BNP Paribas Open FAQ
Have questions about the BNP Paribas Open? 30 years of experience means we probably know the answer. If your question isn't answered below, contact our tennis travel experts.
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Where will my seats be located?
Where do we get our tennis tickets?
How do we get from the hotel to the tournament grounds?
Can we play tennis in California?
Do we have the same seats every day?
Is breakfast included in my package?
Can you help me book a round of golf or excursion in Palm Springs?
What if it rains?
What time/day is Federer playing next year?
Is airfare included?
Who will I meet at the Welcome Dinner?
How flexible are tour dates?
What is the weather like in Indian Wells?
What is the clear bag policy?
Where will my seats be located?
Depending on the package you purchase, you will sit in some of the best Courtside, Stadium Box, and Suite seats. Most of our seats are located on the west side and southwest corner of Stadium 1—which is important, because it’s the first area to get shade in the afternoon. Our luxury suite offers air-conditioned indoor and shaded outdoor seating, plus snacks, alcohol and soft drinks, live views of all courts, and a private restroom.
Where do we get our tennis tickets?
Mobile tickets are the only form of ticket used and accepted by the event. You will need to download the AXS App or Official BNP Paribas Open App on your smartphone. We will send your tickets to you digitally about a week before the event.
How do we get from the hotel to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden?
Our travel packages include roundtrip transportation from your hotel. Air-conditioned shuttles will take you to the venue; they depart every 30 minutes beginning at 9 AM. The last return coach will depart the Indian Wells Tennis Garden 30 minutes after the end of the last match of the day. Transfers take approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Can we play tennis in California?
Yes. We host clinics at the La Quinta Resort each morning. Advance registration is required, so let your tennis travel expert know what days you’re looking to attend.
Sometimes a special guest will drop by as well...
Do we have the same seats every day?
You will be seated in different locations throughout your time in Indian Wells. Don’t worry, though—they’ll be a variety of the best possible locations in the level of seating you’ve chosen. If you’ve chosen a set package, you’ll be seated in a mix of different sections; check your package to see exactly what locations are included. We have great Courtside Box, Stadium Box, and Luxury Suite seats.
Is breakfast included in my package?
Breakfast is not included in our travel packages, but you will receive a daily resort credit of $25 per person that may be applied towards any meals. There are several restaurants and cafes at the resort to choose from, or explore downtown for breakfast!
Can you help me book a round of golf or an excursion in Palm Springs?
Yes, we’re happy to additional experiences into your package. Simply customize your package online or ask your Grand Slam Tennis Tours agent for details and prices. If you purchase a custom package, you’ll put down a refundable deposit for tickets; our team will follow up with pricing and availability.
What if it rains?
All courts at the BNP are at the mercy of the weather, which can mean rain delays. Fortunately for us, it rains very rarely in the desert. If matches are cancelled due to weather or other reasons, seat privileges are lost for that day. No rain checks will be issued. Travel insurance is an option and our invoices are recognized by providers. However, we recommend being very thorough in your understanding what they will and will not cover. Additionally, GSTT Trip Protection is available, which gives you the flexibility to cancel your trip for any reason up to two weeks before the event start date. Check out the full details of our Trip Protection in our Booking Policy.
What time/day is Nadal playing next year?
Great question and one we receive often. The draw is only released a few days before the tournament, and the order of play is only published the evening before the match. So, if there’s a specific player you’d like to see, we can usually predict which tickets you’ll need to see him or her. However, we can't know the exact time and court until the day before the match.
Is airfare included?
Airfare is not included in the package pricing. We wrote a blog post on how to book your own flights, since it’s the easiest and cheapest way to get your airfare. But if you’d like us to help you with your flights, we’d be glad to do so.
Who will I meet at the Welcome Dinner?
You’ll meet lots of people. The welcome dinner is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers; we’ve had many friendships (and even a few marriages) sparked on our tours. You may also meet a special tennis guest. Some of our past guests include top players Caroline Garcia, Reilly Opelka, and the Bryan Brothers, as well as Hall of Famers Tracy Austin, Fred Stolle, and many others. This is also a great time to connect with your tour hosts.
How flexible are tour dates?
Very. Click here to customize a package and make it your own.
What is the weather like in Indian Wells?
Indian Wells is a perfect example of a desert climate. It can get hot during the days, up to 90 degrees. Nights, however, are chilly, sometimes dipping into the 50s. Make sure to plan accordingly at the beginning of the day. It’s also very easy to make the quick four-mile shuttle trip back to La Quinta in between the day and night sessions.
What is the clear bag policy?
In order to provide a safe environment for fans and expedite entry into the venue, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden has instituted a Clear Bag Policy that will be in effect at the BNP Paribas Open. See the full Clear Bag Policy. For a smooth entry into the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, fans are asked to review the following guidelines to ensure that their bags will be permitted into the venue:
- Each fan may carry one bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or EVA no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” or
- A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar)
- In addition to one of the clear bags noted above, guests may also carry in a small clutch bag or purse no larger than 4.5″ by 6.5”, with or without a handle or strap
- Exceptions will be made for diaper bags and medically necessary items after proper inspection and Management approval