A couple days ago we got the latest fanpost from someone asking about attending Safeco Field. We've had a ton of these fanposts before, and the community's always good about answering and giving advice, but it occurred to me that there's no easy way for people to look these old threads up, nor has there ever been such a thread on the front page. Which is weird, given that this is a Mariners blog and all. So I decided it'd be a good idea to open up a Safeco feedback/suggestion thread to be locked to the sidebar for future reference.
Well, it's not one thread. It'll be four threads. This is the first of four parts:
Part 1: Tickets & seating
Part 2: Parking/getting there
Part 3: Food/drinks inside
Part 4: Food/drinks outside
So, off we go. Tickets & seating. How do you prefer to get tickets? And, more importantly, where do you prefer to sit? Are you a bleachers person? Infield upper deck? Field level? Does it depend on the time of day? What do you consider to be the best deal, or the best experience?
I can't say a whole lot myself, given that my Safeco experiences have been limited. I've sat in the outfield once, for the 2009 home opener. I'm generally happy with the upper deck, because I'm easy to please, but I've also sat in the first row of the Diamond Club behind home plate before, and that is something that everyone ought to do at least once, if they can afford it. But ultimately, I don't have any strong opinions. If you do, go nuts. And let's please try to keep this and the future threads on-topic, as I hope that they will become a valuable resource to new visitors.
0 recs | 101 comments
I will say that sitting on the left field side in the field seats is a ton of fun.
You have a pretty good chance at a foul ball (more than most other parts of the park) and the tickets are usually a good deal because they typically have some sort of sale going on for those seats.
Kirk - April 21, 2010
Only with the coupon things that I get do we get those prices
Fuzz - April 21, 2010
Right now they are like half off to everyone.
Kirk - April 21, 2010
What coupon things?
And how are they half-off? I’d love that if I could find it!
mtn335 - April 21, 2010
I don't know about him
but my girlfriend and I always buy the Smart Circle Mariners coupon book. It has a bunch of 2 for 1 coupons that are good for field level, outfield, view box, and view reserved. It also has a few coupons for one dollar view reserved tickets to a few select games. It costs about 30 bucks, but it pays for itself very quickly.
faceplant_04 - April 21, 2010 via mobile
Try this:
Griffey MVP
LonelyintheBleachers - April 21, 2010
My usual method is the flex pack for the season base, and then picking up occasional games during the season, though purchase or going on someone else's dime.
My favorite area is probably the 300 level, in the ranges of seats going net to net— you can see the whole field and not be killed by a foul ball.
I have sat high up in 128 (not bad), 10 rows up from the dugout (the Edgar Martinez Flying Bat Memorial Seats where you also have to put up with Scooter the Beer Guy), once down just behind the diamond club (not crazy about my neighbors), down the RF line, down the LF line, out in the bleachers (really hot in the summer), out in the high centerfield seats, even exiled in the 348-349 gulag.
msb - April 21, 2010
The Edgar Martinez Flying Bat Memorial Seats are, of course, above the LF dugout.
The friend who shares those tickets literally took a bat off her face in those seats.
msb - April 21, 2010
I love 128!
And I never thought Scooter was that bad, but I haven’t been for a few years.
Floyd Gondoli - April 21, 2010
Since I am an out-of-towner now, my Safeco experiences are limited lately.
As such, I usually ante up for field level seats behind our dugout when I am in town and can catch a game. I almost always use stubhub to purchase tickets just a few days before the game, when the owners generally sell for lower. When I was still living in Seattle I caught around 30 or so games a year, generally spur of the moment, night-of decisions with tickets bought off the street. Lower outfield was my favorite- just above Ichiro! Best seats I ever had were for Felix’s home debut, which I purchased through the Safeco box office; section 124, row 1- worth every penny.
sigalert - April 21, 2010
For price and value, my favorite seat in the house is the very 1st row of the 300 level.
Good views of everything, no one in front of you, not too far away, and not super expensive. My dad and I had a 10-game set in row 1 of section 320 a few years back and I always think of those as some of my favorite Safeco experiences.
BigWillyStyle - April 21, 2010
The first row always freaks me out because there's nothing in front of you but the rail
and if you’re not that tall, the rail can obscure your view a little. I really like the second row, though.
Two Rs and Two Ls - April 21, 2010
Yeah I think the 1st row of the 300 level is the best quality for the price
You get an awesome view from there.
Edgar for Pres - April 21, 2010
I agree with this and will add that the view box seats behind home plate are probably
the best value in the stadium.
TheBishop - April 21, 2010
Part of the beauty of the field is that you can find a memorable experience without even sitting down.
Most of my attendance has been in right field, 2nd row, close to Ichiro. His routine is always interesting, even if nobody is up to the plate. Inevitably, though, I’d get the itch to wander and take in the game from multiple vantage points. Aside from the Meat Market (the outfield porch and singles’ scene), it’s hard to find a bad view—even that one is good if you can ignore the carousing or find humor in it.
If you can find room, the view behind the catchers in the bullpen is something you’ll never forget.
Ormson - April 21, 2010
Last year a friend of mine and I went to the game, bought bleacher seats and stood behind right field the entire game
Fuzz - April 21, 2010
My dad does that all the time when he's over in Seattle.
I think it’d be a really pleasant way to watch a game. You probably wouldn’t want to do it every game, but if you’re over there a lot and want to see games a little more casually now and then, I think that’s the way to do it.
Torrid - April 21, 2010
There are many great viewing areas from Safeco that are accesible to people just walking around.
It is a great way to experience the game. Not only can you take in the different views of the field but the surrounding area. The view from left field, on a nice night at sunset and looking over the city skyline and the Puget Sound is a one of a kind experience.
Rich Langford - April 21, 2010
I think this is the main reason why Safeco Field is probably better than any other park in baseball.
I’ve visited a couple of the Post Safeco parks like Miller Park (Milwaukee) and AT&T Park (San Francisco), and Safeco is the best I’ve seen when it comes to being able to watch the game while walking around.
Two Rs and Two Ls - April 21, 2010
The beer garden/meat market/outfield porch is great for people watching
appleshampoo - April 21, 2010
I almost always sit in the field seats in right field
Every once in a while a friend lets me use his season tickets in section 114 near the right field foul pole which are really nice.
But for a cheaper option, I really like the 300 level seats directly behind home plate. Unfortunately, so does everyone else, heh.
OlSalty - April 21, 2010
I've never been able to afford good seats at the Safe
and now that I can I live too far to go. But I can tell you that the best dollar/experience ratio at Yankee stadium are the seats that correspond to Section 330 or so. It’s often a better view than sitting in the back rows of field level seats.
Bearskin Rugburn - April 21, 2010
To echo others
I really like the view box seats in the 300 level. $27 a ticket most games and a great view of the entire field. I prefer the seats directly behind home, but the seats along the baselines are also really nice.
Purchasing tickets I usually can’t spare the time to head out to one of the team stores, so I just bite the bullet and deal with the Ticketmaster online fees.
BrianL - April 21, 2010
First time poster, long time reader...
Just wanted to give my opinion. I’ve been to quite a few games and living in portland I try to get good seats to make up for the three hour drive to seattle. That also means I buy them online.
I usually do a 8-16 game plan and I think the best places to sit in the ballpark are in the 100’s of right field/center or along either of the baselines. It’s good for the money and almost everything is visible. Of course behind the plate is nice, but spendy and if I lived in the sound I would be seating in the 300’s more.
I always have a good time in right though, with the crowd and Ichiro it can get wild out there.
A.B - April 21, 2010
Here's the thing about getting better tickets than you think you can afford
Scalpers are a good source. If you’re not the kind of person that needs to see every single minute of a game, wait until after the first pitch – as late as the end of the first inning, sometimes – and scalpers will cut pretty good deals; I’ve gotten Terrace Club seats for $20 doing this. At worst, you’ll pay face value for a better seat than you could get at the box office.
As for sections, I’ve talked about Section 152 before, above the hand operated scoreboard – those are fantastic seats. I also like the 300 level seats between home and third base. Really, the only truly bad seats are sections 306-311, waaaaaay above right field; otherwise, most every seat’s pretty good.
pdb - April 21, 2010
This is great advice and a fun way to go.
It’s like playing let’s make a deal. You never know where you may end up and what you’ll be paying.
Rich Langford - April 21, 2010
It does of course depend on whether you get to a lot of games or only one or two a year
the scalper approach is great if you’re reasonably local but I wouldn’t plan a vacation around it.
pdb - April 21, 2010
Having a map of the stadium in hand while negotiating with scalpers is helpful.
Familiarizing oneself with the general layout and seating/pricing areas before hand is also good. They generally talk fast and move fast.
Kermit. - April 21, 2010
Yeah I agree about scalpers.
I’ve gotten similar deals and its pretty awesome. You really need to act the role of a poor person looking for a deal. Usually if I’m planning on scalping tickets I put a $20 in my wallet so I can say “all I have is $20” to see what they say. If I’m with a friend then I’ll stash $30 or $40. This trick has helped me a lot with getting tickets for the price I want.
Edgar for Pres - April 21, 2010
If you do not mind paying face value (and get there early enough)
check the box office first. Some very good seats get turned back in (season ticket exchange, VIP returns, etc.) and become available for face value on the day of the game.
G_ - April 21, 2010
But do you have to pay the day-of-game premium for them?
pdb - April 21, 2010
I ended up in right field many years ago for three reasons.
1 – I could get close to the action for a decent price.
2 – Home runs. I love having the ball come at me rather than away from me. I judge the ball better. When I sit inside of the infield I think every ball in the air is gone. I never misjudge a ball when it is coming at me.
3 – Attitude of the fans. This no longer is true, but back in the 80’s and early 90’s the outfield was where the loud and raucous fans would sit. Now I think most of those people can be found in the upper bleachers.
Sec 108 - April 21, 2010
I like the entire upper deck along the baselines
With the exception of 335 and whatever section is opposite it (325?)- the sightlines from that angle are a little bit awkward.
View reserved generally works fine for me, but if I see something available in the front row of a view box section (so you’re in the front row of the upper deck), then those seats are worth the price. To get those, though, you usually have to go through season ticket holders or the ticket exchange.
Yeah, 306-311 are awful- I got stuck in those when I went to Ichiro bobblehead day on the day of game (didn’t realize it was bobblehead day) a couple years ago. Batista was pitching and you can’t see right field, plus the sun beats down on you in the afternoon.
I enjoy the lower outfield seats like 102-108 as well just for a different perspective- the game is really a different experience from there, but generally the 300 level is great.
Corco - April 21, 2010
I should add that the front row of the view reserved seats in the sections with short view box sections (usually the even numbered sections) immediately below them are also excellent
Corco - April 21, 2010
I'm an infield guy
My wife and I live in Canada, 6 hour drive to Safeco, so we have to make every trip count. I had the best experience last September when we came in for the Saturday game of the Yankees series. We were above the M’s dugout, row 18 (can’t remember the exact section). It’s a no-brainer that these seats were awesome, especially since they were on the aisle which facilitated my multiple trips to the beer stand.
I’ve never sat in the upper decks at Safeco, but once when I was in Toronto on business I decided to catch a Jays game and was too cheap to pay for a decent ticket. I sat way high up and could hardly stay awake through most of the game, which was actually a very good contest against the Twins. I learned then that I need to be close to the action, to see the spin on the pitches, to hear the sounds of the game, etc. If you’re going to be so far away from the field, why not save your money and watch on an old 15" TV while holding binoculars the wrong way? Maybe the Rogers center is drastically different from other parks but I can’t see it making that much difference.
I always order by phone through Ticketmaster. Online is no good because they don’t have enough specific options for selecting your seats. When you select “best available” that is entirely subjective and their opinion of what it means is almost never the same as my opinion. I really wish they had a clickable map of each park, where you could pick individual seats, like when you check in to a flight online. The big thing for me is I really, really try hard to sit on an aisle for various reasons (easy access to beer and bathroom, I’m not very chatty so this avoids having to talk to strangers – yeah I listened to my Mom when she gave me that lesson). My wife calls me a Princess whenever I make her request aisle seats but whatever…
Scalpers are of no use to me either because, like I said, it’s a 6 hour trip to the park so we make sure to get our money’s worth. That means arriving at the gates about an hour before they open so we are first in line, then catching every bit of BP we can, then not leaving our seats until the ushers/cleaning staff start looking at us weird.
shuswapslugger - April 21, 2010
Safeco has among the best upper decks in baseball, from what I understand
Rogers Centre is built in the old cookie-cutter style where seats are really, really far away from the field. Safeco is one of the new “retro ballparks” where proximity is a very high priority.
As was mentioned above, it’s actually easier to see from the upper deck then from far back on the field level.
Corco - April 21, 2010
Rogers Centre also has lousy outfield seats.
The field-level seats behind home plate are excellent, though, and reasonably priced. I prefer them to the box seats one level up.
Unfortunately, I’ve never been able to get good field level seats at Safeco. I’ve been in the outfield, which was far better than Toronto’s outfield seats, and in the very last row of the upper deck, which was too far from the action.
Llewdor - April 21, 2010
Thanks for the info
If I’m ever in Seattle for more than one game at a time maybe I’ll give it a try. i just assumed that for the most part the experience would be similar from park to park.
shuswapslugger - April 21, 2010
This is one of the hardest questions to answer.
What I can tell you is get your tickets at the team store before game day. You save yourself ticketmaster charges and that stupid $1 day-of they added. I prefer the bleachers on weekends because I spend about 50 bucks on beer. View Reserve on the opposite side arm of our pitcher for weekday games. Having said that, sitting behind the M’s dugout is a must at least once. Watching Ichiro run in is just amazing. And Willie Hustle ogling my lady friend was icing on the cake.
LonelyintheBleachers - April 21, 2010
Same arm side. Lefty sit on first. Righty sit on third.
Lower outfield reserve is money, but plan ahead to get those tickets.
LonelyintheBleachers - April 21, 2010
It really is hard to find a "bad seat"
When me and my friends decide to head down to Safeco spontaneously, we usually do bleachers or View Reserved (3rd deck). More times than not, there are plenty of seats available.
The most common for me though is Terrace Club. It’s a nice middle ground between the expensive lower-level seats and the higher-ups. You’re pretty much guaranteed to get a good view. Plus, since the Terrace Club is “closed off” (terrace club ticket-holders only), it’s slightly less crowded, and a cozier environment. They’ll take your order at your seat, but I’ve never done that since I’m sure they charge extra and I don’t really see the point; the lines aren’t bad compared to the rest of the stadium.
As for buying, when it’s not spur-of-the-moment I find buying online and printing them out immediately works fine.
Karma Police - April 21, 2010
16 Game Packs
These are the way to go, in my opinion. Done it three years in a row now. The plans are structured in such a way that you get a variety of teams, usually at least one each of BoSox and Yanks (although I consider that a detriment… fuck NY), and each plan has a fairly unique staggering of dates. Cluster ’em up middle of summer for weather, late for playoff implications… you name it they got it. Also, you get this nifty little card that gives you 10% off merchandise, which is 40% too expensive, anyways. Also, nothing like a lukewarm Major League dog encased in stale bun. Yet, I still eat it. In conclusion, drink a shitload of beer because the atmosphere is god-awfully family friendly.
THolt - April 21, 2010
Cheap way to get tickets
What my Uncle and I will do occasionally is negotiate with ticket scalpers after the end of the first inning. Some scalpers have tickets to very good seats and you can get the price down considerably because by the third inning, the tickets will be worth next to nothing.
Pros:
Cheap cost (if you’re a good negotiator)
Good tickets
Cons:
You miss the first inning
There’s no guarantee of anything
killacamkilla2 - April 21, 2010
I've always liked the Terrace Club
Second deck provides a really good view of the whole game, and the lack of crowding/lines is really fantastic. Another bonus is that you can get inside and warm in April and September (and someday October) for a half inning when it’s really cold out.
The price makes it a little prohibitive, but scalpers usually have a couple, and it’s worth negotiating down.
Andersean - April 21, 2010
Check stubhub for Terrace Club tickets
I hate Stubhub, but during the weekdays particularly, you can get outfield Terrace Club seats for like $15-$25 a piece, which is a crazy good deal and the only way I personally can afford them for this section.
I think it’s from the M’s offering buy 2 get 2 free full season ticket packages to outfield Terrace Club seats, so the season ticket holders are willing to part with their unused tickets for a lot cheaper than they normally would go for.
The Terrace Club is awesome though; I highly recommend it.
hiskeyd - April 21, 2010
I've sat all over the ballpark and go to 20-30 games a year for many years
My favorite spot is the right field outfield reserve, specifically section 108. Section 109’s too close to the foul pole for my liking, but section 108 is just right. This is also pretty much the best place to catch home runs during the game and before during batting practice, if you’re in to that. The only disadvantage is if you go early and aren’t into catching balls, it can be a little annoying with all the balls being hit at you and the people running about trying to catch them. The price is pretty decent in this section too.
I once sat a few rows off the field right behind the M’s dugout (decided to pay a ridiculous amount for tickets there for Edgar Martinez retirement day or whatever they called it at the end of that season). In any event, surprisingly, I didn’t like it. Something about the side angle bothered me. Also as memory serves, Edgar grounded into a double play in his last AB, which is not the way I would have liked him to go out. ;-)
I’ll echo what most people have said too as far as “it’s hard to find a bad seat” though. The bleachers are even nice, though you are going to get a lot of drunken idiots there. If you are a bit of a baseball snob (which I am), this can be very annoying as they have drunken conversations and talk on and on about how the Mariners should re-sign Edgar and how Rob Johnson is probably the greatest catcher in the history of baseball, Yuni is the best defensive shortstop in the game… bla bla bla. Seriously, you get the dregs as far as the fans around you are concerned in this section. But everybody is really nice (albeit often baseball idiots) and the view is still great. The bleachers can get a little uncomfortable for extra inning games though.
Oh and on that note, if you are baseball snob like me, the left field lower outfield reserve is out due to the fact that you get drunken bleacher people dropping things constantly on your head (including spilled beer) and you can still hear their idiotic yelling comments from up above you. Other than that, it’s a great perspective for the game. This spot above any other gives you appreciation for how much talent players have just to catch a pop fly during dusk. Seriously, in this spot in the ballpark, for whatever reason, during dusk with the gloaming you literally can’t see balls that get above the stadium backdrop from your perspective. It’s actually pretty disconcerting when you know the ball is hit near where you are sitting. I haven’t experienced this in any other part of the ballpark, so it must be something about where the sun is setting and how it colors the sky here.
I’d also recommend bringing AM radio/headphones. It’s really cool to listen and watch at the same time and there is no discernible gap in time of when the plays happen and when you hear them.
During weekday games particularly, you can find some crazy deals on Terrace Club seats on StubHub. To qualify, I detest Stubhub; however when you can find Outfield Terrace club seats (normally like $45 a piece) for like $15-$20 a piece, I’ll take that action every time. The Terrace Club is awesome, just usually out of my price range.
For those who don’t know, the Terrace Club has it’s own private entrance on the skybridge; wider, padded seats (which is really nice when it’s cold as it literally feels like the seats are heated, even though they aren’t); people who will bring your food and drinks to your seats and give you a menu; a lot nicer and higher quality food selection than is available in the “normal” seating areas; a lot less crowded; a nice inside part where you can walk around and still watch the game. It’s also connected to the press box area and you will occasionally see some people like Drayer, Rizzs, etc and you are pretty much guaranteed to see people like that if you camp out near the door to the pressbox. A couple years ago I even saw and got a chance to chat with interim GM Lee Pelekoudas (yes I have no idea how to spell that) as he was walking from the Mariner offices to the press box (which are kind of right across from each other).
You can also find free parking within a mile of the stadium (particularly for night games). On this one I’m not going to reveal the specifics of where because I like my favorite two spots, but I go to 20-30 games per year every year for a long time now, and I’ve never failed to find legal free parking. So you don’t really have to look that hard.
Also (back this year) there is a great cheap bus service available for those who don’t want to drive.
Finally, the M’s offer tours of Safeco pretty much every day for like $7 per ticket. The tour lasts close to an hour and is pretty nice. They take you all around the ballpark (including visiting locker room and out on the field, though you aren’t allowed to go on the grass). You basically get to go a lot of areas you don’t normally get to and the tour guides always have nice stories (I’ve gone three times and every time it was worth it). If you go during the off-season during the day, you might even get a closeup Ichiro sighting. He practices there a few hours a day pretty much every day.
hiskeyd - April 21, 2010
Free Parking?
I don’t come to the park often so I’m not familiar with area and I always just bite the bullet and pay 35 bucks to park in the parkade, which I think is absolute robbery.
shuswapslugger - April 21, 2010
It is robbery.
If you have patience and are willing to go south of the stadium, you can often find something free most fans come from the north and panic as they get closer to the stadium. Also there are always lots for only $10-15 within 5-10 blocks. So just a little patience and the willingness to walk, will almost certainly get you free parking. What my dad and I often do is drive down at about six, take the first free spot we see once we get to about the aquarium and then walk it. Even if its a 20 minute walk (over a mile) its not too bad and we get some nice father son bonding time. Also parking downtown and taking the shuttle (the shuttle exists again right?) is a good plan. Lots like pacific place and others downtown are fairly cheep at night and you just have to add the 3 dollar shuttle fee.
themanleyman - April 21, 2010
If you head south on 4th and take a right on Holgate, you can almost always find free parking along the access road along the train tracks.
harkening - April 21, 2010
We used to park in the lots around 4th & Jefferson because they had $5 'event parking'
but as the lots went from two+ to just one, and I got several envelopes sent to me claiming that I had not paid for my parking, they lost my business.
msb - April 21, 2010
I believe parking will be addressed in the next thread in the series
pdb - April 21, 2010
Reading Comprehension Fail.
msb - April 21, 2010
I've always wanted to do a tour of the park.
I think that might be on the agenda for my dad’s birthday this year.
Torrid - April 21, 2010
I love the left field bleachers
You can see all the action directly in front of you and it feels closer than it actually is. It is also nice to be able to spread out a bit on the bleachers if it isn’t crowded near your seat.
Snowman1025 - April 21, 2010
It's been awhile since I have gone to games on a consistent basis, but here is my two cents
For your first visit to Safeco, get there early and walk all the way around the place. When you go grab a beer or a dog, notice how you can stop, turn towards the field and see the game action from the concourses in the lower seating bowl from flagpole to flagpole. Even when I have good seats I usually spend at least an inning or two standing behind the yellow lines at the top of the seating sections. It’s a great view and you get a feel for the entire crowd. May as well, since the ushers don’t allow you to return to your seat during an at-bat.
The left field bleachers are awesome. The right-field cheap(er) seats are OK, but feel kind of far away from the action. I don’t much care for anything in the upper deck though I’m sure the first few rows in the sections behind home plate are worth it. We had season tickets in the first row right at the “elbow” on the 3rd base side in the upper level for the first season of the Safe (over by the actual Lookout Landing). They were fine but I wouldn’t buy them again. I’m just spoiled from too many good seats in many different stadiums. I’ve sat in various areas of the lower seating bowl (field level) at Safeco and enjoyed the experience in all of them. Terrace Club is nice too if you can score tickets.
I’ve done a couple of entire games down in the center field patio area. These are the fans you see in the background when a ball goes deep to center. Yes, it’s a meat market filled with quite a few people not paying much attention to the game. There are two terraces with high-top tables and no seats. if you can get one of the handful of tables up front, it’s a unique view of the game and fairly close to the playing field. You have to be aggressive to score those spots though. Usually there is a pregame catered event in this area, then they clear it out and open the ropes. Tables can open up during the game but it’s a crapshoot. Go with friends and save each other’s spots when you go to the concessions.
The bullpen bar can be fun but feels quite removed from the crowd. This bar is in left field right beside the visiting bullpen. Watching the opposing pitchers warm up through the plexiglas “knotholes” in the wall is kinda neat. If you want to watch the game from here you have to get there a little early and snag one of the 10 or so seats facing the field. It’s right under the hand-operated scoreboard, so you have to duck down quite a bit and you can’t see high flies or home runs. It’s cool for a couple of innings.
I’ve tried once or twice to sit in the Hit It Here Cafe, but have never made reservations and just haven’t gotten around to it. Others have told me that it’s overpriced and too removed from the action but I can’t speak to this from experience.
Someone local could address directions to Safeco better than I, and maybe it’s improved since, but I never get off at the main Safeco Field exit from I-90 that loops back onto 4th Ave. Better to exit earlier and head South to park in the Safeco garage. Or, head North into the city and look for street parking or cheaper lots. Walk down 1st Avenue and stop at a bar or two along the way. At least avoid the main exit off the freeway, which is jammed and can get you stuck behind a railroad crossing while a 70-car train passes by.
lemonverbena - April 21, 2010
I love the Left Field bleachers.
I feel like it’s where the more dedicated fans tend to sit. And it’s the most “blue collar” area of Safeco. I’ve had access to the suites and Terrace Level over the years and while it’s super nice, it’s usually the most uptight and stuffy area to watch the game from. No seems to have much fun on the Terrace Level and it kinda bums me out.
So my favorite spots are: left field bleachers, right field lower outfield behind Ichiro, center field bleachers, lower 300 level right behind the plate and any high intensity foul ball areas, heh.
sanford_and_son - April 21, 2010
I'm a big fan of the left field bleachers as well.
But one of my favorite things to do is to get center field bleacher seats (only because they are the cheapest) with some friends and then wander. There is great standing viewing all over the stadium, and by taking a nice stroll you can park yourself in one place or another for a few innings, then go check out a view of mount rainier and then head to a different part of the stadium. What I also like is that if I want to just settle down and sit for the rest of the game, there is usually very open seating on the lower deck between 1st/3rd and the foul poles. I know that is technically not allowed, but I feel that if no one else is using them and I’m not harming anyone else’s experience, why can’t I sit down in some unwanted seats for a little bit.
Basically Safeco is a great environment to have fun with friends so getting the cheapest entry fee and then seeing where the night takes us is what I like to do.
themanleyman - April 21, 2010
Section 152 in left field is great.
It feels a lot closer to the field than you would expect, and there’s great views of pretty much the whole field. It’s right next to the visiting bullpen too, so there’s the opportunity to watch/heckle the opposing relievers if that’s your thing. I sat there with a few friends last Friday for Felix Day and was thoroughly pleased with the experience.
I Lick Squirrels - April 21, 2010
I am going to concur
That the left field uh, field seats are amazing. I really enjoy section 150, the way the stadium is laid out and the rows are laid out is such that row 16 is actually the first row and right by the field. It’s awesome, and even if you’re a little ways back, you get a great view of the game. Tickets for that spot are great too.
ungoreatstefan - April 21, 2010
Good stuff. I just made my plans to attend my first ever Safeco game
I got to see an M’s game in the Kingdome back in 1994 but, living in Virginia, haven’t had a chance to get to Safeco. I’ll be there in 2 weeks. I’d appreciate any good info on the park.
Mekias - April 21, 2010
Wanted to add, I had already bought my tickets and will be
in sections 125, 127, and 117 I believe. Looked good to me. Couple days near the dugout and homeplate and one day nearer to Ichiro.
Mekias - April 21, 2010
I sat in section 117 on Friday.
Good view of the game, great view of the entire field and all the ballpark’s features.
harkening - April 21, 2010
Good to hear. Can't wait for the trip.
Mekias - April 21, 2010
Another vote for Terrace Club
I don’t get to go to games very often, so when I do I usually am happy to splurge a bit. I’ll buy a parking ticket for the Safeco garage ($25), use the private sky bridge, order from my seat on the little menu card, grab a microbrew from the concessions behind the seats, and enjoy a fantastic view of everything Safeco has to offer.
I prefer infield Terrace Club, between home and 1st since you get a nice view of the Seattle skyline.
I’ve also sat in the field level seats down the third base line, I didn’t enjoy them as much as the angle in the seats was a bit weird and it was a long trip to concessions.
Section 108 in right field as said before is also really nice. I got some free tickets there a few years ago, and was surprised at how easy it is to see all the action from the outfield.
Really, we’re totally spoiled by Safeco. I grew up going to games at the Kingdome, usually in the 300 level. You couldn’t see a damn thing, the players were tiny dots down there below you. Anything at Safeco is so far and away better than the Dome, there’s really no truly terrible seats.
JeffJ254 - April 21, 2010
There are a variety of seats for every fan, and none of them are particularly bad.
Left field bleachers: Aside from the center field bleachers, these are the cheapest seats in the house—and they provide an excellent view of the game. If you can get in the lower rows, you can look down into the bullpen to see who’s warming up, and as long as you’re on the visitor’s side of the bullpen (sections 181-183), you can even look up to the center field screen and scoreboard as needed. I recommend avoiding sections 180 181 as they’re right down the line and can feature some weird angles on balls in play because of the foul pole.
Center field bleachers: Quite literally as far removed from the action as you can get, and unlike the LF bleachers, getting down the main concourse from here features a little more walking—and getting to a concession features even more. The bleachers extend high enough to abut the center field scoreboard, and that’s just unfortunate; due to the slight angle from the game, you can’t see the left field board over the bullpens or the hand operated scoreboard. They’re a great view of the game, but if you’re like me and keep score during the game and like to reference statistics or see the pace of the game, they’re a bit of a letdown.
300 Level “View Reserved”: Everything beyond the first 5-ish rows in the 300 level is “view reserved”, so it’s a bit of a catch all. You can be all the way up in row 30 and be a mile from the game or all the way down in row 10 and feel like you’re seeing everything. In terms of lateral position, the closer you are to home plate, the better. The farther up the lines you get, the worse it becomes as you start watching the game from the side—and a long way from the action. The worst is the right field (sections 306-311).
300 Level “View Box”: Some of the best seats in the house; the top-down view of the game assures that you will see everything, and the proximity to the field means you’ll always be close to the action. High foul balls can occasionally come your way, which is a bit of a rush if you’ve never (or rarely) caught a live game ball. Like the view reserved section, the farther you get from home plate, the less value the seats are—but I once sat in row 4 of section 342 and have absolutely zero complaints.
Right/Left Field “Lower Outfield Reserve”: Down the lines is great. I had a 16-game plan in section 152 a few years ago, and it was a great view of the game. This was when Kenji was still cranking balls down the line, so it even had home run value. Now you probably have to rely on Jose Lopez for that (Jack Wilson sure isn’t getting anything up there). Once you get up around row 20 or so, the value starts to diminish as you get trapped under the eaves of the 200 level and can’t view any scoreboard in the park. Right field is a bit different, as you’re nearer to field level. You can view the left field scoreboard, though the angle to center field is a bit weird—which is fine, as the jumbotron is pretty much worthless and all essential information is displayed elsewhere. These cost the exact same as the “view box” in the 300 level, so if we were to choose, I’d take the view box.
Baselines “Field”: This is where I’ve been sitting for the last 3 years between game day tickets and season plans. They’re farther up the line than the “lower box” seats (beyond the infield), but they afford views of the entire field, great proximity to the game and concessions. The right field seats are preferable to the left field seats as they afford a view of the pen and the left field scoreboard, but otherwise the views seem pretty identical.
Infield “Lower Box”: What is there to say? You’re right behind the dugouts or home plate. You’re at field level. You can see every little nook and cranny of the ballpark. You can see the center field scoreboard and the bullpens. The concessions are a walk away. These seats are awesome. The downside? This is the established money seats. I’m not gonna say people here aren’t fans, but it’s a different world than the outfield and even the baseline seats. These people politely clap; they do not cheer. You’re gonna hear people reminisce about batting average and home runs. They’re gonna be friendly, but they’re not gonna talk to you about the game’s finer points.
I’ve never sat in the club/suite level, so I’ll refrain from commenting there. I did, however, once eat at the Hit It Here Cafe, and I’ll say this: the food is okay (think Red Robin fair), but not great. The view of the game is wonderful, but the atmosphere is not like a ballpark. Everything seems detached, and you’re insulated from the environment. It’s a swell place for a date night with someone who might be tangentially interested in baseball, but it’s lacking for the rabid fan. You can actually go up prior to game time and reserve seating on the outdoor terrace; they’ll tell you to come back around the third inning or so when they have a table open. It’s a good chance to get a feel for the view as well as the food without paying for the ticket that traps you at the cafe. Compromise!
Purchase venues: Buying direct from the Mariners is always preferable to buying from other fans, as you’ll almost always face a markup (except via Felix Is Ours). The closer you get to game day, the less this matters as the M’s jack up the price after a pre-set “early purchase” date and jack it up even more on day-of-game purchases. You can select the exact seats you want, section by section, row by row. Scalpers and their ilk don’t have a wide selection, just what they have on hand. Several people have mentioned above that if you don’t mind missing the first pitch, you can haggle day-of-game seats from scalpers at a bargain. I’ve never had to do this, but I can understand the appeal. It’s not even a big deal for me (a habitual scorekeeper) because the center field scoreboard shows a hitter’s PA history for the game when he comes to the plate.
A quick note: if you want to follow other games but don’t have a good view of the left field scoreboard, swing by one of the Nintendo Fan Network kiosks at sections 123 and 144 (I’m thinking from memory, but they’re right in those areas). You can borrow a DS for free for the game, and tap into Safeco’s WiFi network with a pre-loaded program that allows you to view scores, statistics, live pitch-by-pitch strike zone plots (PitchFX!) and the stadium’s video feed (complete with the stadium’s audio feed, i.e., the M’s radio broadcast; bring headphones and you can watch and listen to play-by-play at the same time)—and even order food to your seats with no attached delivery cost.
harkening - April 21, 2010
My parents love the Hit It Here Cafe
They would always make it a point to eat there when they came up to visit. I’m not a big fan, and when I was there last season it seemed like the food had deteriorated in quality. It isn’t much more expensive then the concessions outside though and is away better (still overpriced), so if you like food it’s a good thing, but the experience isn’t very much fun.
Corco - April 21, 2010
Also if you don't have a ticket they really make it a point to rush you in and out
Corco - April 21, 2010
When they come up to visit you in Wyoming?
harkening - April 21, 2010
Note the past tense
I lived in Tacoma for three years
Corco - April 21, 2010
Ah, claro.
Well, as I said: it’s a great place for someone tangentially into the game, but it’s lacking atmosphere. Food is okay but not great (although I’ll certainly concede it’s better than other options at the game).
harkening - April 21, 2010
Great summary.
I would have to disagree with your comment on View Box vs. Lower Outfield Reserver, but to each their own. I would much rather be on the field level and in the outfield than up in the 300 and right behind home plate.
I think the rest has been said, but in past years my preference on buying tickets ahead of time was to go to a team store – no ticketrapist fees and you can choose your exact seat. Day-of-game sometimes I would deal with the scalpers but they rarely have what I want, so I would usually just buy from the box office.
I’m in section 114 row 25 (field level, right field/1B side) this year and it’s pretty good, but I have one complaint – on foul balls into the corner you lose sight of Ichiro which is a bummer, but rare). Also it’s hard to see inside/outside on pitches, but that’s not such a big deal. If I get season tix next year I might try for near 108, but if they keep the 4-for-2 only in the field level I’ll just hope we can move closer to 1B.
appleshampoo - April 21, 2010
I don't have a 16-game plan this year. =(
But in ‘08 and ’09, I was sitting in 116. Similar complaints. But I didn’t mind at all. I moved there from 152 to get a better view of the field, the pens, and the scoreboard. It was well worth it.
harkening - April 21, 2010
As an aside to the view box/lower outfield reserve:
I think this depends on WHERE in the view box we’re talking. Generally, I’ll take the first 10 rows of sections 320-340 before I take lower outfield reserve. As the sections move deeper into the outfield, I’m more likely to choose lower outfield reserve.
harkening - April 21, 2010
I sat in the first row of 308 once (above RF)
and ended up moving to view reserved seats above first base
G_ - April 21, 2010
Nintendo Fan Network is awesome
Been using it since they rolled it out and it’s even been upgraded to incorporate more since then. I can remember ordering food from my DS and having them deliver it to me the first time. Thought it was really cool and didn’t miss any part of the game.
The PitchFX is very handy, especially when you just have to know whether that was a correct ball or strike. Checking other games from your seat is convenient. Definitely don’t mind sitting under the scoreboard anymore with the video feed on my DS if I just want cheap bleachers tickets. Don’t have to crank your head around awkwardly to see anything up on the big screen anymore.
Didn’t even think about bringing headphones! What a cool idea! Will try it next time.
Interceptor - April 21, 2010
I agree with everybody and especially what you said about the LF bleachers
I really like them alot especially when its sunny out. It can get a little hot but its definitely a relaxing experience. Fans in the LF bleachers tend to not be quite as “family+kids” type since mom and dad probably don’t like sitting on bleacher seats. Great place to catch an impromptu Felix day.
Edgar for Pres - April 21, 2010
Depends on who I am with.
I arrived in the country late 2007. In the two years now have been to approximately 20 games. Sometimes I go with mates, sometimes with my young family (2 boys under 3), and sometimes corporate.
With a young family I didn’t like the 300 section, as it was pretty steep and cumbersome when considering a stroller, a 6 month old and a 2 1/2 yr old. But I have enjoyed the section with some mates, with a good view of the entire field. I also sat near first base, 4 rows back, probably section 119. Was good as my 2 1/2 yr old scored two baseballs – one given to him by Carlos Silva (why couldn’t it have been Henandez) and one given to him by the first base umpire Angel Herandez, but I had unnerving feeling that my son was going to get beaned by a hard hit foul ball. Sitting around sections 125 to 128 was a good spot for the family – as well as with a few corporate events.
I actually liked the center field bleachers for the family. Behind the seating, just under the scoreboard, they had an area my wife could sit, spread out while breastfeeding and fairly private and undisturbed, so this year i will pick up a few of the cheaper seats there.
Sometimes I do what others have suggested. On the spur of the moment and knowing if it is a quite game, I will go with my son, grab the cheapest tickets, be it through a scalper or at the ticketing window, and then wander around the stadium with him for 3 or 4 innings until settling on an empty seat in a better section.
aussie_m's_fan - April 21, 2010
I always buy online and just select best available, so long as it is not more than $200.00 for my wife and I, I do it.
InSpokane - April 21, 2010
Ditto
since I rarely get to attend games at Safeco, and doubt I will be going to any this year, I just buy the best available seats for myself and my dad
seattlebruin - April 21, 2010
I might catch one this year, so it's a treat.
InSpokane - April 21, 2010
I despise Ticketmaster's "Best Available" option
“Best Available” according to whom? If you read all the comments on this post, clearly there are many opinions about what the “best” seats are. What they need is an “advanced search” or better yet, an actual map of the park where you can pick individual seats.
shuswapslugger - April 21, 2010
I think the opinions in this post are all about which seats offer the best value and thus are best
the best overall seats, there really isn’t much of a debate and for those of us who only attend a maximum of a few games a year, sitting closer to the field is almost always preferable
seattlebruin - April 21, 2010
Yes and per Jeff's request
let’s keep this on topic – if you hate Ticketmaster, as well you should, talk about it in the OT.
pdb - April 21, 2010
I don't think this is OT.
Jeff asked very specifically in the post: “How do you prefer to get tickets?”
TicketMaster is a valid topic.
harkening - April 21, 2010
Ticketmaster is a valid topic as it relates to getting tickets for games
Venting about how Ticketmaster distributes said tickets and suggesting Ticketmaster system improvements is probably not.
pdb - April 21, 2010
There's usually any number of fans looking for things to do out and about the town/area.
Sight seeing, restaurants, places to stay. Would that be a worthwhile topic to add to the list?
Kermit. - April 21, 2010
Part 5!
Jeff Sullivan - April 21, 2010
Edit the post to make it seem like you thought of this from the get go!
Dewey N - April 21, 2010
Why I never
Jeff Sullivan - April 21, 2010
Only the highest of integrity in these here parts
Kermit. - April 21, 2010
This comment does not make any sense
Dewey N - April 21, 2010
Yes it does
Jeff Sullivan - April 21, 2010
Whatever
Dewey N - April 21, 2010
It might be easier to list the places to avoid or that are not worth the money
My least favorite spots based on game experience and/or cost:
1. Upper deck in RF. So far away, and in the summer, the setting sun can be blinding. These tickets should be cheaper than the LF bleachers, not $5 more.
2. Hit It Here Cafe. Distant view of the field, sometimes awkward seating arrangements, and you end up paying a premium for Applebee’s fare.
3. Field seats toward the foul poles (i.e., past the “V” shaped sections) . You are away from the action and lose a view of the outfield corner. It is essentially an outfield view for a premium price. You are better off saving $15 and moving a section or two over to the outfield reserve seats, where you still have access to the main concourse.
4. Upper deck past the infield and more than 15 rows up. The price is right, but there is a disconnect from the action. The upper deck views from behind home plate are so much better. You also have to deal with the upper deck concourse, which offers no views of the field and less amenities.
5. Club level. This is purely a cost/value issue — the seats and amenities are great, but are overpriced. if you are coming to watch the game, you are better off spending essentially the same money on lower box seats. The club seats, however, work well if you are going with others — spouse, grandma, business client — who do not care about the game.
6. CF Bleachers (if you plan to sit in your seat). The view is better than the upper deck in RF, but you are still far removed from the action. You are better off spending the extra $7 and sitting in the LF bleachers. (If you plan on walking around most of the game or moving anyway, disregard what I just said.) These also often sell out in advance of the game.
I think I have sat in just about every section (or at least every other section) at Safeco over the years, and I have found that the rest of the sections correspond pretty well to their prices.
G_ - April 21, 2010
I agree, there are a lot of good things to do
It might be easier to say what you shouldn’t do.
Edgar for Pres - April 21, 2010
On the Field
I bought a 6 game pack with a buddy and then another 3 games at the half off price. All tickets are field level on the 1st base side. I won’t sit in the upper deck. I’m not a snob, I would just rather go to fewer games and sit at the lower level. I hate ticketmaster and would buy from the window if that were the options, but for the advance ticket sales – it wasn’t.
Did I mention I HATE HATE HATE ticketmaster?
timelas - April 21, 2010
Everywhere and anywhere
If you’re an overtly anxious M’s fan like me, then the best ticket purchasing experience comes from waiting outside of Safeco Field itself the day tickets go on sale. Sure you usually get drenched, but I have years of great memories waiting in line for hours with my dad, talking endlessly about our excitement for the upcoming season. But, if you actually work and don’t enjoy Seattle rain showers as much as I do, then ordering the small game packages online is always a good plan. Plus, then you get tons of season ticket holder benefits without being a millionaire. For last minute games, go with StubHub. (It’s just too bad Safeco doesn’t use FlashSeats.)
For the person with an AMEX Black: sit in the first row behind the M’s dugout. I sat there once last summer and, despite it being nearly 100 degrees and the M’s losing, was easily one of the best games I’ve ever been to. Sure, I almost got thrown out several times for talking/waving/winking at the players, but come on. When you’re ten feet away from Felix and Ichiro, it’s hard to control yourself. But, in all seriousness, the game experience from the lower field seats is fantastic if you have money to spend. And if Felix is pitching.
For the person who doesn’t want to spend a fortune: go for something in the lower 300 level behind home plate or lower right field by Ichiro. (Okay, yes, I like Ichiro. A little.) Despite being high, the 300 level behind home plate is actually fairly handy for watching pitches and, as long as you aren’t up against the back of the stadium, you have a fairly good view of everything and you don’t feel as removed from the infield action as you would sitting in center field. As for lower right field, you might catch a home run ball or maybe Ichiro will even throw you something at the end of an inning. Plus, it’s just plain fun to watch Ichiro and Guti fielding.
For the baseball addict on a budget: left field bleachers are your best bet. Although they can seem far away from the action, some of my best experiences at Safeco have been in those seats simply because of how cheap they are! Also, these are the best seats for groups. I’ve celebrated five birthdays in the left field bleachers and was more than satisfied with the game.
For no one: and I mean no one. Don’t ever sit in center field. It’s almost always in the sun during summer games and you can’t even see the screen. Also, the top of the 300 level is also pretty depressing, but sometimes it’s worth it for a nailbiting game like in the end of 2001. I’m not a fan of any of the Clubs and seats like that simply because of the people that sit there. Now I don’t want to generalize, but I have sat in these seats multiple times when relatives are in town and want a “quieter baseball experience” and was definitely unimpressed. In my opinion, such a thing as a quiet baseball game shouldn’t exist and the people that sit in these sections with their ear buds in listening to the radio could easily have stayed at home. Anyway, after being told to pipe down multiple times, I’ve decided to never sit in any of the special club areas again. Trust me, you would have more fun in the left field bleachers and save yourself a good chunk of change too.
For the person looking for a deal: go on one of the promotional nights. Some of the deals, like the one going on tonight, are simply awesome. After all, when it comes down to it, your baseball experience is going to be great because of the people you’re with and how the M’s are pitching/hitting, not where you’re sitting.
katherinekiyoko - April 21, 2010
I couple years ago I bought some tickets on ebay for M's games
This worked out pretty well for me. Not sure if its as good as it use to be.
Edgar for Pres - April 21, 2010
Do scalpers buy tickets, as well as sell them? And what's the legality of selling a ticket to one?
Asks the person who now has a ticket for what he thought would be Cliff Lee’s first home start on May 2nd, and is lamenting his impatience.
Jeff Nye - April 21, 2010
Yeah they won't give you much.
I’m not sure if its legal but I’ve sold an extra ticket to them before.
Oh…didn’t read your whole comment. Just go to the game. Maybe you’ll see something rare like Griffey hitting a home run.
Edgar for Pres - April 21, 2010
Scalpers will give you 70% of face value if they're feeling generous
but on games where the M’s draw 15K or so they won’t even give you that. They’re trying to resell for a profit, after all. You’re better off becoming a scalper yourself and trying to offload the ticket to someone randomly on the street for face value.
pdb - April 21, 2010
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