Standing room only (SRO) tickets are a type of ticket offered for sporting events, concerts, and other live performances that do not guarantee the ticket holder an actual seat. With an SRO ticket, you are allowed entry into the venue to stand and watch the event, usually in a designated standing room area. SRO tickets are generally the least expensive ticket option and are popular for fans looking for an affordable way to experience a live game or show.
What does SRO mean for baseball games?
In Major League Baseball, SRO tickets grant access to certain standing room areas within the stadium to watch the game. SRO ticket holders are not assigned an actual seat, but rather can claim an open spot in one of the approved standing room sections. These standing room areas may be cordoned off sections behind seating areas, standing platforms and terraces, or open concourses with views of the field.
Some key facts about SRO tickets at MLB games:
- SRO tickets are first-come, first-served – Arrive when gates open to claim the best standing spots
- Limited capacity – There are usually only a certain number of SRO tickets sold
- General admission – No assigned standing location
- Less expensive – SRO tickets can cost 20-50% less than the cheapest seated tickets
The main benefit of SRO tickets for baseball games is the lower price. The drawback is having to stand for the entire game with no seat. SRO tickets allow you to get in the gate affordably and are ideal for fans who don’t mind standing and want to save money on tickets.
Where are standing room areas located at MLB ballparks?
Standing room sections can vary by ballpark, but some typical SRO spots are:
- Behind seating areas in the upper deck or bleachers
- On drink rail platforms in the back of seated sections
- In wide concourses with views of the field
- On top of restaurants and bars overlooking the field
- In designated standing room terraces or platforms
When looking at a stadium map seating chart, SRO areas may be labeled as “Standing Room Boxes” or “Drink Rail” sections in the upper levels or concourses. They are positioned to provide sightlines to view live game action, though the views may be partially obstructed or distant compared to seated sections.
What are the best SRO spots at popular MLB ballparks?
Here are some of the top standing room spots at a few MLB stadiums:
Fenway Park, Boston Red Sox
- Standing room boxes behind home plate upper deck
- Walkway behind right field bleachers
- Standing platforms on roof deck overlooking left field
Wrigley Field, Chicago Cubs
- Standing terraces in upper deck down the lines
- Back row of upper deck bleachers in center field
- Shelf behind seating bowl in right field foul territory
Yankee Stadium, New York Yankees
- Standing room sections behind bleachers in right field
- Jim Beam Suite standing room platform in right field
- Standing room drink rails in Sections 420-424 in left field corner
Knowing the layout of the ballpark you are visiting will help identify the prime SRO spots. Arriving early when gates open will allow you to claim the best vantage points before they fill up.
When are SRO baseball tickets sold?
The availability of standing room tickets can depend on factors like:
- Opponent – More likely for less popular matchups
- Day of week – Less likely on weekends and premium dates
- Time of year – More likely in colder months early and late in season
Many teams only sell SRO tickets on the day of the game at the ballpark’s box office. Others may release a limited number ahead of time through the team’s website or ticket retailers. SRO tickets are generally not part of season ticket packages and mini-plan strips.
Fans hoping to buy SRO tickets should check the team’s website for release details or call the box office. SRO tickets for popular games will likely sell out quickly both online and at the box office.
How much do SRO baseball tickets cost?
SRO ticket prices can vary significantly by team and demand:
Team | Average SRO Price |
---|---|
New York Yankees | $20-60 |
Boston Red Sox | $20-40 |
Chicago Cubs | $15-35 |
San Francisco Giants | $10-25 |
Baltimore Orioles | $5-15 |
SRO ticket pricing fluctuates based on factors like opponent, day of week, and time of year. Rivalry matchups, weekend games, and summer months will be the most expensive. Less in-demand midweek games in April or September will offer more affordable SRO prices.
What are the pros and cons of buying SRO tickets vs seated tickets?
Here are some key pros and cons to weigh when considering purchasing SRO baseball tickets:
Pros
- Cheaper cost compared to seated tickets
- Gain stadium access at lower price point
- Ability to move around for sightlines
- Closer views at times by standing near seats
Cons
- No seat – Must stand the entire game
- May have obstructed views
- Less comfortable than having a reserved seat
- Spots fill up quickly – Must arrive early
- No guarantees on getting a good standing spot
SRO tickets provide an affordable way to watch live MLB action for fans who don’t mind standing. Seated tickets offer guaranteed seats, likely better views, and more comfort, but at a higher price. Consider your budget, preferences, and the game experience you want when weighing the pros and cons of SRO vs. seated tickets.
Can you buy food and drinks with SRO tickets?
Yes, SRO ticket holders can generally purchase food and beverages inside the stadium. Since most standing room areas are located in concourses, concessions are readily available nearby. Some tips for SRO ticket holders:
- Grab food/drinks early before best standing spots fill up
- Be prepared to miss some action when getting concessions
- Bring bottled water to avoid losing your place frequently
- Avoid carrying food/drinks when jockeying for position
- Place food/drinks on ground carefully if no tables or ledges nearby
One strategy is to arrive early, claim your standing spot, get provisions, then head back. While concessions access comes with SRO tickets, navigating crowds and missing live action can be drawbacks versus seated sections with in-seat delivery.
Can you upgrade SRO tickets to seats?
You generally cannot officially upgrade from an SRO ticket to a seated ticket without paying the difference in price. However, some options may exist to try to obtain a seat without paying more:
- Ask ushers if any aisle or companion seats are available
- Politely ask seated fans if a seat is open late in the game after others leave
- Check for open handicap seats late in games
- Monitor seat upgrading apps during the game for last-minute deals
While teams want to honor the seats that ticket holders have paid for, customer service staff and ushers will sometimes take pity on SRO patrons late in lopsided games when seats go empty. Be polite when asking and don’t force the issue if told no. Monitor seat upgrade apps for potential deals as well.
How early should you arrive for SRO tickets?
Arriving early is highly recommended when using SRO baseball tickets:
- At least 1 hour prior to first pitch is ideal
- 90 minutes early for key rivalry/postseason games
- When gates open to the public is perfect
- Avoid arriving after first pitch
The earlier you get to the standing room section, the better your positioning choices will be. Some cutoff times for SRO entry may also apply (ex. 90 minutes after first pitch). Late arrivals risk having to stand in the back behind crowds. Allow enough time to enter, find spots, and get concessions before first pitch when gates open.
Can you bring food and drinks into SRO areas?
Policies on outside food and beverages into SRO sections vary by ballpark. Some general guidelines:
- Factory sealed bottles of water are usually permitted
- No alcoholic drinks can be brought in
- wrapped or bagged food items are sometimes allowed
- Beverages in cups, cans, or opened bottles are typically prohibited
- Check team website bag policy before coming to confirm restrictions
Since standing room ticket holders don’t have seat access for in-seat delivery, some fans try to bring their own provisions. This can avoid losing prime spots constantly for concessions. Call ahead or search the team’s website for the official bag policy and rules on outside food and drinks in SRO areas.
Can you reserve or save a spot with SRO tickets?
There is no way to officially reserve or save a standing room spot in advance. However, some tricks may help secure a good position:
- Arrive extremely early, especially for key games
- Politely ask other fans to “save your spot” if stepping away
- Take very short concession trips to minimize lost spots
- Place a small personal item like a hat on the ground when leaving
- Get concessions early when it’s less crowded
Since SRO spots are first come, first served, you must claim your space in person. While you can’t prevent others from taking an open spot if you leave, communicating with other fans, placing an item, and minimizing absence time can help avoid losing prime standing room real estate.
What are the best tips for getting a good SRO spot?
Here are some suggested tips for getting the best standing room position possible with an SRO ticket:
- Arrive as early as possible – at least 60-90 mins prior to first pitch
- Head to your desired SRO section immediately upon stadium entry
- Claim a spot along a railing or up against a wall for leaning and cup holders
- Scope out standing room spots with the least obstructions
- Bring a small popup stool for periods of sitting when able
- Make friends with neighboring fans for helping retain your spot for short breaks
- Avoid leaving your spot for long periods of time
- Carry only essential small items to avoid juggling lots of gear
- Wear comfortable shoes for standing the entire game
Getting to the SRO section early, staking out a prime spot, and staying put will give you the best experience. Arriving late will likely relegate you to the back with obstructed views. Follow these tips to optimize your standing room only experience.
Are all standing room spots created equal?
Not necessarily. While SRO tickets don’t guarantee a reserved viewing spot, some standing room locations are more desirable than others. Factors impacting SRO spot quality:
- Proximity – Closer to action is better
- View – Less obstructions like poles is better
- Space – More room to stand comfortably is better
- Barriers – Spots against railings or walls are better for leaning
- Height – Higher spots let you see over crowds better
Survey the SRO area upon entry and get a lay of the land. Claiming a spot with a clear straight-on view, space to move around, and a barrier to lean on will enhance the experience versus a cramped corner with multiple obstructions. Arriving early lets you scout spots and get the choice real estate.
Is standing allowed in seated sections with SRO tickets?
Standing room ticket holders should not attempt to stand in locations reserved for seated ticketholders. Ushers will ask SRO patrons to return to the designated standing room zones. Standing in aisles or walkways in seated sections may also be prohibited for safety reasons. Fans can only occupy seats they have tickets for.
In some cases, especially late in lopsided games, ushers may allow SRO ticket holders to discretely take any seats that remain completely empty and unused. However, you should not bank on this. Assume your SRO ticket only grants standing access unless expressly told otherwise by staff.
Can you bring seating with SRO tickets?
Most ballparks prohibit bringing personal seating devices into standing room only areas. Reasons include:
- Fire hazards
- Crowding and congestion
- Obstructed views
- Hindering movement and access
Small stools or mini folding chairs are typically not allowed. However, small pads or cushions may be permitted for personal use in standing on the floor or leaning against walls/railings. Check your team’s bag policy before bringing any seat-like items to the stadium just to ensure compliance.
Do ballparks offer ADA accommodations for SRO tickets?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ballparks must provide reasonable accommodations for fans with qualifying disabilities. This may allow certain ADA patrons with SRO tickets access to alternate viewing areas. Accommodations depend on existing stadium facilities and features and are provided at management discretion. Those needing ADA assistance should contact guest services to inquire about available options when purchasing SRO tickets.
Conclusion
Standing room only tickets offer baseball fans an affordable option to gain live game access in ballpark environments. While sacrificing a reserved seat, SRO passes allow you to soak in the excitement at a lower price point. Arriving early, securing a prime spot, and embracing the standing atmosphere will lead to an enjoyable experience. Weigh the pros and cons against your budget and preferences to determine if SRO tickets align with your baseball experience goals.