Get us in your inbox

Search
Fenway Park
Photograph: Shutterstock

Insider's guide to Fenway

Discover the charms of the Fenway neighborhood with our comprehensive neighborhood guide

JQ Louise
Written by
JQ Louise
Advertising

Whereas the Fenway was once a sleepy, nondescript neighborhood that only came to life when the Red Sox were in town, today the Fenway neighborhood is one of Boston's busiest and most dynamic. Just about everyone—even non-sporty types—finds their way over to the Fenway now and then; a mix of students, young professionals, and out-of-towners gather regularly to eat and drink the night away, even if the local nine is out of town. 

What is the best way to get to Fenway Park?

While there is more to the Fenway neighborhood than Fenway Park, the first question we have to answer is ‘what is the best way’ to get to the ballpark for a game, concert or event. Hands down the best way to get to Fenway Park is the T. And the insider’s tip on game day is to take either the B or C train on the green line, rather than the D train. Th reason for this is while there is a “Fenway” stop, the stop closest to the ballpark is actually “Kenmore” and out-of-towners assume that they want to get off at Fenway, so those trains are usually more packed than the B or C trains that only stop at Kenmore. However, no matter what you do, don’t take an E train this one doesn’t stop at either.

Where are all the gates? 

There are six entrance gates to Fenway Park. 

Gate A: Corner of Jersey Street and Brookline Avenue
Gate B: Corner of Van Ness Street and Ipswich Street
Gate C: Lansdowne Street
Gate D: Corner of Jersey Street and Van Ness Street
Gate E: Lansdowne Street near Brookline Avenue
Gate K: This is the entrance to the Kids Concourse, located next to Gate B on the corner of Van Ness Street and Ipswich Street 

What are you allowed to bring into Fenway Park with you? 

During Red Sox games, the current bag policy is, “Bags must be single-compartment and no larger than 12"x12"x6". Backpacks, backpack-style purses, duffel bags, and other multi-compartment bags are NOT permitted.” And know that they are very strict about this, and they also update this policy all the time, so check before the game.

What are the best places to go to before a game?

If you want to stick to the Fenway neighborhood before a game and have some time to kill, we recommend taking advantage of some of the “finer” dining around the park and save the sports bars for during or after the game to soak up the atmosphere. Beforehand, head to one of our favorite restaurants in Fenway or perhaps head to Time Out Market Boston and try one of our favorite baseball game day foods!

What are the best places to go to after a game?

After a game you have hit up Lansdowne Street. It is a must if you want the full Red Sox experience. If you are lucky enough one fay you will get to do this during the playoffs or World Series and you will see what Boston is really all about (good, bad or indifferent!). Our favorites right now are Cask n Flagon and Loretta’s Last Call.

Explore the best of the Fenway

Time Out Market Boston

Time Out Market Boston

Like some variety when you go out to eat? Time Out Market Boston has you covered. There is plenty of seating—both indoors and on a roomy, sun-splashed...

Fenway Park

Fenway Park

Seeing a game at Fenway Park has been a rite of passage among most locals since it opened in 1912. The catch? As the oldest ballpark in the majors, it's...

12 best restaurants near Fenway Park

12 best restaurants near Fenway Park

The Fenway offers an impressive culinary scene that proves it’s a year-round destination, whether or not the Red Sox are playing. Hit a taco Tuesday...

The best things to do in the Fenway

The best things to do in the Fenway

Whether the draw is a baseball game in America’s oldest ballpark or a concert at one of the most recognizable names in music venues, just about every...

5 things to eat before a Red Sox game

5 things to eat before a Red Sox game

Located just steps from Fenway Park, the Market is the perfect place to stop by for a bite before or after a Red Sox game. From a classic New England Lobster...