Quick Overview
There are a few key factors to consider when determining the best seats for a concert at Petco Park in San Diego:
– Your budget – Ticket prices can vary widely depending on the section. Closer seats in lower sections or floor seats will be the most expensive. Upper decks and bleachers are cheapest.
– Your priorities – Do you want to be close to the stage or see the full scope of the production? Center seats for optimal viewing or side seats to save money?
– The type of concert – Rock concerts often utilize the entire stadium so anywhere can be good. More intimate shows focus on the main stage.
– Time of day – Afternoon shows often face the sun, so shade is key. Night shows offer the full lighting effects.
In general, the best value seats with a good view of the main stage are in the lower bowl near the field. Sections 110-136 along the first base line and sections 101-125 near third base offer sightlines to the stage and proximity for a reasonable price. Floor seats get you closest but often with obstructed angles. The upper decks like sections 301-334 can actually have strong elevated views for an affordable price if you don’t mind the distance.
Petco Park Concert Seating Guide
Petco Park offers a wide range of seating options for concerts, from the floor right up to the upper deck. Here is a detailed guide to the different sections:
Floor Seats
The floor or “field” seats are closest to the stage, usually set up on the baseball field in front of the main stage. This pit area has standing room only and gets you the most up-close and immersed concert experience. Prices are high, often $150-$300+ per ticket, but you can’t beat the proximity. Spots closest to the stage are most coveted. The only downsides are potential obstructions from equipment and speakers, and less elevated perspective compared to seats.
Lower Bowl Seats
The lower bowl sections around the infield offer assigned chairs with backs on risers for good unobstructed sightlines to the stage. Sections along the baselines like 101-136 go for $75-$200 per seat depending on row. The lower and closer to the field, the better. Many consider the lower bowl the optimal balance of clear view and proximity without breaking the bank.
Field Boxes
The Field Boxes and Field Reserved sections right beyond the dugouts are also great options at $60-$150 per seat. Sections like 116-125 along first base and 101-110 down third base angle nicely towards the stage. You get chairs with backs contained within each section. These offer a comfortable concert experience with close access to concessions.
Club Level
The club level in the 200 sections runs around the infield with access to exclusive lounges. These are assigned seats with backs that go for around $100-$200 each. Sections like 221-227 and 209-215 have excellent centered views of the stage that aren’t too distant. The lounge access can be great for a pampered concert experience.
Upper Deck
The View Level seats up in sections 301-334 of the upper deck provide the cheapest seats between $30-$60, but still with strong elevated sightlines overlooking the stage. The higher and more centered, the better the view. Sections 326-331 near home plate are great budget options. Upper decks are ideal if you just want to get in the door and don’t mind being farther from the action.
Standing Room Only
If all seated tickets are sold out, standing room only spots can still get you in the gate, usually under $50. The back upper deck concourse offers standing views, but prime spots are the raised drink rails behind lower sections like 114-116 along the first base line. You can post up there and get an elevated perspective of the show. Just prepare to be on your feet the whole time.
Luxury Suites
For the ultimate VIP concert experience, private luxury suites are available starting around $3,000-$6,000 depending on the show and capacity. These suite rentals get you exclusive lounge space, premium views from private balconies, top notch food and drinks, and personal attendant service. A splurge for sure, but perfect for an unforgettable special occasion.
Key Things to Consider
When shopping for Petco Park concert tickets, keep these tips in mind:
Ticket Budget
Tickets near the stage can cost hundreds, while upper deck seats may be under $50. Set a comfortable budget before shopping.
View of the Stage
Check the stage setup and seating chart to find sections with ideal, unobstructed sightlines. Lower infield sections are best.
Type of Show
Rock concerts utilize the full stadium, while pop shows focus on the main stage. This affects the best seats.
Time of Day
Afternoon shows bake in sunlight, so aim for shaded seats along first base. Night shows let you enjoy the full light production.
Making Concessions
Price, proximity, comfort – decide the tradeoffs you are willing to make to fit your concert experience goals and budget.
Buy Early
Popular shows sell out fast. Lock in great seats early before they are gone.
Re-Sale Tickets
If the box office is sold out, trusted re-sale sites can provide last minute tickets, often at inflated prices.
Obstructed Views
Check for poles, overhangs or equipment that could block sightlines when choosing seats.
Weather
For open air shows, heat and sun can be brutal in the day. Check forecasts to plan clothes and sun protection.
ADA Accessibility
Wheelchair and accessible seating areas are available. Contact the box office well in advance to secure special accommodations.
Best Seats for Different Budgets
Where you sit largely depends on how much you want to spend. Here are some of the best Petco Park concert seats in different budget tiers:
Budget | Best Seats |
---|---|
Over $200 per ticket | Floor seats in the front pit (standing only) |
$150-200 per ticket | Lower infield near stage like Sections 122-125 |
$100-150 per ticket | Field Boxes near baselines like Section 116 |
$75-100 per ticket | Lower View Infield like Sections 114-117 |
$50-75 per ticket | Upper View Boxes near base such as Section 327 |
Under $50 per ticket | View Level seats in Sections 326-331 |
As you go higher in sections and farther back, the prices drop. But be wary of obstructed view seats behind poles and under overhangs. It’s ideal to balance affordability with a clear sightline.
Best Sections by Stage Location
Concert stage setups vary at Petco Park. Here are some of the best seat sections for different stage locations:
Stage Location | Best Seating Sections |
---|---|
Centerfield | Sections 114-136 along 1st base line |
Behind home plate | Sections 101-125 near 3rd base |
Right field foul pole | Sections 101-107 closest to stage |
Left field foul pole | Sections 131-136 nearest stage |
For center stages, aim for centered sections in the lower bowl. If on one foul line, prioritize seats on that side pointing towards the stage.
Obstructed and Restricted Views
While almost all seats offer decent stage views, there are some obstructions to look out for:
– Support poles holding up upper decks can block sightlines in some areas.
– Upper deck overhangs overhead create limited visibility and acoustics for sections beneath them.
– Equipment setup like speaker stacks on the field may obstruct views from certain floor seats.
– Upper deck seating in the outfield is very far from centered stages.
Some specific sections with obstructed views:
– Sections 302-306 behind home plate (upper deck overhang)
– Sections 146-148 and 117-119 (support poles)
– Sections 342-349 in deep right field upper deck
– Floor seats behind pit sound booths and equipment
Double check seat views before buying tickets in these zones or others with potential limitations.
Best Seats for a Rock Concert
Rock concerts using the full stadium benefit from:
– Lower sections halfway up sections like 114-125 to see the big LED screens on stage.
– Infield seats under the upper deck overhangs for improved acoustics.
– Higher midfield upper deck seats like Sections 326-331 for taking in the full lighting and effects.
– Standing room spots behind lower bowl near the sound mixers for great sound.
The entire stadium is utilized, so anywhere can provide a strong rock concert experience at Petco. Focus on whatever balance of price, proximity, or view works for your budget.
Best Seats for a Pop Concert
For pop shows focused on the main stage:
– Floor seats close to the stage let you see performers up close. Front and center is ideal.
– Lower infield sections like 110-135 adjacent to the stage offer unobstructed sightlines.
– Field Boxes directly across from the stage are great for moderate budgets.
– Club level seats down the baselines are close to the action with lounge access.
Avoid the upper deck which is distant and off-axis from center stage pop shows. Focus your seats nearer the stage on the lower levels.
Best Seats for Other Key Factors
Keep these other factors in mind when selecting Petco Park concert seats:
Time of Day
Afternoon Concerts: Avoid sunny sections along the right field line. Seek shaded seats under cover or down the left field line in sections like 131-136.
Night Concerts: Any seat works since you can enjoy the full stage lighting effects after dark.
Saving Money
Cheap but decent seats can be found upper decks near home plate (326-331), upper view boxes (320-325), or standing room spots behind lower sections.
Don’t buy obstructed view seats behind poles and overhangs just to save money.
Valuing Comfort
For maximum comfort, consider field boxes (116-125) which have cushioned chairs contained within each section. The club level (209-227) also has access to private lounges.
Concessions Access
Lower level infield seats put you closest to the main concession stands behind home plate on the main concourse.
Field level boxes also offer in-seat vendors and close access on the lower concourse.
VIP Treatment
Luxury suites with premium amenities, food and drinks provide the ultimate concert experience. Single suites for small groups can run $3k-$8k.
Where to Avoid Sitting
While there are very few truly “bad” seats at Petco Park, here are some sections you may want to stay away from:
– Behind the stage – Usually closed off or obstructed view
– Upper deck outfield – Far from infield stage with poorer angles
– Under upper deck overhangs – Limits visibility and acoustics
– Right near speakers – Can be too loud and distorted
– Behind equipment and cranes – May have sightline obstructions
– Upper corners like 344-349 – Angled away from stage
– Poles blocking views in sections like 117-119
Unless on a tight budget, avoid seating with known obstructions or challenges like these areas.
When to Buy Concert Tickets
To get the best deal on Petco Park concert seats, follow these tips on when to purchase:
– As early as possible for the most choice and guaranteed access before sellouts, especially for floor seats.
– During pre-sales for first access before general public on-sale dates. Fan club and VIP presales occur first.
– Right when general public tickets go on sale to get ahead of crowds and bots snatching up seats.
– Days leading up to the show for last minute deals as prices drop from resellers unloading inventory. But very limited.
Avoid buying just weeks before popular shows when pickings get slim and prices inflate due to demand. Plan ahead as early as you can to lock in the seats you want. Sign up for pre-sales when available. Friday mornings at 10am when tickets go on sale are frenzied but can yield great seats.
How Seat and Ticket Prices Are Set
Petco Park concert ticket prices are determined by:
– Artist and tour management – Big names charge higher fees.
– Seat location – Floor and lower sections cost more than upper areas and bleachers. Front row seats command huge premiums.
– Ticket demand – Hot shows get pricier as availability decreases. Slow selling events may have discounts.
– Market factors – Prices adjusted based on competitors like other SoCal venues.
– Fees and taxes – Added charges from the venue and ticket sellers.
– Reseller markups – Third party sellers tack on more fees when demand exceeds supply.
– Promotions – Some sections may be discounted to boost sales.
As a rule, tickets tend to cost more the closer and more centered they are. Floor seats are always the top price point. Front rows also fetch higher premiums from diehard fans.
Ways to Get Cheap or Discounted Tickets
While the best seats for top concerts will always carry premium price tags, you can score discounted Petco Park concert tickets through:
– Upper deck or bleacher seats – The most budget friendly options.
– obstructed view seats – Behind poles or under overhangs often discounted.
– Single seats – Odd solo seats are cheaper than pairs.
– Last minute sales – Prices drop in the final days as unsold tickets get unloaded. But risky.
– Presales – Get tickets for a discounted exclusive pre-release.
– Group tickets – Blocks for 10+ people often come with discounts.
– Promo codes – Check artist websites and fan clubs for special offers.
– Kids tickets – Children under a certain age may have reduced rates.
– Resale sites – Check hours before showtime, though fees are higher.
Getting cheap seats for popular shows at Petco requires diligent deal hunting. But patience and flexibility can help you score bargains and still enjoy the concert.
How to Get the Best Deal on Tickets
Here are top tips for getting the best price on Petco Park concert tickets:
– Sign up for fan club or VIP presales to access tickets first before the crowds.
– Strategize seat sections that balance proximity, price and view. Don’t overpay for small upgrades.
– Check seat views online and avoid obstructed seats just for a deal.
– Buy early for best selection – prices only go up closer to the event.
– Group tickets offer large discounts if you can gather friends.
– Consider show times carefully. Matinees are often cheaper than evenings.
– Resale sites can have deals but carry higher fees – price shop carefully.
– Set price drop alerts on an app like SeatGeek to grab last minute bargain tickets.
– Be flexible on dates if the schedule allows – midweek shows are typically less expensive.
With preparation and smart comparison shopping, you can secure Petco Park concert seats that fit your budget needs and concert experience goals.
Conclusion
Petco Park offers a wide spectrum of seating options for concerts, from the pit up to the cheap seats. The best place to sit largely depends on your budget, priorities for proximity or view, the stage location, time of day, and type of concert. Sections along the infield such as 110-136 provide excellent sightlines of the main stage for rock or pop shows at a moderate cost. Field Boxes get you closest at the lowest price point. And the upper decks offer affordable views, though distant. Compare seat views and reviews carefully to avoid obstructions. Plan ahead to buy early for popular shows, and utilize presales and group discounts to secure the best seats for your Petco Park concert experience.