Let’s be honest: you’re in the neighborhood to catch a game at America’s oldest ballpark or a show at one of our best music venues. But Fenway isn’t just for tourists and concert lovers. There are great places to eat, drink, see live music, and just enough green space to catch your breath. Whether you’re a student or a showgoer (or just stumbled on the wrong Green Line train) there’s plenty here to keep you entertained.
Catch a Show
photo credit: Corwin wickersham
15 Lansdowne St
Citizens House of Blues isn’t just a venue, it’s the music darling for all New England concert-goers. It’s an iconic staple in the Boston live music scene, drawing big artists and vibrant crowds. Want to upgrade your concert experience? The Foundation Room offers a separate entrance and a premier food and drink experience in the members-only space. Not ready to commit to a full Foundation Room Membership? Check out the one-night upgrades available on select shows.
photo credit: corwin wickersham
2 Lansdowne St
Ever wondered about that sleek neighbor next to the ballpark? MGM Music Hall is a relative newcomer, but it’s already cemented its spot as one of Boston’s best venues. With a 5,000-person capacity and not a bad seat in the house, it’s built for both sound and sightlines. Don’t miss the open-air roof deck overlooking Lansdowne and the skyline.
Things to Do
photo credit: canva
4 Jersey St
Whether you live in Boston or are just passing through, catching a game at Fenway is a rite of passage. The park’s been around since 1912, which makes it the oldest in the majors and one of the smallest (read: scoring tickets is gonna cost you). If you can’t snag a seat, the park offers year-round tours for a behind-the-scenes look at the park’s history.
210 Mass Ave
Equal parts engineering marvel and glowing time capsule, the Mapparium is one of Boston’s coolest landmarks. It’s a three-story stained-glass globe you can walk through, via a 30-foot glass bridge that cuts straight across the Earth, circa 1935. The map hasn’t been updated since it was built, which means you’re gazing at an actual piece of history.
100 Park Dr
The Fens is the last trace of the neighborhood namesake — a stretch of once-soggy marshland transformed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1879. Now part of the Emerald Necklace, it’s a winding ribbon of green with a freshwater lagoon, shaded paths, and the blooming Kelleher Rose Garden (seasonally). It’s the perfect place for a zen moment before the chaos of your impending concert.
Where to Eat
photo credit: eastern standard
61 Brookline Ave
Feel like a fiesta? Loco’s Fenway outpost is just as loud and lovable as its Southie sibling. This taco-and-tequila joint has two bars, 200+ seats and a menu loaded with tacos, oysters and margaritas galore.
775 Beacon St
Eastern Standard has settled into its new digs and the vibe is as polished as ever, with classic cocktails, French(ish) fare and some surprises along the way. If you know where to look (hint: behind the dining room), you’ll find Equal Measure, the moody little cocktail den that’s the perfect post-concert nightcap.
1271 Boylston St
Tucked inside the retro-cool Verb Hotel, Hojoko is part izakaya, part rock show and all personality. Here you’ll find punk energy with a polished edge — and some of the best karaage chicken in the city.
1 Lansdowne St
Late-night donuts after the concert? Consider it done. Back Door Donuts runs out of Loretta’s Last Call, slinging apple fritters and other fried snacks from 7pm to 2am nightly. Just look for the “Donuts After Dark” neon sign. If it’s game day, swing by early; they start frying at 4pm.
Grab a Drink
photo credit: corwin wickersham
2 Lansdowne St
Meet Lansdowne’s best-kept secret: the Truly Rooftop. Perched atop MGM Music Hall, this open-air bar is your front-row seat to skyline views and all the energy of the neighborhood. They’re open before and after concerts (weather dependent), but check MGM Music Hall’s Instagram for the latest scoop.
82A Lansdowne St
This appropriately named dive lets you catch the game from literally under the outfield. It’s technically part of Fenway Park, but feels like a secret lair for sports fans. It’s the closest you’ll get to a free Sox game, and the perfect spot to keep the party going after your show at Citizens House of Blues or MGM Music Hall.
1377 Boylston St
Tiffani Faison’s cheeky little cocktail nook is the ultimate grown-up snack bar. This tiny spot serves up a playful mix of creative cocktails alongside indulgent bites like bougie wagyu hot dogs and caviar service.
updated june 2026
