Finding the right spot inside a massive multi-purpose venue takes more than a quick glance at a generic diagram. PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh holds up to 19,800 people depending on the event, hosting everything from Pittsburgh Penguins hockey games to massive touring concerts. Knowing how the sections, rows, and seat numbers fit together helps you avoid obstructed views and secure the exact experience you want.
The arena layout splits into three primary seating tiers: the lower bowl (100 level), club and suite tiers, and the upper bowl (200 level). For hockey, the Penguins shoot twice toward section 107, making sections 105 through 109 prime territory for home team fans. For concerts, standard end-stage setups place the floor sections directly in front of the performance, while sections 104 through 110 sit right opposite the stage.
Lower Bowl Seating Guide (100 Level)
The lower bowl spans sections 101 through 122, wrapping completely around the playing surface or event floor. Row letters in this tier typically start with Row A at the front and run up to Row Z, followed by AA through EE in select sections. Note that Row I is skipped to avoid confusion with the number 1.
Seat numbering follows a strict rule: seat number 1 is always closest to the adjacent section with the lower number. If you sit in Section 112, seat 1 will border Section 111. Further analysis on this matter has been published by BBC.
- Center Ice / Sideline: Sections 101-103 and 111-113 put you right on top of the action. The Pittsburgh Penguins bench sits in front of sections 101 and 102, while the visiting team bench rests in front of sections 102 and 103.
- Attack Zone: Sections 106 to 108 are where the Penguins attack twice during regulation periods.
- Corners and Ends: Sections 114 to 122 and 104 to 106 provide great angles of plays developing on the opposite side of the ice, often at a more accessible price point than center ice.
Upper Bowl Seating Guide (200 Level)
The upper bowl, known commercially as the 84 Lumber balcony level, includes sections 201 through 234. Rows here run from A to Q. While you are farther from the ice or stage, the steep rake of the upper bowl ensures that sightlines remain surprisingly clear across most sections.
- Best Value: Rows A through E in the 200 level give you an elevated, sweeping view of the entire playing surface without paying lower-bowl prices. You can easily watch plays develop from up high.
- Back Rows Caution: Rows K through Q in sections 220 through 230 put you near the top of the arena. While tickets here are cheap, you will feel quite far from the floor, and overhead rigging or lighting trusses for concerts can occasionally create minor visual interference.
For official updates on layout modifications or venue policies, check the PPG Paints Arena Official Site.
Concert and Event Configurations
When musical acts or theatrical productions roll into town, the seating chart changes entirely. The venue removes the hockey dasher boards and protective glass to install a floor seating layout alongside an end-stage or center-stage setup.
Floor sections typically range from Floor 1 up to Floor 9, with General Admission (GA) standing pits frequently positioned directly against the stage. If you buy GA pit tickets, you need to arrive early to secure a spot near the barricade. Reserved floor seats (Floors 1-3) place you on folding chairs at floor level; if you are shorter, rows past Row M can sometimes suffer from blocked sightlines if someone tall stands up in front of you.
Sections 104 through 110 serve as the optimal elevated vantage points for end-stage concerts because they sit directly facing the performance head-on, giving you a balanced perspective of the light shows and video screens.
Premium Seating and Clubs
If you want upscale amenities, private concourses, and all-inclusive food and beverage options, the arena features several premium hospitality spaces:
- Club Seats: Located in lower bowl sections 101-103 and 111-113, these ticket holders gain access to exclusive lounges featuring upscale dining options and private bars.
- Executive Suites: Positioned on the PNC Legends Level, these private rooms wrap around the middle tier of the arena, offering a luxury environment for corporate hosting or group outings.
- Loge Boxes: Semi-private open-air boxes that combine the social atmosphere of a suite with dedicated seating and upscale food service.
To check broader ticketing guidelines and policies for major tours, visit Ticketmaster.
Common Seating Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing seats solely based on a 2D map can lead to surprises on event night. Keep these common pitfalls in mind before purchasing your tickets:
- Ignoring Row Depth: In the 100 level, rows go all the way back to EE. Sitting in Row DD means you are deep under the overhang of the club level, which cuts off your view of the upper scoreboard screens.
- Extreme Angles: Sections sitting directly beside or behind the stage for concerts (such as sections 114, 115, or 101 depending on stage placement) are usually marked as side-view or rear-view. Performers may spend a lot of time facing away from you.
- AISLE SEAT ASSUMPTIONS: Don't assume seat 1 is always on the right or left without checking the section map; remember that seat 1 anchors to the lower-numbered adjacent section. Always verify which side is closer to the aisle you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the visitor bench located at PPG Paints Arena?
The visiting team bench is positioned right in front of section 103, sharing space near section 102.
Which rows are covered by the overhang in the lower bowl?
Rows sliding past AA in the 100 level sections begin entering the shadow of the club suite overhang. If you prefer an open-air sky view without a concrete ceiling above you, aim for rows landing between A and T.
Are there any completely obstructed view seats for hockey?
Standard hockey configurations offer clear sightlines across the lower and upper bowls. However, specific rows near the very top corners or behind structural stairwells in the 200 level may have minor handrail obstructions.
How early should I arrive for events?
Gates typically open 60 to 90 minutes before puck drop or concert start times. Arriving early lets you navigate security smoothly and locate your section without rushing through the concourse crowds.
