Are you ready to unlock the secrets to the perfect view at the Allstate Arena? Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned concert-goer, understanding the seating chart can make or break your experience. Let's dive in and make sure you get the most out of your next event!
How is Seating at the Allstate Arena: A View from My Seat – The Ultimate Guide
The Allstate Arena, located in Rosemont, Illinois, is a multi-purpose venue that hosts everything from thrilling hockey games and basketball matchups to electrifying concerts and family shows. Its design prioritizes excellent sightlines from virtually all seat locations, but knowing the nuances of each section can significantly enhance your enjoyment.
Step 1: Identify Your Event Type (This is Crucial!)
Before you even think about specific seat numbers, you need to consider what kind of event you're attending! The Allstate Arena's seating configuration can change dramatically depending on the performance.
- Concerts: These often feature an "end-stage" setup, typically positioned near sections 105, 106, and 107. However, some artists might have unique layouts, including general admission (GA) standing areas, fan pits, or even B-stages that extend into the audience.
- Sporting Events (Hockey, Basketball, etc.): These will have a more standard arena bowl setup, with the action centered on the ice or court.
- Family Shows (e.g., Disney On Ice, Monster Jam): These also typically utilize a full arena setup, but the focus might be on the center floor.
Why does this matter? A seat that's fantastic for a hockey game might offer a severely obstructed view for a concert with an end-stage. Always check the specific event's seating map if available. Many ticket vendors and the Allstate Arena's official website will provide interactive seating charts for individual events.
Step 2: Understanding the Allstate Arena Seating Tiers
The Allstate Arena generally divides its seating into two main levels:
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Lower Level (100 Sections): These sections are closer to the action and are often considered the premium seats.
- Rows: The lower level sections typically start with double-lettered rows (e.g., AA, BB, CC, DD, EE, FF) closest to the floor/stage, followed by single-lettered rows (A through R or T). Keep in mind that rows AA-FF often have less elevation than the single-lettered rows.
- Seat Numbers: Generally, seat number 1 within a section is closest to the preceding section (e.g., seat 1 in Section 105 would be next to Section 104). Seat numbers increase as you move to the left when facing the stage/floor.
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Upper Level (200 Sections): These sections are higher up but still offer good views, especially given the Allstate Arena's reputation for excellent sightlines. They are often a more budget-friendly option.
- Rows: Upper level sections usually start with row A and go up to row T.
- Seat Numbers: Similar to the lower level, seat numbers increase to the left.
Step 3: Navigating Seating for Concerts (End-Stage Layout)
For the most common concert setup, with the stage at one end of the arena, here's a breakdown of what to expect:
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Floor Seats (Floor 1, Floor 2, Floor 3, Floor 4, etc.):
- The Good: These are the closest seats to the stage, offering an incredibly immersive experience. You're right in the heart of the action!
- The Bad: Views can be obstructed by taller individuals in front of you, and for some layouts, the stage might be elevated, making it harder to see if you're in the very first rows and looking up. The layout and size of floor sections can change significantly from show to show.
- Tip: If you're considering floor seats, try to get closer to the center of the stage rather than the extreme sides.
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Lower Level Side Sections (e.g., 102, 103, 110, 111):
- The Good: These sections offer fantastic elevated views of the stage. You're close enough to feel the energy but high enough to have a clear sightline over standing crowds. Sections like 103 and 110 are often considered among the best seats for a traditional concert setup.
- The Bad: Depending on the exact section and your seat number, you might have a slight side angle to the stage.
- Tip: Look for lower-numbered seats in sections to the left of the stage (e.g., 102, 103) and higher-numbered seats in sections to the right (e.g., 110, 111) for a more direct view.
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Lower Level End Sections (e.g., 104, 109, 114, 115):
- The Good: Sections directly facing the stage (like 114 and 115 for an end-stage concert) provide a head-on view, meaning you won't need to turn your body to see the stage. They also offer good elevation.
- The Bad: Sections like 104 and 109 are on the extreme side of the stage. While close, the angle can be very severe, leading to a limited or obstructed view of parts of the stage or screen.
- Tip: If considering 104 or 109, aim for seats closer to the center of the arena (lower-numbered seats in 104, higher-numbered in 109) to minimize the extreme side angle.
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Upper Level Side Sections (e.g., 203, 210):
- The Good: For those on a tighter budget, these sections can offer surprisingly good views. The Allstate Arena is not excessively large, so even from the upper level, you'll feel relatively connected to the performance. Sections 203 and 210 offer good angles.
- The Bad: You're further away, so details might be harder to discern without relying on the big screens.
- Tip: Consider higher-numbered seats in 203 and lower-numbered seats in 210 for a slightly better angle towards the stage.
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Upper Level End Sections (e.g., 214, 215):
- The Good: These sections provide a direct, head-on view of the stage from an elevated perspective. They are often a good value for money.
- The Bad: You are quite far from the stage, and these sections can be very large with many rows, meaning a longer walk to concessions or restrooms.
- Tip: While far, the view is usually clear with no obstructions.
Step 4: Utilizing Online Resources for Your View
The absolute best way to visualize your view is by using online tools:
- "A View From My Seat" (aviewfrommyseat.com): This website is a fantastic community-driven resource where users upload actual photos from their seats at various venues, including the Allstate Arena. Simply search for "Allstate Arena" and your section/row to see real-world perspectives.
- Ticket Vendor Interactive Seating Charts: Many ticket selling platforms (Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, TickPick, etc.) offer interactive maps. You can often click on a specific section to see a virtual representation of the view from that area. Some even offer a 360-degree view.
- Official Allstate Arena Website: The arena's official site (
rosemont.com/allstate
Step 5: Considering Important Factors Beyond Just the View
While sightlines are paramount, other factors contribute to your overall experience:
- Accessibility: The Allstate Arena is committed to accessibility, with accessible seating available on the lower level. If you require accessible seating, be sure to indicate this when purchasing tickets. They also offer wheelchair escorts and accessible restrooms.
- Proximity to Amenities: Seats higher up or in larger sections might mean a longer walk to restrooms and concession stands. Consider this if you anticipate needing frequent breaks.
- Sound Quality: While the Allstate Arena generally has good acoustics, some anecdotal evidence suggests that the upper level, particularly the very back, can sometimes have less optimal sound compared to the lower bowl. Floor seats can also be overwhelmingly loud directly in front of speakers.
- Entry and Exit: Seats closer to entry tunnels (often higher rows within a section) make for quicker access in and out of the arena.
- Obstructed Views: Reputable ticket sellers should disclose if a seat has an obstructed or limited view. Always check for such notes before purchasing.
Remember: The Allstate Arena boasts "excellent sight lines from all seat locations," so even if you're not in the absolute best spot, you're likely to have a decent view. However, a little planning can help you secure a truly spectacular experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions (Starting with 'How to')
How to find the best seats for a concert at Allstate Arena?
The best seats for a concert with an end-stage setup are typically in the Lower Level Side sections (e.g., 102, 103, 110, 111) for elevated, close views, or Floor Seats if you want to be as close to the stage as possible and don't mind potential standing or obstructed views. Sections 114 and 115 offer excellent head-on views from the lower level.
How to know if my Allstate Arena seat has an obstructed view?
Ticket sellers are usually obligated to disclose if a seat has an obstructed or limited view. Always read the ticket description carefully before purchasing. You can also use websites like "A View From My Seat" to see photos from specific sections.
How to get to my seats quickly at Allstate Arena?
For quicker access to and from your seats, choose seats in rows closer to the entry tunnels within each section. These tunnels are typically located at the top of the sections.
How to choose seats for a family show (e.g., Disney On Ice) at Allstate Arena?
For family shows, aim for seats in the lower level side or corner sections (100s) for a good, elevated view of the entire arena floor. Upper-level seats are also perfectly fine, especially for larger productions, as the action usually spans the whole floor.
How to determine if seat number 1 is on the left or right at Allstate Arena?
In standard arena setups like the Allstate Arena, seat number 1 is generally closer to the preceding (lower-numbered) section. So, if you're in Section 105, seat 1 will be closer to Section 104, and seat numbers will increase as you move towards Section 106.
How to get accessible seating at Allstate Arena?
Accessible seating is available on the lower level. You can purchase these tickets online through Ticketmaster by selecting the "Request Accessible Tickets" option, by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000, or by visiting the Allstate Arena Box Office.
How to prepare for floor seats at an Allstate Arena concert?
For floor seats, prepare for a standing-room-only atmosphere (unless specifically seated), potential obstructions from people in front of you, and often a very loud audio experience. Arriving early can help you secure a better standing spot if it's a general admission floor.
How to find out the specific seating layout for an upcoming Allstate Arena event?
Always check the event-specific seating chart on the ticket vendor's website (e.g., Ticketmaster, SeatGeek) or the official Allstate Arena website. These often show the exact stage setup or court configuration for that particular event.
How to choose between lower and upper level seats at Allstate Arena for value?
For value, the Upper Level Side sections (200s) often provide a good balance of view and price. The Allstate Arena is considered a relatively intimate venue, so even from the upper level, you generally have a decent sightline without feeling too far away.
How to best see the entire stage and screens at an Allstate Arena concert?
For a comprehensive view of the entire stage, including any large screens used for close-ups, consider seats in the lower level end sections (114, 115) or the upper level end sections (214, 215), as these offer a direct, head-on perspective.
