s worth checking the official event page close to your visit to avoid surprises.

FAQs people actually ask

Is Indian Wells Tennis Garden worth visiting?

Yes, but almost exclusively during the BNP Paribas Open. Outside of that window, there’s little reason to go.

Do you need a full day?

You can spend a few hours or an entire day here, depending on how many matches you want to see. Many people underestimate how long they’ll stay.

Is it good for non-tennis fans?

Surprisingly, yes. The atmosphere, food, and variety of matches make it approachable even if you don’t follow the sport closely.

Is it kid-friendly?

It can be, but be mindful of walking distances, sun exposure, and long match times.

Good to know

• Venue: Indian Wells Tennis Garden
• Best for: BNP Paribas Open, major tennis events
• Worst time to visit: Outside tournament season
• Website: https://bnpparibasopen.com/