| Home Team | Citi Field – Home of the New York Mets (MLB) |
|---|---|
| Opened | 2009 |
| Capacity | 41,800 |
| Best Value Seats | Promenade Level Infield (Sections 411–418) – Elevated but central views under $40 |
| Premium Seating | Delta Sky360 Club, Hyundai Club, Metropolitan Silver & Gold Clubs |
| Top Ballpark Foods | Pat LaFrieda’s Steak Sandwich, Fuku Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Shake Shack |
| Nearby Bars | McFadden’s Citi Field, The Pine, Ebbs Brewery |
| Closest Hotels | LaGuardia Plaza Hotel, Aloft New York LaGuardia, Hyatt Place Flushing |
| Transit Access | 7 Train to Mets-Willets Point, Long Island Rail Road, Q48 Bus |
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Best Seats At Citi Park
Citi Field is one of the best places to watch baseball in the country, and it’s the reason why—the food is genuinely exceptional (USA Today voted it the #1 stadium food for multiple years), the sightlines are clean and unobstructed, and the place actually cares about the fan experience. You’re in Queens, which means you’re steps away from some of the best ethnic food and bars in NYC. Fair warning: the neighborhood around the stadium itself is relatively quiet, so plan on either exploring Flushing or heading back into Manhattan or Jackson Heights for pre- and post-game action. The 7 train takes you directly to the stadium from Midtown, which is genuinely convenient.
Seating Guide
Citi Field holds just under 42,000 fans across six levels of seating (numbered in the 00s, 100s, 200s, 300s, 400s, and 500s). The lower the level number, the closer you are to the field. The layout is straightforward: sections start in right field and increase as you move behind home plate, then continue up the third-base line and around left field. You’ll find some of the most comfortable seating in baseball here, and there are almost no truly obstructed views—it’s a newer park built right.
Best Non-Premium Seats
Field Level Behind Home Plate (Sections 8-15): These are your gold-standard mid-priced seats if you can find them. Rows 1-10 put you close enough to see pitch movement without paying premium club prices. You’re catching foul balls, feeling the energy, and getting genuinely great views. The trade-off: the first couple rows can feel crowded during busy innings when people stand up, and field-level seats don’t have overhead protection from sun or rain. Rows 8-10 are the sweet spot—close enough but elevated enough to avoid sightline issues.
Excelsior Level, Infield Sections (Sections 306-329, Rows 1-8): This is where locals know to buy. You’re on the second level behind home plate and along the baselines, elevated enough to see everything clearly, and the first eight rows are actually a fantastic value. The view encompasses the entire field, and you feel connected to the action without the premium club markup. Rows 9 and above are fully covered from the elements, which matters during afternoon games or unexpected rain. Pro tip: avoid rows 1-8 if it’s a blazing day with no clouds—you’ll get sun until the 5th inning on the third-base side.
Upper Deck, Infield Sections (Sections 409-429): These are legitimately some of the best value seats in baseball. The upper deck at Citi Field is steep and doesn’t feel disconnected from the game—you get a panoramic view that actually lets you see strategy unfold. You’re saving $30-50 per seat compared to lower-level seats and honestly getting a better overall view of the field. The trade-off: less intimacy with the action, and bathrooms get crowded during the 7th inning stretch. Rows 1-10 are best; beyond that, you start feeling pretty far away.
Coca-Cola Corner Bleachers (Sections 140-143, Right Field): These are the closest thing to a party atmosphere at Citi Field. You’re sitting with die-hards and casual fans who are here for the vibe as much as the game. The sightlines are good for a bleacher section, and the prices are wallet-friendly. The trade-off: it’s loud, it’s rowdy on weekends, and the 7-Line (official Mets fan club) often congregates here, so if you’re a visiting team’s fan, maybe skip this unless you want some friendly ribbing.
Budget/Best Value Option – Non-Premium (Promenade Level, All Sections 400s-500s): The 400-level and 500-level seats are your true budget play. You’re way up there, but Citi Field’s stadium design means you’re not as far from the action as you’d think. You can see everything—all the strategy, all the plays. You’ll save $20-40 per ticket compared to 300-level seats. The real trade-off: the concourse is tight, lines for food and bathrooms are longer, and you’ve lost the intimacy of being close. But for families and casual fans, this is your best bang for the buck.
Weather & Shade Reality
Citi Field is in Queens, exposed to New York weather. On sunny days, the first-base side gets afternoon shade by the 4th inning in summer. The third-base side and left-field sections get brutal sun until well past the 6th inning. The upper deck (rows 6 and above in the 300s) is covered, which helps. Right field (the Pepsi Porch) is wide open—if you’re sitting there on a hot July day and the sun’s in your face, you’re going to feel it. Pro tip: if you’re going to a day game in July or August, first-base side infield (sections 10-20) or covered upper-deck sections are your survival move. Bring sunscreen regardless. The stadium isn’t domed, so you’ll get typical New York weather—rain happens fast, and the team can’t close a roof.
What to Avoid
Corners (Far Left and Right Field, Sections 130-139 and Sections 1-7): These seats are positioned at extreme angles where you’re seeing the game sideways. The price reflects that—they’re cheap for a reason. You’ll spend the whole game twisting your neck, and fly balls become incredibly difficult to track. Skip these unless you’re just looking for standing room and a place to hang out.
Section 143 (The 7-Line Section): While it has character and atmosphere, this section is essentially a standing-room only party zone populated by the official Mets fan club. If you just want to watch a quiet game, this isn’t your spot. If you want to be part of a loud, passionate crowd, go for it—just know what you’re signing up for.
Lower Rows in Outfield Corners (Sections 128-132 and 110-114, Rows 1-3): Foul balls come at you here, but you’re also at such an extreme angle that the center field and home plate action is tough to track. You’re paying for exposure without the payoff of actually seeing well. Rows 8 and up in the same sections are much better.
Premium Seating At Citi Field
Citi Field has a comprehensive premium setup with multiple club levels. The Delta Sky360 Club is the flagship luxury option, but there are genuinely good value clubs too. Unlike some parks, many of these clubs actually deliver on what they promise.
The Best Club: Delta Sky360° Club (Sections 11-19, Rows 1-8, Directly Behind Home Plate)
Price range: $500-$1,500+ per ticket depending on opponent and row.
What’s included: This is the full luxury package. You get a private VIP entrance (the same tunnel the players use), assigned luxury cushioned theater-style seating with in-seat food delivery service, and access to an expanded 7,000+ square-foot climate-controlled club. The club features a private 50-foot bar with complimentary draft beer, wine, and spirits, a Chef’s Studio with rotating gourmet menus, a sushi station, a seafood station, and a dessert bar. You also get free soft drinks and coffee, private restrooms, and VIP parking.
The lounge itself: This is genuinely beautiful and spacious—it doesn’t feel cramped or corporate. The food is legitimately elevated: you’re getting carved meats, fresh seafood, quality sides, and rotating chef specials based on the home series. The bar is full-service with professional bartenders, not a quick-serve station. The TVs let you watch other games and replays. You can see the Mets’ indoor batting cages through a window. The vibe is refined and exclusive without being stuffy. You’re around people who spent serious money, so the crowd is focused and respectful.
Who this is for: Corporate entertainment, serious money-no-object fans, milestone celebrations (anniversaries, big promotions). If you’re entertaining clients or celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime moment, this is your move. This is not a family-on-a-budget situation.
Reality check: You’re paying 5-10x the price for first-row behind-home-plate seats, premium all-inclusive food and liquor, comfort, and crowd control. You lose the raw stadium energy—the roar of the crowd, the collective excitement. Worth it if you value comfort, privacy, and premium food. Not worth it if you actually care more about the game and atmosphere than amenities.
Best Value Club: Clover Home Plate Club (Rows 1-6, Directly Behind Home Plate, Fiserv Level)
Price range: $300-$700 per ticket depending on opponent.
What’s included: This club sits directly behind home plate with Pat LaFrieda’s Chop House (premium steaks and chops), Grand Slammin’ Sushi by Beyond Nightlife, two full-service bars, and a casual market/snack bar with favorites from around the stadium. You get all-inclusive food and non-alcoholic beverages (soft drinks, coffee). Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, not included. You have plush theater-style padded seating, private restrooms, and in-seat service through the 7th inning.
The vibe: This is the sophisticated middle ground. Less stuffy than Delta Sky360, but genuinely nice with better food and service than regular stadium fare. The market bar has good quality items, and if you spring for the Pat LaFrieda steaks or sushi, you’re eating really well. It feels like a proper club—quieter than the main concourse, with room to actually sit and relax. The crowd is a mix of business entertainment and serious Mets fans who want something nicer.
Who this is for: Fans willing to spend more for comfort without going full luxury. Great for couples celebrating, small groups, regulars looking to treat themselves occasionally. Anyone who wants premium seats directly behind home plate without the $1,500 per ticket Delta Sky360 price tag.
The math: You’re paying $200-300 more per seat than regular field-level seats but getting a private lounge, premium food options, free soft drinks, and in-seat service. Worth it if you’re staying for a full game and want the experience elevated. Skip it if you’re just passing through.
Other Notable Clubs and Lounges at Citi Field
Hyundai Club (Sections 115-120, Field Level Along Baselines): $200-$700 per ticket. This is positioned along the baselines with fantastic sightlines and access to an expansive buffet with a carving station, entrees, salads, and ballpark favorites. Unlimited soft drinks, pretzels, popcorn, and desserts included. No alcohol included (you can buy drinks separately). The lounge has full bars, flat-screen TVs, and club-only bathrooms. It feels less exclusive than the home-plate clubs but still genuinely nice. Great value if you’re hungry and want premium seating without the Delta Sky360 price.
Heineken Diamond Lounge (Excelsior Level, Behind Home Plate, Sections 306-315): Access to a 50-foot full-service bar with incredible panoramic views of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Unisphere, and the NYC skyline. Food includes pizza, pastrami sandwiches, and ballpark fare. It’s more casual than the premium clubs but the views are genuinely special if you want to take pictures or just soak in the scenery. Good for fans who want lounge access without extreme premium pricing.
Empire Club (Level 4): One of the most exclusive spots, described as a speakeasy-style hideaway. Ultra-intimate, vintage art deco vibes. Very limited capacity, very high price. It’s the trendiest club at the ballpark, designed to feel like a 1920s NYC nightclub. Best for special occasions where you want something genuinely unique.
Suites & Group Options
Citi Field has 51 suites located on two levels: the Clover Level (Level 2) and Empire Level (Level 4). Suite prices range from $2,500 to $20,000+ per game depending on size, location, and opponent. Suites include VIP entry, interior and exterior seating, food and beverage options, and a dedicated serving host. Most suites accommodate 9-35 guests. They’re booked by corporations, large groups, and celebrations. Call the Mets group sales office at 718-507-METS or work with a suite broker like SuiteHop—brokers often negotiate better deals and handle the heavy lifting.
Citi Field Seating Chart
Citi Field, the home of the New York Mets, has a seating capacity of approximately 41,000 fans for baseball games. The updated Seating Map to Citi Field can be found in the link.
Tickets To New York Mets Games
To purchase tickets for Mets games at Citi Field, you have several options:
- Get the Best Tickets To New York Mets games here! With Vivid Seats you can get the best tickets to the Mets or just about any event that matters!
- Official Mets Website: The primary and most reliable source for Mets game tickets is the official New York Mets website. Visit the team’s official website and navigate to the “Tickets” or “Schedule” section to find available games and ticket options.
- Box Office at Citi Field: For in-person purchases, you can visit the Citi Field Box Office. The box office is typically open on game days and may have extended hours during the baseball season. Check the official website for specific box office hours and locations.
Citi Field Bag Policy
Bags up to 16″x16″x8″ are allowed. No backpacks. Single-compartment drawstring bags are okay. Purses and crossbodies under the size limit are fine. There are no bag check facilities Outside Food & Beverage: Not permitted. No outside food, drinks, alcohol, or glass containers.
Other Key Policies
Re-entry Policy: Guests exiting the ballpark cannot re-enter, unless given prior approval from a Security or Guest Service Supervisor at the gate for exceptional circumstances.
Cashless Stadium: The entire stadium is cashless. Bring credit or debit cards.
You can check out the full updated Citi Field Policies here.
Considering these parking options and rates will help you find the most suitable parking solution for your visit to Citi Field. The Mets website has a parking map here
Getting To Citi Field
Getting to Citi Field is convenient with several public transportation options. Here’s a guide to help you plan your journey:
Driving & Parking: Parking at Citi Field is available in lots A-E ($25-40 depending on game and demand). Pre-book through the official Mets site or ParkWhiz to guarantee a spot and sometimes save a few dollars. Parking fills but doesn’t sell out. Arrive 90 minutes early for games to snag a closer spot. Alternative lots near the park are $12 to 24. The drive from Manhattan takes 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic and time of day. Driving is doable but stressful—most NYC fans use the 7 train instead.
Subway: The 7 train connects directly to Citi Field at the Mets/Willets Point Station, with stops in Manhattan at 34th Street/Hudson Yards, Times Square, 5th Avenue/Bryant Park, and Grand Central Station. Alternatively, you can take the E, F, M, or R trains to the 74th Street-Broadway/Roosevelt stop and transfer to the 7 train.
Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): LIRR offers direct service to Citi Field from Penn Station, Grand Central Madison, Woodside, and all stations on the Port Washington Branch. Fans from Long Island or southern Queens on other branches can reach Citi Field by transferring to the Port Washington Branch at Jamaica Station.
Bus: Connect to the 7 train at Flushing/Main Street via Long Island Bus lines N7, N20, and N21. For more information, contact MTA Long Island Bus at 511.
Bicycle: Citi Field is easily accessible by bicycle, with designated bike parking locations around the stadium. Dedicated bike lanes are available on Roosevelt and 34th Avenues.
Citi Bike: While Citi Bike, NYC’s bike-sharing program, is not currently available in the immediate neighborhoods around Citi Field, expansion to the area is planned soon.
Check your iOS and Android mapping apps for the latest subway schedules.
Citi Field Rideshare Information
The rideshare drop-off and pickup location for Citi Field is outside of the Bullpen Gate along Seaver Way (formerly known as 126th Street). Here are some tips for using rideshare services at Citi Field:
- Pre-game drop-offs: You can still drop off passengers along Seaver Way or Roosevelt Avenue.
- Post-game pickups: The post-game rideshare pickup location can be found at the intersection of Shea Road and Seaver Way. To get there, exit the stadium through the centerfield, either through the K Korner stairs or the Bullpen Gate, then walk one block north on Seaver Way. Look for the orange and blue rideshare pickup zone signs, numbered 1-5 along Shea Road.
- Access-A-Ride: The drop-off and pickup location for all guests using the Access-A-Ride service is the Bullpen Gate on Seaver Way.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth rideshare experience when attending events at Citi Field.
Citi Park Insider Tips
Citi Field is genuinely designed with fans in mind. The food program is nationally recognized (multiple USA Today awards), the ballpark won praise for being accessible and well-organized, and the neighborhood around the stadium (Flushing) is a world-class food destination. Here’s what actually matters for your gameday.
Access & Gate Strategy
Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch. The Jackie Robinson Rotunda (main entrance, accessible from the 7 train station) gets crowded fast. If you’re in the upper deck, use the centerfield gate or the third-base gate—they’re typically less crowded. If you’re arriving early and want to catch batting practice, head to the outfield concourse 75+ minutes before game time. The Shea Bridge (between left and center field) is a great spot to watch BP from outside the field if you can’t get premium access. You can re-enter the stadium as many times as you want during the game, so feel free to duck out to bars or explore the neighborhood.
Food & Drink Strategy
Outside food is not allowed (no outside drinks either), so you’ll be eating stadium concessions. Here’s the thing: Citi Field’s food is legitimately good. Don’t sleep on it. Skip the standard $16 hot dogs and hit these spots instead:
Must-Try Spots: Shake Shack (since the park opened), Fuku (David Chang’s fried chicken sandwich—spicy and delicious), Pat LaFrieda burgers (hand-cut beef, legitimately excellent), Pig Beach BBQ (brisket-topped Mac and cheese, smoked turkey sandwich), Prince Street Pizza (actual NYC pizza), Wok N’ Roll (the cinnamon bun egg roll is genuinely weird and worth trying), Seoul Bird (Korean fried chicken), Amazin’ Chicken Co. (nostalgia-driven breaded tenders). The rotating vendors on the right-field patio highlight local Queens food—this changes every couple months, so check what’s there when you visit.
Strategic Timing: Buy food during the 2nd-3rd inning, not the 7th inning stretch. Lines explode at the 7th. The main concourse on the first-base side is typically less crowded than the third-base side. The new Metropolitan Market on the Excelsior Level (behind section 333) is a food hall with options like Seoul Bird, Prince Street Pizza, and New York Panini—less crowded than main concourse stands.
Pro Tip: The stadium is cashless—bring a credit card or debit card everywhere. Mobile ordering is available at select vendors for delivery to your seat (if you have premium seating).
Arrival & Gate Timing
Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch for most games. Giveaway items run out by the 2nd-3rd inning on promotional days, so if you want merch, arrive early. Parking fills up but doesn’t sell out like other NYC venues—arrive 60-90 minutes early for decent lots. The stadium itself gets progressively fuller through the 1st-2nd inning, then levels off. If you want to avoid initial crowds but still catch batting practice from the outfield, aim for 60-75 minutes early.
Stadium Traditions & Culture
The Mets have a passionate fanbase, but unlike some parks, there’s less of a singular “tradition” and more of a “we know good baseball” vibe. The 7-Line (official fan club) congregates in sections 140-143 and creates energy and chants—locals respect the atmosphere they bring. Shea Bridge is a de facto gathering spot for fans, and it’s actually a great place to hang if you don’t want to sit the whole game.
Instagrammable Spots & Photo Ops
The main video board (installed in 2023, state-of-the-art) is massive and iconic—shoot from the right-field concourse or outfield area. The Unisphere from the 1964 World’s Fair is visible beyond left field, especially at sunset—get to the upper-left field sections or the boardwalk area for good angles. The Jackie Robinson Rotunda (main entrance) is the symbolic entrance and worth a photo. The Shea Bridge provides views of the field and the surrounding park. If you’re early and the weather is good, the boardwalk around Flushing Meadows Corona Park offers good distant shots of the stadium. The interior metropolitan market on the Excelsior Level has views of the field and skyline—good for an Instagram moment if you’re in that club.
Hotels Near Citi Field
If you’re coming overnight for a Mets game, you have a few strategic options. You can stay near the stadium in Flushing for convenience, but it means missing out on Manhattan nightlife and attractions. Or you can stay in Manhattan and take the 7 train, which is genuinely convenient and puts you in the middle of the city. Here’s what makes sense:
Stay in Flushing Near Citi Field (Best if you want convenience)
Hotel Indigo Flushing LaGuardia: Pet-friendly boutique hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows, free airport shuttle, valet parking. Within 5 minutes of Citi Field. Good mid-range option with real personality.
The Parc Hotel: 5-minute drive from Citi Field, includes complimentary breakfast, on-site restaurant and bar. Solid choice for families wanting to keep things simple.
Hyatt Place Flushing/LaGuardia: Rooftop lounge with Manhattan skyline views, complimentary shuttle to LaGuardia, fitness center. Good value for the location.
Asiatic Hotel by LaGuardia: Budget-friendly, 5 minutes from stadium, on-site restaurants, rooftop lounge with skyline views.
Flushing Hotels Trade-off: You’re steps from the stadium and can avoid transit crowds. But Flushing’s nightlife is decent (amazing food, Chinatown energy) but not comparable to Manhattan. You’ll want to explore the neighborhood for pre- and post-game action rather than heading into the city.
Stay in Manhattan (Best if you want the full NYC experience):
Take the 7 train directly from your hotel (or a quick transfer). Hotels near the 7 train in Midtown or Uptown:
- Times Square area: Direct 7 access, 30 minutes to Citi Field
- Grand Central: 25 minutes to Citi Field via LIRR or 7 train
- Upper East Side (near Lexington Ave or 5th Ave): Easy 7 train access, 35-40 minutes to stadium
Manhattan Trade-off: You’re in the center of NYC with everything to do before and after the game. But you’ll spend an hour commuting round-trip to the stadium (much better than driving, but still time). The 7 train gets absolutely packed after night games, so be prepared for crowded trains home.
Pro Tip: Stay in Flushing if it’s a single game and you want to keep things simple. Stay in Manhattan if you’re making a full NYC trip and want to explore the city alongside the game.
Bars and Restaurants Near Citi Field
The immediate neighborhood around Citi Field is pretty quiet—it’s surrounded by rail yards, highways, and park space. So you have two strategies: eat/drink in Flushing (10 minutes walk, or one subway stop), or explore Jackson Heights and Corona (the stops before the stadium on the 7).
Option 1: Flushing Chinatown (Best for food-focused pre-game)
Get off at the Main Street-Flushing 7 stop (one stop after Citi Field) and explore. You’ll find some of the best Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian food in the city. This is where locals eat, and it’s legit.
Bars in Flushing: It’s more food-focused than bar-focused, but you’ll find options along Main Street. PRIME Mēt (rooftop lounge with skyline views, live DJs on weekends) is worth a visit post-game if you want something nicer.
Option 2: Jackson Heights / Corona (Best for casual bars and Latin food)
Get off at 103rd Street-Corona Plaza (two stops before Citi Field) and explore Roosevelt Avenue. This is a more casual, local scene. Lots of Mexican taquerías, Mexican cantinas, bodegas, and casual bars.
Bars: Corona has a more bar-focused scene than Flushing. Local spots, dive bars, cantinas. It’s more relaxed and less touristy. This is better for a more casual, local vibe. You’ll feel the neighborhood energy and eat really well for cheap. Less polished than Flushing Chinatown, but more character.
Option 3: Bars Inside Citi Field
There are a couple solid bar inside the stadium, just know you’ll probably get gouged.
K Korner (Seaver Way, behind 3B side): Old McFadden’s space, now a casual bar with small bites. Open pre-game until first pitch, extended hours Friday/Saturday post-game.
EBBS Brewing Co. (Local Flushing brewery): Open 2 hours before, during, and 2 hours after games. Local craft beer, which supports the community vibe.
Fun Things To Do Near Citi Field
If you’re staying near Citi Field or wanting to kill some time before the game, here are some things to do near Citi Field:
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park: Located adjacent to Citi Field, this expansive park offers various attractions, including the Queens Botanical Garden, Queens Museum, and the iconic Unisphere. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or to explore cultural and recreational sites.
Queens Museum: Situated in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Queens Museum features diverse exhibitions, including the famous Panorama of the City of New York, providing a detailed scale model of the city.
New York Hall of Science: Ideal for families and science enthusiasts, the New York Hall of Science, located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, offers interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
Arthur Ashe Stadium: If you’re a tennis fan, check out the nearby Arthur Ashe Stadium, part of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. It hosts the US Open and offers tours when the tournament is not taking place.
Explore Flushing: The neighborhood of Flushing, located nearby, is known for its diverse culinary scene. Explore the vibrant food markets, try international cuisines, and discover cultural gems in this bustling community.
In conclusion, Citi Field offers a fantastic experience for baseball fans, with its rich history, unique design features, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a die-hard Mets fan or just looking for a fun day out, Citi Field is the perfect destination for sports enthusiasts. With a variety of seating options, food choices, and nearby attractions, there’s something for everyone at Citi Field. So, grab your tickets, don your Mets gear, and get ready to enjoy a thrilling game at this iconic stadium.
If you’re looking for other guides check out our other NYC guides for MSG, Yankee Stadium, MetLife Stadium the Barclays Center. Here are a few other ballparks in the regions.
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.