Women’s tennis attracts spectators with its thrilling matches and amazing athletes and offers a unique way to travel. Tennis enthusiasts have several travel options, from Grand Slam locations to historic courts and cultural centers that celebrate the sport’s legacy. This guide covers the top travel destinations for women’s tennis lovers, including where to go, what to do, and how to maximize your tennis-themed vacations.
1. Melbourne, Australia
Australia Open
Victoria’s lively city hosts the Australian Open, one of four Grand Slam competitions. Every January, the world’s best female tennis players compete in this event. Melbourne Park hosts the competition at Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena, both modern.
What to See/Do
- Australian Open Experience: Melbourne Park offers autograph sessions, fan zones, and interactive exhibitions in addition to great matches.
- Melbourne’s Café Culture: Discover the city’s outstanding coffee and brunch culture.
- The Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, offers stunning views and landmarks including the Twelve Apostles.
2. Paris
The Roland Garros
French Open Roland Garros is held in Paris, the city of love and lights. Stade Roland Garros hosts this clay-court Grand Slam tournament, known for its difficult surface and historical significance. Paris attracts tennis enthusiasts every spring to see the pros play on the red clay.
What to See/Do
- Roland Garros Museum: The Tenniseum displays French Open memorabilia, trophies, and multimedia exhibits.
- Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise: Paris is incomplete without visiting the Eiffel Tower and taking a cruise on the Seine River, which offers stunning views of the city-scape.
- Explore Montmartre: Wander through the charming streets of Montmartre, home to artists, cafés, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
3. London, England
Wimbledon
The world’s oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament is Wimbledon. This summer grass-court Grand Slam event at the All England Club in London is traditional. Wimbledon is distinctly British, from strawberries and cream to the all-white dress requirement.
What to See/Do
- Interactive exhibits and tennis memorabilia at Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum chronicle the Championships’ history.
- Centre Court tours: Visit Centre Court, the Press Interview Room, and the players’ facilities on a guided tour of the All England Club.
- Historic London: Visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and British Museum in London.
4. NYC, USA
The US Open
NYC hosts the final Grand Slam tournament of the year, the US Open. The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows hosts this hard-court event, famed for its night matches and vibrant atmosphere. Tennis enthusiasts looking for excitement and enjoyment in one of the world’s most dynamic cities should attend the US Open.
What to See/Do
- At the world’s largest tennis stadium, Arthur Ashe Stadium, night matches are electrifying.
- Central Park: Walk, kayak, and visit Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields at Central Park, an urban sanctuary.
- Broadway Shows: The Theater District has some of the world’s top live performances.
5. Indian Wells, CA
BNPP Open
BNP Paribas Open, the “fifth Grand Slam,” is held in Indian Wells. This annual March event draws top female players to the desert and offers lavish comforts. The Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a beautiful setting for intense tennis.
What to See/Do
- arid Adventures: Visit Joshua Tree National Park for its distinctive rock formations and arid scenery.
- Palm Springs: Enjoy mid-century modern architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant arts.
- At one of Coachella Valley’s many world-class spa resorts, unwind.
6. Rome, Italy
International BNL Italy
Every May, Rome hosts the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, or Italian Open, a top clay-court tournament. This event offers world-class tennis and the Eternal City’s culture and history in the Foro Italico. The tournament draws elite players and devoted supporters as a French Open warm-up.
What to See/Do
- Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill: Visit Rome’s ancient sites.
- Vatican City: See St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, and Sistine Chapel.
- Italian Food: Try pasta carbonara and gelato at local trattorias and pizzerias.
7. Miami, FL
Miami Open
One of the most prestigious WTA Tour events is the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. This March hard-court tournament combines top-notch tennis with Miami’s colorful atmosphere. Tennis aficionados love the city’s beaches and nightlife.
What to See/Do
- South Beach: Enjoy the Art Deco buildings, beautiful beach, and sparkling waters of South Beach.
- Experience Cuban culture at Little Havana with its lively music, delicious food, and bright murals.
- Airboat tours of the Everglades, home to alligators, manatees, and many bird species, are available.
8. Doha, Qatar
Totally Open Qatar
Doha hosts the primary WTA Tour event, the Qatar Total Open. This February competition draws elite female players and showcases the Middle East’s developing sports culture. Doha’s sophisticated cityscape, cultural sites, and friendly hospitality attract tennis fans.
What to See/Do
- Visit the Museum of Islamic Art to see a stunning collection of Islamic art from around the world.
- Souq Waqif: Visit this traditional market for spices, textiles, souvenirs, and local cuisine.
- The Pearl-Qatar: Explore this manmade island with luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment.
