How truly special are Madison Square Garden shows?..

It was cool the first time have to admit. The floor shaking was amazing. Past the initial wow factor of MSG, I don't think it is any different than any other stadium show.

Now venue aside, Manhattan/NYC is amazing, and getting to see all it offers in addition to a show makes the experience way different than any other.

Crowd: yeah they are loud, but so are crowds in all the other cities I have seen them. I did not find the NYC crowd any better than Chicago's, DC's, Alpine's, Indy's, and from what I can hear on boots Boston's. To be honest I found the crowd in NYC shows was more out of towners than in towners from the people I met at the show/pre-parties.

Set: The band usually brings it for NYC shows, and there are usually nice special guests. They are aware of the aura/history of MSG and I do think they try to play worthy of it.

If you are into the visit them in other places, wanna see them in historical places phase of your PJness then yes you have to see them there, otherwise on a purely show standpoint, not that big of a difference IMO.

I guess it depends on the overall experience you are desiring. For what it would cost me to see them in NYC I can see them 2 times in most other places. I would rather see them twice, than spend 2x the amount of money for everything from food, lodging, gas, bridge/tunnel fees, air fare, tourist traps, souvenirs, etc.

PS stay in Jersey and take the train to MSG, it is half the cost of staying in the city.

Loved both MSG shows I was at, glad I did them, but I feel bar some special show ala pj20, I have no need to go see them there again.