The Indian Wells Tennis Garden is more than a world-class tennis venue — it’s a destination waiting to be explored. Beyond the baselines, hidden vantage points, shaded retreats, and picture-perfect backdrops reward those who know where to look. Here’s how to navigate the grounds like a pro.

Hidden Viewing Treasures

Ever wonder how tennis players stay so toned and flexible?

Head up the stairs behind Practice Court 1. Walk the length of the court and turn right. From this perch above the iconic players’ lawn, you can watch the pros move through their workouts in a shaded section. Bonus: you’ll catch a glimpse inside the covered weight room — and maybe even an impromptu game of footy.

Then turn 180 degrees for a bird’s-eye view of Practice Courts 4, 5, 6, and 7, framed by the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. Epic.

Best Photo Haunts

Tucked inside the iconic Circle of Palms, the new two-story, open-air structure is already one of the most photogenic spots on the grounds. Swaying palms. Mountain vistas. Effortless desert glamour. It’s the kind of setting that calls for a camera roll refresh.

A great chance to take a birds-eye view of the scenery and some people watching while getting a fresh perspective of the layout of Tennis Paradise.

Looking for star power? For a different angle, head to the fence by the players’ lawn for selfie opportunities with your favorite pros. You never know which legend might stroll by.

Where to Cool Off

Craving shade? Settle into the picnic tables tucked within the grassy, park-like sections of the grounds. Live oak trees strung with mood lighting offer a welcome retreat. There’s plenty of green space to spread out a blanket, sip a spritz, and relax between matches.

Need to recharge or refresh? Make your way to the fountain on the northeast corner of the grounds — a true oasis nestled in a palm grove — and continue north to find water refill stations. Hydration is key.

Find Your Bliss, Courtside

On your way to Stadium 2, make a pit stop at the Paradise Pavilion for a cold drink at the bar or beneath one of the many umbrellas dotting the expansive space. It's the perfect meeting place for large groups and post-match breakdowns.

Prefer to stay locked into the tennis? Grab a spot along the railing outside Chef Tanya’s Kitchen (on the south side of Stadium 1) and take in a sweeping panorama: the iconic players’ lawn and Practice Courts 1 and 2 stretch out below, with Mt. San Jacinto rising to the west. Pristine!

Best Sunset Spot

The scenery surrounding the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is too iconic to ignore. As the days grow longer, the sun plays artist across the mountain ranges to the west, streaking the canvas with shards of light and color.

Look west to watch the drama unfold — a photographer’s dream. The sky comes alive behind the practice courts and players’ lawn, so climb the steps on the south or west side of Stadium 1 for premium sunset views.

Related: Know Before You Go: Tips to Make the Most of Your Day in Tennis Paradise