Planning to attend a concert at TD Banknorth Garden (now officially TD Garden) in Boston? Knowing the seating chart can make or break your experience. This guide breaks down every section, row, and view so you can pick the best seats for your budget. Whether you want to be close to the stage or get the best sound, we've got you covered.
Understanding the TD Banknorth Garden Layout
TD Garden is a multi-purpose arena with a capacity of around 19,600 for concerts. The stage is usually set up at one end (the north end, opposite the balcony). The seating is divided into three main levels: Lower Level, Balcony, and Suite/Club levels. The floor area can be general admission (standing) or reserved seating, depending on the show. Note that the arena is not perfectly symmetrical; sections on the sides may have partial views depending on the stage setup.
Best Seats for Concerts: Section-by-Section Guide
Floor Seats (GA or Reserved): If you want to be right in front of the stage, floor seats are ideal. However, if the floor is flat, tall people can block your view. For reserved floor seats, rows closer to the stage (rows 1-10) are best. For GA floor, arrive early to get a good spot. Avoid the back of the floor near the soundboard if you want a clear view.
Lower Level (Sections 1-24, 101-124): These are the first fixed seats around the arena. The best sections are directly facing the stage: sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 (and their balcony equivalents 101-104). Side sections (e.g., 7-12 or 117-124) may have angled views but are still good. Rows A-C are closest to the floor; rows higher up (e.g., row 20) give a better overall view of the stage.
Balcony Level (Sections 301-327): The balcony is steep, so even back rows have decent views. Sections 301-304 face the stage head-on and are the best value. Avoid the first few rows of the balcony if you have a fear of heights. Side balcony sections (e.g., 310-315) may have partial obstruction from hanging speakers or lighting rigs.
How to Avoid Obstructed Views
Some seats at TD Garden have limited sightlines due to railings, overhangs, or support pillars. Here's how to avoid them:
- Check the specific event on Ticketmaster or the venue's official site. They often mark obstructed view seats with a note (e.g., "Limited View").
- Avoid seats directly behind the stage. These are usually not sold, but sometimes sections near the stage ends (e.g., sections 12, 13, 14, 21, 22, 23) can have poor views if the stage is set up at the north end.
- Use a view-from-seat website like AViewFromMySeat.com to see real photos from specific sections and rows.
- For the balcony, avoid rows A and B in sections 301-304 if you are tall; the railing might block your view of the stage floor.
Tips for Buying Tickets: Pricing and Timing
Ticket prices vary wildly depending on the artist and demand. Here are some pro tips:
- Buy during presales: Sign up for the venue's newsletter or the artist's fan club to get access to presales. Prices are often lower than public on-sale.
- Compare resale sites: StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats often have different prices for the same seats. Use a comparison tool.
- Consider the "obstructed view" seats if you're on a budget: Sometimes the obstruction is minor (e.g., a speaker blocking a small part of the stage). Read reviews before buying.
- Avoid buying from scalpers outside the venue: They often sell fake tickets or mark up prices significantly.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Assuming all floor seats are great. If you're short, a GA floor can be miserable. Opt for reserved floor or lower level seats instead.
Mistake 2: Ignoring the stage setup. Some concerts have a B-stage or runway. Check the seating chart for your specific show to see if the stage is different.
Mistake 3: Buying balcony side sections without checking. Sections like 310-315 can have speakers blocking the view. Look for user photos first.
Mistake 4: Waiting until the last minute. Prices often drop a day or two before the show, but for sold-out shows, they skyrocket. Buy early for popular acts.
FAQ
Q: What is the seating capacity of TD Garden for concerts?
A: Approximately 19,600, but it varies depending on the stage setup.
Q: Are there any seats I should absolutely avoid?
A: Yes, avoid seats directly behind the stage (usually not sold) and sections with known obstructions like 310-315 in the balcony. Also, avoid the first few rows of the balcony if you want an unobstructed view of the stage floor.
Q: Can I upgrade my seats after buying?
A: Sometimes the venue offers upgrades at the box office on the day of the show if unsold seats are available. It's worth asking.
Q: What is the best way to get to TD Garden?
A: Take the MBTA (subway) to North Station. The Garden is directly above the station. Driving is not recommended due to limited parking and traffic.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right seats at TD Banknorth Garden comes down to knowing the layout and your preferences. For the best experience, aim for lower level sections facing the stage or the front of the balcony. Always check for obstructed view warnings and use third-party resources to see real photos. With this guide, you'll be ready to enjoy your concert without any surprises. Now go grab those tickets!