Finding tickets can be a serious headache. Sometimes it's just a matter of knowing where to look, and finding a seller that you are happy with. Here are some tips for gaining access to three of the most popular events: the Kentucky Derby, Chicago Cubs and Dallas Mavericks games.
Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is the biggest horse racing event in the world. And, it is also the toughest to get into. They have fewer seats than they have people who want them, so you can have a lot of difficulty getting in.
They sell general admission to the event, and they're all fairly inexpensive. What's the catch? They're only sold on the day of the race! That means there are perhaps 20,000 seats and over 50,000 racing fans camping out, lining up, eager to get a spot at the track. Good luck!
There is an easier way to go about it, but it looks tough at first. Some tracks offer advanced sales to their members of a site specific club. Anyone can become a member. You simply fill out an online membership form. After approval, you can apply for advanced tickets.
Don't be turned off by the seeming hassle; the form isn't tough to fill out at all, and then you're instantly a member. Once you're a member, you have access to all the perks, including advance purchase. They select members based on loyalty to the Derby, which means that the folks who have been going there for years will get picked first. But don't give up. If you don't get in this year, try again next year.
Also, the application asks you where you'd like to sit. You will increase your chances greatly by saying that anywhere will do, especially if you are a new member. Welcome to the club!
Chicago Cubs
There's nothing like seeing the Cubs win on home turf in Chicago. You can get Chicago Cubs tickets at any outlet in advance of the game, but what if you're in a pinch?
The best place to do last minute purchases is online. Don't buy from scalpers! The stadium is notorious for its scalpers, and you'll end up paying way more than you should. Scalpers know that if you're looking to buy when you get to the field, you're desperate enough to pay anything.
It's also a good idea to avoid online auctions. Online auctions are not so great for buying tickets, for a variety of reasons, including high prices and seller unreliability.
There are tons of online ticket dealers. Remember that you can always shop around. If the staff doesn't reply promptly, or isn't friendly and professional, look for another seller.
The best way to check out the dealer's reputation is by looking at the customer ratings. Read these carefully and you'll know if you've got a good one. You'll be able to find an online dealer that will ship quickly and at a much lower rate than you'd pay some scalper outside the ballpark.
Dallas Maverick
You can find Dallas Maverick tickets almost anywhere on the web at dealer sites. This is because they are one of the most popular professional basketball teams, and many outlets sell out quickly. Online, you can find discount tickets sold by wholesalers or people who couldn't go at the last minute.
If you want those tickets fast, your best bet is to go with a regular dealer online, and not just somebody who is selling at the last minute. This is because the dealers rely on good ratings, customer satisfaction and fast delivery for their business.
Buying tickets is always tricky, but if you shop around, you can find a seller that will satisfy your needs.