Things to Do in Boston With Kids

When in Boston with kids, immerse yourself in a blend of entertainment and education through various activities. Explore the Charles River with kayaking at Charles River Canoe & Kayak for scenic views. Museums like the Children's Museum offer hands-on learning opportunities, sparking curiosity and creativity. Engage with history along the Freedom Trail or USS Constitution, involving families in educational experiences. Family-friendly neighborhoods like Back Bay or North End cater to diverse interests, while interactive exhibits at the Boston Children's Museum provide fun for all ages. Harbor boat tours and the New England Aquarium offer marine wildlife sightings and educational experiences. Discover more about Boston's family adventures.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the Charles River with kayaking adventures.
• Visit interactive museums like the Children's Museum.
• Discover historical sites on the Freedom Trail.
• Enjoy family-friendly neighborhoods like Downtown Boston.
• Experience unique activities like Duck Tours and Harbor Boat Tours.

Outdoor Adventures in Boston

For families visiting Boston with kids, exploring the city's outdoor adventures offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. One highlight includes Charles River Canoe & Kayak, where you can start on kayaking experiences along the Charles River, providing an excellent mix of urban exploration and nature experiences for families with kids.

As you paddle along the waterways, you'll be treated to scenic views of Boston, making it a delightful outdoor activity for all ages. Boston's outdoor adventures not only showcase the city's beauty but also offer recreational opportunities for families to bond and create lasting memories.

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the urban landscape or enjoy the tranquility of nature, these outdoor activities in Boston provide a unique way for kids to engage with their surroundings and appreciate the wonders of the city. Get ready to explore the best of Boston's outdoor adventures with your family!

Interactive Museum Exhibits

Explore Boston's interactive museum exhibits that engage kids with hands-on activities, games, and immersive learning experiences, offering a dynamic way for children to explore various subjects like science, history, art, and technology.

Museums like the Children's Museum in Boston feature interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young visitors. These interactive displays provide educational opportunities for children to actively participate in the museum experience.

Through touch screens and engaging activities, kids can investigate topics ranging from the wonders of science to the depths of history. The immersive learning experiences offered by these interactive exhibits make the museum visit not only educational but also entertaining for children of all ages.

Historical Sites Exploration

Begin a historical journey along the iconic Freedom Trail in Boston, exploring 16 key sites like Paul Revere's House and Faneuil Hall, each steeped in rich American history.

Step aboard the USS Constitution, the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat, and explore the maritime legacy of this storied vessel.

Freedom Trail Adventure

Discover the fascinating historical sites along Boston's Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path filled with 16 significant landmarks that offer engaging educational experiences for families with kids. The trail, marked by a red line on the ground, allows for easy exploration at your own pace, making it ideal for children. Interactive exhibits and reenactments along the trail provide hands-on learning opportunities, bringing history to life for young minds.

By visiting the Freedom Trail, kids can explore the events of the American Revolution and uncover the stories of early American history in a fun and interactive way.

• Immerse in History: Explore Paul Revere's House and the Old North Church to step back in time.
• Educational Adventures: Engage in interactive exhibits and reenactments that make history come alive for kids.
• Self-Guided or Guided: Choose between a self-guided tour or join a guided tour for a deeper understanding of Boston's rich history.
• Family-Friendly: The trail is designed to cater to families with kids, offering a memorable and educational experience for all.

Visit USS Constitution

When visiting Boston with kids, make sure to include a trip to the USS Constitution, an iconic historical site that offers a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the United States. The USS Constitution, also known as 'Old Ironsides,' is the oldest commissioned warship afloat globally and played an essential role in the War of 1812, embodying the early history of the United States Navy.

Situated at the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, this ship welcomes visitors to explore its decks through engaging guided tours. Adjacent to the USS Constitution lies the USS Constitution Museum, where interactive exhibits, educational programs, and hands-on activities cater to visitors of all ages.

Kids can immerse themselves in the maritime history of the USS Constitution, gaining a deeper understanding of the ship's legacy and significance in American naval history. This experience promises to be both educational and enthralling for families exploring Boston's historical sites.

Explore Paul Revere's Home

To explore the historical charm of Boston, consider investigating Paul Revere's Home, a cherished landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of American patriot Paul Revere and his family.

The Paul Revere House, located in the North End, stands as the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston, dating back to 1680.

Inside, visitors can explore the colonial life of the Revere family by examining the various rooms such as the kitchen, bedrooms, and living spaces, all adorned with period artifacts and furnishings.

Guided tours and interactive exhibits at the historic site provide a hands-on experience, immersing guests in the rich history of Paul Revere and his contributions to American independence.

This educational experience offers a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn about the life and times of this American patriot firsthand.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Families visiting Boston can find a variety of family-friendly neighborhoods to explore, each offering unique attractions and amenities for kids of all ages. Downtown Boston serves as a convenient base with proximity to Boston Common, Rose Kennedy Greenway, and the Seaport District.

Back Bay is ideal for families, providing access to the Charles River Esplanade and the family-friendly Boston Public Library. For engaging experiences, spots like the Children's Museum, Lawn on D, and Boston Tea Party Ships are must-visits in different family-friendly neighborhoods.

The North End neighborhood blends historic charm with modern amenities, offering families a taste of the past through attractions like the Freedom Trail and delectable Italian cuisine. Additionally, Beacon Hill boasts a picturesque setting with charming streets, historic sites, and close proximity to Boston Common and the Public Garden.

These family-friendly neighborhoods in Boston cater to diverse interests, ensuring a memorable experience for families exploring the city.

Engaging Activities for Kids

Discover exciting activities that will captivate your kids in Boston, offering hands-on experiences and interactive fun at various locations across the city.

• Boston Children's Museum: Explore interactive exhibits and engaging hands-on activities at 308 Congress Street, providing a stimulating learning environment for children of all ages.
• Duck Tour: Hop on a Duck Tour for a unique amphibious adventure, departing from iconic landmarks like the Museum of Science, Prudential Center, and New England Aquarium, promising a memorable experience for the whole family.
• Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary: Head to Lincoln for a real working farm experience at Drumlin Farm, where kids can interact with animals such as pigs, sheep, goats, and owls, fostering a deeper connection to nature.
• Boston Fire Museum: Investigate history at the Boston Fire Museum on 344 Congress Street, where you can explore historical artifacts and equipment used by firefighters, offering an insightful perspective on firefighting throughout the years.

These activities provide a blend of entertainment and education, ensuring an enriching experience for your children in Boston.

Fun on the Waterfront

Take a Harbor Boat Tour to experience Boston's waterfront from a unique perspective, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and historical landmarks.

Explore the New England Aquarium, housing over 20,000 animals and featuring interactive exhibits that educate and entertain kids of all ages.

These activities provide a perfect blend of fun and educational experiences for families visiting the vibrant waterfront of Boston.

Harbor Boat Tours

Explore Boston's waterfront in a unique and exciting way by hopping on a harbor boat tour. These tours offer a family-friendly activity that combines fun with an educational experience. As you cruise along the harbor, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city skyline, Boston Harbor Islands, and iconic landmarks like the USS Constitution. Knowledgeable guides will share interesting facts about Boston's history and architecture, enriching your journey with valuable insights.

Look out for interactive elements onboard, providing kids with engaging activities and opportunities to learn about marine wildlife up close. Harbor boat tours are a great way to immerse yourself in waterfront exploration while taking a relaxing break from sightseeing. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a leisurely cruise that caters to both entertainment and education for the whole family.

• Family-friendly activities
• Interactive elements
• Marine wildlife sightings
• Educational experience

Aquarium Exploration

Embark on an exciting aquatic adventure at the New England Aquarium in Boston, where you can immerse yourself in a world of marine wonders on the waterfront. The New England Aquarium boasts a Giant Ocean Tank housing over 1,000 marine animals, from sea turtles to sharks, providing a mesmerizing experience for visitors of all ages.

Interactive exhibits such as the touch tank and the shark and ray touch tank offer hands-on learning opportunities, allowing you to interact closely with various marine creatures. Additionally, don't miss the penguin exhibit, outdoor Atlantic harbor seal exhibit, and daily animal presentations for a fun and educational experience.

For a deeper exploration into the world of marine life, the New England Aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours, whale watching cruises, and unique animal encounters, ensuring a memorable visit with your kids. With a strong emphasis on conservation and education, the New England Aquarium is a premier destination in Boston for families seeking to discover and learn about marine ecosystems.

Educational Museum Visits

Discover educational museum visits in Boston that offer engaging experiences for kids to learn about science, history, and marine life.

• Boston Museum of Science: Immerse yourself in hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that allow children to explore science and technology concepts in a fun and educational way.
• Harvard Museum of Natural History: Delve into fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, and animals, providing valuable educational opportunities for kids to learn about the natural world.
• USS Constitution Museum: Step back in time to discover the history of 'Old Ironsides' and engage in interactive experiences that shed light on naval life in the early 19th century.
• New England Aquarium: Explore marine life up close through touch tanks, giant ocean tanks, and interactive exhibits that offer insights into ocean ecosystems, providing an enriching learning experience for children.

These museums in Boston offer a wide range of educational opportunities for kids to explore various fields of knowledge in an interactive and engaging manner.

Unique Boston Experiences

For a unique perspective on Boston, consider participating in interactive puppet shows at Puppet Showplace Theater in Brookline. This public theater offers a family-friendly environment where kids can enjoy live puppet performances that are both entertaining and educational. The interactive nature of the shows allows children to engage with the art form, making it a hands-on learning experience that stimulates their creativity and imagination. The Puppet Showplace Theater is a museum of sorts, showcasing the history and artistry of puppetry while catering specifically to kids. It provides a fun and interactive way for children to explore different stories and characters through the art of puppet shows.

In addition to puppet shows, families can also join a Duck Tour to explore the historical sites of Boston in a unique way. This tour combines land and water travel, offering kids an exciting adventure that blends history and entertainment.

Both the Puppet Showplace Theater and Duck Tours provide memorable experiences that are sure to delight children and adults alike.

Nature and Wildlife Exploration

Set out on an enriching outdoor adventure in Boston by immersing yourself in nature and wildlife exploration opportunities.

• Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit this working farm in Lincoln, just outside Boston, to encounter a diverse range of animals including pigs, sheep, goats, and owls. Explore the sanctuary's trails, designed for strollers and young children, while engaging with interactive exhibits. Admission costs $9 for adults and $6 for kids aged 2 to 12.
• Garden in the Woods: Located in Framingham near Boston, this natural gem features the serene Curtis Path and a Family Activity Area perfect for toddlers to connect with nature. Enjoy a day surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna. Entry to Garden in the Woods is $12 for adults, $6 for children aged 3 to 17, and free for kids under 3.

These destinations offer fantastic opportunities for nature exploration and wildlife encounters, providing an educational and fun experience for the whole family.

Sports and Entertainment Opportunities

When exploring Boston with kids, you'll find a plethora of family-friendly sports events and kid-friendly entertainment venues to enjoy.

From Fenway Park tours to the exhilarating Codzilla boat adventure, there's no shortage of thrilling experiences for the whole family.

Don't miss out on interactive and educational opportunities like Boston Duck Tours and the Segway tours, providing a unique way to explore the city while having fun.

Family-Friendly Sports Events

Discover exciting family-friendly sports events in Boston where kids can cheer on their favorite teams and immerse themselves in the thrilling world of sports entertainment. Here are some top options for families to enjoy together:

• Red Sox at Fenway Park: Catch a classic baseball game at the historic Fenway Park and witness the Red Sox in action, creating lasting memories for kids.
• Boston Celtics at TD Garden: Head to the TD Garden arena to watch the Boston Celtics showcase their basketball skills, offering an electrifying atmosphere for sports enthusiasts of all ages.
• New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium: Experience the adrenaline of a New England Patriots football game at Gillette Stadium, where families can witness the excitement of American football up close.
• Boston Bruins at TD Garden: Attend a Boston Bruins hockey game at the TD Garden for a fast-paced and thrilling sports atmosphere that will captivate kids and adults alike.

These family-friendly sports events provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to engage with sports and support their favorite teams while enjoying the vibrant sports culture in Boston.

Kid-Friendly Entertainment Venues

Explore a diverse range of kid-friendly entertainment venues in Boston, offering sports and entertainment opportunities for families to enjoy together. The Boston Children's Museum stands out for its interactive exhibits and educational programs, providing a stimulating environment for children to learn through play. With a focus on being family-friendly, this museum offers a wide array of hands-on activities that cater to various age groups and interests. Another popular spot for families is the Franklin Park Zoo, where kids can marvel at a variety of animals and participate in interactive experiences that make learning about wildlife engaging and fun.

For a more creative and imaginative experience, families can visit Legoland Discovery Center Boston, a space where children can let their creativity soar while building with LEGO bricks. Additionally, for older kids seeking thrills, Codzilla offers a high-speed boat ride on Boston Harbor, promising an exhilarating experience that will leave them buzzing with excitement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boston Worth Visiting With Kids?

Yes, Boston is worth visiting with kids.

The city boasts a plethora of family-friendly activities, including excellent educational and historical sites.

From interactive museums to unique cultural experiences, Boston offers diverse options for children of all ages.

With its vibrant neighborhoods and parks, the city guarantees a memorable trip for families.

Boston's accessibility, safety, and range of activities make it an excellent destination for creating lasting memories with your children.

How Many Days to See Boston With Kids?

To see Boston with kids, plan for at least 3-4 days of exploration. Depending on your interests, you might need more time for museums, parks, and historical sites.

Make sure to visit popular spots like the New England Aquarium, Boston Children's Museum, and the Freedom Trail. Mix indoor and outdoor activities for a well-rounded experience.

Planning ahead with a flexible itinerary will maximize your enjoyment while exploring Boston with your kids.

How to Spend Three Days in Boston?

To spend three days in Boston, start by exploring historical sites on a Duck Tour departing from key locations like the Museum of Science.

Enjoy interactive learning at the Boston Children's Museum with exhibits like the Bubble Room and Playspace.

Visit the New England Aquarium and Franklin Park Zoo for family-friendly fun.

Conclude your trip with a visit to Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary for a real working farm experience.

Follow this itinerary for a well-rounded Boston adventure.

How Do I Spend My Day in Boston?

To make the most of your day in Boston, start by exploring iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, where you can 'immerse yourself in the rich history of the city,' says Boston Discovery Guide.

Then, head to the vibrant Quincy Market for a taste of local cuisine and unique shopping experiences.

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the scenic Charles River Esplanade for breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Conclusion

To sum up, Boston offers a wide array of activities for families with children, from outdoor adventures to educational museum visits. With so much to see and do, there's never a dull moment in the city.

So pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready to explore all that Boston has to offer. From historical sites to interactive exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and lively city.

Don't miss out on the unforgettable experiences that await you in Boston!