The National Football League (NFL) is one of the most popular and widely watched sports leagues in the world. NFL games, from the regular season to the Super Bowl, attract millions of fans both in stadiums and through broadcast channels.
Securing tickets to watch an NFL game live is a thrilling experience, allowing fans to witness their favorite teams in action, feel the atmosphere of the crowd, and enjoy the game from the best seats in the house.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about NFL tickets — how to get them, tips for finding the best deals, understanding ticket types, and insights into the different ticket platforms available.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned fan looking to enhance your experience, this guide has you covered.
1. NFL Tickets for All Games
Before purchasing tickets, it’s essential to understand the various types available for NFL games. Each offers a unique experience and level of access:
1.1. General Admission Tickets
The most common type, general admission tickets grant access to a specific seat within the stadium. These tickets can range in price based on the teams playing, the stadium’s location, and the game’s importance (e.g., playoffs vs. regular season).
They are the most accessible option for fans and are typically sold through the team’s official website or third-party platforms.
1.2. Season Tickets
Season tickets are for die-hard fans who plan to attend every home game of their favorite team. Buying a season ticket guarantees the same seat for every regular-season home game. Some season ticket packages also offer benefits such as priority access to playoff tickets, merchandise discounts, and exclusive events.
1.3. Premium and VIP Tickets
For those looking to elevate their game-day experience, premium and VIP tickets offer luxury seating, access to exclusive lounges, gourmet food, and beverages, as well as priority parking. These tickets are typically more expensive and can be purchased directly from the team or specialized ticket agencies.
1.4. Playoff and Super Bowl Tickets
Tickets to the NFL playoffs and Super Bowl are highly sought after and can be difficult to obtain. Due to limited availability and high demand, prices for these tickets often skyrocket. Fans interested in playoff tickets should be ready to purchase them as soon as they are released or look into official resale platforms.
1.5. Resale Tickets
The secondary market for NFL tickets is vast. Fans can buy and sell tickets through platforms like StubHub, SeatGeek, Ticketnetwork and Ticketmaster. Resale tickets can fluctuate in price depending on demand, making it possible to find deals or, conversely, pay a premium for last-minute seats to high-profile games.
2. Where to Buy NFL Tickets
There are multiple ways to buy NFL tickets, each with its pros and cons. It’s essential to understand these options to make an informed decision:
2.1. Official Team Websites
The most direct way to purchase tickets is through the official website of the NFL team. Teams sell individual game tickets, season tickets, and packages. Buying directly from the team guarantees the authenticity of the tickets, but popular games can sell out quickly.
2.2. Ticketmaster
As the official ticketing partner of the NFL, Ticketmaster is a reliable source for NFL tickets. It offers a wide range of seating options, from general admission to premium seats. Additionally, Ticketmaster’s verified resale marketplace allows fans to buy and sell tickets securely.
2.3. StubHub
StubHub is one of the most popular third-party platforms for buying and selling NFL tickets. It offers a massive selection, including sold-out games and premium seats. StubHub’s user-friendly interface allows fans to filter by price, section, and row, giving flexibility to choose the perfect seat. The platform also has a FanProtect guarantee, ensuring the tickets are legitimate and delivered on time.
2.4. SeatGeek
SeatGeek aggregates tickets from various sources, including team sites, Ticketmaster, and resale platforms, offering users a wide range of options in one place. SeatGeek’s “Deal Score” feature helps buyers identify the best deals based on price, seat quality, and proximity to the game.
2.5. NFL Ticket Exchange
The NFL Ticket Exchange, powered by Ticketmaster, is an official resale platform. It allows season ticket holders and other fans to sell their tickets securely. This platform ensures that all tickets are verified and that buyers receive their tickets without issues.
3. Tips for Finding the Best Deals on NFL Tickets
NFL tickets can be expensive, especially for popular games, but with some savvy strategies, you can find good deals:
3.1. Buy Early or Late
Purchasing tickets as soon as they go on sale can be a great way to lock in the best prices, especially for popular games. However, for less high-profile matchups, waiting until closer to game day can yield last-minute deals as sellers lower prices to move unsold tickets.
3.2. Use Resale Platforms
Secondary markets like StubHub and SeatGeek often have better prices due to competitive pricing among sellers. Compare prices across multiple platforms to find the best deal.
3.3. Look for Discounts and Promotions
Occasionally, NFL teams or ticket platforms offer promotions, discounts, or packages for groups, military personnel, or students. Keep an eye on the team’s official website or ticketing partners for such opportunities.
3.4. Consider Less Popular Games
Prime-time games and matchups between top teams usually come with higher price tags. If you’re flexible, consider attending games against less popular teams or games scheduled earlier or later in the season when demand might be lower.
3.5. Choose Seats Wisely
While lower-level seats provide a closer view of the action, they come with a higher price. Upper-level seats are often much cheaper and still offer a great game-day experience. Use seating charts and virtual seat previews on platforms like Ticketmaster or SeatGeek to ensure you get a good view for your budget.
4. NFL Game Day Experience
Once you’ve secured your tickets, it’s time to enjoy the full NFL game day experience. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:
4.1. Arrive Early
Arriving early allows you to explore the stadium, grab food, and watch warm-ups. Many NFL stadiums also offer fan experiences, such as interactive games and photo opportunities.
4.2. Tailgating
Tailgating is a beloved tradition for many NFL fans. Whether it’s grilling food, playing games, or simply enjoying the pre-game atmosphere, tailgating can enhance the overall experience. Some stadiums have designated tailgating areas, so be sure to check the rules and guidelines.
4.3. Check Stadium Policies
Each stadium has its own set of rules regarding bags, seating, and behavior. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these policies ahead of time to avoid delays or issues when entering the venue.
4.4. Concessions and Merchandise
NFL stadiums are known for their variety of food and drink options. From local specialties to classic game-day snacks, there’s something for everyone. Also, if you’re looking to grab some team merchandise, the stadium shops offer an extensive selection of jerseys, hats, and souvenirs.
5. The Future of NFL Tickets: Mobile and Digital Experiences
In recent years, the NFL has embraced technology by moving toward mobile and digital ticketing. This shift has brought added convenience for fans and enhanced security measures:
5.1. Mobile Ticketing
Most NFL teams now use mobile tickets, allowing fans to access their tickets directly from their smartphones. This eliminates the need for paper tickets and provides a secure and convenient way to enter the stadium.
5.2. Contactless Entry
Many stadiums have implemented contactless entry options, where fans can scan their mobile tickets without physical interaction. This feature speeds up entry and reduces wait times at the gates.
5.3. Enhanced Fan Experiences
Some teams and ticket platforms offer digital enhancements, such as interactive seating maps, virtual tours of the stadium, and real-time ticket availability updates. These features help fans make informed decisions when purchasing tickets and improve the overall experience.
6. Conclusion
Attending an NFL game is an unforgettable experience, and securing the right tickets is the first step in making it happen. Whether you’re a casual fan looking for a good deal or a die-hard supporter wanting the best seats in the house, understanding the various ticket types, platforms, and strategies for purchasing can help you get the most out of your game-day experience.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to buy NFL tickets for all games and make the most of your time cheering for your favorite team live in the stadium. Whether it’s regular-season excitement or the electrifying atmosphere of the playoffs, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of live NFL action.