While the Mets’ season hasn’t gone quite as planned, catching a game at Citi Field is as exciting as ever.
Take it from me, a diehard Mets fans who just attended my first game — in the sixth row of the lower level to boot — out in Flushing. After my shockingly efficient 7 express train trip, I jotted down my thoughts about the in-ballpark experience.
Here’s what it was like to see Buck Showalter’s boys up close and personal IRL.
Pre-game stroll
I arrived two hours early (extra, I know) to ensure there was more than enough time to get to my seats. You’d think I’d grow bored with all the time to spare, but the 7 p.m. start time approached much quicker than anticipated.
In my two hours before the first pitch, I spent time scavenging the team shop, where I purchased a hot pink baseball cap, and then stocked up on signature stadium food (hot dogs, popcorn and my favorite, Dole Whip).
Honestly, I regret not spending more time in my seats before the game started—it would have been thrilling to sit back and watch the action as crowds rushed in.
Watching the game from the sixth row
The game itself felt like a fever dream. I sat so close to the players, I could see sweat dripping down their faces as they raced to home base. Everything seemed brighter from up close: the scoreboard, the finely-manicured grass on the field, the digital billboards. Rock music boomed, fans cheered, baseballs flew —the energy was electric.
I was nervous beforehand that I wouldn’t be able to understand everything that was going on in the game when watching live (I’m nearsighted, so it’s difficult to make out action from a distance). Surprisingly, I followed every move and stayed glued to my seat all the way to the final out.
The Mets beat the Phillies by a score of 4-1 the night I went. Watching the crowd jump to their feet upon the victory was invigorating — I couldn’t wait to treat myself to another evening out in Flushing.
Thankfully, the season is not over, and there’s more than enough time to secure a seat. Tickets start as low as $3 before fees on Vivid Seats (that’s cheaper than my Dole Whip!). Plus, if you pick the right night, there will be giveaways galore at Citi Field. A few I’m most excited about include the Mr. Met bobblehead on June 27, Topps baseball cards on July 19 and the Kodai Senga Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Fork Ball on Aug. 25. For a closer look at all the Mets’ freebies this season, check out our comprehensive list here.
I’ve already purchased tickets for an upcoming game, and I know it’s going to be another home run.
All prices listed above were found at the time of publication and are subject to fluctuation.
Concerts at Citi Field and Yankee Stadium in 2023
There won’t just be baseball at the New York ballparks this summer. Here are just five of the concerts we can’t wait for these next few months.
• Dead and Company with John Mayer at Citi Field (June 21-22)
• Burna Boy at Citi Field (July 8)
• Pink at Citi Field (Aug. 3)
• Hip Hop 50 with Snoop Dogg, Run DMC and more at Yankee Stadium (Aug. 11)
• Jonas Brothers (Aug. 12-13)
Who else is on the road this year? Check out our list of all the biggest concert tours in 2023 here to find out.