Lauridsen Amphitheater Seating Chart & Seat Views – Best Spots for Every Event

Your Guide to the Perfect Seat at Des Moines’ Premier Outdoor Venue

Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park is Des Moines' top outdoor concert venue, hosting major artists and festivals with stunning skyline views. This 12,000-capacity riverside amphitheater offers tiered seating for optimal sightlines, but choosing the right spot depends on your priorities—sound, proximity, or budget.

Seating Chart Breakdown

• Front Orchestra (Rows A-F): Best for superfans—unbeatable proximity but steeply pitched seating may feel vertigo-inducing for some.
• Mid-Bowl (Sections 101-103): Goldilocks zone with 25° angled views and balanced sound. Center sections (102) avoid side-stage distortion.
• Lawn GA: Budget-friendly with festival vibes—bring blankets. Sightlines can be obstructed by standing crowds during peak acts.

Best Seat Views

Avoid extreme side sections (101/103) for concerts—sound bleed occurs near speaker arrays. For EDM festivals, the elevated walkway behind Section 103 offers a unique light-show perspective. Lawn sightlines are best early—arrive early for pop-up food vendors.

VIP & Accessibility

• VIP Terrace: Center-balcony seats with private bars and lounge seating—best for cocktail-sipping sophisticates.
• Accessible Seating: Platform areas at orchestra rear and lawn front—request early as these sell out fast for big acts.

Pro Tips

For sunset concerts, left-side seats face the golden-hour skyline. Budget hunters should check last-minute resales for mid-bowl seats at lawn prices. Always check the venue’s temporary obstruction list—some summer events add production towers.