Great American Ball Park, home of the Cincinnati Reds, is a fantastic place to catch a baseball game. With a capacity of over 42,000, the park offers great views of the action from all areas. However, some seats are more desirable than others based on factors like view, price and amenities.
View
When looking for the best seats, the view is a top consideration. Fans want to be able to clearly see the action on the field. Here are some of the best seat sections for views:
- Sections 119-124 behind home plate: These field level seats give you a prime view of home plate and the pitcher/batter matchup.
- Sections 113-118 down the first base line: Sit here for great views of first base and right field.
- Sections 128-133 down the third base line: Get close-up views of third base and left field from these seats.
- Sections 140-142 in right field: View fly balls and watch outfielder positioning from these seats.
- Sections 101-105 in left field: Track left-handed hitters and balls hit to left from these sections.
The lower the section number, the closer you are to the field. Field level seats in the lower sections (100s and 120s) provide the most immersive, closeup experience. For a wide panoramic view, upper deck sections like 510-536 can’t be beat.
Price
Ticket prices also vary throughout the ballpark, with field level seats generally being the most expensive. Here are some of the cheapest and priciest seat sections:
Cheapest Seat Sections | Most Expensive Seat Sections |
---|---|
View Level sections 536-558 | Field Box sections 116-124 |
Section 528-534 in the upper deck | Infield Box sections 113-115 |
Bleacher seats in sections 141-142 | Diamond Box sections 127-129 |
Field level dugout box seats will run you $100 or more per ticket while upper deck seats can be purchased for under $20. For the best value, look for View Level or Terrace Outfield seats in the 200-400 sections.
Shade and Sun
With day games being common, fans also have to consider sun exposure when choosing seats. Here are some good sections for shade or sun:
- Shade: Sections 132-136 on third base side, Sections 101-105 on first base side
- Sun: Sections 114-124 behind home plate, Left and center field bleachers
If sun is a concern, aim for seats on the third base side or further down the first baseline. There is more shading there from overhangs and structures. For afternoon games in April or September, sunlight can help keep you warm in the outfield bleachers.
Amenities
Certain areas of the ballpark also feature extra amenities like all-inclusive food and drinks. These premium seats have added perks but also cost more.
- The Champions Club (Sections 212-217) has an all-you-can-eat buffet and full bar.
- The PNC Diamond Seats (Sections 127-129) come with free food, non-alcoholic drinks and programs.
- The Kroger Fan Zone has standing room areas with drink rails.
There are also a variety of seating options for groups, from party decks and patios to dugout suites. These areas are perfect for corporate outings or large family gatherings.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere and game experience can also vary depending on where you sit. Here are some of the unique spots:
- Right field bleachers: These cheap seats are popular with younger fans. They fill up early and feature lots of cheers, chants and enthusiasm from the crowd.
- The Moon Deck (Sections 401-406): Fans here pride themselves on being loud and passionate. Expect pot-banging and cheering up in the Moon Deck.
- Infield Box Seats: Sit near the dugouts or behind home plate and you may rub elbows with scouts and celebrities.
Diehard fans and season ticket holders occupy the right field bleachers and Moon Deck. These sections are ideal for fans who want high energy and crowd participation.
Best Value Seats
For many fans, finding the optimal balance between price and prime location is key. The best value seats are:
- View Level Infield sections 328-334: Affordable upper deck seats directly behind home plate.
- Right Field Box seats in sections 140-142: Outfield seating that puts you close to the action at a reasonable price.
- Terrace Outfield sections 218-222: Low elevation lets you feel near the field at a fraction of the price.
These areas offer close or centrally located seats without breaking the bank. Shop around and you can find them for under $50 per ticket on average.
What About Obstructed View Seats?
There are a few sections in Great American Ball Park with partially obstructed views. In these areas, beams, poles or netting may get in the way during parts of the game.
- Dugout Box sections 113-116: Views partly obstructed by dugout overhang.
- Section 141: Netting can obscure parts of left field.
- Section 533: Upper deck seats have railing that blocks infield view.
Check your exact seat location if buying tickets in these sections. You want to ensure your sightlines will not be majorly blocked. Steer clear if you want a completely clean viewpoint.
Accessibility
For fans with mobility limitations, Great American Ball Park has accessible seating areas at field level, club level and upper deck. Elevators, ramps and designated parking make these seats easier to access.
- Field Box Pavilion sections 124-127: Low elevation wheelchair/scooter seating near home plate.
- View Level Power Alley sections 329-330: Upper deck wheelchair seating with drink rails.
- Club Level Premier seats: Accessible seating in a climate-controlled environment.
Request accessible seats when purchasing tickets and contact the Reds ahead of time for special accommodations if needed. This ensures proper arrangements are made.
Family-Friendly Seats
Bringing kids to a Reds game? Target these family-friendly sections:
- Outfield Box seats: Kids can run around nearby grass berms.
- View Level above the dugouts: You can see the field while kids have space to move around up top.
- Section 108: Designated nursing suite for mothers.
Younger children may especially enjoy the view from the upper deck. With more space to roam, it keeps them engaged and content. Sections like 536-538 are good affordable choices.
Avoid the Bullpens
While being close to the players warming up sounds appealing, the actual experience is not ideal. Balls fly into the stands regularly, disrupting fans throughout the game.
The worst spots are:
- Sections 109-110 behind the Reds bullpen.
- Sections 134-135 behind the visitor’s bullpen.
Consider seats a few sections over to avoid the sideshow of balls constantly being hit and tossed into the crowd.
Buy Early for Best Choice
Great American Ball Park offers a range of excellent seats, so buy early for the best selection. Tickets can be purchased:
- On the Reds website and mobile app
- The Reds Box Office at the ballpark
- By phone at 513-381-REDS
- Third party vendors like StubHub
Season ticket holders get first pick of seat locations. Purchasing early, especially before single-game seats go on sale to the general public, ensures you are not left with last pick.
Conclusion
While there are many great places to sit, the Reds best seats offer some combination of prime viewing angle, reasonable costs, shade/sun access, amenities, atmosphere and accessibility. Target field level spots down the baselines, right field boxes or upper deck infield locations for an optimal experience. Just avoid the bullpens, partial views and dugout premium prices.
At the end of the day, any seat lets you soak in the sights and sounds of Reds baseball. But with the variety of options at Great American Ball Park, you can find the perfect vantage point tailored to your budget and preferences.