Shaded Seating at Dodger Stadium

Dodger Stadium is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in baseball, but “Blue Heaven on Earth” can feel like a literal oven during a 1:10 PM Sunday game in August. So much so that the LA Times has an interactive timeline on surviving the Dodger Stadium heat.

The “Odd” Rule of Thumb

The easiest way to remember where the shade is at Dodger Stadium is the section numbers. Odd is God. All odd-numbered sections (1, 113, 247, etc.) are located on the third-base side. Because the sun sets behind left field, these seats get shade first and stay shaded the longest.

Even-numbered sections on the first-base side are often referred to by regulars as the “rotisserie” sections because fans there will bake in the sun until the very last out.

The Best Levels for Shade Seekers

If you are looking for guaranteed protection, you need to think about the stadium overhangs:

• The Loge Level (The Sweet Spot): The Loge Level is arguably the best place in the park. If you sit in Row N or higher, you are almost certainly under the overhang of the Reserve level above. This provides a “ceiling” that blocks the sun even when it is directly overhead at noon.

• The Reserve Level (Top-Tier Protection): While higher up, the back rows of the Reserve level (look for rows AA, BB, and CC) are under the actual roof of the stadium. This is often the most affordable way to stay out of the sun for an entire day game.

• The Executive Club Level: If your budget allows, the Club level is the ultimate heat-beater. Most of the seating is shaded, and you have the ability to walk into an air-conditioned concourse without missing a pitch.

The Danger of the “Sunset Glare”

For night games starting at 6:10 PM or 7:10 PM, many fans assume the sun won’t be an issue. However, for those on the first base side (even sections), the first hour of the game can be brutal.

Because you are facing west, the sun sets directly in your eyes. This creates a blinding glare that makes it difficult to see the pitcher. If you must sit on the first base side for a night game, bring high-quality polarized sunglasses and a hat with a sturdy brim.

By picking the odd side and staying toward the back of your section, you can enjoy the game in the shade while everyone else is reaching for the sunscreen.