The Ultimate Fan Guide to Fenway Park

Every hidden nook, cranny, and secret value at the Boston Red Sox ballpark. By the fans, for the fans. (Updated for 2026!)

Welcome! This is the definitive guide to Boston's Fenway Park, by the fans and for the fans. These recommendations were assembled by Talk Sox writers and community members who frequent the ballpark and have uncovered the best views, values, and secrets to share with you. 

Former Red Sox pitcher, Bill “Spaceman” Lee, once said, “Fenway Park is a shrine. People go there to worship." Lee’s statement rings true. Attending a baseball game at Fenway Park is a transcendental experience - it’s a living, breathing museum. 

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a lifelong Bostonian, this is a definitive guide to Fenway Park to help maximize your experience. 

Table of Contents (click to jump to section)

• Fenway Park Facts and Specs
• Best Places to Stay Around Fenway Park
• How to Get To & Park Around Fenway Park
• Best Seats at Fenway Park
• Best Food at Fenway Park
• Best Bars at Fenway Park
• Best Restaurants Around Fenway Park
• Secret Gems of Fenway Park
• Self-Guided Fenway Park Walking Tour
• Fenway Park Fan FAQs

Fenway Park at a Glance

• Address: 4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215
• Opened: April 12th, 1912
• Capacity: 37,755
• Dimensions
  • Left field:  310 feet
  • Left center field: 379 feet
  • Center field: 420 feet
  • Right field: 380 feet

Where to Stay Around Fenway Park

The Arcadian: The Arcadian is a newer hotel located in the quaint neighborhood of Brookline. It’s about 15 minutes away from downtown Boston, perfect for visitors looking for a quieter, yet accessible location to the city.

Fenway Park is either a 15-minute T ride or a 24-minute walk away from the Arcadian. The Saint Paul Street Station on the Green Line is located right outside the hotel. 

Courtyard Boston Brookline: Terry Francona resided at the Courtyard Boston Brookline during part of his managerial tenure in Boston! The hotel is about a block up from the Arcadian. Nightly rates are slightly more expensive than the Arcadian, but since it’s a larger chain hotel, you can utilize Marriott Rewards Points, credit card rewards, etc., to get a discounted rate on your stay. Unlike the Arcadian, the hotel has a parking garage ($50 daily fee) that’s connected to the hotel. 

The Verb Hotel: The Verb Hotel is a newer boutique hotel in the Fenway neighborhood. It has a rock and roll theme with room decorations featuring band and concert posters. If you’re looking for unique accommodation, you can stay in a Backstage trailer! 

Note: the on-site hotel parking is limited on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hotel Commonwealth: Hotel Commonwealth is the Official Hotel of the Boston Red Sox. Depending on the time of the year you’re visiting Boston, Hotel Commonwealth is the most expensive accommodation on this list. It offers several Red Sox packages with opportunities to meet players and watch batting practice from a specially designated area. Some rooms offer a view of Fenway Park, and baseball decor and memorabilia are on display throughout the hotel. 

I highly recommend the hotel; it’s a definite bucket list item for any Red Sox fan. A couple of summers ago, I snagged a deal on Expedia for a 3-night stay at the Hotel Commonwealth. The staff was friendly and helpful, my room was quiet despite the view of the Massachusetts Turnpike, and the location (only a 5-minute walk to Fenway) is superb for a game. 

2004 and 2007 World Series memorabilia are on display in the lobby.

Elevator wall signed by various baseball personnel - who can you spot?

As the team’s official hotel, it accommodates both former and current players. During my stay, I ran into Jonathan Papelbon in the lobby. (I also think I saw Triston Casas while waiting for the elevator... though this is unconfirmed).

How to Get to and Park Around Fenway Park

Boston traffic, especially around Kenmore during rush hour or before a game, can delay your arrival, so be sure to add some float time for your ETA. 

This map shows some parking garages and lots around Fenway Park. Parking spaces can be purchased in advance on Spot Angels at most locations.

MASCO Parking Garage: If you’re looking to avoid pre-game or post-game traffic and don’t mind walking, the Masco Parking Garage is located about a mile away (20-minute walk) from Fenway Park. Spots can be pre-purchased online via SpotHero.

Hynes Auditorium Garage: The Hynes Auditorium Garage is another option for fans looking to avoid traffic before or after the game. It also utilizes Spot Angels. The biggest difference between the Masco Parking Garage and the Hynes Auditorium Garage is their highway access. The Hynes Garage provides more convenient access to I-90 and I-93.

Public Transportation To Fenway Park

I'm a huge public transportation advocate, and the T (Boston's subway) offers the easiest and quickest method to get to the ballpark. The closest station to Fenway Park is Kenmore via the Green Line. It’s about a 5-10 minute walk from Kenmore Station to Gate E on Lansdowne Street. Visit the MBTA website for more information. 

Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are available in Boston. The Red Sox also have a Fenway Park Bike Valet Program with Bluebikes. Check out Bluebikes’ website for their station map with bike locations and dock availability. 

Seating Options at Fenway Park

Shaded Seats has a chart of the sun’s direction with Fenway Park’s seats. This is a helpful tool to keep in mind if you don’t want to spend your entire game roasting in the sun. The Red Sox have a Fenway Park 3D Seat Map listed on their website. To get a feel for your seat, I recommend checking out a View From My Seat, which features real photos that aren't computer-generated. Note: If you're a visiting fan, the visitor's dugout is situated behind third base. 

Everyone has different budgets and differing ranges for how much money they want to allocate toward tickets. Here, we’ve divided seat options into three categories:

• I’m John W. Henry (Money is no object)
• I’m willing to spend more money on seats
• I’m here for the vibes and a good time

I’m John W. Henry

These are premium seat options. Since Fenway is an older ballpark, it doesn’t have the stereotypical underground club seats that many newer stadiums feature for premium seat options. Most club areas are located on the second level of the ballpark.

Aura Pavilion: AP01-AP1
The Aura Pavilion has padded shaded seats with access to the climate-controlled Aura Club. They’re located on the upper level of the stadium along the first and third baselines. The latter has the best view of the Boston Skyline, accentuated by the Prudential Tower, John Hancock Tower, and One Dalton. 

For an additional fee, the Aura Club has a buffet, and food can be delivered to your seat. Pavilion Club seats also provide early access to the ballpark.

Dugout Box: FBC39 to FBC50 - Rows A1-3, FBC29 to FBC38 - Rows 1-2, and FBC17 to FBC20 - Rows 1-2
The Dugout Boxes are the closest seats to the field at Fenway Park. They’re padded with additional legroom. TV monitors are located in the first row of these sections. These tickets provide access to the Ford Clubhouse Lounge with a private entrance to the stadium, private restrooms, and a bar. 

Dell Technologies Club: EMC1 to EMC6
Located behind home plate above the second-level grandstand, the Dell Technologies Club's padded seats feature extra legroom. The club has a restaurant with premium food options.

Green Monster Seats: M1 to M9
Avoid these seats if you have a fear of heights! For anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, you can sit on the famous Green Monster. These seats aren’t cheap. Since the sections only have three rows, seating is limited. Unlike traditional grandstand seats, the Green Monster offers barstool seats with a bar to place your food, beer, etc. Book in advance if you want to sit here. Note: your view of left field will be limited. 

I’m willing to spend more money on seats

The happy medium between premium options and nosebleeds.

Field Box Seats: F9-F82
The Field Box seats run from first base to third base in the lower bowl at Fenway. These are the favorite seats at Fenway Park because they offer a view of the entire field. 

Right Field Lower Box Seats: B1 to B8
The Right Lower Box seats are situated around Pesky’s Pole. If you want a direct view of the Green Monster, scoreboard, and left and right field, these are the seats for you. Right Field Box 1 is directly next to the visitor’s bullpen, so you can watch pitchers warming up. 

Green Monster Standing Room Only
If you want the experience of catching a game on the Green Monster but don’t want to spend an excessive amount on tickets, you can purchase standing-room-only tickets. These tickets provide you with a bar to place your belongings, sans a designated seat.

Loge Box Seats: B87 to B165
The Loge Box seats run parallel to the Field Boxes on the lower level. They’re cheaper than the Field Box seats and are slightly elevated from the field.

I’m here for the vibes and a good time

Self-explanatory. 

Right Field Bleachers: L40 to L4
The Right Field Bleachers are positioned behind the home and visitor’s bullpen. Row 1 is a mixture of handicapped and grandstand seats, and Row 3 has extra legroom in these sections. As you move farther away from the field, seat prices decrease in these sections. Ted Williams’ famous Red Seat rests in Section 42, Row 37, Seat 21. Note: Be careful around the bleacher stairs. These can serve as a tripping hazard if you're not paying close attention. 

Centerfield Bleachers: L34 to L3
The Center Field Bleachers are another reasonably priced option in the outfield. Section 38 has a slightly obstructed view of the center field triangle. 

Standing Room Only
Fenway Park has several SRO options:

• Lower Level Standing Room: Located behind the grandstands. Some areas are obstructed by poles.
• Pavilion Level Standing Room: Located on the upper level behind the Aura Pavilion Club. 
• Coke Deck Standing Room: Located underneath the Coca-Cola sign in the left field foul territory.
• Sam Deck Standing Room: Located underneath the Samuel Adams sign in right field. 
• Bleacher Overlook Standing Room: Located behind the right field bleachers.

Sections to Avoid
Fenway is notably a smaller ballpark. One can argue there’s no such thing as a bad seat in the stadium, but I try to avoid the infield and outfield grandstand seats. The upper rows of these sections are far from the field, and some sections have slightly obstructed views. The seats aren’t positioned toward the field, so you have to sit at an angle during the game. Whenever I’ve sat in the grandstand, I felt disconnected since I was farther from the field. The seats are also notably smaller than the Loge and Field Boxes (which are already tight). 

Gems of Fenway Park

Green Monster

If you’re at Fenway Park, you can’t miss the Green Monster. The quirky structure was originally built to prevent curious passersby from watching games for free. Over time, it's undergone various renovations. Seats were added to the top in 2003. The manual scoreboard is operated by a small team, adding to Fenway’s old-timey feel. 

Red Seat

Located in Section 42, Row 37, Seat 21, the Red Seat immediately catches the eye amid the wave of green bleacher seats in right field. The seat commemorates Ted Williams’ alleged 502-foot homerun. For etiquette, I recommend arriving at the stadium early so you have ample time to see the Red Seat and other gems and to ensure you don’t disturb fans during the game. 

Pesky’s Pole

Named after the Red Sox shortstop, Johnny Pesky, Pesky’s Pole marks the end of the right field foul line in shallow right field. Situated 302 feet away from home plate (the shortest distance in the league), it accentuates the unique dimensions at Fenway Park. Before the game, you often see fans and visiting players signing the pole.

Boston Skyline

Head up to the third base side of the upper deck and take in the view of the Boston skyline from Fenway.

Sweet Caroline

Neil Diamond’s 1969 single “Sweet Caroline” plays in the middle of the eighth inning at every home Red Sox game. Other sports teams (ahem, the Premier League) have tried to appropriate the song, but it will always be the Red Sox’s anthem. Don’t miss it!

Self-Guided Fenway Park Walking Tour

Much like the Louvre, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the rich history that surrounds you at Fenway. Are you not sure where to start? Here’s a self-guided walking tour of the stadium, highlighting what to see before the first pitch.

Start at Gate B and snap a couple of photos with The Teammates Statue, Carl Yastrzemski Statue, and Ted Williams Statue. 

Head west down Van Ness Street and turn right on Jersey Street. Depending on how early you arrive, you might see some players entering the stadium along Van Ness Street.

Walk up Jersey Street and admire the World Series and American League Champion banners hanging on the right side of the street. Stop by the Jersey Street Team Store and stock up on Red Sox gear. For a quick detour, turn left onto David Ortiz Drive and see the life-size retired numbers in front of the Kenmore Lot.

Turn right onto Brookline Avenue, and then turn right onto Lansdowne Street and enter the stadium via Gate C. Walk up the stairs to the Green Monster, and watch the last bit of the Red Sox’s batting practice. 

After you’re finished on the Green Monster, make your way to the right field bleachers and walk up to Section 42, Row 37, Seat 21 to see the Red Sox. Maneuver down to the right field foul territory and snap a picture of Peksy’s Pole.

Along the third base/home plate concourse, there are old World Series logos painted on the wall. Head up to the Pavilion Deck, take a photo of the Boston Skyline, and marvel at baseball's best stadium backdrop.

After you see everything, grab a bite, find your seat, and watch the game!

Best Food at Fenway Park

The Sausage Guy: The Sausage Guy sells mouthwatering grilled sausages with peppers and onions. In my opinion, it’s better than anything sold in the stadium. I recommend grabbing one either before or after the game. 

Location: 49 Lansdowne St, Boston, MA 02215 (outside the parking garage on Lansdowne Street)

Luke’s Lobster: Luke’s serves lobster bisque, New England Clam Chowder,  and buttery lobster and crab rolls. “Chain seafood restaurant” is usually a red flag, but Luke’s places an emphasis on sustainability and the traceability of their seafood. 

Locations: Jersey Street, Right Field Concourse

Savenor's Cheesesteak: Sliced grilled beef with peppers and onions, topped with American cheese. 

Locations: Jersey Street, Right Field Concourse

Boston Crème Pie: Boston Crème Pie is two layers of vanilla cake sandwiched by pastry cream and topped with a chocolate ganache glaze.

Locations: Big Concourse, Bleacher Concourse

Cowboy Up! Burger: Named after Kevin Millar's slogan from the team's 2004 Red Sox World Series run, the burger features cheddar cheese, bacon, brisket, onion rings, and barbecue sauce on a brioche bun.

Locations: Home Plate Concourse, Sam Deck, Angry Orchard Terrace 

Churros: Crispy fried dough (slightly larger than steak fries) coated in sugar and cinnamon

Location: Kids Concourse

El Tiante Cuban Sandwich: Luis Tiant, the late pitching legend, used to serve authentic Cuban sandwiches topped with sliced pork and ham, mustard, and pickles on Jersey Street. Though he passed away in October 2024, the stand carries on his enduring legacy.

Locations: Jersey Street, Sam Deck, Angry Orchard Terrace

Lobstah Poutine:  Fenway's version swaps the gravy and cheese curds for clam chowder and Luke's Lobster meat, and adds bacon. 

Locations: Big Concourse, Angry Orchard Terrace, Sam Deck

Monster Cookie: Enjoy a freshly-baked chocolate chip cookie on your own (or to share).

Locations: Big Concourse, Gate E Concourse

Surf & Turf Dog: Want something different (and more expensive) than a traditional hot dog? Nestled in a brioche bun, The Surf & Turf Dog is made with Kobe beef -- a variant of Japanese wagyu -- garnished with Luke's Lobster meat, bacon, and chives. 

Locations: Clubs

Standard Ballpark Fare: If you’re looking for traditional ballpark food (you can't go wrong with a Fenway Frank), the Red Sox’s official concession guide lists where these items are sold throughout the stadium. Fenway Food also posts photos of stadium food on Instagram.

Moreover, Eater releases their annual stadium food guide before the season starts, so be sure to check that out.

Best Bars Around Fenway Park

The Bullpen is a hidden dive bar with its own entrance to Fenway Park. While Google Maps lists its address as 19 Jersey Street, it's best to enter the bar via Arthur's Way. If you're visiting during a game and don't have a ticket, you can still access the bar. Plus, you can come and go as you please throughout the game. The menu features classic sports bar fare along with a unique selection of cocktails. 

Bleacher Bar is a one-of-a-kind bar located beneath the center field bleachers at Fenway Park. The bar offers a glimpse of center field. The venue gets busy before games. Reservations can be made in advance. 

Cask ‘N Flagon is one of the many sports bars located on Lawnsdowne Street. It’s a great spot to pregame or catch a drink after the game.

Game On is situated on the corner of Lawnsdowne and Jersey Street. For special events, they feature bar games such as cornhole, ping pong, and Jenga. 

If you’re a New England IPA enthusiast (like me), stop by Trillium’s Fenway location. The outdoor patio is a prime spot to hang out in the summer. It’s a family-friendly venue, and outside food is permitted. Time Out Market is located next door to satisfy any cravings. Trillium also gives tours at its flagship distillery in Canton. 

Best Restaurants Around Fenway Park

Time Out Market Boston is a large dining hall with various eateries, including Union Square Doughnuts,  Cuasser’s Roast Beef & Seafood, and Taqueria El Barrio. If your group has a diverse palate and can’t agree on a dining venue, Time Out Market lets you choose from a variety of options, ensuring everyone in your party is satisfied.

Eastern Standard Kitchen and Drinks is an upscale American restaurant within a short walk of Fenway Park. If the weather permits, you can sit on their patio and dine with a view of Fenway Park. Try their Grilled Bavette Steak Frites.

Mighty Squirrel is located below Eastern Standard. The restaurant has several New England-style IPAs on tap and offers a quieter dining experience than some of the raucous sports bars on Lansdowne Street. 

Looking for seafood? Eventide Fenway is an oyster bar within walking distance of Fenway. The venue offers classic New England seafood dishes like lobster rolls and New England clam chowder, as well as modern options such as tuna tartare and a fish charcuterie board.

Blue Ribbon Sushi is located adjacent to Hotel Commonwealth. As its name suggests, the restaurant serves sushi in addition to Japanese dishes such as miso soup, miso cod, and wagyu gyoza. Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas has been noted as a frequent patron.

Quick Bites Around Fenway Park

Tasty Burger is a late-night spot for hot dogs, burgers, fries, milkshakes, or chicken. It’s open until 2:00 am seven days a week. If you want a quick coffee before the game, Tatte Bakery & Cafe and Caffè Nero are solid options. As for chain restaurants, Chipotle, Blaze Pizza, Honeygrow, and Starbucks have locations near the ballpark. 

Fenway Park Fan FAQs

What is Fenway Park's bag policy?

In recent years, MLB stadiums' bag policies have gotten progressively stricter. Fenway Park is no exception. To avoid any potential headaches, I'd advise against bringing a bag. Check out Fenway Park’s A-Z Guide for more information. 

Allowed

• A single-compartment bag no larger than 12”x12”x6”
• Clear bags are recommended to facilitate faster entry to the ballpark, but are not required

Not Allowed

• Backpacks, large purses, duffle bags, and multi-compartment bags
  • Exceptions are made for medical bags and diaper bags
• Clear backpacks are not permitted inside the stadium

Can I watch batting practice at the ballpark?

Yes, gates open 90 minutes before the game starts. This allows fans to catch the tail end of the visiting team’s batting practice. If you want to watch the Red Sox’s batting practice, you’ll have to purchase a Red Sox Nation membership, which costs $21.95. Membership provides early entry for you and one adult guest 2.5 hours before the first pitch. Children’s access (ages 18 and under) is covered by the membership. 

Additional Red Sox Nation benefits include 10% off at the Jersey Street Store and Red Sox Online Shop for the 2026 season, plus a $10 eCash bonus, redeemable in-person at the Jersey Street Store. Whether you live in Boston or you’re an out-of-towner, the membership is worth it alone for entering the stadium early. Moreover, if you’re attending a game with a giveaway, you’re guaranteed to receive the item with early entry.

Can I bring outside food or drinks into Fenway Park?

You can’t bring outside food into the stadium except for one sealed 16-ounce plastic bottle of water. 

Can I tour Fenway Park?

Yes! The Red Sox offer a variety of tours, including a "Cultures of the Clubhouse" tour, an 8 AM Field Level tour, and a quick 15-minute tour. Visit their website for a detailed breakdown and to book your tour.

Miscellaneous Boston Attractions

Outside of Fenway Park, Boston has a ton of attractions that are worth visiting. Here’s an overview of them. 

Boston Duck Tours: Get the duckboats ready... for a Boston sightseeing tour! The Red Sox, Patriots, and Celtics have used the Boston Duck Tours vehicles in various championship parades. Tours aren’t too long (roughly an hour and a half) and offer a relaxing overview of the city and the Charles River. They depart from three locations:  the Museum of Science, the Prudential Center, and the New England Aquarium. 

Faneuil Hall: Faneuil Hall is a historic building where the Founding Fathers deliberated and advocated for independence from Great Britain. Admission is free, and it’s worth stopping by for a quick visit. The Fanueil Hall Marketplace is also located across the street from Fanueil Hall. 

Boston Public Library: The Boston Public Library is an architectural marvel. Admission is free. The building is easily accessible and is within walking distance of Newbury Street. For any long-distance runners, it’s also located next to the Boston Marathon Finish Line. 

Newbury Street: Newbury Street spans eight blocks filled with shopping and restaurants. Premium stores are located on the western side closest to the Public Garden. On the eastern end (closest to Fenway), you can find cafes, comic book stores, and vintage clothing stores. Rick Walker's is my go-to for vintage concert shirts. 

Museum of Fine Arts Boston: The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) has an impressive selection of contemporary and Old Masters artwork. 

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: If you have time to visit just one art museum, I highly recommend the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Housed in a Venetian-style palazzo, the museum was built to showcase Gardner’s private collection. Unlike typical art museums, it doesn’t feature wall labels next to the artworks.

Let us know in the comments if you have any recommendations to enhance your experience at Fenway!

Note: With the ongoing Fenway Corners development project, new restaurants and attractions will be added to the neighborhood, and this guide will reflect these changes! Be sure to re-review this guide as construction continues.