Exploring Boston with children is an adventure filled with historic sites, science museums, parks, and interactive experiences that blend education with fun. I visited Boston with my family, and it quickly became one of our most memorable trips. From museums that engage young minds to outdoor excursions that give them room to explore, this guide covers some top activities I tried, along with other highly recommended experiences for families.
1. Exploring the Museum of Science
- Location: 1 Science Park, Boston, MA 02114
- Ticket Prices: General Admission – Adults $29, Children (3-11) $24; discounts available online or via Boston CityPass.
- Recommended For Ages: 3 and up
One of the best places to start a family trip in Boston is at the Museum of Science, where you can get hands-on with all kinds of exhibits that capture the attention of kids and adults alike. The museum is easy to get to by car or public transit, and parking is available on-site. We found it easiest to take the T (Boston’s subway system), with a stop conveniently close to the entrance.
My Experience: When we walked in, my kids immediately ran toward the dinosaur exhibit, which features life-size models, fossil exhibits, and interactive displays about how dinosaurs lived. They loved pretending to be paleontologists, carefully brushing away “dirt” to uncover “fossils” in a dig area. For anyone with dinosaur enthusiasts in the family, this exhibit is a must!
Afterward, we moved on to the Lightning Show, where kids get to learn about electricity and watch actual lightning being generated indoors—our whole family was captivated. We also explored the Butterfly Garden and the Planetarium, where the immersive stargazing experience left a lasting impression on my kids. Each corner of the museum offers something unique, so be ready for an entire day of discoveries.
Tips for Families:
- Pack Snacks: The museum has a café, but bringing some of your own snacks is always a good idea, as kids can get hungry between exhibits.
- Plan Ahead: Check the website for special exhibits or shows—sometimes the planetarium and 4D theater have unique, limited-time experiences.
- Best for All Ages: With a variety of exhibits, even toddlers can find something to enjoy here.
2. Boston Children’s Museum: Interactive Play for All Ages
- Location: 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
- Ticket Prices: Adults $18, Children (under 1 free) $18; discounts for members
- Recommended For Ages: Toddlers to pre-teens
The Boston Children’s Museum is a dream for young children. Located on the waterfront, it’s a beautiful and educational space with countless interactive exhibits that invite kids to touch, play, and learn.
My Experience: As soon as we arrived, my kids were captivated by the Construction Zone—a space that lets kids wear hard hats and work with kid-sized construction tools, foam bricks, and cranes. They spent nearly an hour here, constructing and demolishing buildings with big smiles on their faces.
Another favorite was the Japanese House exhibit, a two-story house transported directly from Kyoto, Japan. Here, kids learn about Japanese culture through hands-on activities, from trying on traditional clothing to exploring Japanese tea ceremony customs. It’s a fun and immersive way to introduce young ones to world cultures.
The Kid Power exhibit is another hit. Kids can jump, run, and learn about how their body generates energy. My youngest couldn’t get enough of the bubble room, where she could pull on ropes to create giant bubbles that engulfed her head to toe.
Tips for Families:
- Take Advantage of the Waterfront Location: Bring a picnic to enjoy on the nearby lawn, with a scenic view of Boston Harbor.
- Plan for Downtime: With so many activities, kids can get overwhelmed. Schedule breaks, and use the comfortable seating areas throughout the museum.
- Book Tickets Online: This will help avoid long lines, especially during weekends and school vacations.
3. New England Aquarium: An Underwater Adventure
- Location: 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
- Ticket Prices: Adults $32, Children (3-11) $23
- Recommended For Ages: 2 and up
The New England Aquarium is one of Boston’s top attractions for families. This aquarium is famous for its massive Giant Ocean Tank, where visitors can see a variety of sea creatures, including sea turtles, rays, and sharks, swimming in a large central tank that spans multiple stories. Watching the animals swim by is a mesmerizing experience, especially for little ones.
My Experience: My kids loved the Touch Tank, where they could gently touch small sharks, sea stars, and stingrays. It’s an interactive experience that allows kids to feel more connected to marine life and learn about the importance of ocean conservation.
The Penguin Exhibit is another big hit. My family could have spent hours watching the little blue penguins waddling around, diving, and playing. It’s both educational and endlessly entertaining.
We ended our visit with a 3D movie at the IMAX theater, which is located right next door and offers family-friendly documentaries about ocean life. The 3D experience added another layer of excitement to our aquarium adventure.
Tips for Families:
- Arrive Early: The aquarium can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early ensures you have a quieter experience.
- Consider a Combo Ticket: Combo tickets that include the IMAX theater can save money and extend the experience.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Bring a packed lunch to enjoy by the harbor or check for discounted rates online before your trip.
4. The Freedom Trail: A Step Back in Time
- Location: Begins at Boston Common; stretches 2.5 miles through downtown Boston
- Ticket Prices: Free to walk; guided tours available at various prices
- Recommended For Ages: 7 and up
The Freedom Trail is a unique way to dive into American history with the whole family. Spanning 2.5 miles, this trail takes you to 16 historically significant sites, from the Massachusetts State House to Paul Revere’s House. Walking the trail with kids is a great way to make history come alive, as each stop along the way provides a glimpse into America’s Revolutionary past.
My Experience: We began our journey at Boston Common, where we picked up a map and started our self-guided tour. The Old North Church was a highlight for my family. Here, we learned about the famous “One if by land, two if by sea” signal, and the kids were fascinated by the tales of Paul Revere’s midnight ride.
Tips for Families:
- Bring Comfortable Shoes: The trail covers 2.5 miles, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Use a Guidebook or App: To make the history accessible for kids, consider downloading an app that provides historical context and kid-friendly explanations at each stop.
- Pace Yourselves: With younger children, consider breaking up the trail into two or three shorter excursions.
5. Boston Common & Public Garden Swan Boats
- Location: 4 Charles St, Boston, MA 02116
- Ticket Prices: Adults $4.50, Children $3.00
- Recommended For Ages: All ages
Exploring Boston’s oldest public park, Boston Common, and the nearby Public Garden is a family-friendly outdoor activity that combines relaxation and history. Here, you’ll find lush lawns, scenic pathways, and the iconic Swan Boats, which operate seasonally and are a joy for kids and adults alike.
My Experience: The Swan Boat ride is a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the park, especially after a day of sightseeing. The boats are pedaled by friendly boat captains, and kids love the unique experience of riding in a swan-shaped vessel around the lagoon.
6. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- Location: 306 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
- Ticket Prices: Adults $29.95, Children (5-12) $21.95; discounts available online
- Recommended For Ages: 5 and up
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum offers a highly interactive, immersive experience that kids will love. The museum is a blend of live reenactments, multimedia exhibits, and hands-on activities that recreate the events leading up to the American Revolution.
Experience: Our tour began with an enthusiastic “town meeting” where actors, dressed as colonists, rallied everyone to join their protest. We were given the chance to shout “Huzzah!” and even throw “tea crates” overboard from a full-scale replica ship—my kids found it thrilling to be part of this historical event. Inside the museum, we saw one of the original tea chests, which fascinated both kids and adults alike.
Tips for Families:
- Best for Kids Who Love Role-Playing: This museum’s interactive approach is ideal for children who enjoy imaginative play and history.
- Booking Tickets in Advance: It can be a popular attraction, especially on weekends, so purchasing tickets online is a good idea to avoid long waits.
- Gift Shop Alert: The museum’s shop has a variety of unique souvenirs, from quill pens to “revolutionary” tea, so budget some time (and funds) for this fun stop.
7. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston
- Location: 598 Assembly Row, Somerville, MA 02145 (just outside Boston)
- Ticket Prices: General Admission $29.99 online; discounts for families and groups
- Recommended For Ages: 3 and up
Located a short drive or T ride from downtown Boston, LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers hours of hands-on fun for younger children and LEGO enthusiasts. With its array of building stations, 4D cinema, and rides, it’s a great way to spend a day, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Experience: As a family with young children, we were thrilled by the LEGO Kingdom Quest ride, an interactive attraction where kids use laser blasters to “save the princess.” My youngest spent over an hour in the LEGO Duplo Farm, a soft play area for toddlers, while my older kids took on the Master Builder Academy for some creative building tips.
Tips for Families:
- Plan for Multiple Activities: With so much to do, allocate at least half a day to make the most of the attractions here.
- Pack Snacks: LEGOLAND has a café, but bringing some extra snacks can help refuel during playtime.
- Check for Deals: Look for family packs online that offer savings on admission for multiple people.
8. Franklin Park Zoo
- Location: 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, MA 02121
- Ticket Prices: Adults $21.95, Children (ages 2-12) $14.95
- Recommended For Ages: All ages
For a break from the city, head to the Franklin Park Zoo, where kids can learn about wildlife up close. The zoo features a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits and is home to creatures from gorillas and lions to exotic birds and reptiles.
Experience: My kids especially loved the Tropical Forest, which features a large indoor habitat for gorillas. We spent a lot of time watching these incredible animals play and interact. The Children’s Zoo section is a great area for younger kids, with interactive play structures and smaller animals like goats that they can pet and feed.
Tips for Families:
- Plan Around Feeding Times: Check the zoo’s schedule for animal feedings or special talks, as these offer a great chance to see the animals up close.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The zoo covers a large area, so prepare for plenty of walking.
- Picnic Option: Franklin Park has picnic areas where you can bring your own lunch, saving on dining costs and providing a scenic spot to relax.
9. Boston Public Library & Courtyard
- Location: 700 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116
- Ticket Prices: Free admission
- Recommended For Ages: 5 and up
The Boston Public Library might not be the first place that comes to mind for kids, but this historical site has plenty to offer families. The building is breathtaking, and kids can join special storytime events or explore the children’s room, while parents enjoy the beauty of the architecture.
Experience: The highlight of our visit was the courtyard—a peaceful, outdoor oasis in the heart of the city where families can relax or have a snack from the nearby café. We spent some time in the Children’s Library, a well-designed space with plenty of reading nooks, interactive exhibits, and activities that kept my younger kids entertained.
Tips for Families:
- Storytime Sessions: Check the library’s calendar for family-friendly events like storytime, arts and crafts, or seasonal celebrations.
- Photography Spot: The courtyard is beautiful, with fountains and greenery, making it a perfect place for family photos.
- Budget-Friendly: The library is free, so it’s a fantastic option for families looking to save while enjoying a quiet, beautiful space in the city.
Expanding this with four more recommendations and additional insights will develop the guide into a comprehensive and engaging family-friendly travel piece that highlights Boston’s rich history, kid-friendly attractions, and unique cultural experiences. Each location can include practical travel insights, special family discounts, and personalized notes for making the most out of each visit. Let me know if you would like the additional four activities written out, or have a particular preference on the focus for those suggestions!