Gillette Stadium: A Concert Venue Overview
The roar of the crowd, the pulsating bass, the dazzling lights – there’s nothing quite like experiencing a live concert. And if you’re lucky enough to be seeing your favorite artist at Gillette Stadium, you’re in for a treat. But to truly make the most of your concert experience, it’s crucial to understand the Gillette Stadium seating chart. Finding the perfect spot can be the difference between an unforgettable night and a somewhat disappointing one.
Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, isn’t just a haven for football fans; it transforms into a world-class concert venue, hosting some of the biggest names in music. Navigating its expansive layout can seem daunting, but with a little preparation, you can secure the ideal seats to enjoy the show. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to the Gillette Stadium seating chart for concerts, helping you decipher the various sections, evaluate sightlines, and ultimately, choose the best seats to make your concert a resounding success.
Before diving into the intricacies of the seating chart, let’s take a moment to appreciate Gillette Stadium itself. Opened in two thousand and two, this state-of-the-art facility replaced the old Foxboro Stadium and quickly became a landmark. While primarily known as the home of the Patriots, its design allows for seamless transitions into a top-tier concert venue.
Gillette Stadium boasts an impressive capacity, holding tens of thousands of music lovers for large-scale concerts. The stadium offers a wide range of amenities to enhance the concert experience, including numerous concession stands, merchandise outlets, restrooms, and accessible facilities. Its location, though slightly outside of Boston, is easily accessible with proper planning.
Deconstructing the Gillette Stadium Concert Seating Chart
The Gillette Stadium seating chart for concerts can appear complex at first glance, but it’s essentially divided into several main sections: the floor, the lower level, the upper level, suites, and club seats. Understanding these sections is key to finding seats that match your preferences and budget.
The floor sections are closest to the stage and typically include the pit, general admission areas, and reserved seating. The lower level, designated as the hundred sections, surrounds the field and provides relatively close views. The upper level, or the three hundred sections, offers more affordable options with a wider perspective. Finally, suites and club seats provide premium amenities and exclusive viewing areas. Accessibility accommodations are available throughout the stadium.
Keep in mind that the layout can vary slightly depending on the stage configuration and the specific artist performing. Always refer to the official seating chart for the concert you’re attending to ensure accurate information. Pay attention to the row and seat numbers, as these will guide you to your exact location within the stadium.
A Closer Look at Specific Sections and Their Viewpoints
Let’s explore each section more thoroughly to provide you with a better understanding of what each location offers:
Floor Sections: The Heart of the Action
The floor sections put you right in the middle of the excitement.
- The Pit: This standing-room-only area is located directly in front of the stage, offering the closest possible proximity to the artist. The energy is electric, but be prepared for intense crowds and limited personal space.
- General Admission: Similar to the pit, the general admission area allows you to get close to the stage, but it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to secure your desired spot. Be prepared for a lot of standing and movement.
- Reserved Floor Seats: These offer the comfort of assigned seating while still keeping you relatively close to the stage. The view is generally excellent, although the exact sightline will depend on the row and seat location.
Lower Level Sections: Prime Viewing Opportunities
The lower level sections, typically labeled as the hundred sections, provide a good balance of proximity and comfort.
- Advantages: Excellent views of the stage, relatively close to amenities like restrooms and concessions, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the floor sections.
- Disadvantages: Can be more expensive than upper-level options, and the view can be slightly obstructed in certain areas due to speakers or stage equipment.
- Recommendations: Aim for sections closer to the center of the stage for the most direct and unobstructed views.
Upper Level Sections: Budget-Friendly Options with Panoramic Views
The upper level sections, labeled as the three hundred sections, are the most budget-friendly option at Gillette Stadium.
- Advantages: More affordable than lower-level seats, provide a panoramic view of the entire stage and stadium, and often have shorter lines for restrooms and concessions.
- Disadvantages: Distance from the stage can be significant, resulting in a smaller view of the artist, and the incline can be steep in some areas.
- Recommendations: Choose seats towards the front of the section or closer to the center to improve the view.
Suites and Club Seats: The Ultimate Luxury Experience
Suites and club seats offer the ultimate in comfort and luxury at Gillette Stadium.
- Description: These premium seating options provide exclusive amenities such as private restrooms, dedicated food and beverage service, comfortable seating, and often, access to indoor lounges.
- Benefits: Unparalleled views, privacy, and a high-end experience.
- Considerations: Significantly more expensive than standard seating options, and availability can be limited.
Accessible Seating:
Accessible seating is available throughout Gillette Stadium to accommodate guests with disabilities. These seats are typically located in accessible sections and offer companion seating as well. Contact the Gillette Stadium ticket office or Ticketmaster for more information on accessible seating locations and how to request accommodations.
Tips for Snagging the Best Seats
Choosing the right seats can dramatically enhance your concert experience. Here are some factors to consider:
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on tickets. Floor seats and suites are the most expensive, while upper-level seats are the most affordable.
- View Preference: Do you prefer to be close to the stage for a close-up view of the artist, or do you prefer a wider, panoramic view of the entire performance?
- Proximity to Amenities: Consider how important it is to be close to restrooms, concessions, and other amenities. Lower-level seats are generally closer to these facilities than upper-level seats.
- Physical Limitations: If you have mobility issues, opt for seats that are easily accessible and avoid steep inclines.
Before purchasing your tickets, take advantage of online tools that allow you to preview seat views. Many websites offer user-submitted photos and videos from various locations within the stadium, giving you a better idea of what to expect. Reading reviews and recommendations from other concert-goers can also provide valuable insights.
Be sure to avoid seats that are labeled as having obstructed views. These seats may have a limited or blocked view of the stage due to speakers, support structures, or other obstructions.
Ticket Acquisition and Stadium Entry
Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, the official ticketing partner of Gillette Stadium. You may also find tickets on secondary markets. Presales are often offered to fan club members or credit card holders. Arriving early to on-sale events can improve your chances of getting the seats you desire.
Gillette Stadium typically utilizes mobile ticketing, so be sure to download your tickets to your smartphone before arriving at the stadium. Familiarize yourself with the stadium’s entry procedures, which may include security screenings and bag checks. Be aware of the stadium’s policies regarding prohibited items, such as outside food and drinks.
Navigating to and Within Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium is located in Foxborough, Massachusetts, approximately thirty miles south of Boston.
- Driving: If you’re driving, be sure to plan your route in advance and allow for extra travel time, especially during peak hours. Parking is available at Gillette Stadium, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly.
- Public Transportation: The MBTA Commuter Rail offers service from Boston’s South Station to the Foxboro station, which is a short walk from Gillette Stadium. This is a convenient option for avoiding traffic and parking hassles.
Additional Considerations for a Smooth Concert Experience
- Weather: Gillette Stadium is an open-air venue, so be prepared for all types of weather. Check the forecast before you go and dress accordingly. Rain or shine, the show will usually go on!
- Noise Levels: Concerts can be loud, so consider bringing earplugs to protect your hearing.
- Bags: Check Gillette Stadium’s website for the most up-to-date information on the bag policy. Typically, only small, clear bags are permitted.
- What to Bring: Valid photo ID, tickets, and money or credit cards. Leave all prohibited items at home or in your car to avoid delays at security.
In Conclusion: Embrace the Music
Understanding the Gillette Stadium seating chart is an investment in your concert experience. By carefully considering your budget, view preferences, and other factors, you can secure seats that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the music and create lasting memories.
Planning ahead is key. Take the time to research the seating chart, read reviews, and purchase your tickets in advance. With a little preparation, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smooth and enjoyable concert experience at Gillette Stadium. So, get ready to sing along, dance your heart out, and experience the magic of live music! Enjoy the show!
