Curator’s statement
The BNP Paribas Open is one of the most prestigious tournaments in professional tennis. You'll have the opportunity to watch some of the best players in the world compete, providing an unforgettable experience for tennis enthusiasts. The tournament is held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California, which is known for its breathtaking scenery and state-of-the-art facilities. The well-maintained courts and overall ambiance enhance the overall experience. The event usually takes place in March when the weather in California is generally pleasant. Enjoying tennis matches in a comfortable and sunny environment can add to the enjoyment of the tournament. Having personally attended the Open multiple times, I can attest that it ranks high among my favorite tennis experiences. With its blend of tradition and fervor for the sport, it's an event that every tennis aficionado should include in their bucket list. In this guide, I'll walk you through a suggested long weekend itinerary and offer some valuable tips and tricks to ensure your visit to the BNP Open and Palm Springs is not only stress-free but also filled with excitement and enjoyment!
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Where to stay
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells
Unwind in desert tranquility and indulge in luxurious relaxation at this captivating oasis in Indian Wells.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas
A serene desert oasis in Indian Wells, offering luxurious accommodations, rejuvenating spa treatments and world-class amenities for a tranquil and unforgettable escape in the beautiful Coachella Valley.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible
La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton
Escape to timeless luxury and desert oasis at La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton, where relaxation meets sophistication in the heart of Greater Palm Springs.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Miramonte Resort
Nestled at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, this luxury hotel is woven into 11 acres of citrus groves, and rose & herb gardens.
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
A luxurious desert oasis, offering unparalleled relaxation with its top-notch spa, lush golf courses, and stunning panoramic views in Rancho Mirage, California.
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
One-stop Desert Springs destination for pool time, golfing, spa relaxation and your pick of nine restaurants.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Sara to book your trip.
Day 1: Arriving in Palm Springs.
Kick off your long weekend by arriving in Palm Springs. Whether you're flying in or driving, make sure to check into your accommodations and freshen up! You need to be sure you get your tickets in advance. They sell out every year and are very hard to come by, especially as the tournament progresses (I can help you secure the best package deal!)
Day 2: Spend a day on the grounds and catch a day or night match (or both!)
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for the exciting days ahead. Start your day by arriving early at the Indian Wells Tennis Club. This gives you the opportunity to catch some morning practice sessions and enjoy the serene atmosphere before the matches begin. Immerse yourself in the excitement of the tournament by attending the morning matches. Whether you have a favorite player or are exploring new talents, there's always something thrilling happening on the courts. Take a break for lunch at the venue!
Pro Tip: Stop by Nobu first thing and get your name on their list! You wont want to miss a meal here! Continue enjoying the tournament with the afternoon matches. The intensity of the competition and the cheers of the crowd create a dynamic atmosphere. If you have night passes, this is also a good time to head back to your hotel and take a siesta before the evening sessions begin. Day Two is all about immersing yourself in the world-class tennis action at the BNP Paribas Open. Enjoy the matches, embrace the tennis culture, and savor the unique atmosphere of the tournament. Stay Hydrated and bring a water bottle with you! There are lots of water stations throughout the venue.
Day 3: Enjoy a Full Day of Matches!
Grab breakfast early at your property and take the shuttle over the grounds early! Want to hit the courts and join a clinic for a midday break?! I'll find a clinic or workshop that suites you happening at the tournament. Always dreamt of playing with a pro? I know just the clinic. After your clinic, enjoy a long break for lunch at the tournament venue before watching the afternoon matches. Spend some time exploring the grounds, where you can find merchandise, interactive exhibits, and perhaps some special events or promotions (like John McEnroe performing with his Band!) Take advantage of the practice courts! You can also watch matches on smaller courts, try to catch a glimpse of your favorite player on the practice courts during the downtimes between matches. No matter what give yourself extra time and be sure to walk the grounds and take it all in before the evening matches are set. Pro Tip: Splurge on a Suite for the evening matches on either Stadium Courts to have the ultimate all-inclusive experience. You wont want to miss the magic of the night matches.
Day 4: Take a tennis break to relax by the pool or have a spa day!
Need a break from sports? Start your day with a well-deserved sleep-in. Take your time to rest and rejuvenate. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast either at the hotel or at a nearby cafe. Head to the spa for a day of pampering and relaxation. Indulge in massages, facials, or any other spa treatments that catch your fancy. Many hotels in Palm Springs offer world-class spa facilities. After your spa treatments, spend some time lounging by the pool. Whether you prefer basking in the sun, taking a refreshing dip, or simply unwinding with a good book, the pool provides the perfect setting for relaxation. For dinner, explore a relaxed and atmospheric restaurant in Palm Springs. Choose a place with outdoor seating to continue enjoying the pleasant weather. If you feel like you're missing out on the action and want to catch one last match, sign up for the evening session reserved seating in either Stadium 1 or 2. Pro Tip: Book a cabana or reserve your lounge chairs in a VIP section for the afternoon to spend the day by the pool without having to stress about finding the perfect chair.
Day 5: Catch a final match and fly/drive home
Start your morning by checking out of your hotel. If your flight or drive home is later in the day, consider storing your luggage with the hotel so you can make the most of your last day in Palm Springs. Attend one final day match of the BNP Paribas Open before heading to the airport. Make sure to factor in enough time to navigate through potential traffic or airport procedures.
Additional days
If you have additional days to spend in Palm Springs, here are some suggestions to extend your stay and make the most of your time in this vibrant destination:
Morning Hike: Explore the natural beauty of Palm Springs with a morning hike. Trails like the Palm Springs Museum Trail or the Tahquitz Canyon Trail offer stunning views of the desert landscape. Take a scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountains or if you're not over the tennis yet, spend an extra day at Indian Wells soaking in #TennisParadise
Travel Advisor
Sara Beery
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my itinerary, 4 Day Ski Trip to Vail in March.
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.