Sports Seats: Sideline, End Zone or Upper Deck?

The short answer

For most sports, seats along the side of the playing area, near the middle, give the best all-round view of the game. Seats at the ends are closer to some of the action but see the far end of the field or court from a distance.

Lower-level seats put you close to the players and the noise. Upper-level seats are usually the cheapest way in and let you see plays and formations develop.

Every stadium and arena is laid out differently, so always check the seating map for your venue before you buy.

Football: sideline, end zone, lower or upper level

Sideline seats run along the long sides of the field. The sections between the 20-yard lines are the most popular because you can follow the ball up and down the whole field without turning your head too far.

End zone seats sit behind the goal posts. You get a great view of scoring plays at your end, but action at the far end is hard to judge. Lower-level seats feel close to the players, while a few rows up in the lower level or a seat in the upper level often makes it easier to see the whole play.

At open-air stadiums, think about sun and shade. Day games can be hot in full sun and evening games cold in the shade, so check which sideline gets the sun at your venue and dress for the weather.

Basketball: courtside, sideline, baseline and upper level

Courtside seats are right on the floor at the edge of the court. They are the closest you can get to the players, but you see the far side of the court at a low, flat angle.

Lower-level sideline seats a few rows up are a favourite with many fans, because the raised angle lets you see the whole court and both baskets. Baseline seats sit behind the baskets, which is great for close-up action at one end but makes the far end harder to follow.

Upper-level seats are farther away and the players will look small, but you can see the whole court and the team shapes clearly. The video screens help you follow replays and close-ups.

Hockey: sideline, glass seats, ends and upper level

Sideline seats along the length of the rink give the best view of the whole game. Many fans like sitting a few rows up from the glass, as the extra height helps you follow the puck.

Glass seats, in the first row against the boards, are thrilling for the speed and the hits, but the glass and players along the boards can block your view of the play. Seats at the ends are where a team attacks twice, so you see more goalmouth action in those periods.

Upper-level seats are farther from the ice, but the height lets you watch plays develop, see passing lanes open up and follow the puck more easily than you can from low down.

Baseball: behind home plate, infield, outfield and bleachers

Seats behind home plate give a straight view of every pitch and the whole field. Infield seats along the first and third base lines put you close to the action on the bases.

Outfield and bleacher seats are usually the cheapest. You are far from home plate, but they can be a relaxed, social place to watch, and home runs may land near you.

Foul balls often go into the seats along the baselines, so stay alert there, especially with children. Most ballparks have protective netting behind home plate and along part of the baselines, and seats behind the netting are a good choice if you want extra protection.

Choosing the right seat on a budget

For the view, a seat in the middle of the upper level often beats a lower-level seat in a far corner. You see the whole game square-on rather than at an awkward angle.

Always check the venue's seating map for your event before you buy. Look at where your section is compared with the field or court, and read the seat notes for any limited or obstructed views.

Families and anyone who needs to step out often should look for aisle seats. They make trips to the restroom and concessions much easier without disturbing a whole row.

Frequently asked questions