Getting floor seats to a concert or sporting event can be an exciting experience. Being that close to the action and the performers is a thrill for any fan. However, floor seats also come at a premium price. So is splurging on those coveted spots on the floor really worth it? There are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to purchase floor seats.
The Advantages of Floor Seats
Here are some of the main benefits that come with having floor seats:
- You’re close to the action. Floor seats put you right down by the stage or court. You’ll have an up close view of the performers or players.
- Better atmosphere. The excitement and energy is often more palpable on the floor. You can really feel part of the action.
- Unique perspective. Floor seats give you a view you can’t get anywhere else in the arena. It’s a more immersive experience.
- No looking over or around anyone. Unlike seats higher up, your view isn’t obstructed by people’s heads.
- More comfortable. Floor seats often have more leg room and space than seats squeezed into a row high up in the stands.
- Easier access. Being on the floor means fast access to concessions and restrooms.
- Photo opportunities. Floor seats put you closer for better pictures and videos.
- Bragging rights. There’s a certain status and prestige that comes with having floor seats.
The Potential Downsides of Floor Seats
Despite the perks, there are also some possible drawbacks to keep in mind:
- The price. Floor seats are the most expensive seats, usually running several times higher than lower bowl or upper deck seats.
- Less of an overview. You may lack a full view of big choreographed moments or plays unfolding.
- Sound quality varies. The acoustics and sound quality can differ on the floor versus other sections.
- Distractions. There’s often more activity going on right around you on the floor.
- Time limits. Some venues enforce stricter time limits on floor dwellers returning to seats after breaks.
- Chance of obstructed views. You may have to deal with people, equipment, or objects briefly blocking your line of sight.
So when weighing the pros and cons, here are some factors to consider when deciding if floor seats are money well spent.
Weigh Your Budget vs. Expectations
One of the biggest considerations is your budget. Floor seats typically cost a premium, so think about:
- How much are you willing/able to spend on tickets?
- Will splurging for floor seats mean sacrificing expenditures elsewhere?
- Do you have disposable income to allocate for this experience?
Then weigh the costs against your expectations. Ask yourself:
- How great is my desire to have a floor seat experience for this particular event?
- Are my expectations high enough to justify the price?
- Will I regret not purchasing floor seats?
- Or can I have a satisfying experience even if I don’t sit on the floor?
Setting clear expectations upfront can help determine if the costs provide value.
Compare to Other Seating Sections
Another helpful exercise is to compare floor seats against other sections in the venue. Here are some key questions to consider:
- How much more expensive are floor seats than the lowest bowl or upper deck?
- What unique benefits do floor seats offer over other sections?
- Would I lose any advantages by sitting in a different section?
- Are there other sections that offer compelling viewing experiences?
You can analyze the tradeoffs using a table:
Floor Seats | Lower Bowl | Upper Deck | |
---|---|---|---|
Price | Most expensive | Mid-high price | Most affordable |
Proximity to action | Closest | Decent proximity | Farthest away |
View | Most immersive | Good view | Risk of obstructed views |
This highlights how floor seats uniquely offer close proximity and an upfront view. But the lower bowl also provides strong sight lines at a lower cost.
Research the Specific Floor Section
Not all floor seats are created equal. If purchasing floor tickets, research details about the specific section:
- How close is it to the stage or court?
- Is it near the center or off to the side?
- Are there any obstructed view risks?
- How is the sightline angle?
- Is the section near speakers or screens that could impact viewing?
Aim for floor sections closest to center stage or midcourt that minimize obstructions. Floor locations off to the extreme sides may not deliver the ideal experience.
Here are floor seat tips for different venue types:
Concerts
For concerts in arenas, the closest floor sections are usually most desirable. Being near the catwalk or extended stage puts you closest to performers. Floor seats in stadiums bring you closest to the main stage. Field seats also offer proximity for stadium shows.
Sporting Events
For sporting events, aim for floor seats near midcourt or midfield to optimize viewing angles. In hockey, floors seats in the attacking zones or along the glass provide closeup views of the action.
Theater Shows
At theater shows, the first few rows of floor seats center to the stage offer ideal proximity and sightlines. But floor seats under overhangs can have obstructed views.
So dig into floor seat maps when buying tickets. Prioritize sections that align with your goals – whether closest to the action or the best viewing experience.
Consider Floor Seat Alternatives
Lower and upper bowl seats can provide strong viewing experiences at lower price points compared to the floor. Here are some alternative seating options:
Lower Bowl Seats
Lower bowl seats keep you closer to the action while saving money versus the floor. Aim for sections in the first half of the lower bowl or near center stage or court for proximity.
Upper Deck Front Rows
Front rows of upper decks put you above and closer to the floor. You get an overhead view and avoid looking over people’s heads. These deliver a great perspective at a more affordable cost.
Luxury Suites and Boxes
Luxury suites and boxes provide an exclusive experience with amenities like catering, TVs and private bathrooms. While pricier, they offer unique vantage points and concierge-style services.
Charter Seats
For major concerts, charter seats offer floor access at a fraction of the price. Fans share a reserved space on the floor instead of assigned seats. So you get floor admission without the huge splurge.
Weigh how these seating alternatives balance proximity, viewing angles, amenities and costs compared to the floor.
Consider Selling Floor Seats If Obtained
If you obtain premium floor seats but are unsure about keeping them, consider reselling. Here are some pros of selling floor seats:
- Opportunity to profit. In-demand floor seats often sell for more than face value.
- Defray costs. Reselling floor seats can help offset the higher purchase price.
- Upgrade seats. You can use funds to buy even better seats.
- Flexible plans. If you can no longer attend, reselling recoups the costs.
Platforms like StubHub make it easy to resell event tickets. But weigh factors like these if considering offloading floor seats:
- Demand and event. Hot shows and games see higher resale prices.
- Reselling restrictions. Some tickets can’t be resold or have limits.
- Fees. Reseller platforms charge seller fees reducing profits.
Also account for tax implications if reselling at higher prices.
Make the Most of Your Floor Seats
If deciding to splurge on floor seats, get the most out of the experience with these tips:
- Arrive early. Get to the venue ahead of time to soak up the atmosphere from your floor vantage point.
- Bring binoculars. Binoculars let you get closeup views of onstage/on-court action.
- Capture memories. Take plenty of photos and videos to document the experience.
- Dress comfortably. Focus on comfort to enjoy the show versus worrying about your outfit.
- Hydrate and snack. Floor seats mean easy access to refreshments.
- Focus on enjoyment. Savor the rare chance to see a concert or game from the floor!
Maximizing the floor seat perks enhances the lifetime memory these special tickets provide.
Conclusion
Floor seats let you be part of the action – but come at a steep price. When weighing whether to buy floor seats, consider your budget, compare to other seating sections, research the specific floor location, explore seat alternatives, and maximize the experience. Getting the right floor seats for the right event can prove a truly once-in-a-lifetime thrill. But the higher costs mean you have to set proper expectations to determine if floor seats are ultimately worth the spend.