Boston, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a playground for families looking to explore and make memories together. On our latest trip to this historic city, my family and I discovered so many wonderful things to do in Boston with kids and parents alike.
Here’s a roundup of our top 10 favorite family-friendly adventures in Boston that we think you’ll love just as much as we did. So, grab your walking shoes and let’s embark on a journey through one of America’s most beloved cities!
10 Things to Do in Boston with Kids
1. Walk the Freedom Trail
Our adventure began with the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston that takes you past 16 historic sites. It’s like stepping back in time! We all loved seeing the old buildings and learning stories about American history. It’s a great way to explore the city on foot and engage with its past.
2. Visit the New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium was a hit with my kids. They were mesmerized by the giant ocean tank, home to a colorful coral reef and hundreds of sea creatures, including a friendly sea turtle named Myrtle. The touch tanks were a hands-on favorite, letting us get up close with starfish and sea urchins.
3. Explore the Boston Children’s Museum
This museum is a wonderland for curious minds, packed with interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. Whether it was climbing the three-story structure in the middle of the museum or exploring the bubble room, my children were entertained for hours. It’s a must-visit for families with young kids.
4. Take a Swan Boat Ride in the Public Garden
A serene escape in the heart of the city, the Public Garden’s famous Swan Boats offer a peaceful boat ride on the pond. It’s a charming experience, and the beautiful gardens and statues make for a picturesque stroll afterward.
5. Catch a Baseball Game at Fenway Park
Experiencing a game at Fenway Park, America’s oldest ballpark, is something special. The atmosphere is electric, and there’s plenty of excitement for kids, from the game itself to the ballpark snacks. Even if you’re not a big baseball fan, the energy and history of the place are captivating.
6. Enjoy the Outdoors on the Boston Common
The Boston Common is America’s oldest public park and a fabulous place for families to relax and play. We enjoyed a picnic, watched the street performers, and let the kids run around the playgrounds. It’s a lovely spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
7. Discover the Museum of Science
The Museum of Science was another favorite, with fascinating exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space travel. The lightning show in the Theater of Electricity was thrilling, and the planetarium offered a mesmerizing journey through the stars.
8. Visit the USS Constitution Museum
At the USS Constitution Museum, we learned all about the famous warship nicknamed “Old Ironsides.” The interactive exhibits were engaging for the kids, allowing them to pretend they were sailors from the past. A tour of the actual ship, docked right outside, was the highlight.
9. Indulge in a Cannoli in the North End
The North End, Boston’s Italian neighborhood, is famous for its delicious food, especially cannolis. We treated ourselves to these sweet pastries from one of the famous bakeries, and it was a delightful way to experience the local culture and cuisine.
****Where to Eat
Nestled in the heart of Boston’s historic North End, Bova’s Bakery stands as a testament to the city’s rich Italian heritage, offering what many locals and visitors alike consider the best cannoli in Boston. Open 24 hours, this family-owned gem delights with its fresh, hand-filled cannolis, ensuring a perfectly crisp shell and creamy filling at any hour, truly a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Italian sweetness.
10. See the City from the Skywalk Observatory
Our adventure concluded with breathtaking views from the Skywalk Observatory. Located in the Prudential Center, it offers a 360-degree view of Boston and beyond. It was fascinating to see all the places we’d visited from such an incredible vantage point.
Boston is a city that truly has it all – from historical treasures to modern attractions, making it the perfect destination for families looking to explore and learn together. Each of these activities offered us a unique way to connect with the city and each other, creating memories that we’ll treasure forever. So, if you’re planning a family trip to Boston, be sure to add these adventures to your list!
