ATP Masters 1000 | Indian Wells Tennis Garden: The Desert Cathedral of Tennis

Tucked into California’s Coachella Valley and framed by the San Jacinto Mountains, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden stands as one of the most iconic venues in the world of professional tennis. It is the proud home of the BNP Paribas Open, one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments, and it represents a rare fusion of architectural elegance, world-class infrastructure, and scenic natural beauty. More than a stadium, Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a year-round hub for players, fans, and the local community—an open-air cathedral devoted to the game.

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Vision and Origins

The idea for Indian Wells Tennis Garden was born in the late 1990s when tournament organizers, led by former pro Charlie Pasarell and businessman Raymond Moore, sought to give the growing BNP Paribas Open (then the Pacific Life Open) a permanent and more expansive home. The previous venue had outgrown its capacity, and the vision was clear: build a purpose-driven tennis complex in the heart of the desert that could rival the facilities of the Grand Slams.

Construction began in 1999, and in March 2000, the new Indian Wells Tennis Garden officially opened its gates. From its inception, it was designed not just to accommodate large crowds, but to invite fans into an immersive and elegant tennis environment. In 2009, Oracle founder Larry Ellison purchased the tournament and the venue, injecting major capital and vision into a series of renovations that elevated Indian Wells into one of the most advanced tennis facilities on Earth.

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Stadium 1: Monumental in Scale and Comfort

At the heart of the complex is Stadium 1, which seats over 16,000 spectators, making it the second-largest purpose-built tennis stadium in the world after Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. But while its size is impressive, it is the attention to detail that sets Stadium 1 apart.

Every seat offers clear sightlines, and the concourses are spacious, shaded, and welcoming. Luxury suites line the upper tier, providing panoramic views of the court alongside access to gourmet catering and climate-controlled lounges. A second tier of stadium seating provides ample room for fans without the feeling of being distant from the action. The acoustics, sightlines, and comfort make Stadium 1 one of the most beloved places to watch professional tennis.

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Stadium 2 and Beyond: A Multi-Court Playground

In 2014, the venue expanded with the introduction of Stadium 2, an 8,000-seat arena with a unique twist—it includes a fine dining restaurant overlooking the court. Along with the restaurant, Stadium 2 brought upgraded amenities, modern hospitality spaces, and more fan access to high-level matches.

Across the entire campus, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden boasts over 20 courts, including practice and competition courts that are all accessible to the public during the BNP Paribas Open. Fans can watch their favorite players warm up or catch up-and-coming talent battling through early rounds in an intimate setting just steps from the main stadium.

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A Venue Built for Fans

Indian Wells Tennis Garden is known for being exceptionally fan-friendly. Wide walkways, manicured grounds, art installations, and fountains offer plenty of space to explore, relax, and enjoy the desert ambiance. The venue is equipped with large video boards, shaded seating areas, and ample food and drink options featuring local and international cuisine.

From gourmet restaurants to grab-and-go stands, dining is a central part of the experience. Over the years, culinary additions have included sushi bars, artisan coffee carts, craft cocktail lounges, and local California wine tasting booths. The open design of the facility encourages strolling, lounging, and socializing between matches—making the experience less about rushing to your seat and more about enjoying the day as a whole.

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Premium Hospitality and VIP Access

The venue is also home to a range of hospitality offerings that elevate the spectator experience. From luxury courtside boxes and private suites in Stadium 1 to exclusive club lounges like the Champions Club, Indian Wells caters to corporate hosts and premium guests with elegance and efficiency. These packages often include gourmet meals, valet parking, concierge services, and private viewing decks.

In recent years, new premium offerings like The 88 Club and enhanced suite experiences have attracted attention from sports fans, celebrities, and sponsors alike. Whether attending a single session or the full tournament, guests can tailor their experience to suit the level of access and comfort they desire.

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Year-Round Programming and Public Access

While the BNP Paribas Open is the centerpiece of the calendar, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden operates throughout the year. It is open to the public for recreational play, league competition, and tennis academies. Local residents and tourists alike can book court time and play on the same surfaces that host the world’s top professionals.

The venue also hosts charity events, junior tournaments, and exhibitions outside the main March tournament window. Its high-quality facilities and breathtaking setting have made it a favorite among touring pros who use it for training in the off-season or during preparation for the spring hard-court season.

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Innovation and Sustainability

Indian Wells Tennis Garden is not only admired for its design but also for its progressive approach to sustainability. Under Ellison’s leadership, the facility has embraced environmentally conscious practices, including solar panel installations, desert-friendly landscaping, water conservation systems, and waste management initiatives that align with the region’s ecological concerns.

Technology is seamlessly integrated throughout the grounds, from digital ticketing and wayfinding apps to real-time stats and match-streaming hubs placed across the property. These features help fans stay connected to the action without compromising their enjoyment of the live event.

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A Destination Unlike Any Other

Indian Wells Tennis Garden is more than a venue; it’s a destination that captures the spirit of tennis and elevates it with style and care. Between the dramatic mountain backdrop, the lush palms, and the golden hue of the desert sun, every match feels like part of something timeless. Players and fans alike speak of Indian Wells with a kind of reverence—it’s where hard-court tennis finds tranquility, grandeur, and excellence in the California desert.

Whether you’re arriving for the BNP Paribas Open, playing a casual game on a quiet morning, or attending a tennis exhibition under the stars, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden welcomes you with open courts, clean air, and a true love for the game.