Even though professional athletes seem like giants with sculpted bodies, well a lot of them at least, one thing to remember is that they’re people too. They eat, sleep and do much of the same things that you and I do – notably, have a good time when they’re away from the game. Sometimes they have too much of a good time and that’s when TMZ and other people are there to capture everything with pictures.
Many athletes still go out to eat, gear up for a day on the links and step out for a drink or two after the game or during the offseason. Boston athletes are no exception, and it’s to the pleasant surprise of any Boston sports fan to be dining, socializing or partying at the same venue as one of their hometown heroes. But if you’re living in the Boston area, meeting your favorite Celtics, Bruins, Patriots or Red Sox player doesn’t just have to happen by chance. There are certain hotspots around the city where the athletes hang out:
McGreevy’s Irish Pub and Sports Bar: Located in downtown Boston, this bar is dedicated to Boston’s sports history. Not surprisingly, the bar that is devoted to Boston’s sports history also attracts some of the city’s current sports figures. Notably, Red Sox players are known to frequent this establishment, as the bar is only about 1,000 feet away from Fenway Park and said to be “the birthplace of the Red Sox nation.” McGreevy’s is not only one of the oldest sports bars in Boston, but also one of the oldest in the U.S.
Legal Harborside Seafood Restaurant: Legal Harborside is located right on the Boston Waterfront. It’s about 20,000 square feet in size and consists of three floors – the first offers casual dining, the second hosts private events and the third is a rooftop lounge. The waterfront location and variety of what’s offered makes Legal Harborside a favorite among both the general public and those with celebrity status. For example, Tom Brady has been spotted dining there several times.
Royale Boston: This “super club” is located in Boston’s theater district and is one of the largest and most pristine nightclubs in the city. It hosts bands, DJs and special events and also features many VIP areas – which make it an attractive venue for Boston sports figures that want a fun night out. One VIP area encompasses the stage on the main floor, while several others overlook the main floor of the Royale Boston ballroom.
The Roxy: As long as we’re on the topic of nightclubs, the Roxy, which is located on Tremont St. in downtown Boston, is another venue frequented by the city’s prominent sports figures. Unlike the Royale, which offers several VIP areas for separate entertainment, the Roxy is more of a place to dance. It offers a spacious dance floor and comfortable bar area in which to hang out.
Ristuccia Arena: While the Bruins play their games at the TD Garden, they practice at Ristuccia Arena, in Wilmington, MA. This rink is much smaller and more intimate than the 20,000-seat home venue where the Bruins play 41 times per year, and also a prime destination for autograph seekers or those wishing to meet their favorite Bruins player.
Here’s one word of advice if you’re looking to brush shoulders with your favorite athletes. When they’re on their free time many of them like to relax and try to blend in as much as possible. It’s probably not a good decision to run up on them while they’re eating dinner with a girlfriend or wife. While you may be excited, try your best to be respectful and your odds of getting of picture or autograph will be even better. Enjoy your time out on the town in Boston and be safe.
