I have seen over 500 concerts and have developed a mini guide answering the most common questions on how and where to find out about the tours, where and how to get the best tickets, what can I bring to the show,  where are the best seats and other considerations to help you really enjoy the groups and bands that you are paying to see.

This info will be especially helpful to the newer concert goer but there is info for the most experienced also.

How do I find out about the show?

Pollstar.com, Band Sites or Ticketmaster, local entertainment papers and radio stations.

How to get the best tickets through traditional methods?

Usually the earlier you get your seats the better.

Trick 1: For presales - Sign up for fan clubs, look for radio station pre-sales (usually can find out by signing up for there email newsletters), join pre-sale ticket clubs or even some credit card companies offer pre-sale tickets. 

You can line-up at some ticket offices.  Be warned that some ticket offices may not be open when tickets officially go on sale or may offer random wrist bands that may affect the order in which you are allowed to purchase the tickets.

If you want to buy through a website it is best to have a high speed connection as the gateways can get very busy.  Be logged on and ready to go a few minutes before the tickets go on sale and be prepared to refresh and enter in a verification code (which prevents machines from buying all the tickets) Be quick entering your info as the systems will time out and release your tickets and you may loose great seats.

Telephone lines can get very busy when tickets go on sale.  The best advice I can give on this is be persistent, use a cell phone and land line.  Super Hint: If possible call another city, preferably in a different time zone that is ahead of you as there lines will not be as busy and often they are able to sell you tickets to shows in your city.

Should you obtain tickets via traditional methods you usually have 3 options for getting your tickets.  By mail, pick-up at venue or ticket outlet or print them from home.  They all probably have an additional service charge involved.  I wouldn’t recommend picking up at the venue as usually the lines are large.

What if show is sold out or my desired seats aren’t available?

If you missed out on getting tickets for a sold out show often they release tickets to the show on the day of the performance.  They usually hold a few tickets to sell on the day of the show.  Try traditional ways.  For larger shows once the stage is set up they often release prime seats next to the stage.

Also if you check back with ticketmaster (on-line recommended) semi-regularly after is ‘sold-out’ you may be able to get a single ticket or returns.  I did this for U2 long after the show was said to be officially sold-out. Some shows will also open up seats behind the stage as the date gets closer or even on the day of the show.  It is different when you are behind the stage and gives a unique perspective

Craigslist of other local classifieds have been known to have some of the best prices.

Some radio stations also have ticket boards.

Try to win contests – I have been to many shows by winning on the radio or from the paper.

Ticket brokers are in many cities and online but often charge more than most people would and should pay for the shows.

eBay can be a prime source of tickets at many price ranges depending on the seats.  .  Different States and countries have regulations regarding the resale of tickets.  Some places have no restrictions and others will not allow you to sell (or buy) for more that face value.

Shop around and get the best deal.  If you buy well in advance the prices are usually better as most buyers don’t decide to go to eBay till much closer to the event.

eBay has some great guides on what to look for and how to buy online.

Select the Type of Tickets You Want

Follow Ticket Shopping Tips

Ticket Regulations & Refunds

Find Tickets on eBay

Use the Ticket Resource Page 

When you didn’t get your tickets early enough or can't find on eBay there are always scalpers.  Usually the prices can even be negotiated.  I have gone to shows where the scalpers were asking $100 - $200 for tickets and obtained tickets from non-scalpers for face value or below.   Once the show is starting (either opening bands or main band) you are likely to get a much better deal.  I have seen Pearl Jam for $10 and not missed a minute of the show.  I spotted the scalper with the most tickets and told him that I wanted his cheapest tickets and he asked for face value.  I told him too much and offered him $20 for 2 tickets and suggested he cut his losses and he accepted.  Sometimes there are even radio stations and promo people around with free tickets.

If it is an outdoor venue and you didn’t get tickets or can’t afford often you can sit outside somewhere and still enjoy the show.  I know of at least one outdoor venue where it is possible to view the stage perfectly from outside.

What are the best seats? How to get the best view?

Look up a venue map before you buy the tickets and see which sections/areas are closest to the stage.  Have the map handy when buying/searching for tickets.  I recommend seats just next to the stage or if central seating at least 3 rows back is usually desirable, . Seats in the middle are always a good bet, especially for those who are younger, not that tall or want to ensure that they can see the whole show and take in the whole ambience.  Many of the larger shows also have video screens that show the concert and often other additional footage.  If you are too close you may not be able to see some of the cool features.  If you are certain that your view will be unobstructed then front row would be preferred.

                                    

More on seating and general admission further down and other seating info.

How Early should I arrive?

Depends on the venue.  Sometimes security can take much longer that you expect, this happens often at the big venues and festivals so best to give lots of time to get in.  If there is more than one band on the bill and you don’t want to see the openers check on line, listen to or call your local radio station and find out when the band(s) you want to see are.  Some of the big all day events will publish a full schedule.  If it is a touring festival often there websites will have schedules for other cities already published.  If the show is at a nightclub call the day of the show and ask when the headliner is on.

Where do I park?

Parking can be expensive and it can be a nightmare trying to get in and especially trying to leave the parking lots at stadium shows.  If possible park a couple blocks away as will be cheaper (or free) It will also give you a much needed stretch and some fresh air before the commute home.  If you are drinking or partaking in other mind altering activities you should not drive.  Public transit is a great way to get to and from the shows.  It can be a lot of fun to relive the concert with a bunch of other fans.  Although depending on what city you are in can be very busy. 

What should I bring?

Money and lots of it.  If you want to buy food and drinks the venues will charge a premium as this is their main source of revenue.  Also souvenirs can be pricy if you want a keep sake of the show. Although many items I have purchased at shows have gone up in value over the years and you may be able to profit later. 

Gum and Candy are also great to have with you but not every venue allows this.

Earplugs if you have sensitive ears or are going to a very loud show.

ID - If you are at a licensed concert where there is alcohol.  No matter how old you are or look bring picture id as it is the law that they must ask. Tip: To avoid standing in lines more than you have to.  Usually there is a 2 drink per person limit. Tip: Also go to the bathroom before the show starts as you probably don’t want to miss any of the concert.

Some venues will allow you to bring sealed plastic water bottles.  Check before or be ready to drink while waiting to get in.

Dress appropriately for the venue.   Which usually means whatever you want.

Wear good comfortable shoes.  Ladies leave your heals at home.  Sandals and open toes are not recommended, even if you are not on the floor if there are large crowds you run the risk of being stepped on. 

For outdoor shows where something versatile or layers unless you are certain you know what the weather is going to be.  Sunblock and a hat are a must in the summer (as well stay hydrated) Rain gear or poncho is recommended if may rain.

If you have general admission floor tickets – long sleeves and no jackets are recommended as it gets hot and sweaty.  Some smaller venues will have coat check anywhere else probably will not. If you are a female you will probably want to leave your purse at home.

If you are on the floor you probably want to purchase a water bottle (where available) and sip it throughout the show as it will get hot and you do not want to dehydrate.

Can I take a camera?

Maybe, very venue specific. Some venues won’t even  allow cell phones that record or have cameras.  Usually you can check these types of items. 

Recorders are almost always strictly prohibited.

Other almost always prohibited items.

Weapons - leave anything that could be considered a weapon at home.  Metal items are not a good idea as many venues have security with metal detectors and will slow you entrance down and they may even prohibit you from entering if they deem you a risk.

Glass Bottles – can hurt others.
Bringing your own alcohol is also not usually permitted.

Fireworks and Firecrackers are also dangerous and not allowed.

Laser pointers are usually not permitted.

Anything else that is illegal is also of course not allowed.  If you are found in possession of any contraband you will have it confiscated, may be denied entry or arrested.

When in doubt leave it at home or check first.

Umbrellas are usually a no-no but select smaller venues and some large outdoor shows may allow.  You are best just having a rain coat and/or giant garbage bags to wear and/or sit on.

Strong fragrances can also be left at home, as fellow concertgoers may be sensitive or allergic.

Other items  usually not allowed except at some festivals

Back packs, Coolers, Chairs, Drinks, Food, Strollers, Pets

Binoculars are allowed in some venues but best just to get a good seat.

Where is the best spot on the floor?

Open for interpretation.  There is no actual best spot.  Depending on the venue, your height, crowd rowdiness and what is most important to you.  If your goal is to be the closest as long as you get there early you should be able to secure a spot up front.  Very front row center however is not always the best.  If there are lots of people behind you and they are pushing it can hurt.  Sometimes if you are in the front row the stage can be too high and your view may be limited, this happens most in big stadium shows.  2nd or 3rd row can often be better.  However if you are at a smaller club show the front is often the very best place to be.  Whenever you are on the floor at a show that is general admission beware of crowd surges at the beginning of the show.  You don’t want to loose your balance and fall.  Also be aware of potential mosh pits and crowd surfers.

Tip for getting closer on the floor.  You don’t have to arrive super early, a little early can help.  If you aren’t early do not try to push your way up the middle, people won’t appreciate this and you will have a harder time.  Instead go down the sides where it is usually less crowded.  You should be able to make it most of the way towards the front and then should be able to get over closer to the center.  Smile and look like you know what your doing and most people will let you by.  If you like it real loud you may want to stay on the sides as usually that’s where the speakers are.

Can I change my seat? 

Some venues are very strict and will not let you change your seat unless it is general admission.  Other’s will turn a blind eye if you move to vacant seats.  If you are in a large arena the seats that are usually vacant are actually some of the best ones in the section(s) nearest to or right beside the stage.  I often sit in these seats as you can get very close to the band.
 

When is it over?

Watch for the rowdies unplugging equipment – that means there will be no more encores.

Make a quick exit to avoid the crowds
or stick around and people watch
or if on the floor look for memorabilia that may have been missed.

Collect any souvenirs you can.  For example guitar picks, set lists, drum sticks, venue posters etc.

 Be Safe and Have Fun

See you at the concerts

If you want me to add your tips or feel I missed anything please let me know and I will be happy to update this guide.

Just a few of the bands on tour that I have seen over the years: Supertramp, Iron Maiden, Ozzy Osbourne, David Bowie, Alice Cooper, Pink Floyd, Van Halen, Rolling Stones, Metallica, ZZ Top, Scorpions, Judas Priest, Bon Jovi, Guns and Roses, Skid Row, Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Roger Waters, the Who, Black Sabbath, Whitesnake, the Eagles, Pat Benatar, Boston, Doobie Brothers, Everclear, Sum 41,  Godsmack, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Aerosmith, KISS, Heart, Cheap Trick, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nazareth, AC/DC, Green Day, Steve Miller, the Eagles,  Black Crowes, Rob Zombie, REM, Deep Purple, Robert Plant, Alice in Chains, Lou Reed, Blondie, Pantera, Bad Company, Neil Young, Members of the Kinks, the Police, Yes, Great White, Dire Straits, Tom Petty, Nazareth, Lita Ford, I Mother Earth, Sloan, Weezer, Def Leppard, Slayer, Anthrax, Sweet, Posies, Rush, U2, Collective Soul, Velvet Revolver, the Guess Who, April Wine, Blue Oyster Cult, David Bowie, Jethro Tull, Trooper, Alice in Chains, White Zombie, Dire Straights, John Cougar, Stone Temple Pilots, Motley Crue, Wolfmother, Megadeth, Heaven and Hell, Down, George Thorogood, Tom Petty, Hole, Iron Maiden, the Offspring, Papa Roach, Alan Parsons, Faith No More, Deep Purple,   and so many more.

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