A whopping 42 kid-friendly adventures to be had in Boston

A whopping 42 kid-friendly adventures to be had in Boston

In a fresh, approachable tone, let's dive into the delightful family-friendly adventures that await you in Boston! This historic city offers a wealth of fun activities for both kids and adults, making it an ideal destination for your family vacation.

Boston's charm isn't just for the academic or history buffs; it's also big on fun. Its manageable size compared to cities like New York makes it easy for families to explore, and its excellent public transport network ensures you can reach all the exciting spots with ease.

From catching a Red Sox game at the iconic Fenway Park to whiling away a day on Boston Common, your family trip to Beantown will be filled with cherished memories. Don't forget to include world-class museums, such as the Boston Children's Museum, a must-visit, and the Museum of Science, where the electricity show is a must-see.

Exploring Boston as part of your New England road trip, you'll discover the city highlights, local neighborhoods, and the best family attractions. To help save you time, here's our pick of the best things to do in Boston with kids.

New England travel guides

• Itineraries: Boston to Maine road trip, New England road trip
• Destination guides: Things to do in Boston with kids, Things to do in Portsmouth, NH, Best places to vacation in Maine, Things to do in Southern Maine, Things to do in Vermont with kids, Where to find the real Stars Hollow
• Accommodation guides: Glamping in New England, New England family resorts, Maine family resorts, Vermont family resorts

How to save money on a Boston family trip

Make the most of your budget with a Boston CityPASS! This convenient pass grants entry to four attractions, including the Museum of Science and New England Aquarium, and offers savings of up to 45%. You'll also receive your choice of two additional attractions from a list that includes Boston Harbor City Cruises, Franklin Park Zoo, Harvard Museum of Natural History, and View Boston.

Other cost-effective options include the Go Boston Explorer Pass and Go Boston Pass, both of which provide further savings on various family attractions.

Our favorite Boston family activities

• See the Red Sox at Fenway Park - this unforgettable experience is one of the highlights from our entire New England trip.
• Boston Children's Museum - a fantastic kids' museum with an incredible three-story climbing frame.
• Museum of Science - don't miss the electricity show featuring incredible Tesla coils.
• Beacon Hill Books - an utterly charming bookstore with a fantastic kids' section.
• Frog Pond - enjoy a fun splash park on Boston Common.

Map of fun things to do in Boston with kids

42 unmissable activities for kids in Boston

We've hand-picked a variety of activities, divided into categories for your convenience:

Best museums for kids in Boston

• Boston Children's Museum - one of the best kid's museums we've ever been to, with hands-on exhibits like programming robots, ball tracks, and dressing up space dinosaurs.
• Museum of Science - a fantastic museum especially for older kids, with a Theatre of Electricity show that features impressive Tesla coils.
• Harvard Museum of Natural History - a must-visit for those who love dinosaurs, gemstones, and animal exhibits from around the world.
• Museum of Fine Arts - offers a dedicated guide for families, making it a great option for those with older kids.
• USS Constitution - home to the world's oldest naval vessel that remains afloat, offering guided tours and access to the museum.
• Boston Public Library - with a fossils exhibit in the stairs, this historic library also hosts regular family events.
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum - an eccentric bohemian's museum filled with thousands of historic objects and art, including sculptures, ceramics, and textiles. Families can use a guide for children to get the most out of the museum.

Best outdoor adventures

• Explore Boston Common and the Frog Pond - the city's version of Central Park featuring the famous Make Way for Ducklings statue, and a fun splash park in the summer.
• Boston Public Garden and the Swan Boats - a beautiful botanical garden with a lake where you can ride the iconic swan boats.
• Arnold Arboretum - a 265-acre park with over 7,000 types of trees, perfect for a bike ride or a leisurely stroll.
• Franklin Park Zoo - an excellent zoo with a 10,000-square-foot playground, including a working carousel and spray park.
• Boston Harbor Islands - 34 islands offering outdoor adventures, beautiful beaches, and wildlife sightings.
• Blue Hills Reservation - a wonderful outdoor destination with 125 miles of hiking trails, a ski resort, and panoramic city views.
• Castle Island Park - with grassy knolls, a playground, a beach, and historical fortifications, this park offers something for the whole family.

Sports and entertainment

• See the Red Sox at Fenway Park - a quintessential American experience and a family-friendly event featuring a kids' concourse and a variety of child-friendly food options.
• Boston Sports Museum - interactive exhibits and the chance to relive iconic moments in Boston sports history, suitable for older kids.
• Kings Dining & Entertainment - a popular spot with games such as bowling, retro arcade games, cornhole, air hockey, and billiards, as well as family-friendly dining options.
• Legoland Discovery Center - an indoor Lego playground with building experiences, miniature city models, and rides.
• Puppet Showplace Theater - a creative and engaging puppet theater offering workshops and shows for kids.
• Boda Borg - a Swedish-style quest room for kids 7 and up, combining obstacle courses, mental puzzles, and team challenges.
• Puttshack - a unique mini golf experience that combines traditional gameplay with interactive elements and a bar atmosphere, suitable for older kids.

Day trips from Boston with kids

• Salem - featuring the Salem Witch Museum, this charming town offers a glimpse into American history and the mysterious world of witches.
• Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard - classic New England seaside towns with pristine beaches, charming lighthouses, and picturesque harbors.
• Plimoth Plantation - step back in time to experience life in a 17th-century Pilgrim settlement.

Get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Boston! With its wealth of family-friendly activities, you'll create lasting memories while having a blast with your loved ones. So, pack your bags, and let's head to Beantown!

In Boston, besides delving into its historical charm, your family can enjoy a lively mix of modern experiences. Don't miss the thrill of attending a sports event like a Red Sox game at Fenway Park or participate in the entertainment-filled Legoland Discovery Center. For a touch of culture, the artistic Puppet Showplace Theater or Boda Borg, bursting with obstacle courses and team challenges, are must-visits. Your Boston trip wouldn't be complete without enjoying family-friendly activities at Boston Common, the city's version of Central Park.

To make the most of budget-friendly family experiences, consider investing in a Boston CityPASS. This multi-attraction pass grants savings of up to 45% on popular attractions like the Museum of Science and New England Aquarium. Moreover, consider exploring the various day trips from Boston, such as the enchanting Salem town or the picturesque beaches of Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard. So, embark on this exciting journey with your loved ones, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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