by Joey Giragos, Sports Editor
graphics by Clare Cho
photo by Joey Giragos
With long commutes, expensive tickets and questionable (at best) food options, catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park can seem daunting. However, a few tips and tricks can help you enjoy Boston baseball on a budget.
First, transportation. With Fenway Park situated right in the middle of the city, it can be a pretty difficult location to get to. Driving and parking will run you at least $40, and the T can be slow and untrustworthy.
My advice: the commuter rail at Wellesley Farms. About 10 minutes away from Newton, the commuter rail stop at Wellesley Farms comes about an hour before each game, and costs $4 for students — make sure to bring your student ID, though! It’s at least half an hour quicker than the T, much more comfortable, and, provided you can get a ride to Wellesley, is by far the best way to get into Boston
Next, tickets. Websites such as Ticketmaster or StubHub will charge massive fees and don’t hold the best value. Try Gametime, which has lower fees and generally lower pricing, or sign up for Red Sox Student 9s. High school and college students in the Massachusetts area are eligible to sign up for these student-exclusive tickets, and on select game days, you receive a text or email with a link to buy up to four $9 tickets, with no fees.
Be fast — these tickets generally sell out quickly, but if you make a plan with friends beforehand and you’re all signed up for the ticket link, it’s very likely one of you will be able to buy these cheap seats.
Finally, food. Finding a good bite to eat at Fenway can be challenging, and options are limited. If you aren’t into cafeteria-quality hot dogs and soggy chicken fingers, then looking for food outside of the park makes sense.
Chipotle and Saloniki Greek are two affordable restaurants nearby Fenway if you want a filling meal at the price of one “Fenway Pretzel.” If you and your friends want a hand-held bite, try Sal’s Pizza right outside the stadium for a massive slice that will only run you $5.
Sometimes, your experience at Fenway Park is out of your control. Bad weather or a crushing defeat can dampen anyone’s experience, but finding ways to make your outing both cheaper and easier feels good no matter what.
