Readers share their tips for experiencing Fenway Park

Over 100 years old and ranked one of the top 10 of MLB stadiums in America, Fenway Park is a prized landmark and tourist attraction. 

For those traveling to see the Red Sox for the first time, many questions may arise. How can I get to the park efficiently? Where should I park? What should I eat? How do I find the best seat in the house?

We asked our readers to give their advice on how to best spend time at the park, whether it’s just for game day or your trip is centered around the Green Monster. 

Here’s a sampling of what some of our readers had to say.

Get a Fenway Frank

“Take the T. It’s part of the experience. Before going into the park, get a sausage on the street. Sit anywhere, but DON’T get Obstructed View tickets.  During the game walk around and check out an Obstructed View seat. It will likely be empty.”

– Chuck F., Littleton

“Park at the Prudential and walk over with the fans and your eyes looking for the first sighting of Fenway. That is when the excitement starts to build. Get a Fenway Frank or sausage, both are a must. Get in the park as soon as possible and take a walk to anywhere and everywhere they let you.”

– Jim C. Lakewood Ranch, Fla.

“Enter at Gate D and enjoy short lines at the concessions, ice cold beer, and steaming hot food.”

– Kevin H, Billerica

Plan to arrive ‘really early’

“Get there really early on the Sunday games to get parking near the stadium. Also if you are 21+ it’s fun to go bar hopping at the many bars and pubs located all around Fenway Park (there are a ton). Enjoy.”

– Ryan B., Pawtucket, Rhode Island

“Get Red Sox Nation. Go in early. Get on the Monster for batting practice. Not all can afford Monster seats.  Also get a percentage off on merchandise [as a Red Sox Nation member]! You can also get Kids nation!! Well worth it!!”

– Shane, Belchertown

“Pay in advance for parking! Otherwise you’ll be driving around for evah!”

– Janet R., Northbridge 

“If you can make a day of it, do it. I used to go 3-4 hours early to get prime parking and visit a restaurant.”

– Mike G., Worcester

“Start your day with lunch at the Bleacher Bar. The perfect preview.”

– A Boston.com reader

Take a photo with Big League Brian

“The best tip for visiting Fenway Park is chatting with Big League Brian and taking a photo with him! It’s a great tradition and the perfect way to get in the spirit since he’s so fun and entertaining. Such a great way to kick off the game-day experience.”

– Martha D., Medford

Ride the T

“Take the E Line and walk from Northeastern. It’s a short walk and won’t be nearly as packed as the other green lines.”

-Steve, Brighton

“DO NOT drive. Take the T. Make sure to at least do a batting practice tour.”

– Joseph C., Louisville, Ky.

“Ride the MBTA or the green line. Both stations are nearby.”

– Steven H., Charlotte, N.C.

Where to watch the game

“Wherever you sit, make sure you walk from the Pesky pole to the Monster along the top of the field boxes while the game is going on. The different views from that level are amazing. You can’t stop and watch but you can walk slowly and never take your eyes off the field.”

– Joe L., Montclair, New Jersey

“Buy standing room tickets and just walk around the park. Take open seats until they’re not open and keep moving. It’s the best way to see the whole park and different angles of the game for the lowest price.”

– Matthew M., Somerville

Stay at The Verb Hotel

“If you are visiting Boston and Fenway is going to be a highlight of your trip, then stay at the Verb. It’ll probably cost a decent chunk of change during the season, and it isn’t luxurious. It is however, fun with a great bar attached, great pool, and a good location. All the downtown hotels will likely cost as much and they are a dime a dozen. Walk to the game. Enjoy the beers. They’ll cost you.”

– Charles I., West Roxbury