Fenway for the first time in a long time

Rice14

New Member
Apr 23, 2008
60
South Florida
I'm bringing the family up to Boston to see my first game at Fenway in about 36 years. No lie, the last time I was at Fenway we were all excited for a blue chip prospect who had just been called up---Sam Horn, who hit his first MLB home run that day (against the Mariners). First question, does anybody have any idea when individual game tickets go on sale for July? Second question, is it hard getting tickets these days, will I have to go to a reseller? Is it worth it sitting in the Monster seats? Any other advice, tips, for a family's first trip to Fenway?
 

Max Power

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Jul 20, 2005
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It is very easy to get tickets these days. You might get a better price from the secondary market (StubHub, SeatGeek, Craigslist, etc.) than directly from the Red Sox because demand is so soft and season ticket holders are desperate to unload them. I don't remember when they put single game tickets available for the second half of the season last year, but there will be no great rush to get them at the on sale date.

The Monster Seats are really cool, but they're kind of the exception tickets. There are no season tickets sold up there, so there's a much smaller secondary market. Demand for them is always pretty high. I don't know what you consider "worth it," but you're probably looking at $150 each for them. It can also get really, really cold up there on a windy night. But if you're coming in July, that won't be an issue.
 

Philip Jeff Frye

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Oct 23, 2001
10,229
The Monster Seats are really cool, but they're kind of the exception tickets. There are no season tickets sold up there, so there's a much smaller secondary market. Demand for them is always pretty high. I don't know what you consider "worth it," but you're probably looking at $150 each for them. It can also get really, really cold up there on a windy night. But if you're coming in July, that won't be an issue.
The Monster seats are also kind of weird in that if you're not in the from row, you can't see the left fielder most of the time. You have a hard time knowing whether a decently hit fly ball to left is a routine out or 20 feet up the wall.

The concessions are pretty good up there because they only service people in those seats (at least last time I was there) so the lines aren't long.
 

opes

Doctor Tongue
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StubHub for the win. Especially if you look the day before, you can get some nice seats for pretty cheap. Monster seats are always the opposite. Tough to get one of those for a realistic price. If money is no object, sure go for it. If you are interested, go here to see views and ratings people leave on seats.

https://www.rateyourseats.com/fenway-park/seating
https://www.rateyourseats.com/fenway-park/seating/seating-chart/red-sox

Hope that helps.

Edit: parking probably is the worst part. I've never taken the bus, and an uber usually is more expensive especially after the game. Thats why you just go to the bar for an hour or 2.
 

Cassvt2023

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Jan 17, 2023
425
The Monster seats are a cool novelty type thing, but aren't the best for viewing a ballgame. (plus they are pricey). I feel like the best bang for your buck are the right field box seats section 5,6,7 or sections 93,94,95 right behind those. The rows are shorter, you are super close to concessions, and you can see the whole field, each pitch, and all the action at first base up pretty close.
 

Ale Xander

Hamilton
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Oct 31, 2013
72,428
I'm bringing the family up to Boston to see my first game at Fenway in about 36 years. No lie, the last time I was at Fenway we were all excited for a blue chip prospect who had just been called up---Sam Horn, who hit his first MLB home run that day (against the Mariners). First question, does anybody have any idea when individual game tickets go on sale for July? Second question, is it hard getting tickets these days, will I have to go to a reseller? Is it worth it sitting in the Monster seats? Any other advice, tips, for a family's first trip to Fenway?
Most games you're going to get a better deal from a season ticket holder who doesn't want to lose them long-term and keeps renewing even though they're losing money, than the box office, especially if paying fees
Exceptions would be, as mentioned, Green Monster don't have season tickets so those could be a premium, and they used to have a different onsite day/method for them than the rest. And yes, go first row only (or standing room behind all of them for more value. Another exception would/could be June 20-August 26 Saturdays or afternoon Sundays. (And of course with Yankees/Dodgers, those are 2 that will be summer weekends, so you want get from primary)

If you want to go on a weekday, honestly I'd wait until the week of, both for lower prices, and weather reasons.

Of course if they win 20 games in April, all bets are off on getting a deal in July.

If you're going for a night game or Saturday afternoon (in Summer and inJuly especially), PM me closer to the event day for parking tip.
Please don't pay $50 to the asshats.

Seatwise, I would avoid anything in GS 3-8, and Right Field Box 87-94. (95-97 are ok, you're close to more expensive Loge Boxes)
GS 32-33 are no alcohol section if you're bringing kids and want to avoid drunks.

(It's not hard getting tickets these days)
 

canderson

Mr. Brightside
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Jul 16, 2005
39,428
Harrisburg, Pa.
Several SOSHers who have ticket plans offer their seats for face - this is a great way to get tickets that I've used a handful of times.

If that doesn't interest you, I highly recommend StubHub 4 or 5 hours before first pitch.
 

geoflin

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Feb 26, 2004
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Melrose MA
I would add if saving a few bucks isn't that important but having some certainty of having tickets for a particular game and knowing where they are is important to you and your family there should be plenty of good seats available directly from the Red Sox when they do go on sale. You should have your choice of most sections and most areas of the ballpark. This is also true if you buy them now from Stub Hub or another reseller if season ticket holders have begun to ask face value or lower prices for the date you have in mind.
 

Pablo's TB Lover

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Sep 10, 2017
5,959
I ended our 10-game plan we had since 2004 several years back because cheaper than face value tickets are always available for the limited number of days our group of friends is actually available (more like 2-3 days each summer). For the $300 something dollars we were spending for the bleachers every year, we can get several games in the box seats day of/day before. We just pick a specific day in advance then watch prices. I've had good luck most recently with the box seats behind third base/down the left field line. The pavilion seats up high behind the baselines are also a nice vantage point and can be had below face value at times. Monster seats can go for well above the cost of field box seats at times and are the worst value in the park. I went once in 2005 when a pair of tickets in the front row could be had for not much over $200, and it was a great one-time experience but I have no desire to pay more than Patriots ticket prices to go back.

For parking, we hoof it for about 20-25 minutes from a pretty cheap garage. Your best chance is probably to park a mile or so away in one direction or another and walk in to avoid the insane prices, unless someone else has tips for closer in to the park. With the amount of development in the Fenway area, most chances of street parking are long gone.
 

jayhoz

Ronald Bartel
SoSH Member
Jul 19, 2005
17,360
If anyone in your family has long legs then I'd suggest avoiding the blue seats (Grandstand). These seem like the best bang for your buck, but if you have to sit sideways and your knees are still jammed into the seatback in front of you, like mine, it can really downgrade the experience.
 

Lose Remerswaal

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The Monster seats are a cool novelty type thing, but aren't the best for viewing a ballgame. (plus they are pricey). I feel like the best bang for your buck are the right field box seats section 5,6,7 or sections 93,94,95 right behind those. The rows are shorter, you are super close to concessions, and you can see the whole field, each pitch, and all the action at first base up pretty close.
I have to vigorously disagree with box seats sections 3-7. These face the CF wall and you have to crane your neck to see the action. Same with the upper boxes and GS behind them.
 

jayhoz

Ronald Bartel
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Jul 19, 2005
17,360
I have to vigorously disagree with box seats sections 3-7. These face the CF wall and you have to crane your neck to see the action. Same with the upper boxes and GS behind them.
Unless you're taller than most you aren't going to be able to see much of the infield action.
 

Minneapolis Millers

Wants you to please think of the Twins fans!
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Jul 15, 2005
4,753
Twin Cities
I have to vigorously disagree with box seats sections 3-7. These face the CF wall and you have to crane your neck to see the action. Same with the upper boxes and GS behind them.
For the same reason, I actually like 86-88 because they’re unobstructed and face the infield. (89 and 90 are ok , too.). Last time I was there, they let me and my son go up to the green monster seats and take a few pictures, which was fine enough to get a feel for it. They’re not the best seats, as others have said.

Also, since the last time you were there… It‘s easier to get around. You can go from the bleachers to the rest of the ballpark. They have more roof top boxes. More concessions on blocked off streets outside the park. Parking around the park still stinks and is ungodly expensive.
 

Gold Dust Twin 19

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May 27, 2001
63
Regardless of where you sit, and especially if you bring young kids, bring them early enough so that you can take in the atmosphere a bit. It is not as grungy as it used to be and although it is more touristy than i prefer, it is pretty entertaining and there is a very festive attitude in and around the park before first pitch. But the most important thing is to bring your group up from the concourse on the first base side so that their first in-person view of the field includes the Green Monster. I still get chills thinking about my dad doing this for me when I was 8 years old. Enjoy.
 

Rice14

New Member
Apr 23, 2008
60
South Florida
Regardless of where you sit, and especially if you bring young kids, bring them early enough so that you can take in the atmosphere a bit. It is not as grungy as it used to be and although it is more touristy than i prefer, it is pretty entertaining and there is a very festive attitude in and around the park before first pitch. But the most important thing is to bring your group up from the concourse on the first base side so that their first in-person view of the field includes the Green Monster. I still get chills thinking about my dad doing this for me when I was 8 years old. Enjoy.
Thanks, really looking forward to this trip. Never forget your first time.

For me, summer of 82, Tigers, down two in bottom of the ninth, Dewey homers to tie the game. Wade Boggs pinch hits in extra innings, first career HR to win the game. Gonna be tough to top that one. Actually bumped into Wade Boggs in an airport some years ago, told him that story and not surprisingly he remembered everything about it.
 

mauf

Anderson Cooper × Mr. Rogers
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I have to vigorously disagree with box seats sections 3-7. These face the CF wall and you have to crane your neck to see the action. Same with the upper boxes and GS behind them.
Seconded. If you’re on a budget, bleacher seats are generally better than the seats down the right field line, and they’re cheaper too.

Seats on the third base side generally have better sight lines than comparable seats on the first base side. Best value for the money imo are the loge box seats down the left field line — you can usually find these on StubHub below face value, even for games where other seats are selling at or above face. The State Street Pavilion is nice too, but it’s expensive, and you don’t really get the Fenway experience — the feel is much more like the modern ballparks. (Which isn’t bad at all, but presumably isn’t why you’re making a pilgrimage to Fenway.)
 

pk1627

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May 24, 2003
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Don’t worry about the cost. It’s been 36 years. If you want a classic experience, try loge. Either side is fine. Less net in the way than field box.

If you want a great view, try Pavilion. Pavilion 2 has an amazing view down the right field line.
 

Ale Xander

Hamilton
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Oct 31, 2013
72,428
Don’t worry about the cost. It’s been 36 years. If you want a classic experience, try loge. Either side is fine. Less net in the way than field box.

If you want a great view, try Pavilion. Pavilion 2 has an amazing view down the right field line.
And also larger elevation row to row so less of a worry of a tall person in front impeding your view
(Both compared to Field)
 

kotrp83

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Apr 7, 2010
121
Honolulu
My last few visits I've sat between 3rd and the monster and enjoyed it, 162-163. Can see the whole field except for anything down in the the corner. Better chance you'll see a wall ball right there in front of you.
 

Tony Pena's Gas Cloud

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Jun 12, 2019
357
I absolutely recommend the Pavilion seats. You can take an elevator to and from them, they have their own concessions, the seats have decent legroom, and the view is amazing - especially if you're interested in defense positioning. You may even get a foul ball up there. They're pricy but completely worth every dollar.
 

runnels3

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I always prefer grandstand, anything down 3b to left field. Even if you can't see the LF corner you are higher up (than RF) and at the same time remarkably close to the action. Great view of the entire field (except corner of course) and especially the Wall.
 

Jim Ed Rice in HOF

Red-headed Skrub child
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Jul 21, 2005
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I always prefer grandstand, anything down 3b to left field. Even if you can't see the LF corner you are higher up (than RF) and at the same time remarkably close to the action. Great view of the entire field (except corner of course) and especially the Wall.
The tricky part on grandstand seating is that's when the poles come into play. You could very easily find yourself having to lean left or right to see the pitcher, a lefty or righty batter, etc. There used to be a site that was great for specific seat info that was linked in the ticket forum but unfortunately that site is no longer.
 

Max Power

thai good. you like shirt?
SoSH Member
Jul 20, 2005
7,877
Boston, MA
The tricky part on grandstand seating is that's when the poles come into play. You could very easily find yourself having to lean left or right to see the pitcher, a lefty or righty batter, etc. There used to be a site that was great for specific seat info that was linked in the ticket forum but unfortunately that site is no longer.
That was the precise seating site. They shut down when the Red Sox released their own superior site with a perfect 3D model of the ballpark.

Fenway Park Seat Map | Boston Red Sox (mlb.com)

Unfortunately, it seems to be down now. But when it works, you can select any seat in the park and see the view from it.
 

jayhoz

Ronald Bartel
SoSH Member
Jul 19, 2005
17,360
The tricky part on grandstand seating is that's when the poles come into play. You could very easily find yourself having to lean left or right to see the pitcher, a lefty or righty batter, etc. There used to be a site that was great for specific seat info that was linked in the ticket forum but unfortunately that site is no longer.
These guys claim to have sat in each obstructed view seat to determine whether they blocked the mound or batters box.

https://www.headspinsoftware.com/red-sox-fenway-obstructed-view-seats.html
 

Pablo's TB Lover

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Sep 10, 2017
5,959
My last few visits I've sat between 3rd and the monster and enjoyed it, 162-163. Can see the whole field except for anything down in the the corner. Better chance you'll see a wall ball right there in front of you.
I sat in the 160s this past season and there happened to be a homer barely getting into the Monster seats down the line. Great view of "will it make the wall/will it not" fly balls from those loge boxes near the LF line.
 

Jim Ed Rice in HOF

Red-headed Skrub child
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Jul 21, 2005
8,248
Seacoast NH
That was the precise seating site. They shut down when the Red Sox released their own superior site with a perfect 3D model of the ballpark.

Fenway Park Seat Map | Boston Red Sox (mlb.com)

Unfortunately, it seems to be down now. But when it works, you can select any seat in the park and see the view from it.
These guys claim to have sat in each obstructed view seat to determine whether they blocked the mound or batters box.

https://www.headspinsoftware.com/red-sox-fenway-obstructed-view-seats.html
Thanks for these links - definitely a good resource to be used.
 

Beomoose

is insoxicated
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May 28, 2006
21,388
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My trip last year was my first in a long, long time. My advice:

You'll have an easier time getting tickets if you opt for an opponent who isn't a heavy-hitter. I went to a game vs DET and got excellent loge box seats really easily online.

If it's a day game find seats that get shade even if they don't have direct cover, if it's an evening game beware seats that will blind you while the sun sets.

Plan your hotel, preferred dining, etc so you can get CharlieCards at Logan and then just T everywhere.
 

Doug Beerabelli

Killer Threads
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I'll add my love for the Monster seats as a worthwhile splurge. In addition to the points made already, it's about a "roomy" an experience you can have. Easy to have conversations with your peeps, or even stand for a little bit to talk to them, without bothering other spectators.

Parking wise, I usually do the Pru discounted parking and walk from the park and back. It's not a bad walk if you can handle it (about 20 minutes), and while the garage can get backup up a bit when you depart, for me it's very easy to get on the Pike west (vs being closer to Fenway and likely to hit more of a traffic jam).
 

Jim Ed Rice in HOF

Red-headed Skrub child
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Jul 21, 2005
8,248
Seacoast NH
My personal advice to anyone on their first trip, regardless of where their seats actually are, is if at all possible to walk up the ramp right next to this seat for the first glimpse at the actual park. The first impression of the park from this view has never disappointed first time visitors I've brought.

60966
 

8slim

has trust issues
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Nov 6, 2001
24,829
Unreal America
That was the precise seating site. They shut down when the Red Sox released their own superior site with a perfect 3D model of the ballpark.

Fenway Park Seat Map | Boston Red Sox (mlb.com)

Unfortunately, it seems to be down now. But when it works, you can select any seat in the park and see the view from it.
Oh man, that Precise Seating site has been my go-to for years! Hope it's not dead forever, I don't love the Sox site for views.
 

ookami7m

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I just did this in July and have thoughts.

Monster Seats - Super cool experience to do one time but I have ZERO desire to do it again. I'll pay the same amount for a better view in the future, but being able to watch a game from up there is a unique experience that I'm glad I did once.

If you're anywhere near the T that you can park and ride that in you're going to be way better off. The Charlie Card made my life so much easier for the week we were in town.
 

TheAOE

New Member
Jul 15, 2005
100
Many are saying wait until the day before or even the day of to buy tickets - and I agree esp given the softer demand (and low expectations for the team). Exception is against a marque matchup like the MFY or the "Lost Again" Dodgers. Plus, in July, the weather can be a bit wild with T-storms so in some ways you can avoid the rainout risk (and the makeup game being done when you are not in town).
 

Sausage in Section 17

Poker Champ
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Mar 17, 2004
2,084
My personal advice to anyone on their first trip, regardless of where their seats actually are, is if at all possible to walk up the ramp right next to this seat for the first glimpse at the actual park. The first impression of the park from this view has never disappointed first time visitors I've brought.

View attachment 60966

Seconded. There is nothing like walking up that ramp that can evoke the Fenway Wow factor any better.
 

jayhoz

Ronald Bartel
SoSH Member
Jul 19, 2005
17,360
My personal advice to anyone on their first trip, regardless of where their seats actually are, is if at all possible to walk up the ramp right next to this seat for the first glimpse at the actual park. The first impression of the park from this view has never disappointed first time visitors I've brought.

View attachment 60966
My memory is generally garbage. I distinctly recall my breath being taken away emerging from that tunnel as a little kid.
 

Minneapolis Millers

Wants you to please think of the Twins fans!
SoSH Member
Jul 15, 2005
4,753
Twin Cities
Regardless of where you sit, and especially if you bring young kids, bring them early enough so that you can take in the atmosphere a bit. It is not as grungy as it used to be and although it is more touristy than i prefer, it is pretty entertaining and there is a very festive attitude in and around the park before first pitch. But the most important thing is to bring your group up from the concourse on the first base side so that their first in-person view of the field includes the Green Monster. I still get chills thinking about my dad doing this for me when I was 8 years old. Enjoy.
Just wanted to emphasize the get there early part. Many ballparks lack the surrounding ambience and amenities that Fenway has. Pick up a cheap t-shirt from a pop-up stand (my son bought a Joe Kelly Fight Club tee that he still wears proudly), grab an Italian sausage from an outdoor vendor, check out the Yaz and Teammates statutes, and the banners. Once inside, stroll all the way around the stands to see the old bullpen cart, the murals. Great photo ops.
 

Green Monster

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Ditto to those who have mentioned the first view of the field taking their breath away!!

If your schedule permits, I would suggest a Fenway Park Tour. We went several years ago when my kids were younger. Tour guide with some stories and history helps you appreciate what you are looking at. They take you all over (Press booth, dugout, bullpen, monster seats, inside the wall, etc.). Not sure if there are more restrictions today, but definitely enjoyable when we did it.

https://www.viator.com/tours/Boston/Tour-of-Historic-Fenway-Park-Americas-Most-Beloved-Ballpark/d678-43406P1
 

steeplechase3k

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If your schedule permits, I would suggest a Fenway Park Tour. We went several years ago when my kids were younger. Tour guide with some stories and history helps you appreciate what you are looking at. They take you all over (Press booth, dugout, bullpen, monster seats, inside the wall, etc.). Not sure if there are more restrictions today, but definitely enjoyable when we did it.
I was coming here to say the same thing. I was last in Boston when the Red sox were out of town, but I did the tour and it was great. I didn't get to go into the Wall, but we did go all over the stadium.
 

bg1025

New Member
Oct 30, 2013
239
Speaking of this, I am bringing my wife and 5 of our 6 kids to a game on a Tuesday in May for her 40th. We got pavilion club tickets. What would be some good restaurants nearby that we could get a reservation for maybe 5pm at for all 7 of us. Is it even worth eating beforehand, are the amenities in the pavilion club worth just getting something at the park?
 

Bunt4aTriple

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Jul 15, 2005
4,347
North Yarmouth, ME
Speaking of this, I am bringing my wife and 5 of our 6 kids to a game on a Tuesday in May for her 40th. We got pavilion club tickets. What would be some good restaurants nearby that we could get a reservation for maybe 5pm at for all 7 of us. Is it even worth eating beforehand, are the amenities in the pavilion club worth just getting something at the park?
If you're coming from someplace like TX/NC/MO/TN, then disregard, but Sweet Cheeks Q is great. If you or any of your kids watch Chopped, it's owned by Tiffani Faison, a frequent judge. I think someone mentioned the service being meh, but I haven't had a problem with it.
 

Lose Remerswaal

Experiencing Furry Panic
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Ditto to those who have mentioned the first view of the field taking their breath away!!

If your schedule permits, I would suggest a Fenway Park Tour. We went several years ago when my kids were younger. Tour guide with some stories and history helps you appreciate what you are looking at. They take you all over (Press booth, dugout, bullpen, monster seats, inside the wall, etc.). Not sure if there are more restrictions today, but definitely enjoyable when we did it.

https://www.viator.com/tours/Boston/Tour-of-Historic-Fenway-Park-Americas-Most-Beloved-Ballpark/d678-43406P1
The tour is great. Don't book thru Viator or any 3rd party. Book from redsox.com
 

Lose Remerswaal

Experiencing Furry Panic
Lifetime Member
SoSH Member
Speaking of this, I am bringing my wife and 5 of our 6 kids to a game on a Tuesday in May for her 40th. We got pavilion club tickets. What would be some good restaurants nearby that we could get a reservation for maybe 5pm at for all 7 of us. Is it even worth eating beforehand, are the amenities in the pavilion club worth just getting something at the park?
Sweet Cheeks is good but there are 2 dozen Good options in the area. For 7 people see if you can get a reservation somewhere in the area
 

YTF

Member
SoSH Member
Ditto to those who have mentioned the first view of the field taking their breath away!!

If your schedule permits, I would suggest a Fenway Park Tour. We went several years ago when my kids were younger. Tour guide with some stories and history helps you appreciate what you are looking at. They take you all over (Press booth, dugout, bullpen, monster seats, inside the wall, etc.). Not sure if there are more restrictions today, but definitely enjoyable when we did it.

https://www.viator.com/tours/Boston/Tour-of-Historic-Fenway-Park-Americas-Most-Beloved-Ballpark/d678-43406P1
Just a side note...Generally speaking the infield and outfield have been off limits, so unless things have changed (with the exception of the dirt areas in foul territory and the warning track) don't expect to set foot on the field. Also, IIRC access to dugouts may not be available on dates with day games due to team personnel possibly showing up earlier in the day.
 

Tony Pena's Gas Cloud

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Jun 12, 2019
357
Speaking of this, I am bringing my wife and 5 of our 6 kids to a game on a Tuesday in May for her 40th. We got pavilion club tickets. What would be some good restaurants nearby that we could get a reservation for maybe 5pm at for all 7 of us. Is it even worth eating beforehand, are the amenities in the pavilion club worth just getting something at the park?
Cornwall's is always a good place. Sandwiches and beer at good prices.