Xfinity Center

The Xfinity Center puts on a fantastic show, hosting national acts in an outdoor arena that seats nearly 20,000 fans. Originally the Great Woods Center for the Performing Arts, the venue later became the Tweeter Center, then the Comcast Center, and now the Xfinity Center. Most Bostonians still know it as Great Woods. You can pay more for seats in the covered pavilion, less for seats in chairs vulnerable to rain, and less still for a spot on the angled lawn. It's not a great idea to bring kids, as concert goers like to come here to enjoy the atmosphere and to party.

Parking and public transportation at the Xfinity Center
General parking is free, and there are sixteen free lots on the premises. You will be directed to a spot by staff and may have quite a trek to the actual venue, so wear shoes you can walk in. For $45, you can pay for premier parking. You will be closer to the venue, but most importantly, you get priority exiting after the concert is over. There is no public transportation here, but a little online research might yield a private company offering bus service from wherever it is that you live.

Getting tickets at the Xfinity Center
There is a box office, but tickets are readily available through LiveNation and Ticketmaster. You will pay a service charge for tickets not purchased in person.

Types of concerts at the Xfinity Center
Because this is such a large venue, concerts are generally headliners, from Aerosmith to Mumford & Sons, Dave Matthews Band to Nine Inch Nails.

Other places to visit near the Xfinity Center
If you're hanging out in Mansfield, check out the Old Country Store and Emporium, a cute country store with great gifts, penny candy, old-fashioned lemonade, and more. Then head to Flynn's Irish Pub for a spectacular burger and a choice of forty-six beers on tap. For those looking for some zen, there are also several conservation areas in Mansfield that are worth a visit.

Where to stay near the Xfinity Center
A convenient choice at a good price is the Holiday Inn Mansfield-Foxboro area. There's also a Red Roof Inn, which is not quite as nice. Either option is just a five minute drive from the venue. Of course, you can also stay in Boston, only forty minutes away.

Insider tip for visitors to the Xfinity Center
A few things to note: Most importantly, it will take you likely an hour or so to get out of the parking lot after the show. Be mentally prepared, and be sure you have used the bathroom. The $45 premier parking is an option, as are private parking lots outside the venue. Also, there will be traffic on the highway and roads as you approach the venue before the show, so plan accordingly. Tailgate before and/or after the concert instead of sitting in traffic. You are now allowed to bring a factory sealed water bottle and some food; check the the website for current allowances.. Booze is not cheap so be willing to sell an organ if you plan to drink a lot.

Author's bio: Deborah Jarvis is a freelance writer who grew up and currently lives in the Greater Boston Area. She never pahks her cah in Hahvahd Yahd and tries not to drive like she's from Boston if she can help it. She has seen several shows at Great Woods and has only once completely forgotten where she parked her car.