When it comes to attending an event at MetLife Stadium, the experience can be greatly impacted by the choice of seating.
MetLife Stadium, home to the New York Giants and New York Jets, offers a wide variety of seating options, with some providing a fantastic view of the action, while others may leave fans feeling like they are missing out.
In this article, we will explore the best and worst seats at MetLife Stadium to help guide your decision-making when purchasing tickets for your next big game or event.
MetLife Stadium boasts a range of seating options, from premium club areas to the more budget-friendly options. The best lower level non-premium seats are typically found in sections 137-140 on the west sideline, specifically in section 139, which is sought after for its prime location on the 50-yard line. For those looking for a more affordable option, the mezzanine level offers club seating in sections 211-216 and 236-241.
However, not all seats provide an optimal view of the action.
Some areas in the stadium have obstructed or distant views that may negatively impact your experience.
To make the most informed decision when choosing your seats at MetLife Stadium, keep reading as we dive deeper into the stadium’s seating layout and provide tips for selecting the best seats for your needs.
Overview of Metlife Stadium
History
MetLife Stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, opened its doors in 2010 as a home to the NFL teams New York Giants and New York Jets. The construction of the stadium began in 2007, and it eventually replaced the long-standing Giants Stadium. It was initially named as the New Meadowlands Stadium, but later MetLife acquired the naming rights, thus making the stadium carry the moniker we know today.
Seating Capacity
The stadium’s seating capacity is approximately 82,500, making it one of the largest stadiums in the NFL. It offers various seating options to accommodate the spectators, ranging from the lower level and field seats to the more affordable 300-level seats.
- Field Level Seating: Offers some of the closest and best views of the field (sections 111C, 112-114, 115C).
- Lower Level Seating: Located near the west sideline (sections 137-140) and are ideal for those who want to be close to the action without paying a premium club price.
- Upper Level Seating: Includes sections 301 to 350, offering panoramic views, and they are the most budget-friendly options.
Events Hosted
Since its inception, MetLife Stadium has hosted a wide range of events, including NFL games, concerts, and international soccer matches. A few notable events include:
- Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014: First open-air, cold-weather Super Bowl.
- WrestleMania 29 in 2013 and WrestleMania 35 in 2019: Large-scale wrestling events.
- Concerts: Major artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and U2 have performed at the stadium.
- Soccer: The stadium has hosted matches for the Copa América Centenario and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
MetLife Stadium continues to be a versatile venue, attracting visitors for various sporting events, concerts, and other large-scale events.
Best Seats at MetLife Stadium
Club Seats
MetLife Stadium offers premium seating options that provide an enhanced experience for fans. Club seats are located on both East and West sidelines and offer excellent sightlines, comfortable cushioned seats, and access to exclusive club areas. These seats allow for a more luxurious experience, making them one of the best options at the stadium.
Lower Level Sidelines
For those looking for the best seats without a club price tag, the lower level sideline sections are a great option. Sections 137-140 on the west sideline are highly recommended as they provide a fantastic view of the game, especially Section 139, due to its location on the 50-yard line. These seats offer an exciting, close-up view of the game, allowing fans to feel the energy of the players and truly be a part of the action.
Midfield Upper Level
While the upper level of MetLife Stadium may not be as close as the lower level seats, the midfield sections in the upper level provide a unique perspective of the game. These sections offer a bird’s eye view of the entire field, making it easier to follow the plays and understand the game strategy. Fans in these sections can also enjoy replays on high-definition video boards located throughout the stadium, ensuring they never miss a moment of the game.
Throughout the stadium, MetLife offers increased legroom and comfortable seat width, making the game-day experience enjoyable for all fans.
Worst Seats at MetLife Stadium
Upper Level Corners
These seats are located in the highest sections of the stadium, making it difficult for spectators to get a clear and close view of the action on the field. Additionally, the seats are often exposed to the elements, which can make for an uncomfortable experience during inclement weather.
Upper Level End Zones
Similar to the upper level corners, the upper level end zone seats are situated high up in the stadium. The main issue with these seats is the limited perspective of the game, as fans may struggle to see plays happening at the other end of the field. Moreover, these seats are less desirable due to their distant location from the main action taking place on the field.
Obstructed Views
Some sections in MetLife Stadium have obstructed views, which can significantly affect the overall experience for fans. For example, 200-level seats that are positioned under the covering of the 300 level may have poor visibility of the field. These seats should be avoided, as they offer a less-than-ideal viewing experience for supporters.
Tips for Choosing Seats
Budget Considerations
When selecting seats at MetLife Stadium, it’s essential to balance your budget with the quality of the view. For the best value, consider seats in the corner sections, rows 40 and above. These seats still offer great sightlines and lower-level access without breaking the bank.
Event Type
The type of event you’re attending can also influence your choice of seating. For football games, some of the best seats can be found in the lower level along the sidelines, specifically sections 135-142. These seats provide exceptional views of the field and being close to the New York Giants or New York Jets action. For concerts or other non-sports events, it’s essential to review the specific seating chart for the event as the layout may vary.
Comfort
Comfort is a key factor when attending an event at MetLife Stadium. Avoid seats in the 200 level that are under the covering of the 300 level, as they have the poorest view of the stadium. For a more comfortable experience, choose seats in higher rows of the lower level, as these typically provide better views of the entire field and easy access to the lower level concourse.
Accessibility
MetLife Stadium accommodates individuals with disabilities and ensures they can enjoy events comfortably. Accessible seating is available on all levels of the stadium, and the venue provides a variety of services, such as wheelchair assistance if needed. It’s important to review the stadium’s accessibility guide to make sure all your needs are met during the event.
Conclusion
In summary, the best seats at MetLife Stadium are found in the Coaches Club sections on the East sideline, specifically in the Field Level Club Seating sections 111C, 112-114, and 115C. These seats offer amazing views, exclusive field-level access, and are close to the 50-yard line. For a more budget-friendly option, seats around rows 10-20 of the 100 level are also an excellent choice as they still provide great views and comfort with spacious seating.
For concerts, some of the best seats available are directly on the field, offering a close-up view of the stage. But keep in mind that the layout of field sections often varies per performer.
Despite its state-of-the-art facilities, MetLife Stadium has been ranked among the worst venues in the NFL, which may be due to factors such as its location or overall atmosphere. However, by choosing the right seats and keeping in mind the optimal sections mentioned above, you can still have an enjoyable experience at the stadium.
Remember that MetLife Stadium has five gates for efficient entrance and exit, so plan ahead to ensure a smooth arrival and departure from the event. By using this information, you can make the most of your visit and focus on enjoying the game or concert at MetLife Stadium.
James is a big time NBA Golden State follower, who makes sure to catch games when he's in the area. He likes to follow International Soccer, with an interest in small town soccer club, Blackburn Rovers located in the North on the UK.