A Guide to Attending the BNP Paribas Open – Indian Wells

When is the BNP Paribas Open?

The BNP Paribas Open is typically held in early March and lasts for 12 days. You could easily spend seven nights there and watch some of the best tennis you will see.

What kind of ticket should I get for attending the BNP Paribas Open?

There are three stadiums for the BNP Paribas Open.

• Stadium 1 – The main court holds 16,100 people. A specific ticket for Stadium One for the BNP Paribas Open is required and you will have a reserved seat.

• Stadium 2 - The secondary court holds 8000. The lower bowl requires a specific ticket for Stadium Two and reserved seating. You won't miss any of the big names if you decide on Stadium Two. Stadium two is known to host a few high-profile matches. Stadium two also features some top-notch restaurants such as Nobu.

• Stadium 3 – Some rows have reserved seats, but the rest of the stadium is first-come, first-served. There is also a potential for a high-profile match to occur at Stadium three.

• A grounds pass — A grounds pass allows you to roam the grounds, access into Stadium Two, Upper Bowl, Stadium Three and Stadiums 4–9, which are first-come first-served.

With a reserved ticket to any of the stadiums, you are free to enter the first-come first-served seats of the stadiums.

Hospitality – There are different options for hospitality, whether it be an add-on to a VIP area, Premium Club Seat or Club Seat.

How should I plan if I want to attend the BNP Paribas Open?

Pick when you want to attend, early rounds, first weekend, mid-week, quarterfinals, semis and finals.

Then, pick your seating option. I always recommend a premium seat, like a Stadium Box seat. This gets you a seat in Stadium 1, access to the Hospitality lounge and a VIP Guest Credential, allowing you priority access to hotel shuttle service, and a dedicated entry line to the gate.

One of the key elements that people overlook are getting to and from the grounds. I have attended many sports events and having a shuttle to get you back to your hotel, is one of the most amazing perks. With a package, that can be included. Not having to worry about how to get to the stadium, walking to your car or queuing up for a taxi or uber, is a small luxury in life.

How long should I plan on attending the BNP Paribas Open?

I recommend three to four nights. This gets you at least five to six sessions of tennis. Typically, I recommend a longer trip to tour, but this is a tennis-only trip. You are here to watch tennis. You may extend the trip, but a minimum of three nights and six sessions of tennis. With a package option like a Stadium Box seat option, you will have access to a comfortable lounge if you need a break from the elements.

Why not just do it yourself for the BNP Paribas Open?

You can always do it yourself, but a Travel Advisor like myself, has the inside information and the suppliers to match you up with the best available package that can include tickets, accommodation and the shuttle service I mentioned earlier. Having that in one place, takes care of three-quarters of the planning. The other quarter requires you to book a plane ticket and show up.

If you want to book a trip to the fifth major tennis grand slam and the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, fill out the form below. I will get back to you as soon as possible.

• Pink's - Legendary hot dog joint outside Stadium Two.

• Pacha Mamas — outside Stadium Two, meat and vegetable-filled skewers and ceviche.

• Handel's Homemade Ice Cream - 2nd level Stadium One - homemade ice cream, need I say more?

• Fuku - Famous fried chicken from the Momofuku Restaurant Group

• Nobu - Inside Stadium Two.

• Bistro 88 - Inside Stadium One — good food and also if you want to go celebrity spotting.