There are few icons in the world of baseball as classic as Fenway Park.
Home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912, the historic field is a time machine as much as a baseball stadium. The analog scoreboard information is still updated by hand, and the park feels small and intimate thanks to its many famous design quirks — like Pesky’s Pole, “The Triangle,” and The Green Monster hulking over left field.
But that’s not to say Fenway is completely stuck in the past. Over the years, important changes have been made, like establishing an upper deck of seating and adding lights for night games. And of course, to appease modern baseball enthusiasts, the park has an all-important beer garden.
For the 2018 season, what was once known as the “Budweiser Right Field Roof Deck” has been rechristened the “Sam Deck.” Sam is short for Samuel Adams, the hometown Boston brewery that reigns as the largest craft brewery in the United States. Not only did the Fenway bar, food service, and seating area get a new name, but Samuel Adams has also been designated the official beer of the Red Sox.
For fans who want to watch the game, socialize, eat, and (of course) drink in style, an upgraded ticket option gets you access to seats and tables at the Sam Deck. It’s a unique viewpoint to observe Major League Baseball with a crowd of friends, while perched high on the edge of the outfield, a plastic cup of beer resting comfortably on a table and not wedged between your legs. Although the deck is a relatively new addition, the space feels just as quaint and accessible as Fenway’s original features.
The Sam Deck encompasses more than 6,000 square feet and the area is proudly emblazoned with the logo and symbols of its sponsor. The Samuel Adams name is propped up high against the back of the stadium, and you’ll find the familiar red, white, and blue logo mark on surfaces throughout the deck. There’s even a statue of the brewery’s namesake pioneer looking out over the bar.
The food available at the Sam Deck can be described as elevated ballpark fare. Yes, you can get hot dogs, pretzels, and souvenir packs of game day favorites like cotton candy and popcorn, but if you’re looking for something a bit more interesting, highlights on the menu include the short rib grilled cheese, local favorite lobster rolls, and decadent fried dough.
The real star of the Sam Deck is, of course, the beer. You’ll find the classic brewery staple Sam Adams Boston Lager on tap, along with Rebel IPA and the new Sam ’76, a flavorful and thirst-quenching ale/lager hybrid.
The Sam Deck is a must-visit destination for fans of baseball and craft beer. You can secure your space on the Sam Deck when purchasing tickets for Red Sox games at Fenway with table, bar stool, and standing room options. The facility can also be reserved for private events.
Photos by Lee Heidl/The Manual (unless otherwise noted).
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