With so many American football tickets to choose from, it can be tricky to know what seat to choose. This guide takes you through the different levels of the stadium, the pros and cons of each area, and how to find more affordable seats for enjoying the game.
Understanding Football Stadiums
Differences Between Football Stadiums
American football stadiums vary widely in their design and structure, offering distinctly different gameday experiences for fans. FedExField, the smallest stadium in the NFL, has a seating capacity under 60,000, while Michigan Stadium can host more than 107,000 spectators for college football. Soldier Field is the oldest stadium in the NFL, having opened in 1924. In contrast, Allegiant Stadium and SoFi Stadium did not open until 2020.
Factors that Change the Game Experience
A key factor that affects the game experience is the presence or absence of a stadium roof. Most stadiums are open-air, which can leave fans exposed to the elements, but some venues have fixed roof structures and others have retractable roofs. Older stadiums tend to offer slightly less comfortable seating, while modern venues typically feature many club seats and premium areas, along with extensive spectator amenities. The location of the stadium is also significant, with some placed in busy city centres and others in less populous or rural areas.
The Best Seats for Seeing the Field
Lower Level Seats - Advantages and Cost
Many fans would say the lower level of a stadium offers the best seats for a football game. Frequently known as field level, this is the closest tier to the action and gives spectators a chance to feel immersed in the game. The lower level is often one of the most expensive places to sit, however. Aside from club tickets, seats close to the field are usually the priciest option in a stadium.
The Significance of Sitting Close to the Midfield
The best seats in a football stadium might be at midfield, on the 50-yard line. This is the central line dividing the field, and fans seated close to this line should have a great view of the whole playing surface. A midfield seat means you can enjoy touchdowns at either end, so it is often considered the best place to sit for a football game. Fans seated behind an end zone have a more limited view of the field.
Choosing a Row in the Lower Level
Although the lower level includes some of the best seats in a football stadium, different rows can provide different gameday experiences. The frontmost rows on the field level are extremely close to the players, but their lack of elevation can sometimes lead to restricted views. In contrast, rows 20-30 offer enough height to see more of the field without being too far back from the action. Depending on the stadium, certain rows will provide easier access to restrooms and concessions, so this may be worth considering for fans with specific needs.
Budget-Friendly Options in the Lower Level
Corner Sections and Rows 40+: Cost Effective Choices
The lower level of a football stadium is usually a pricey place to sit, but there are ways to find more affordable tickets. Corner sections are almost always cheaper than sidelines, for example. Within each lower level section, the upper rows are less expensive than those closer to the field. Although the exact prices vary between stadiums, seats in rows 40 and above are usually cheaper than other lower level areas.
Quality Sightlines and Advantages of Corner Seats
Corner sections are not only appealing due to their lower ticket prices. These are among the best places to sit for a football game, as fans can enjoy an expansive view of the field while also being close to the end zone for great angles on touchdowns. The layout of each stadium is different, so consider the sightlines within the specific venue before choosing where to sit.
Interaction with Players and Gameday Experience
In some American football stadiums, fans can sit close to the player tunnel and watch as the teams enter and leave the field. This can lead to fun interactions with players and a highly memorable gameday experience. Although you may not be able to greet your favourite athlete, it’s always exciting to see the players up close and cheer for your team when they can really hear you.
FAQs
Can I find budget-friendly seats on the lower level?
Prices vary between games and every budget is different, but lower level tickets are not always prohibitively expensive. More elevated rows are cheaper than the frontmost 20-30 rows, and end zone or corner seats are less pricey than sideline sections. NFL teams use dynamic pricing throughout the season, so games with less spectator demand should also be available at lower ticket prices. These games could be a good way to try out a lower level seat without the steep cost of a higher profile matchup.
What are the advantages of club-level seating?
The exact benefits of club seating vary from stadium to stadium, as each team offers its own range of premium areas. Typically, though, club seats are the best seats in the stadium for field views and spectator comfort. These seats are usually padded with chairbacks and cup holders, and fans can enjoy access to exclusive interior spaces such as club lounges. Premium or complimentary concessions may be available, and private restroom facilities and stadium entrances are often provided.
Are there optimal seats in the upper deck?
As each stadium is designed differently, the sightlines and comfort of the various stadium levels are not uniform. Upper deck seats are generally some of the cheapest, however, as they are located further from the field than the lower levels. Some fans prefer this distance, as it offers wider, more expansive views of the game. In stadiums with permanent or retractable roofs, upper deck seats are protected from the weather, while in open stadiums they can be among the most exposed.
Why are chairback seats preferred?
Most fans prefer chairback seats because they offer more structure and support than bench seating. The chairback allows you to lean back in your seat, which is more comfortable than having to sit forwards for the whole game. Chairback seats can sometimes be padded, giving additional comfort over the course of a multi-hour game.
Why is sitting close to the tunnel beneficial?
Sitting close to the players’ tunnel is ideal for fans who want to glimpse their favourite athletes entering and leaving the field. Although stadiums are all set up slightly differently, there are usually certain sections that offer the best views of the tunnel and of the players as they emerge. Fans in these sections can even interact with the players in certain situations.
How can shade and cover enhance the stadium experience?
As American football games last for several hours, fans can be highly affected by the climate. Whether it’s sitting for long periods in the full heat of the sun or being exposed to searing cold and snow, spectators are vulnerable to the elements. Seats with shade or full overhead cover are therefore very appealing. Some stadiums offer fully indoor club seats, while those with retractable roofs can adjust the gameday experience to fit the weather conditions.