Boston brims with an array of exciting activities that promise to captivate children and adults alike. Whether it’s tracing the footsteps of American revolutionaries or enjoying a leisurely swan boat ride in the Public Garden, your family’s adventure in this historic city will be both educational and exhilarating.
Boston often surprises visitors with its seamless blend of rich history and contemporary attractions, ensuring that trips with kids are as enriching as they are entertaining. As you explore the city, take part in the many family-friendly activities Boston has to offer.
From picnicking on the Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, to interactive exhibits at the Boston Children’s Museum, your days will be packed with memorable experiences. The city’s layout is perfect for family exploration, with many of the top sites within walking distance or a short subway ride apart.
Immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of the city, making sure to experience the world-class educational opportunities.
Whether engaged in a hands-on science experiment at the Museum of Science or unraveling the mysteries of the deep blue sea at the New England Aquarium, Boston’s attractions will spark curiosity and wonder in your children’s minds.
No visit would be complete without taking on the iconic Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile journey through Boston’s foundational history, making the past tangible and accessible for all ages.
Top Family Attractions
When planning a trip to Boston with kids, make sure to include visits to famous landmarks, engaging museums, and beautiful parks that will create lasting memories for the whole family.
With a perfect blend of history and modern entertainment, these attractions cater to children’s curiosity and energy levels.
Famous Landmarks
One cannot visit Boston without experiencing The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you to 16 historically significant sites. Each step along this trail is an opportunity to immerse your family in the stories that shaped the nation.
Don’t miss the chance to climb the 294 steps of the Bunker Hill Monument, where you and your older kids can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
Another must-visit is the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, a floating history experience that brings the dramatic events of the American Revolution to life in an educational and thrilling way.
Museums and Education
For a fun-filled day of learning, head to the Boston Children’s Museum. Interactive exhibits engage young minds in the worlds of science, culture, and the arts. The New England Aquarium is another educational gem, where visitors of all ages can be inspired and educated about ocean conservation through captivating displays of aquatic life.
And if your family loves science, don’t miss the Museum of Science, Boston, with its planetarium, hands-on exhibits, and live presentations that make science accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Parks and Gardens
Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle and visit Boston’s Public Garden, America’s first public botanical garden. Here, you can enjoy the sight of graceful Swan Boats gliding across the pond during the warmer months.
For a unique play experience, head to the Esplanade, a riverside park that offers playgrounds and splash pads with the picturesque backdrop of the Charles River.
Boston’s parks and gardens are sprinkled throughout the city, providing a green retreat perfect for picnic lunches and outdoor play.
Other Notable Attractions
While exploring Boston, make sure to also check out Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox baseball team. Its rich history and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts.
Faneuil Hall, known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” offers a vibrant marketplace and is a great spot to catch live street performances. Castle Island, located in South Boston, provides a scenic spot for a family stroll and offers beautiful views of Boston Harbor.
Don’t forget to hop on a Boston Duck Tour, where you can explore the city by land and water aboard a unique amphibious vehicle. And of course, no visit to Boston would be complete without visiting the iconic Christopher Columbus Park, where you can relax and take in the stunning waterfront views.
As you plan your family trip to Boston, be sure to consider the interests and age of your children and choose attractions that align with their preferences.
With its rich history, engaging museums, and beautiful parks, Boston offers an abundance of family-friendly activities that will delight both the young and the young at heart.
Kid-Friendly Museums
Exploring Boston with kids is an adventure into America’s rich history and vibrant culture, with museums that cater specifically to younger audiences. These institutions offer interactive, educational, and fun experiences that will captivate the curiosity of children and provide an enjoyable outing for the entire family.
Interactive Exhibits
Boston Children’s Museum is a treasure trove for young minds. Engage with hands-on exhibits where your kids can explore art, culture, and science in a play-based learning environment. One can’t-miss attraction is the Construction Zone, where kids can don hard hats and build to their heart’s content.
For toddlers, the museum’s PlaySpace is perfectly designed with age-appropriate activities.
Science and Natural History
Science enthusiasts must visit the Museum of Science, Boston’s hub for all things scientific and innovative. Dynamic exhibits like the Lightning! show dazzle with indoor bolts of controlled lightning, while budding biologists can ponder over the life-like models in the Dinosaur exhibit.
Meanwhile, the Harvard Museum of Natural History enables kids to marvel at an extensive collection of minerals and gaze upon the famous Glass Flowers.
Historical Museums
For a dive into the past, the Bunker Hill Museum pairs perfectly with a day on the Freedom Trail. Your kids can learn about the revolutionary Battle of Bunker Hill through engaging storytelling and artifacts.
If your family is fascinated by old ships, don’t miss the USS Constitution Museum, where interactive galleries bring naval history to life for even the youngest sailors.
Outdoor Adventures
Boston is brimming with opportunities for you and your little ones to enjoy the great outdoors. From animal encounters to lush nature trails and imaginative playgrounds, the city offers a variety of activities to keep your family engaged with nature and wildlife.
As you plan your trip to Boston with kids, consider these outdoor adventures that promise a healthy mix of learning and excitement.
Zoo and Animal Encounters
Franklin Park Zoo is a cherished destination for families exploring Boston with kids. Home to a wide range of animals from around the globe, your children can marvel at majestic lions, playful red pandas, and tropical birds.
New England Aquarium offers an aquatic escape right on Boston’s waterfront, letting your kids come face-to-face with sea turtles, penguins, and mesmerizing jellyfish.
Nature Trails
Embark on scenic walks along the Emerald Necklace, a chain of parks laced with nature trails perfect for a family stroll.
The Arnold Arboretum provides a picturesque setting for discovering an array of plant species, and introduces your kids to the wonders of botany.For an interactive outdoor challenge, navigate the Freedom Trail, where each historic site unveils a piece of America’s past within Boston’s modern cityscape.
Playgrounds
Boston’s playgrounds are ingenious spaces designed for adventure and growth. At Boston Common, the Tadpole Playground ensures laughs with its slides and climbing structures, while the nearby Frog Pond offers seasonal ice skating under the open sky.
The Esplanade Playground captivates with its river views, ensuring your kids expend energy while you take in the panorama of Boston’s skyline.
Educational Experiences
When exploring Boston with kids, it’s easy to combine fun with learning through a variety of educational experiences throughout the city.
Whether delving into the rich historical past of the area, engaging in hands-on science activities, or absorbing diverse cultural knowledge, there’s an array of opportunities to enlighten curious minds.
Historical Tours
Boston is steeped in American history, and introducing your kids to the past can be as exciting as it is educational. Walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that leads you to historically significant sites, such as the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.
For a more immersive experience, consider taking them to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum where history comes to life with reenactments and interactive exhibits.
Science and Technology Workshops
Engage your children’s natural curiosity at the Museum of Science, which offers a broad spectrum of dynamic exhibits and workshops. Highlights include thrilling electricity shows featuring Tesla coils and the opportunity to take part in live animal presentations.
The interactive exhibits ensure that Boston with kids is both a fun and learning experience that sparks a lifelong interest in science and technology.
Cultural Learning
Expose your young ones to the arts by visiting the renowned Boston Children’s Museum, which is not only a playground for the mind but also a place to immerse in new cultural perspectives. Kids can explore global bazaars at the museum or attend special cultural festivals that Boston hosts throughout the year.
These events offer a colorful glimpse into different traditions and artistic expressions, enhancing your Boston with kids itinerary with meaningful cultural context.
Seasonal Activities
Boston is a city that transforms with the seasons, giving families a variety of experiences year-round.
Whether basking in the summer sun, enjoying the winter’s festive offerings, or celebrating during unique events, Boston with kids promises memorable adventures.
Summer Fun
In the summer, Boston’s outdoor spaces come alive. Take your kids to the Boston Harbor Islands for a day of exploration and beach activities.
Enjoy educational programs, hiking trails, and picnic spots with stunning sea views. On hot days, the spray decks at playgrounds throughout the city are perfect for cooling off.
Winter Specials
When winter sweeps through Boston, it brings a host of activities that embrace the cold. The Boston Common Frog Pond becomes an ice-skating rink where families glide together under the city lights.
Don’t miss the chance for some indoor fun, too, with seasonal shows or a visit to the various historical sites and museums that Boston has to offer.
Festivals and Events
Boston’s calendar is dotted with family-friendly festivals and events throughout the year. From the excitement of the Fourth of July fireworks to the Boston Children’s Festival, there’s always something to entertain and engage.
For a taste of fall, make sure to experience the different Halloween and harvest events, ensuring your Boston with kids experience is rich with culture and fun.
Family Dining
When exploring Boston with kids, finding the right spots to dine is essential. This section points you to restaurants that cater to family needs, from dedicated kids’ menus to friendly atmospheres.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Boston offers a variety of kid-friendly restaurants where your little ones can enjoy a meal just as much as you.
The Fort Point brewpub, known for its family-friendly environment, features a menu just for kids, including favorites like cheeseburger sliders and chicken tenders. While the parents relax, the kids can delight in dishes made with them in mind.
Local Eateries
Seeking a taste of Boston’s local flavor suitable for all ages? Check out places like the vibrant El Pelon Taqueria, which boasts not just affordability but also dishes like enchiladas that will be a hit with the entire family.
Restaurants like these understand that dining out should be enjoyable for everyone at the table, ensuring each family member leaves with a full belly and a smile.
Sweet Treats
No family outing is complete without a stop for something sweet. Boston’s dessert scene includes spots like the charming bakeries found in the North End, where you can indulge in some of the city’s finest cannoli or gelato.
Local ice cream shops also offer a cool respite during summer outings, serving up classic New England flavors that cater to the sweet tooth of every family member.
Family Accommodation
Choosing the right place to stay is crucial for a family trip to Boston. Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or budget-friendly options, Boston has a variety of accommodations that cater to families traveling with kids.
Hotels and Resorts
Boston boasts an array of hotels and resorts designed with family needs in mind. Many offer amenities such as pools, family rooms, and activities for children to enrich your stay.
The Four Seasons Hotel Boston by Boston Commons is known for its exceptional service and family-friendly facilities.
If you’re seeking something that combines comfort with exciting themed experiences, the Boston Harbor Hotel stands out with its location right on the waterfront.
Vacation Rentals
For those who prefer a home-away-from-home experience, vacation rentals can be found throughout the city, giving your family a private and cozy space.
Neighborhoods such as the Back Bay and Beacon Hill offer charming brownstones just a stone’s throw from the city’s main attractions. Rentals often provide kitchens and multiple bedrooms, making them a smart choice for families wanting to settle into the city rhythm.
Budget Stays
Budget stays in Boston don’t have to mean skimping on the overall experience. Affordable hotels and guesthouses are available, particularly when you branch out from the city center. Consider staying in areas like Cambridge or near the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, where prices tend to be more family-friendly.
Keep an eye out for deals on sites like TripAdvisor to find options that won’t break the bank while keeping you close to the action in Boston with kids.
Shopping with Kids
When visiting Boston with kids, finding the right places to shop can turn a good trip into a great one. From family-friendly malls to unique toy stores, and places to pick up memorable souvenirs, Boston offers plenty of options to make shopping a fun experience for the whole family.
Malls and Outlets
Boston provides a variety of malls and outlets that cater to families. The Prudential Center combines shopping with a nice dining experience for a full day out. Here, you’ll find a mix of clothing stores, bookshops, and places to rest with a treat.
For bargain hunters, the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets is a short drive away, offering designer brands at discounted prices – a perfect place for you to shop and save.
Toy Stores
For something truly special, Jeffrey’s Toys offers a treasure trove your kids will adore. Each aisle is an adventure with educational games, latest toys, and nostalgic classics sure to spark joy and creativity.
Don’t overlook local gems such as Boing! JP’s Toy Shop, where community and playfulness blend, creating a delightful shopping experience for children and adults alike.
Souvenirs
To bring home a piece of your Boston adventure, stop by souvenir shops that offer more than the usual trinkets. For example, the Newbury Comics on Newbury Street is a great place to find unique music-related memorabilia.
If you’re looking for educational souvenirs, the gift shops at the Boston Children’s Museum or the Museum of Science provide interactive toys and books that celebrate the rich history and culture of Boston.
Practical Information
When planning a family trip to Boston, paying attention to safety, transportation options, and accessible healthcare ensures a smooth experience. These practical aspects are crucial for enjoying the city’s offerings with peace of mind.
Safety Tips
Boston is generally a safe city for families, but it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas. Always keep an eye on your children and be aware of your surroundings.
Many of the city’s attractions are close to each other, making it convenient to explore Boston with kids.
Designate a meeting point in case your group gets separated, and ensure kids know how to identify and approach police officers or officials for help.
Transportation Guide
Moving around Boston is relatively easy with various transportation options. The MBTA subway, known as the ‘T’, is a family-friendly choice for getting to most attractions. For those areas not as accessible by ‘T’, the bus system fills in nicely.
Boston also has a reliable taxi and rideshare presence, and many families enjoy the Hop-on Hop-off trolley tours, which provide both transport and a tour of Boston with kids.
Consider purchasing a CharlieCard for discounted fares on the ‘T’ and buses.
- The ‘T‘: Convenient and economical.
- Buses: Cover areas beyond the ‘T’.
- Taxis/Rideshare: Readily available.
- Hop-on Hop-off Trolley: Fun and informative.
Healthcare Facilities
When traveling with kids, it’s always good to know where you can find medical care if needed. Boston boasts some of the world’s top healthcare facilities. For non-urgent care, look for walk-in clinics spread throughout the city, which can be a quicker alternative to hospital emergency rooms.
The Boston Children’s Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital are equipped with pediatric emergency services, offering top-notch care for urgent needs. It’s wise to have a list of nearby clinics or pharmacies readily available.
- Walk-in Clinics: For less urgent care.
- Boston Children’s Hospital: Specializes in pediatric emergencies.
- Massachusetts General Hospital: Comprehensive emergency services.
Itineraries and Tours
When visiting Boston with kids, planning the right mix of activities can be key to a memorable family trip.
Whether you opt for self-guided walks that allow you to explore at your own pace, join organized group tours that offer unique perspectives on the city’s history, or enjoy customized family tours tailored to your interests, Boston has a variety of options to suit your family’s needs.
Self-Guided Walks
Boston’s rich history and compact layout make it an excellent city for self-guided walks. One popular option is the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path through downtown Boston that passes 16 significant historical sites. It’s a great way for you and your kids to learn about the American Revolution at your own pace.
For a creative twist, you could turn the walk into a scavenger hunt to keep the kids engaged. Another self-guided adventure could be the exploration of Boston’s vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own character.
The North End, known for its delightful Italian eateries and the renowned Mike’s Pastry, is a must-visit for any family.
Organized Group Tours
For a more structured experience, organized group tours can provide an educational and entertaining overview of Boston. Families often enjoy the iconic Duck Tours, which take you around the city and into the Charles River on amphibious vehicles.
Seasonal whale watching tours are also available, giving you and your kids the chance to witness these majestic creatures up close. In the fall, consider a ghost tour to experience Boston’s spookier side through tales of its haunted history.
Customized Family Tours
For those seeking a tour experience more personalized to your family’s preferences, customized family tours are the way to go.
Services exist that can curate an itinerary specifically for you, taking into consideration the ages of your kids, interests, and any special needs.
Whether it’s delving into science at the Museum of Science or enjoying an interactive experience at the Boston Children’s Museum, your tour can be crafted to ensure everyone in the family has a great time.
For a blend of independence and curated recommendations, exploring a local mom’s itinerary for 3 days in Boston with kids can provide a foundation for your adventures, ensuring you don’t miss out on top family-friendly attractions.
Fascinating Guides to Explore Next: Fun Things to Do in New York City, Free Things to Do in San Francisco, Barcelona with Kids
Planning and Resources
When visiting Boston with kids, effective planning and selecting the right resources can enhance your experience. Below you’ll find essential tools designed to simplify your family trip to this historic city.
Travel Apps
For navigating the city with ease, a handful of apps should be on your device. Citymapper offers real-time transit information. Meanwhile, the MBTA mTicket app is a must for purchasing commuter rail tickets on the go.
If you plan to drive, ParkBoston is your go-to for managing meter payments across the city.
Visitor Centers
Make your first stop at one of Boston’s Visitor Centers. The Boston Common Visitor Center provides maps, brochures, and expert advice to help tailor your visit.
Staff members can offer insights on family-friendly activities and hidden gems that are perfect for exploring with kids.
Discount Passes
To save on attractions, consider investing in a Boston discount pass. The Go Boston Card allows for entry to many top sites at a reduced price.
Options like the Boston CityPASS create a bundle that can include the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science. These are two must-see attractions when in Boston with kids.
Author’s Note
Boston is an ideal destination for families, offering a perfect mix of historical and modern attractions. The city is easy to navigate, making it great for walking tours like the Freedom Trail, while interactive museums like the Boston Children’s Museum provide educational fun for kids.
With ample green spaces, child-friendly dining, and engaging activities at every turn, Boston ensures a rich, enjoyable experience for all ages.