MGM at Fenway - First Impressions

MGM Fenway opened recently in Boston and I went for the first time this past weekend so I figured I’d do a bit more of a review of the venue.

The show was the Mars Volta on Saturday, October 1 st . I will add that the show was about ¾ full/capacity.

The MGM was built on a corner lot in the shadows of Fenway Park. It’s a unique footprint, basically a triangle lot space they used to their benefit.

The line outside was the usual you’d expect checking IDs, I’d say we waited less than 5 minutes. Once inside there were metal detectors and it opened into the main lobby.

The main lobby had stairs on the left and right. (2 stores above). Directly as you walked in was a bar and  there was a bit of congestion. The floor entrance was to the left and right of the bar and there was the merch to the right.

Took the stairs up and there are restrooms on that level, and entrances into the “first balcony area”.

Overlooking the street is a “club”. I can’t fully remember the name, but what you’d expect looking in.  Couches, a private bar (and maybe a restroom?) For an upcharge I am sure. I am sure I’d go in there if allowed, but I wasn’t aware of it.

I had 2nd balcony seats so up we went. Above the “club” was an open-air space. This is nice. Bar  seats/tables etc. Someone noted, “it won’t be long before they make this an exclusive VIP experience so enjoy it while you can”. I hope they don’t change that though. It’s nice to just “step outside” for a few, and get a drink if that is your thing. Decent enough views etc.

Once in the venue, I noticed right away there were rows of seats at the back of each section. Single bar stool height (with backs) and a table. The view, although “far back” wasn’t terrible. An option for sure if you wanted to go for the music. The balcony is steep. That is a good thing. We were in row D and my knees were basically at the person’s head in front of me. With that, very few people stood during the show. I can see that being mixed depending on the act.

The seats did have cup holders but I found them to be a tad tight. Tough to get out of the row if you needed to without everyone standing up.

I will say that from the balcony there didn’t seem to be a bad seat. The two “closest to the stage” sections on the sides might pose a slight challenge sight wise but otherwise, I’d say the vast majority of level 3 seemed “suitable”.

In between acts I did go for a walk. There are 2-3 bars (at least) per level and I noticed some other neat seat options (probably more $$) to the front of the lower balcony.

I was not able to get onto the floor, but the floor was as expected from where I could tell. Fully General Admission. I am slated to go back in November and do have a floor for that.

Overall I liked it.

Pros: Sightlines seemed pretty much perfect regardless of location. The sound was good and the outdoor space was great.

Cons: Seats a “little” tight. Bathroom congestion off the lobby.