Things to Do in Palm Springs During the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament
Things for you and the family to do in Palm Springs During the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament.
There is a lot more to do in Palm Springs During the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament than Just Watch Tennis.
There is a lot of things to do in Palm Springs during the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament besides just watching tennis. There is excellent shopping, food, nightlife, and nearly endless adventures to go on for you and the whole family
For a tennis fan, Indian Wells is an excellent opportunity to watch some amazing tennis, catch a break from the winter, and spend some time enjoying Palm Springs. But maybe your family isn’t as into tennis as you are. Here are some great ideas for keeping the family entertained during the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament in 2024.
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There is a Lot to Do and Experience in Palm Springs During the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament
This tournament was the event that put Palm Springs (and Indian Wells) on the map for me. Prior to the tournament I had never been to Palm Springs. What do I think of Palm Springs? What can I say? I am a huge fan.
Of course I love tennis, but I have learned that Palm Springs is also a treasure trove of art, architecture and shopping that is off the chart.
One thing I truly love about Palm Springs is that if you are bringing your family with you, and they aren’t “into” tennis, there are a ton of activities for the whole family in Palm Springs. You can expect warm weather, excellent food, a vibrant art scene, delightful shopping areas, relaxing spas, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Weather at The Indian Wells Tennis Tournament
When you are visiting Palm Springs over the course of one or two weeks and looking for things to do, weather is going to be a factor and you might need to pack a lot of clothes. Especially if you are planning to do outdoor activities around Palm Springs like playing golf, biking, hiking, or rock climbing (which there is plenty of in Palm Springs).
If you search for “averages” the weather channel says that average temps in Palm Springs during the day are around 80 and get down to about 50 at night.
What they don’t say is that there have been plenty of daytime highs in March that were close to 100 degrees and plenty of overnight lows in the low 30’s. They also don’t say that it is not uncommon for there to be a forty-degree difference between daytime and nighttime in the desert. Make sure you pack accordingly.
Also – it can rain, and even flood in Palm Springs in March. Last year some of the later matches were nearly rained out. Southern California in 2024 has been getting some epic rain, so I suggest if you are going to Indian Wells 2024 and plan a lot of activities in Palm Springs, be prepared for wet weather because you never know.
In general I can tell you from my experience with Palm Springs weather to expect to sweat during the day and freeze at night. Do not expect to pack just one type of outfit and expect it to wok for both day and all evening. It won’t be.
Plan to either bring two or even three outfits with you, or plan to return to your hotel to change several times throughout the day. I usually bring layers so that I can add warmth as the sun sets.
Shopping in Palm Springs During the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament
Also, don’t forget that Indian Wells and Palm Springs are basically one place. And if you are into some really bougie shopping, then you MUST SEE the El Paseo Shopping District – or – as most people call it, the Rodeo Drive of the Desert!
How bougie is it? Well, I can visit all of my favorite stores there in one trip:
Louis Vuitton, Tiffany and Co, and Anthropologie are all right there, just to name drop a few.
Plus, when you are in the El Paseo Shopping District, there are lots of great places to eat. So what I like to do is take a late lunch break from the tournament, hit up all of my favorite shopping spots and eat lunch while I’m there. As I will discuss shortly, the food at the tournament is expensive, and not very good. You won’t find bad food anywhere in the El Paseo Shopping District – this I can promise you.
Map to El Paseo Shopping District in Palm Springs
Things to Do in The Palm Springs Area
There are so many things to do in Palm Springs during the BNP Paribas Open I wasn’t sure where to start or how much to include in this post. But rest assured, there is no shortage of interesting things to do and see in the Coachella Valley. From bougie shopping to the strange and weird, you can find it all close to Palm Springs California.
Stargazing and UFO Tour
If you’ve never been stargazing in the mountain west, you are missing out. In most places, because of light pollution, you can see a few hundred stars in the night sky. But when you get into a dark sky area like Joshua Tree, you can see so many stars it is hard to tell them apart. Please note our viewing locations are about a 90 minute drive from the Palm Springs area.Get Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Stargazing-and-UFO-Tours/d648-328436P2?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Sunrise Hike and Meditation
Hey Yoga nerds! This one’s for you! Watch the sunrise over Indian Canyons, set your intention and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the desert at dawn.Get Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Mountain-Sunrise-Hike-and-Meditation/d648-327321P1?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Palm Springs Architecture Self-Guided Walking Tour – Mid Mod Door Tour
The Mid Mod Door Tour is a guide that you can buy for $9.99 and then on your own time and at your own pace, check out the beautiful architecture in the area. Look to get the guide here and check out these beautiful doors at your leisure. https://visitpalmsprings.com/mid-century-architecture-self-guided-tour/
Escape Rooms Palm Springs California
Vampires Lair Escape Room: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Vampires-Lair-Escape-Room-Game-for-Private-Group/d648-64818P6?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Titanic Escape Room
Bank Heist Escape Room
Jack The Ripper Escape Room
Merlin’s Magic Escape Room
Covered Wagon Adventure – with BBQ!
Looking for something for the kids and family to do while you shop at El Paseo or attend the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament? How about a covered wagon tour that includes food! Ride on a mule-drawn covered wagon through the Sonoran Desert. Then return to the ranch for music, yard games, BBQ, dancing, campfire marshmallows, and desert views under the stars.
Get Tickets:
Palm Springs International Film Society
The Film Festival and ShortFest are presented by the Film Society under the mission of nurturing new filmmaking talent, honoring the great masters of film, and providing audiences with an appreciation of world cinema. The Palm Springs International Film Society presents Educational Programs that bring students into the world of cinema with engaging opportunities and in-depth experiences in the classroom, in our offices, and at our Festivals. Check out their website for more information about what is happening when you are in town
Desert Town Hall
The Desert Town Hall is a speaker series where world class leaders, intellectuals share thoughts and messages for all to consider. Held at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, the series offers four programs each year, typically from January to April. The biggest and most influential names in the world have come to Indian Wells, creating lifetime memories for all those who attend. From Bob Costas, Chris Wallace, and Caroline Kennedy, to Scott Kelly, Chris Christie, and Condoleezza Rice, the noted list of speakers in the series’ history is indeed impressive. https://deserttownhall.org/
The Desert Symphony
The Desert Symphony was founded in 1989 in Palm Desert. Their goal was to bring professional orchestral concerts to the desert cities. The symphony is composed of the best musicians, virtuoso soloists, principal players, and recording artists in the area.
Check out their website to see more from the Desert Symphony. https://www.desertsymphony.org/
The Living Desert
The Living Desert is a desert zoo spread over 1,200 acres of protected land and is home to over 450 wild animals. General admission tickets are available as well as private safari tours. In addition to tickets, encounters with a rhinoceros, feeding a giraffe and a behind the scenes tour are all experiences that are available at the Living Desert. Check out their website for more information to help make the most meaningful trip to see these beautiful animals. https://www.livingdesert.org/
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a very popular destination for visitors of Palm Springs and Indian Wells that want to hike within the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area. The ride in the tram is about 10 minutes in each direction and at the top there are two restaurants, a cocktail lounge, observation decks, a small natural history museum, two theaters showing State Park and tram construction videos and a gift shop. From the top, there are 50 miles of hiking trails along with other nature activities.
Purchase Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Palm-Springs-Aerial-Tramway/d648-3238PSTRAM?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Palm Springs Air Museum
In late 1993 the idea for a Palm Springs Air Museum sprang from the imaginations of three men: Charlie Mayer, Pete Madison and Dr. Mort Gubin. Charlie, Pete & Mort were conversing one day during a break in an airport commission meeting and looked out the big window when Charlie said “Why not an air museum with WWII Warbirds right here in Palm Springs?” From that day to today, several hangers have been built housing some of the best preserved airplanes you will ever see.
If you would like to know more about the Palm Springs Air Museum check their website for prices, schedules and other information https://palmspringsairmuseum.org/
Horseback Riding
Some might think, “why hike when you can ride?” Experience a few quiet hours of “getting away from it all” on over 150 miles of convenient riding trails that provide both solitude and breathtaking beauty. Please check on their website for additional information and schedules. https://www.smoketreestables.com/
Hot Air Balloon Rides Palm Springs
See Palm Springs from the sky!Ballooning is a great way to catch a ‘bird’s eye view’ of the Palm Springs resort area and the unique panorama of the Coachella Valley. Champagne balloon adventures are available daily in the Coachella Valley from September through May. The flight path often takes guests over natural deserts, lush country club golf resorts, Date Palm groves and polo clubs. It is suggested that ballooners dress casually and wear closed, flat shoes, no high heels or sandals. Mornings in the desert can be cold, so plan on wearing layers. Check the website for details. http://www.fantasyballoonflight.com/
The Palm Springs Art Museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum is located in downtown Palm Springs. The Museum is dedicated to art, natural science, and performing arts. The museum’s permanent collection consists of more than 24,000 objects ranging from fine art and photographic archives to Native American and Mesoamerican art and artifacts. The museum also showcases 12,000 archaeological and geological specimens, such as ceramics, minerals, fossils, tools, and weapons. Please check the website for ticket information and to see what exhibitions are available to see during your visit to Palm Springs. https://www.psmuseum.org/
San Andreas Fault Jeep Tours
One of the most popular things to do while in the Palm Springs area, is to take a Jeep Tour of the San Andreas Fault. Many of the tours begin at the Metate Ranch and can last for three hours. Purchase Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/San-Andreas-Fault-Small-Group-Jeep-Tour-from-Palm-Springs/d648-2335PA?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Joshua Tree Off-Road Tours
If you want to see parts of Joshua Tree most people will never see – take an off-road 4×4 tour. Joshua Tree is one of the most epic parks you can visit in the mountain west. Touring the park via 4×4, you’ll get to ride deep into the rugged backcountry of the Mojave Desert, see the sacred Joshua trees and incredible rock formations.
Purchase Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Joshua-Tree-National-Park-Jeep-Tour/d648-3351P12?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Learn Rock Climbing
Learn the rock-climbing basics against the one-of-a-kind backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park’s otherworldly scenery: this small-group, beginner-friendly tour makes climbing accessible. In the morning, make your own way to the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, meet your guide, and get ready to explore. You’ll get acquainted with the park’s famed climbing options when you attempt to scale a granite rock face. First-hand guidance, support, and equipment are all provided.
Get Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Beginner-Group-Rock-Climbing-in-Joshua-Tree-National-Park/d648-121485P1?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
The Sunnylands Center and Gardens
The Sunnylands Center and Gardens is the mid-century modern retreat of Walter and Leonore Annenberg and it offers visitors a glimpse into the historic estate and information about the history and cultural significance of Sunnylands. Sunnylands is surrounded by nine acres of desert gardens and is known as being an estate that once entertained famous entertainers such as Frank Sinatra and political leaders, including eight U.S. presidents.
Sunnylands Center & Gardens is open to the public, Wednesday through Sunday, 8:30 am to 4 pm. https://sunnylands.org/visit-the-gardens/
Self-Driving Wind Farm Tour
The San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm is a Self-Driving Wind Farm Tour. This Wind Farm is one of three major wind farms in California and has become a fascinating feature in the landscape of the San Gorgonio Pass. This driving tour takes approximately 1 1/2 hours, depending on your pace. Get Tickets: https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Palm-Springs-Windmill-Tours-is-the-only-behind-the-fence-historical-eco-bus-tour/d648-103515P1?pid=P00137271&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=Indian-Wells
Palm Springs Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour
Palm Springs Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour A really great way to learn more about Palm Springs. The game is played at your own pace and through your smartphone and will lead you on a quest to learn more about Palm Springs and the people who lived there through clues, riddles and more. Check the link for more information and times of operation. https://www.viator.com/tours/Palm-Springs/Palm-Springs-Scavenger-Hunt-Walking-Tour/d648-114083P8?mcid=56757
The Movie Colony Neighborhood
The Movie Colony is a neighborhood located in Palm Springs. It was made famous by some of Hollywood’s biggest stars of the silver screen, who owned homes there between the 1930s and 1960s. Conveniently located within walking distance to downtown, the Movie Colony Neighborhood has about 170 homes that feature Spanish Colonial Revival style, Mid-century Modern, and California ranch-style architecture. Some of the notable celebrity estates include Cary Grant, Gloria Swanson, and Jack Benny. https://www.palmspringsrendezvous.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Map-of-the-Stars-Homes.1.pdf
The Cabazon Dinosaurs
The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a roadside attraction that feature some of the world’s biggest man made dinosaurs. Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex are part of the draw, towering at 150 feet tall. These steel and concrete dinosaurs were completed in 1975 and 1986, respectively, to attract more customers to a nearby restaurant, which has since closed. The dinosaurs have appeared in everything from commercials to music videos, and since then, this dino pair has been a popular attraction for grownups and little kids. Consider going and getting a selfie with some really big dinosaurs. https://www.cabazondinosaurs.com/
Urban Hike along Palm Canyon Drive – Hike and SHOP!
Urban Hike along Palm Canyon Drive Palm Canyon Drive is a great place to play, eat, shop and explore. You’ll need about an hour to walk all of the popular Palm Canyon Drive. Kick off your adventure with a hot or iced cup of coffee or tea at Koffi located in the Uptown Design District in The Corridor. While you fuel up with some caffeine, stroll through the back courtyard and admire metal artwork. If you are looking for a bit of breakfast, then head over to Mid Mod Cafe, and check out their vegan and gluten-free menu. Try something new!
Next stop along this urban hike is The Shops at Thirteen Forty Five. Indulge in a little bit of retail therapy. Check out the #pspinkwall for a photo op before you head inside.
Another Gallery to visit is The SHAG Store, it is located further down Palm Canyon. Shag’s art is filled with beautiful colors in the shapes of parties that the artist would want to attend.
On The Mark Palm Springs, is next door to Shag. It is a cheese, wine, and everything yummy shop. Enjoy the endless samples or order a cheese board to take home.
If all of this walking and shopping is making you hungry, consider trying Chicken Ranch, where the motto could be “Good food is simple”.
To finish out this ‘Urban Hike” along Palm Canyon Drive a stop inside of Destination PSP is a must. This shop holds Palm Springs souvenirs and gifts that even locals love. Check out this link for more information https://www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/blog/post/itinerary-6-hours-on-palm-canyon-drive/#:~:text=The%20first%20thing%20you%20need,hike%20with%20lots%20of%20pitstops
Palm Springs Walk of the Stars
Hollywood is not the only place with a Walk of the Stars, Palm Springs has one as well. including Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Adam West, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and more.
Click here for more information on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars. https://www.palmsprings.com/walk-of-stars/
Palm Springs VillageFest
Every Thursday night from 6pm to 10pmDowntown Palm Springs comes to life every Thursday evening when part of Palm Canyon Drive is closed off so that vendors can set up and display their hand-made artworks, candles, photography, and food. Vendor booths are set up on both sides of the street, and visitors are able to stroll through the traffic-free eventYou can shop for arts, crafts, jewelry, and other interesting trinkets and try some tasty treats from nearby local restaurants and artisanal providers. Musical performers, buskers, and other street artists provide additional entertainment as you shop or stroll by the booths. https://villagefest.org/
Moorten Botanical Garden
The Moortens are desert plant specialists and invite you to their residence estate. Cactus Castle, the Moorten’s Mediterranean style home, sits in the Palm Grove Oasis and has often been described as a haven of tranquility steeped in the charm of old Palm Springs.Before you leave this unique Cactarium, stop by the Nursery and take a piece or two of the desert’s treasures home with you. http://www.moortenbotanicalgarden.com/
Crochet Museum
This unique, atypical museum is unlike many things that you may have seen. This bizarre yet cute attraction in Joshua Tree is about 45 minutes drive from Palm Springs, will warm your heart. The Crochet Museum has a colorful selection of fun and beautifully hand-made animals, dolls, and decorative trinkets. You don’t have to be a crochet fanatic to have a fantastic experience here, so be sure to check it out. Check out the link for more information about this unique destination. http://www.sharielf.com/museum.html
Hot Springs in Palm Springs – Monarch Hot Springs
Love hot springs? Monarch Hot Spring is a private hot springs experience that is booked through Airbnb. You must book the PRIVATE use of this hot springs pool through Airbnb Experience. The session is a two-hour block. The hot springs are a pleasant 99 to 102 °F, depending on the time of year.
For more information on Monarch Hot Springs visit their website https://www.monarchhotsprings.com/
Pedego Electric Bike – tours and rentals
If you’ve never ridden a-bike before, you are going to love it. Pedal five times as far with one tenth the effort of pedaling a regular bike. E-bikes are fast, fun, easy to pedal, and a great way to get around. With an electric bike, you can easily cover lots of ground, while still getting an up close and personal look at all the scenery and attractions.
Pedego offers a variety of electric bikes from cruisers to city to mountain and fat tires. Check out their extensive offerings and get to see the beautiful desert up and close. Check out their website for more information and pricing. https://pedegoelectricbikes.com/dealers/la-quinta/
Shields Date Garden
Date shakes! For almost a century Shields Date Garden has been a place where people come to experience date culture. There are many different varieties of dates that are grown and able to be tasted at Shields Date Garden. They grow and harvest dates that are able to be tasted at our sample counter. Check the website for more details and current hours of operation. https://shieldsdategarden.com/
Play Golf in the Dark – Shots in the Night Shots
Shots in the Night Shots in the night is a unique experience in outdoor golfing. Look for Laser putting by Nextlinks on seven dedicated Greens and a brand new Top Tracer Driving Range experience. When you think of golf and outdoor fun, then you quickly go to Shots in the Dark. Both of these experiences offer multiple game options for individuals, couples and groups, so check it out. While having fun at Shots in the Night, you wont need to look far if you are feeling hungry. They offer great food and beverage options as well with many food trucks and BBQ options all evening long. Check out the link to find out more about the dates and times that Shots in the Dark is in operation. https://www.indianwellsgolfresort.com/shots_in_the_night/
The River at Rancho Mirage
The River at Rancho Mirage is a year-round outdoor area where you can shop, eat, catch a movie or charge your electric car. Check the calendar for the lineup of artists and musical events happening here.
Check link for more informationhttps://www.theriveratranchomirage.com/
Summary – Things to do in Palm Springs During the Indian Wells Tennis Tournament
If you are attending the BNP Paribas Open in Palm Springs are are looking for things to do for you or your family, you are in for a treat. Palm Springs is amazing and there are so many great things to do and see that I have barely scratched the surface in this blog post.
But rest assured, nobody in your party is going to get bored in Palm Springs. There is golf, hiking, biking, jeep tours, giant arcades, pools, hot springs, escape rooms, rock climbing, art, national parks, art exhibits, music, shopping, and world class food. If you are bored in Palm Springs during the Indian Wells Tennis tournament, it is your own fault.
The truth is, of all the tennis tournaments in the world, the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells is probably the best tournament for traveling with the family because there is so much to do in the Palm Springs area. Few tournaments offer such easy access to activities for you, your family, and people of every age group and interest type.
If you can think of anything interesting to do you’ve experienced in Palm Springs, drop me a line and I will add it to the list! See you all at Indian Wells in March 2024!
About the Author
Katri is an avid club player and certified tennis junkie. Katri lives by the tennis mantra of, “Do whatever it takes to keep tennis fun. Sometimes it is playing more, sometimes it is buying a new tennis skirt.” Sportsmanship and fair play are utmost important and promotion of the game of tennis is paramount. Follow along for further tennis fun and friendship while keeping your head in the game.
