Seeing Billy Joel perform live at Madison Square Garden is an incredible experience for any fan. MSG has been Joel’s home arena since 2014, with his residency shows selling out monthly. With a capacity of around 20,000, MSG offers a range of seating options at different price points. When choosing seats to a Billy Joel concert, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you have the best view and experience.
Floor Seats
Sitting on the floor puts you closest to the stage and the action. This vantage point allows you to see facial expressions and really feel part of the show. Floor seats are available as general admission (GA) standing room only tickets or reserved seats in the front rows. GA tickets are cheaper but require arriving early to get a good spot. The first few rows (around rows A-E) are seated floor seats and offer that closeup view with the comfort of having an assigned chair.
Pros:
- Closest view of Billy Joel and the band
- Immersive experience and chance of interaction with Billy
- Livelier atmosphere and space to stand and dance
Cons:
- More expensive than other sections
- GA standing tickets have no assigned spots
- You may have to arrive early to secure a good GA position
Lower Bowl Seats
The lower bowl at MSG refers to the sections on the ground level aside from the floor. It includes the 100 and 200 sections wrapping around the stage. These lower bowl seats offer elevated views with the performers still close and clearly visible. As you move farther back, the perspective changes but the giant screens on either side of the stage keep you engaged in the show.
Pros:
- Elevated clear view of the stage
- Billy will still appear close and detailed
- More affordable pricing than floor seats
Cons:
- Not as intimate of a view as the floor
- Farther back seats may rely more on screens
- Can’t easily access floor for standing/dancing
Mid-Level Seats
The 200 and 300 sections at MSG make up the mid-level or mezzanine seating. These seats are elevated above the lower bowl offering a birds-eye view looking down. Fans here can take in the full scope of the light show and production. There is some distance from the stage but multiple giant screens show closeups of Billy Joel working the piano and singing. The music resonates well throughout this middle tier of the arena.
Pros:
- Unique overhead view
- Cheaper ticket prices
- Views of giant screens with stage closeups
- Full light show vantage point
Cons:
- Farther distance to the stage
- Need to rely on screens more
- Can’t access floor for optimal viewing
Upper Level Seats
The highest seating sections at MSG are in the 400s up to the 500s. These upper deck seats are the most affordable way to see Billy Joel. Fans get a birds-eye view from these top rows looking directly down on the action. The Jumbotron screens are also easily visible from this high vantage point. While there is distance from the stage, the sound system still delivers the music well up here.
Pros:
- Cheapest ticket pricing
- Unique aerial view from the heights
- Top rows allow fans to stand up
- Jumbotron screens clearly visible
Cons:
- Farthest viewing distance from stage
- Performers appear small down below
- Light show elements less visible
- Separated from the action on the floor
How Seat Location Impacts Price
Seat prices at Billy Joel’s MSG concerts vary widely based on the location in the arena. Demand is highest for seats closest to the stage, which drives up the prices in these sections. Obstructed view or partial view seats tend to be listed at lower price points. Below is a table showing the average ticket price ranges for different MSG seating sections:
Seating Section | Average Price Range |
---|---|
Floor Seats | $400 – $1,500+ |
Lower Bowl 100s | $200 – $800 |
Lower Bowl 200s | $150 – $400 |
Mid-Level 200s & 300s | $100 – $250 |
Upper Level 400s | $50 – $150 |
These prices can fluctuate based on factors like show date, day of the week, and seat row. Prices tend to spike higher the closer you get to the stage. Front row floor seats can list for $1,500 or more depending on demand. Overall the best bargains are in the upper levels, especially if you don’t mind the distance.
Best Value Seating Sections
To balance affordable pricing and a quality experience, consider looking for seats in these sweet spot sections:
Lower 200s
The lower 200s offer the best mix of clear elevated views, reasonable prices, and proximity to the floor and action. Front rows in this section (around rows 1-10) put you closer to the stage while keeping costs down. You’ll have a great straight-on view and won’t have to rely on screens as much.
Upper 100s
The front half of the upper 100 sections is ideal for those wanting that lower bowl experience on a budget. You’ll be closer than the top levels but still pay affordable pricing. Aim for rows 15 and under for the most ideal sightlines to the stage.
Upper 200s Side Sections
Section 208 and 227 along the sides of the upper 200s are solid choices too. Here you are closer to the action than the upper corners. And the side view allows you to see the stage, curtains, and giant screens well from one vantage point.
Obstructed and Limited View Seats
MSG does have some seats labeled as obstructed view or with limited visibility. This is due to pillars, overhangs, and other structural elements that can partially block the stage. These seats are cheaper but come with compromises on the viewing experience. Areas most prone to obstructions:
- Corners where sections meet at right angles
- Underneath overhangs and front of upper decks
- Behind stage rigging, speakers, or lighting
- Far ends of sections farther from stage
Check the detailed MSG seat map when buying tickets to determine any obstructions. Sometimes saving a little money comes at the expense of an ideal sightline.
ADA Accessible & Wheelchair Seating
MSG does provide wheelchair and ADA accessible seating options for Billy Joel concerts. These are available on the event floor in Row AA and BB. There are also wheelchair spots in the lower bowl 100 sections. Fans needing these accommodations can purchase tickets in advance or inquire at the MSG box office on show days.
Companion seats are also available next to wheelchair spots. Look for locations marked as ADA on the detailed seating chart when purchasing.
Best Seats for Certain Fans
Certain fans may prefer specific locations in MSG based on their needs and preferences:
- Fans on a budget – Upper level corners or ends, obstructions in 200s
- Fans wanting a livelier atmosphere – GA floor, lower bowl ends
- Fans wanting to sit – Lower bowl, floor seats NOT GA
- Fans wanting room to dance – GA floor, upper level aisles
- Fans wanting VIP experience – Floor seats near catwalks, luxury suites
- Fans in large groups – Upper sections, lower ends, rows with more seats
Consider your priorities like budget, vantage point, and amenities when deciding on sections. Billy sounds great from anywhere at MSG, so focus on areas that cater best to your concert experience goals.
When To Buy Billy Joel MSG Tickets
Billy Joel shows at MSG are hot tickets that sell out every month. Here are some tips for the best timing:
- Buy early once tickets go on sale – Prices are lowest initially.
- Shop 1-2 weeks before the show – Last minute deals appear as sellers cut losses.
- Check day before & day of – Prices drop last minute.
- Avoid peak demand times like right after on sale, holidays, big press announcements.
Sign up for MSG updates to get early access to presales. Joining Billy’s fan club also gives you presale code access before the general public.
How To Buy MSG Billy Joel Tickets
Here are some tips for securing the best seats for your budget:
- Buy from trusted primary ticket sellers like Ticketmaster.
- Check seat views on MSG’s virtual venue map before buying.
- Compare prices across multiple resale sites like VividSeats and StubHub.
- Sort ticket listings by price to find the best deals.
- Read all listing details carefully for obstructions, e-delivery policies, etc.
- Use promo codes and cashback to save money.
- Join fan clubs and MSG for early ticket access.
With Billy Joel’s popularity, the top locations go fast. Jump on tickets as soon as you’ve decided on sections to optimize value and seat options.
Other Ways To Get Tickets
Beyond online sales, you may be able to find last minute tickets through:
- MSG box office – Buy at the window before the show.
- Scalpers – Riskier but can get deals on the street.
- Reseller sites – Last minute sellers unloading tickets.
- Fan groups – MSG Billy Joel fan Facebook groups for buying/selling.
- Promotions – Radio, TV, and venue giveaways.
Cash sales outside MSG can yield some steals but run the risk of fakes. Online resellers and fan exchanges like Facebook groups offer ways to buy from other fans safely.
MSG Seating Layout & Shape
MSG is shaped like an oval bowl descending down to the round main stage on the arena floor. There are multiple levels of seating:
- Floor – Ground level space for GA standing and front row chairs.
- Lower bowl – Wraparound sections 100 and 200 surrounding the floor.
- Mid-level mezzanine – Sections 200 and 300 behind lower bowl.
- Upper level – Highest 400 and 500 sections above mid.
The lower bowl offers the closest views, while the upper sections are more distant but cheaper. MSG underwent a major renovation in 2011-2013 to modernize seating and amenities.
Stage Layout
Billy Joel performs in-the-round at MSG, with his piano positioned at center stage. The long catwalk extends out into the crowd from the circular stage, allowing Billy to interact with fans. Two large video screens flank left and right showing closeups.
The MSG stage setup places lower sections 100, 200, and floor seats closest to the action. The upper levels peer directly down onto the round platform.
MSG Concert Tips
To make the most of your Billy Joel concert experience at MSG, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive early to avoid long lines getting in.
- Check MSG bag policy – only clutch purses and bags under 5x8x2 inches.
- Eat beforehand – concession lines are long.
- Charge phone for photos/videos.
- Use the restroom beforehand – lines build up between sets.
- Save MetroCard to quickly exit the busy area after.
- Wear comfortable shoes – MSG requires a lot of walking.
- Bring earplugs in case sound is too loud for you.
- Be prepared to stand and dance in higher rows.
- Stay hydrated – fill water bottle inside security.
Knowing the layout, rules, and operations of MSG in advance makes navigating the massive arena easier. Arrive ready to enjoy the amazing experience of seeing the Piano Man’s magic live in concert.
Conclusion
Seeing Billy Joel live at Madison Square Garden is a bucket list concert experience for so many music fans. The arena offers a range of seating options, with floor seats and lower bowl delivering that up close view of the legend at his piano. Yet even the upper levels allow you to soak in the hits and sing along thanks to elevated sightlines and video screens. Map out sections in your budget using the virtual venue tools then lock in tickets early.
At MSG, there really isn’t a bad seat in the house for Joel’s monthly residency shows. Choose based on your budget, proximity, and viewing angle preferences. Locations off the floor and away from obstructed views offer the best value. Secure your seats early then get ready for a lifetime memory seeing Billy Joel rock the Garden!