| Gillette Stadium Quick Guide | |
|---|---|
| Home Teams | New England Patriots (NFL), New England Revolution (MLS) |
| Opened | 2002 |
| Capacity | ~65,878 (expandable to 70,000) |
| Best Value Seats | Mezzanine Level (Sections 208–212) – Solid sightlines without premium pricing |
| Premium Seating | Putnam Club, Luxury Suites, Optum Field Lounge |
| Top Stadium Foods | Italian Sausage, Lobster Rolls, Kayem Hot Dogs |
| Nearby Bars | CBS Sporting Club, Six String Grill, Bar Louie (at Patriot Place) |
| Closest Hotels | Renaissance Boston Patriot Place, Hilton Garden Inn Foxborough |
| Transit Access | Gillette is mostly drive-in; MBTA runs limited game-day commuter rail from Boston/Providence |
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Best Seats At Gillette Stadium
Whether you’re planning to catch the Patriots in action, cheer on the Revolution, or attend one of the many concerts at Gillette Stadium, choosing the right seats can make or break your experience. With over 65,000 seats spread across multiple levels, navigating your options can feel overwhelming.
As the home of the six-time Super Bowl champion New England Patriots since 2002, Gillette Stadium has hosted countless memorable moments. But here’s the thing – you don’t need to break the bank on premium seating to have an incredible time. Let’s break down the best seating options across three key categories: premium non-club seats, best value picks, and budget-friendly options.
Best Non-Premium Seats
Sections 109-110 and 131-132 represent the sweet spot for Gillette Stadium seating. These midfield sections offer the perfect vantage point to follow the action, whether it’s a Patriots touchdown drive or a Revolution scoring opportunity.
Here’s the key insider tip: avoid the first 10 rows. While being close sounds appealing, you’ll actually miss a lot of the action due to the angle. Instead, target rows 10-20 for the optimal viewing experience. The higher you sit within this range, the better your overall perspective becomes.
Why These Sections Work:
- Sections 109-110 sit behind the Patriots bench
- Sections 131-132 are behind the visiting team’s bench
- Perfect sightlines to both end zones
- You’ll catch all the sideline drama and coach reactions
Other Solid 100-Level Options:
Don’t sleep on sections 108, 111, 130, and 133. While slightly off-center, they still offer excellent views and often come at a lower price point than the prime midfield sections.
Best Value Seats
The 200-level might just be the best-kept secret at Gillette Stadium. These mezzanine seats offer elevated views that let you see plays develop while keeping costs reasonable. You’ll have access to the Main Concourse amenities, and the atmosphere is still electric.
Target sections: 201-240, with preference for anything between the 20-yard lines.
Club Level: Premium Experience Without Suite Prices
If you want to splurge a bit, Club Level sections (CL6-CL13 and CL28-CL35) deliver serious value. Yes, they cost more than standard seats, but consider what you get:
- Extra-wide, padded seats (your back will thank you)
- Private entrance to skip the crowds
- Access to exclusive lounges with upscale food and drinks
- Climate-controlled concourse areas
The trade-off? The crowd tends to be more subdued than in the regular sections, so if you want that rowdy game-day atmosphere, you might prefer the general seating areas.
Budget-Friendly Seats
Don’t let anyone tell you the 300-level doesn’t deliver. One fan review perfectly captures it: “Even though my sister and I were up top, there was accessibility to both food and the bathroom… It was an awesome atmosphere.”
The 300-level advantages:
- Significantly cheaper entry point
- Still great views of the entire field
- Access to Upper Concourse amenities
- The energy is often just as intense as lower levels
Family-Friendly Budget Hack
Sections 225 and 238 offer alcohol-free seating – perfect for families with kids and typically among the cheapest Patriots tickets available. It’s a win-win for parents wanting to introduce their children to live sports without breaking the bank.
The Revolution Route
Here’s a pro tip many overlook: New England Revolution games offer an incredible way to experience Gillette Stadium on a shoestring budget. Tickets can start as low as $17, and you’ll get to experience the same venue atmosphere. It’s perfect for first-timers who want to scope out the stadium before investing in pricier Patriots tickets.
Pro Tips for Any Section
What to Avoid:
- First 10 rows of any 100-level section (too close to see plays develop)
- Extreme corner sections if you want to follow the ball easily
Getting There: Plan for traffic – Gillette Stadium is notorious for congestion. Consider parking in lots farther from the stadium; they often cost more but can save you hours in post-game traffic.
Your perfect Gillette Stadium seat depends on your priorities. Want the ultimate football experience? Go for midfield 100-level, rows 10-20. Looking for great value? The 200-level mezzanine delivers. On a tight budget? The 300-level and Revolution games prove you don’t need expensive seats to create lasting memories.
Remember, whether you’re in the front row or the back row, you’re part of something special at Gillette Stadium. The energy, the history, and the New England spirit make every seat a good seat when the Patriots are in the house.
Premium Seating Options
When you’re ready to step up from general admission, Gillette Stadium’s premium seating options can transform your game day experience. But with club sections and luxury suites available, which option gives you the most for your money? Let’s break down exactly what each level offers, so you can make the smartest choice for your budget and expectations.
Cross Insurance Club (East & West Lounges) The massive Club features two lounges that can be separated by air walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, upscale classic finishes, and a spectacular view of the playing field with 40-foot ceilings. These spaces are larger than a football field and offer end zone to end zone views of the game. You’ll find 3 state-of-the-art 11×17 LED video walls and over 125 televisions for watching games and getting updates.
Optum Field Lounge Optum Field Lounge offers Gillette Stadium guests a unique view from the South end zone. The field-level terrace offers a perfect location to impress friends, employees, and clients. This space gives you an up-close field experience while maintaining premium amenities.
Celebration Beer Hall (Revolution Games) The Celebration Beer Hall is a unique field-level gameday experience with unprecedented access to watch players as they walk from the locker room through the tunnel to the Gillette Stadium field. Located in the northeast corner of the field, guests will cheer on the Revs from the private 2,000 sq. ft. outdoor patio or inside the 4,000 sq. ft. Beer Hall.
Club Level Sections
Gillette Stadium’s club seating is split into two main areas along the sidelines, both on the second tier for optimal viewing angles.
West Side Club Sections (CL06-CL13) These sections sit opposite the Patriots bench, giving you a clear view of the home team sideline action. You’ll watch Patriots players and coaches react to plays from across the field, perfect for reading body language and catching those emotional moments that define big games.
East Side Club Sections (CL28-CL35)
Located on the Patriots’ home sideline, these sections put you right in the heart of the action. You’re close enough to hear coaching conversations, see player interactions up close, and feel like you’re part of the team’s energy throughout the game.
Best Bang for Your Buck: East Side Club Sections CL28-CL35
Sections CL28-CL35 represent the sweet spot where luxury meets smart spending. Positioned on the Patriots’ home sideline, you’re right in the heart of every touchdown celebration, crucial timeout huddle, and fourth-quarter rally. You get all the club-level perks – padded seats, lounge access, VIP entrance, and climate control – typically for less money than the prime midfield sections. Essentially, you’re paying a modest upgrade fee over 200-level seats for a dramatically enhanced experience.
The Smart Choice: What sets these sections apart is the perfect balance they strike. Unlike some premium areas that feel corporate and subdued, CL28-CL35 maintains that passionate Patriots energy while delivering luxury amenities. Add in the weather advantage during those brutal December games (better wind protection on the East side), and you’ve got 90% of the premium experience without the suite-level investment. For most fans looking to upgrade their Gillette Stadium experience, this is where smart money goes.
Gillette Stadium Seating Chart
With its 65,878 permanent seats and ability to accommodate additional standing room, Gillette Stadium provides ample capacity to host the New England Patriots, concerts and other large events. Here is the Seating Chart for Gillette Stadium.
Tickets To New England Patriots Games
If you’re looking for tickets to New England Patriots games at Gillette Stadium, you have several options:
- Get your New England Patriots tickets here! If you’re looking for the best seats to Patriots or Revolution games, or upcoming concerts like the Rolling Stones, our partners at Vivid Seats have you covered.
- Official Website: The New England Patriots website typically offers tickets for sale directly from the team. You can check their official website for ticket availability, pricing, and purchasing options. This is often one of the most reliable ways to secure tickets.
Gillette Stadium Bag Policy
The bag policy for Gillette Stadium requires that bags must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and cannot exceed 12” x 6” x 12”. Small clutch bags, not exceeding 7″ x 4″ x 2″, are also allowed. Non see-through purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch sacks, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags, and camera bags are prohibited. Working personnel and media have designated gates for entry with specific screening and bag inspection requirements
Key Policies to Know
Gillete Stadium has a pretty good gameday guide on their website. Here is an overview of the main policies:
- Cashless Venue Policy: Gillette Stadium is now a completely cashless venue, accepting only contactless payment options within the stadium. Event attendees can use Cash-to-Card kiosks to convert cash to Visa® prepaid cards for transactions.
- No re-entry is permitted whatsoever—once you leave Gillette Stadium, you’re done for the day except in limited emergencies directed by stadium staff. Your ticket indicates suggested gates based on your seating section (Bank of America Gate, CVS Health Gate, Ticketmaster Gate), so use the one listed to streamline entry and avoid walking around the stadium perimeter looking for your section.
Gillette Stadium Parking
Gillette Stadium is located in Foxborough, Massachusetts, about 30 miles southwest of Boston and 20 miles northeast of Providence, Rhode Island. Here’s an overview of how to get to Gillette Stadium:
From Boston and Points North: Take I-93 South to Route 1 South (exit 4). Follow Route 1 South for approximately 8 miles to the Gillette Stadium exit (exit 9). This will bring you directly to the stadium parking lots.
From Providence and Points South: Take I-95 North to Route 1 North (exit 9). Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles to the Gillette Stadium exit (exit 9). This will bring you directly to the stadium parking lots.
From Worcester and Points West: Take the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) East to Route 495 South (exit 11A). Follow Route 495 South to Route 1 South (exit 14). Follow Route 1 South for approximately 8 miles to the Gillette Stadium exit (exit 9).
Parking at Gillette Stadium:
- There are numerous parking lots surrounding the stadium, with over 20,000 parking spaces available.
- Parking costs $40-60 for cars and $120 for oversized vehicles/RVs.
- Lots open 4-5 hours before kickoff, and it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid traffic and long lines.
- Tailgating is allowed in designated lots, but open flames and charcoal grills are prohibited.
You can purchase parking passes online to help save time and money, traffic can be pretty heavy before and after games so arrive early if possible and be patient after the games.
Public Transportation to Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium is well-served by public transportation, with several options available to help fans avoid the hassle of driving and parking. Whether you’re coming from Boston, Providence, or other parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, there are reliable and affordable ways to get to the stadium using buses, trains, and commuter rail services. Here are some of the Public Transportation Options:
- MBTA Commuter Rail: The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates a dedicated Commuter Rail service to Gillette Stadium from Boston’s South Station. Trains run directly to the Gillette Stadium/Foxboro station, which is just a short walk from the stadium.
- MBTA Buses: The MBTA also offers bus service to Gillette Stadium from various locations in the greater Boston area. Routes 34E and 36 provide direct service to the stadium on game days.
- RIPTA Buses: The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) runs bus service from Providence to Gillette Stadium on game days. Buses depart from the Providence Train Station and drop off near the stadium.
- Private Shuttle Services: Several private companies offer shuttle bus services to Gillette Stadium from various locations in Boston, Providence, and other nearby cities. These can be a convenient option for groups or those looking for door-to-door service.
Whether you’re a local fan or visiting from out of town, taking public transportation to Gillette Stadium is a fantastic way to avoid the stress of driving and parking. With multiple options available, including trains, buses, and shuttles, there’s a convenient way for fans to get to the stadium and enjoy the game-day experience without the hassle of traffic and parking woes.
Rideshare Options
Uber: Uber offers several options for getting to and from Gillette Stadium. You can request an UberX (standard ride), UberXL (for larger groups), or one of their premium services like UberBlack or UberSUV.
Lyft: Lyft is another major rideshare player that provides service to the Gillette Stadium area. Similar to Uber, you can choose from different ride options like a standard Lyft,
Both Uber and Lyft have designated rideshare pick-up and drop-off areas near the stadium’s entrance gates. These areas are clearly marked and easy to find.
Gillette Stadium Insider Tips
Gillette Stadium combines suburban accessibility with Patriot Place’s shopping and dining complex, creating a gameday experience that’s less about urban bar hopping and more about arriving early to tailgate or eat at the complex before walking to your seats.
Food & Drink Strategy
The Beacon in section 140 serves hand-breaded fried chicken sandwiches that get consistent local recommendations—this is the standout food item inside the stadium. Takeaway Tavern in section 101 offers self-serve draft beer and cocktails on tap, which is genuinely unique and lets you pour your own portions. The Landing Bar by the Lighthouse features cocktails on tap and draft beer with better atmosphere than standard concession stands.
Inside the stadium, you’re getting mostly standard fare—burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, pizza, nachos—with Pepsi products instead of Coke. The Davio’s cheesesteak spring roll is the closest thing to a signature item, though it’s nothing revolutionary. Market Express locations (sections 105 and 129) offer grab-and-go salads, sandwiches, and healthier options if you want something beyond fried food.
The real food play is Patriot Place before the game: Walk over early and eat at Bar Louie, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, or grab Capriotti’s sandwiches, then head into the stadium. The food quality at Patriot Place restaurants significantly outperforms stadium concessions, you’re paying similar prices, and you can sit down comfortably instead of eating on your lap. Five Guys, Chick-fil-A, and multiple sit-down restaurants all sit within a 5-minute walk of the stadium gates.
Arrival & Access Timing
Gates open roughly 2 hours before kickoff for general admission. Parking lots open 4 hours before Patriots games, and tailgating is permitted in general parking lots once they open—this is a huge part of the Gillette Stadium experience. Free general parking exists in stadium-owned lots across Route 1 from the stadium, though you’re walking further. Prepaid parking passes ($25-50 depending on proximity) get you closer to gates and Patriot Place but sell out for popular games.
Post-game traffic on Route 1 is legitimately brutal—expect 45-60 minutes sitting in parking lots waiting to exit. The hack: stay at Patriot Place for 60-90 minutes after the game ends, eat dinner or grab drinks, then leave when traffic clears. Most people rush to their cars immediately, creating gridlock. Locals know to wait it out.
Stadium Traditions & Culture
The Keeper of the Light is Gillette Stadium’s signature tradition introduced in 2023—an honored individual (former player, military member, community hero) rings the fog bell at the top of the 22-story lighthouse to kick off the game. The lighthouse itself was reimagined during the $250 million north end zone renovation and stands as the tallest “lighthouse” in the United States with a 360-degree observation deck offering views of Boston and Providence skylines. Admission is $5 for adults ($0 for kids under 10, active military, veterans, first responders, and season ticket holders), and it’s open year-round except during events. This is deeply rooted in New England maritime history and has quickly become an iconic Patriots ritual.
Instagrammable Spots & Photo Ops
The Lighthouse is the obvious photo op—the 22-story structure towers over the north end zone and provides professional photo opportunities from two different angles included with your $5 admission. The 360-degree observation deck (the Lookout) offers panoramic views of the stadium, Patriot Place, and distant skyline views of both Boston and Providence on clear days. Photos are emailed to you, and visitor photos get incorporated into a mosaic image of the lighthouse displayed on screens throughout the venue and online.
The Flying Elvis (Patriots logo) appears throughout the stadium and Patriot Place—the main entrance gates and various murals provide good pre-game photo ops showing team branding with the stadium in the background.
Patriot Place itself at night with stadium lighting creates a nice urban-suburban blend photo—the shopping complex lit up with Gillette Stadium looming behind captures the entire gameday destination vibe.
The Patriot Place Restaurant Strategy for Post-Game Traffic: Everyone rushes to their cars immediately after the final whistle, creating absolute gridlock on Route 1 and in parking lots that lasts 45-90 minutes. The locals’ move: make a reservation at a Patriot Place restaurant for 90 minutes after kickoff (so if it’s a 1pm game, book for 5pm). Walk from the stadium to your restaurant reservation, enjoy a sit-down meal or drinks, watch other NFL games on TVs, then leave Patriot Place around 6-6:30pm when traffic has completely cleared.
New England Revolution (MLS Soccer)
The New England Revolution play Major League Soccer at Gillette Stadium from March through October. Revolution games offer a completely different vibe than Patriots games—smaller crowds (averaging 20,000-30,000 instead of sellouts), cheaper tickets (starting around $20-30), more family-friendly atmosphere, and easier parking and traffic
Hotels Near Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium sits in Foxborough, Massachusetts—about 22 miles southwest of Boston and 28 miles north of Providence—which means you’re choosing between staying on-site at Patriot Place, in nearby suburbs like Walpole or Mansfield, or commuting from either Boston or Providence. The smartest play is staying at one of the two hotels literally at Patriot Place (walking distance to the stadium), which eliminates parking stress, lets you enjoy the shopping and dining complex before and after the game, and avoids the notorious post-game traffic gridlock on Route 1. If those are booked or too expensive, nearby Foxborough suburbs keep you close without the premium pricing, whilst Boston or Providence require 45-60 minute drives plus dealing with game day traffic.
Top-Tier Options
Renaissance Boston Patriot Place Hotel stands as the clear winner for location and luxury. Situated directly within the Patriot Place complex, you can walk to the stadium while enjoying upscale amenities including an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and indoor pool.
Hilton Garden Inn Foxborough Patriot Place offers the second-best location within walking distance of Gillette Stadium, featuring modern amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness center, and on-site dining. For a slightly more luxurious experience with a short drive,
Sheraton Framingham Hotel & Conference Center provides upscale accommodations just 15 minutes away, complete with indoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Mid-Tier Selections
Residence Inn by Marriott Foxborough delivers excellent value with all-suite accommodations featuring separate living areas, free breakfast, and an on-site grocery store.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Foxborough caters to extended stays with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for multi-night visits.
Hilton Garden Inn Walpole offers comfortable rooms just off Route 1 with easy stadium access, while Holiday Inn Express & Suites Walpole provides reliable accommodations with complimentary breakfast in a convenient location.
Budget-Friendly Choices
Best Western Plus Walpole delivers solid value just off Route 1 with easy access to Gillette Stadium. Comfort Inn & Suites Mansfield sits about 15 miles from the stadium but compensates with competitive rates, indoor pool, fitness center, and free breakfast.
Plainridge Park Casino offers an interesting alternative with modern rooms and the added entertainment of gaming facilities, all within a short drive of the stadium.
Restaurants and Bars Near Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium sits in Foxborough, Massachusetts, about 30 miles southwest of Boston along the Route 1 corridor. The stadium anchors the massive Patriot Place entertainment complex, which becomes the epicenter of pregame and postgame activities. The tailgate scene at Gillette is a zoo… If you like cornhole, slugging and slamming beers with strangers, grilling burgers and dogs, and the inevitable parking lot party dance-off, the tailgates at Gillette are perfect for you. Beyond tailgating, fans flock to Patriot Place features more than 1.3 million square feet of shopping, dining and entertainment. Here are some options:
The Harp The legendary Boston sports bar that served Celtics fans for 30 years has brought its authentic game-day energy to Patriot Place. This is your go-to spot for watching pregame shows on multiple screens while enjoying elevated comfort food, local beers, and handcrafted cocktails. The spacious bar, dining room, and seasonal patio offer views of Gillette Stadium, making it the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere before heading to the game.
Six String Grill & Stage This massive venue accommodates over 400 people with an 80-seat undulating bar and Southern-inspired cuisine. The modern space features live country and rock music, 16 draft beers, and three projection screens perfect for sports viewing. The menu highlights include inventive Southern classics, and there’s plenty of room for dancing when the live acts take the stage.
Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse For those wanting to elevate their pregame experience, Davio’s offers elegant Italian dining with classics like Maine lobster risotto, hand-rolled gnocchi, and an extensive selection of premium steaks. The impressive wine list and full bar make it perfect for special occasions or business entertainment. On game days, the dinner menu is available all day.
Bar Louie This gastropub delivers the perfect pregame atmosphere with award-winning handcrafted martinis and cocktails. Popular menu items include buffalo chicken pizza, Nashville hot chicken sliders, truffle fries, and blackened fish tacos. The vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection make it ideal for groups looking to get pumped up before the game.
Scorpion Bar Located in the heart of Patriot Place, this 7,800-square-foot venue brings innovative Mexican cuisine with over 120 premium tequilas and an extensive margarita menu. The space features both indoor and outdoor patios, a 200-inch HDTV, and a stunning 50-foot white organic stone bar. Perfect for those wanting authentic Mexican flavors before the game.
Skipjack’s For seafood lovers, Skipjack’s offers fresh ocean fare including signature crab cakes, crispy baja fish tacos, lobster bisque, and a raw bar with oysters and clams. The extensive menu features the freshest seafood preparations, making it a popular choice for those wanting something different from typical sports bar fare.
Lafayette House Step back in time at this historic landmark established in 1784, where Benjamin Franklin and George Washington once dined. This former tavern and inn now serves traditional American continental cuisine in cozy rooms with fireplaces. It still houses one of the oldest standing bars in the country, making dining here a unique historical experience.
Tavolino This stylish pizzeria serves gourmet thin-crust pizzas and Italian specialties including crispy calamari, Chianti-braised wild boar, and Tuscan wings. The extensive drinks menu and kid-friendly options make it perfect for families, while the shareable plates work well for groups.
Citizen Crust A popular pizza spot perfect for grabbing a quick slice or two before the game. The casual atmosphere and quality pizzas make it a go-to choice for fans looking for good food without the fuss.
Pro Tip: Consider parking near your chosen restaurant and walking to the stadium afterward. Off-stadium parking often costs less and helps you avoid post-game traffic nightmares.
Things To Do Near Gillette Stadium
If you happen to be staying near Foxborough or traveling through, here are some fun things to do near the stadium.
- Patriot Place: Explore Patriot Place, an entertainment and shopping complex located adjacent to Gillette Stadium. Enjoy shopping at various retail stores, dine at restaurants (see above) offering a range of cuisines, catch a movie at the cinema, or visit The Hall at Patriot Place, a museum dedicated to the New England Patriots football team.
- Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll or go for a hike in nearby natural areas such as F. Gilbert Hills State Forest or the Wrentham State Forest. These scenic spots offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying nature.
- Golfing: Tee off at nearby golf courses like the Foxborough Country Club or Wentworth Hills Golf Club. Enjoy a round of golf amidst picturesque surroundings and well-maintained courses.
- Plainridge Park Casino: For some entertainment and gaming excitement, visit Plainridge Park Casino located a short distance from Gillette Stadium. Try your luck at the slot machines or gaming tables, enjoy live music and shows, and dine at the various restaurants within the casino complex.
- Gillette Stadium Tours: Take a guided tour of Gillette Stadium to get an insider’s look at the home of the New England Patriots football team and the New England Revolution soccer team. Explore behind-the-scenes areas such as the locker rooms, press box, and field, and learn about the stadium’s history and architecture.
If you’re looking for other guides in Boston check out our guides to Fenway and the TD Garden! Here are some other great NFL guides for Patriots fans that like to travel.
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.