When purchasing tickets on Ticketmaster, you may come across listings that say they have an “obstructed view.” This can leave you wondering what exactly an obstructed view entails and whether it’s worth purchasing those tickets. Here’s a comprehensive look at what obstructed view means on Ticketmaster and how to decide if those seats are right for you.
Definition of Obstructed View
On Ticketmaster, an obstructed view means there is something blocking the full, direct sightline to the stage or playing field from that seat. Obstructions vary based on the venue layout and seating area. Common obstructions include:
- Support columns in the venue
- Walls or safety railings
- Overhangs from upper seating levels
- TV cameras or equipment
- Lighting rigs
In many cases, the obstruction may be minimal, barely impacting the overall view. But in certain seats, the obstruction can block a significant portion of the stage or playing area.
How Ticketmaster Indicates Obstructed Views
Ticketmaster uses clear labeling to indicate obstructed view seats. When selecting tickets on the website or app, obstructed view listings will say “Obstructed View” or “Limited View” right next to the section and row. The seat numbers that have an obstruction are also clearly marked.
When you click on a specific obstructed view seat, Ticketmaster provides additional details about the type and severity of obstruction. This gives you further insight into how much the obstruction will impact the viewing experience from that vantage point.
Types of Obstructions
While obstructions vary across venues, here are some of the most common types of obstructions labeled on Ticketmaster:
- Limited view: View is only partially impaired. For example, you may need to lean to see around a minor obstruction.
- Restricted view: View is significantly obstructed, blocking a notable portion of the stage or playing area.
- Parallax view: Seats are situated at an angle to the stage rather than straight on.
- Rear view: Seats are directly behind the stage so you’ll be looking at the back of the production.
- Production view: The production equipment, lighting rigs, or other structural elements related to the show production may block sight lines.
The language Ticketmaster uses provides some indication of how much an obstruction is likely to impact the view. Terms like “limited” suggest a minor obstruction while “restricted” indicates a more significant impairment.
Factors Affecting Severity
Not all obstructions are equal in severity. Some factors that influence how much an obstruction impacts your viewing experience include:
- Type of obstruction: Support columns tend to be less intrusive than production equipment or lighting rigs.
- Location of seat: Obstructions have a greater impact on seats closest to the stage.
- Venue layout: Smaller, more intimate venues generally have more obstructed views than arenas.
- Type of event: Concerts or theatrical performances rely more on clear sightlines than sporting events.
Pros and Cons of Obstructed View Seats
Obstructed view seats have some potential advantages and disadvantages to weigh:
Potential Pros
- Obstructed view seats are usually discounted, so you pay less for tickets.
- You still get to enjoy the overall atmosphere and energy of the event.
- The obstruction may not be noticeable once the show starts.
- You may get seats closer to the stage than unobstructed seats in your price range.
Potential Cons
- Views can be significantly impaired depending on the type and severity of obstruction.
- You may have to shift or lean during the event to see around obstructions.
- Photos and videos may be impacted or impossible from some seats.
- Some productions intentionally use obstructions as part of the experience.
Deciding if Obstructed Seats Are Worth It
Ultimately whether obstructed view seats are a good option comes down to personal preferences and your priorities. Here are some factors to consider when deciding:
- Type of event: Obstructions have less impact at more visual productions like concerts versus theatrical performances where clear sightlines are key.
- Importance of a close seat: Weigh how important proximity is versus an unobstructed view.
- Quality of obstruction details: Ticketmaster provides useful info to evaluate if the obstruction will significantly impair enjoyment.
- Price and budget: Obstructed seats offer big savings, which may outweigh minor obstructions.
- Your height: Taller patrons are better able to see around some obstructions than shorter ones.
Boiling it down, obstructed view seats make the most sense for casual fans who prioritize price, atmosphere, and proximity over perfect sightlines. Die-hard fans or patrons attending shows that rely heavily on visual theatrical elements may want to steer clear of significantly obstructed seats when possible.
Tips for Purchasing Obstructed View Seats
If you decide obstructed view seats meet your needs, here are some tips for getting the best value:
- Carefully read Ticketmaster’s details about the type and severity of the obstruction.
- Zoom in on the interactive seat map to pinpoint the exact location of the obstruction.
- Avoid rear view or production view seats for concerts or theatrical shows.
- Consider paying slightly more for “limited view” versus “restricted view” seats if budget allows.
- Chat with a Ticketmaster agent if you need clarification on the obstruction before purchasing.
Examples of Obstructed Views
To give you a better idea of what obstructed views may look like, here are some examples from different types of venues and events:
Concert Hall Obstructed View
In an intimate concert hall, obstructions typically include support columns, sound equipment, or lighting rigs:
Type of Obstruction | Impact on View |
---|---|
Support column | Partially blocks view of one side of stage. Ability to lean to see around. |
Sound equipment | Blocks view of band members on one side of stage. |
Lighting rigs | No major visual impairment but equipment visible. |
Theater Obstructed View
In a theater, common obstructions are support columns, overhangs from upper seating areas, and sometimes lighting or production equipment:
Type of Obstruction | Impact on View |
---|---|
Support columns | Partially block view of each side of stage. |
Overhangs | Limits visibility of upper portion of stage. |
Lighting equipment | Blocks very top of stage and rigging visible. |
Sporting Event Obstructed View
In a sports stadium, common obstructions include the lower bowl, sidelines, TV equipment, and lighting structures:
Type of Obstruction | Impact on View |
---|---|
Lower bowl | Blocks view of near sideline and corners of field. |
Sidelines | Limited view of near sideline/team bench areas. |
TV cameras | Block small portion of center field. |
Lighting structures | No major visual impairment but equipment visible. |
Troubleshooting Obstructed Views
If you purchase obstructed view tickets and find the obstruction is more significant than expected, here are some options:
- Speak to an usher to determine if moving to another open seat with a clearer view is possible.
- For major obstructions, politely address the issue at the box office to see if an exchange or refund is possible.
- File a complaint on Ticketmaster detailing the discrepancy between the advertised and actual obstruction.
Providing visual evidence of the view from your seats can help support your case for a refund or exchange. Being courteous but firmly stating your case is key.
Conclusion
Obstructed view seats allow you to attend events at reduced prices, but it’s important to weigh the potential pros and cons. Carefully assessing Ticketmaster’s obstruction descriptions and seat views ensures you know what you’re getting. With reasonable expectations set, obstructed view seats can be a great budget-friendly option for getting closer to the action while still enjoying the venue’s atmosphere and energy.