Chicago Symphony Center Seating Guide for "Back To The Future In Concert"

Expert Recommendations for the Best Views & Values

The Chicago Symphony Center offers exceptional acoustics and sightlines, but choosing the right section dramatically impacts your experience. Below are our expert picks for every budget, with detailed notes on view quality and price differences between similar sections.

Best Value Tickets ($108-$120)

• Gallery Sections (Rows A-H): Excellent elevated views at balcony-level prices. Gallery Left/Right Center (Rows G-I) offer the best side-angle views of the screen and orchestra.
• Upper Balcony (Rows R): Most affordable option, but avoid extreme sides (Upper Balcony Left/Right) as they have partially obstructed screen views.
• Pro Tip: Gallery Left Row C ($108) is better than Gallery Row A ($119) - you're paying less for a better central view.

Sweet Spot (Good Availability & Price, $135-$180)

• Main Floor Rows Q-V ($180): Perfect middle-ground - close enough to see details but far enough for full-screen viewing. Center sections (Q-T) are worth the $1-2 premium over side sections.
• Lower Balcony Center (Rows H-K, $216): The hidden gem - identical views to $264 seats but often overlooked. Row J/K puts you at ideal vertical elevation.
• Warning: Main Floor Rows U/V ($166) are cheaper but too far back - you'll be craning your neck upward for the screen.

Higher Tier Options ($200-$264)

• Main Floor Rows A-D ($200-$216): Premium orchestra seating. Row D center is the price/performance leader here.
• Lower Balcony Front (Rows A, $216): Stunning overhead views, but check seat numbers - avoid far side seats (A1-A4).
• View Difference: $264 Lower Balcony Center Row F vs. $216 Row H - you're paying 22% more to move forward just 2 rows.

Premium & Last-Minute Options ($277+)

• Box Level ($361): Unique private experience but poor value - you're paying 67% more than better Lower Balcony seats.
• Front Floor (Rows R/V, $336-$437): Only consider if you want ultra-close screen viewing - sound quality diminishes this close.
• Best Splurge: Lower Balcony Center Row G ($264) - perfect elevation and dead-center alignment with the screen.

Section Comparison Highlights

• Gallery Left vs. Gallery Left Center: The Center sections (Rows G-I) have 5-10° better screen alignment for the same price.
• Main Floor Side vs. Center: Side sections (Left/Right) have 15-20% worse sightlines but are priced identically - always choose center when available.
• Vertical Visibility: Lower Balcony Row J ($253) vs. Main Floor Row N ($242) - the balcony provides better screen visibility despite being cheaper.

Our Top 3 Recommendations

1. Best Overall Value: Gallery Left Center Row G ($108) - unbeatable combination of price and view quality
2. Premium Choice: Lower Balcony Left Center Row J ($216) - perfect elevation with center alignment
3. Budget Pick: Upper Balcony Left Center Row R ($108) - best cheap seats with decent screen view

Seating Strategy for Groups

• Groups of 6-8: Gallery Left Center Row I ($108) has best availability
• Pairs: Jump to Lower Balcony Right Center Row K ($216) for romantic elevated views
• Families: Upper Balcony Right Row R ($108) has most contiguous seating

Remember: For "Back To The Future In Concert," prioritize screen visibility over proximity - the ideal seats are at medium distance with slight elevation. The Chicago Symphony Center's steep balcony design means even "cheap" seats have good views compared to other venues.