The MLB 2013 Season is under way and the Boston Red Sox are tied for first place in the AL East. Ok, so the Sox are 2-1 only three games into the season, but after the long hiatus and perhaps even longer anticipation of a fresh start, you have to enjoy relishing a 66% winning average, especially when the two wins were versus arch rival New York Yankees.
While you can watch the games on television or follow them on the internet, Red Sox Nation members know that nothing compares to taking in a game or two at iconic Fenway Park, “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.” Red Sox Nation Faithfull also know that experiencing a game at Fenway Park can be an expensive net proposition with high ticket prices and all of the accompanying costs related to transportation, parking, food & beverages, souvenirs and more. For the visitor or local resident on a relatively tight budget, the question is "how can I see a game on the cheap?” Let’s break down some of the costs and potential solutions …
- Tickets: While you can pay $100 or more per ticket, you also can find tickets for $52 (Right Field Box), $30 (Left or Right Grandstand), or even $12 (Upper Bleacher), depending on ticket availability, your viewing desire and your budget.
- Helpful Hint: Many games sell out especially weekend games and those versus the New York Yankees. Just visit the Red Sox website for seating plans, ticket prices, and availability, and purchase your tickets as soon as possible.
- Transportation and Directions to Fenway Park: Depending on where you are coming from, you likely have the option to drive or take public transportation, and even a few fans are within walking distance. Directions and transport options are available via the website. Public transport likely will be your cheapest option, and many arrive at Fenway Park via commuter rail or the subway (locally known as “The T”).
- Helpful Hint: The T can be slow (especially the Green Line) and also packed on game day, so travel as early as possible and expect crowded cars. That said, thousands of fans arrive at Fenway at least one hour before the game to enjoy the festive atmosphere on the streets and in the restaurants and bars bordering the ball park.
- The ‘T’ / Subway: Find the station closest to you and purchase a Charlie Card in advance for $2 (one way), with free bus transfers if needed. Reduced fares are available for seniors, students and persons with disabilities, and children 11 years and under are free. If you need to drive to your closest T station, you also likely will need to pay approximately $5 to $7 for parking before you board the T, though spaces can fill up on game day as many people take public transport, so arrive somewhat early.
- Commuter Rail: The MBTA Commuter Rail conveniently stops at Yawkee Station just across the street from Fenway Park. Train fares vary depending on your zone of origin, $1.70 to $8.25 per person. While most people pay after boarding the commuter rail, make sure you pay in advance at stations where tickets are sold (including South Station and Back Bay).
- Parking: As with most sporting events, you will pay more the closer you park to Fenway, around $30-$40 for most options within a few blocks of Fenway Park (though most have limited spacing). To save a few dollars, many fans elect to park a bit further away. Visit the website for locations and pricing options. For less expensive parking, try 100 Clarendon Garage ($16) or the Prudential Center for $10, both of which offer 2,000 parking spaces (versus only about 25 to 150 spaces for the more expensive lots) and are located in Back Bay less than one mile from Fenway Park, only about a 15 minute walk. If you park at “The Pru Center,” exit via “The Shops at the Prudential Center” onto Boylston Street and follow this map.
- Concessions: Depending on which seating option and price you pay for tickets to the game, concessions (food, beverage, souvenirs, etc.) easily can double your cost, so this is one area where fans can save or spend money where desired. A hot dog or sausage and a drink will cost over $10 per person inside the park, and likely about the same immediately around the park via street vendors or park-side bars and restaurants. As you plan your visit to Fenway, make sure you check the web for any current special deals or offers.
To sum it up, fans on a budget don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars in order to take in a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. While your ultimate cost will vary according to your choices from the à la carte menu, here is just one example of potential costs for a low-cost visit:
- Two Tickets: $ 60 ($30 each for Right Field or Left Field Grandstand)
- Ride "The T": $ 11 ($2 each way per person, plus $7 parking at T station)
- Concessions: $ 48 (two Fenway Franks and drinks per person)
- Total: $119 ("Priceless" as many Red Sox fans will attest)
Full Fenway Experience: For many fans, a trip to Fenway Park is about much more than viewing the game. As you plan your visit, make sure you check out the Information Guide. Many faithful fans also relish activities including a Fenway Park Tour, batting practice and/or a Tour Birthday Package (available only on non-game days).
Your Tips? Comment below with your tips on deals and how to save money when planning your Red Sox and Fenway Park experience.
Go Sox! Congratulations on your first two wins of the season over the Yankees.
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