Hey there! Planning a Boston trip with your little ones (or not-so-little ones)? Awesome choice. Boston is honestly one of the best cities for families. It's walkable, packed with history they can *touch*, and has surprises around every corner. But figuring out the absolute best things to do in Boston with kids without getting overwhelmed? That’s the trick. I've been exploring this city with my own nieces, nephews, and friends' kids for over a decade, and trust me, I've learned what works (and what doesn't) the hard way. Forget the generic lists – this is the real scoop from someone who knows the stroller routes and the best snack stops.
Must-Do Classics: The Boston Icons Your Kids Will Remember
You can't come to Boston and miss these. They're popular for a reason, but let me give you the insider angles.
Dive into History on the Freedom Trail (Seriously, It's Cool!)
Yeah, history sounds dry for kids. But walking the red brick line? That's an adventure. Grab a map from the Visitor Center (Boston Common, Tremont St) or download the app. Focus on the *interactive* stops:
- Sneak into the Old North Church: Where those famous lanterns hung. Ask about the secret crypt tours – older kids find these fascinating. Adults: $5, Kids 5-17: $3, Under 5: Free. Open daily 10 AM - 5 PM (hours vary slightly seasonally). Must-See
- Climb Aboard the USS Constitution ("Old Ironsides"): A REAL wooden warship! Free entry, but you need a photo ID for adults. Navy sailors give tours. Open Tue-Sun 10 AM - 4 PM (Closed Mon). Charlestown Navy Yard. Pro Tip: Take the MBTA ferry from Long Wharf – way more fun than driving!
- Meet the Victims (& Culprits?) at Granary Burying Ground: Find Paul Revere and Sam Adams. Sounds morbid, but kids love spotting the winged skulls. Free. Open daily roughly 9 AM - 5 PM. Tremont Street.
Walking the whole 2.5 miles with young kids? No way. Pick 3-4 stops near each other. Wear comfy shoes. Pack snacks. Lots of snacks. The Freedom Trail is a cornerstone for things to do in Boston with kids who can walk decent distances.
Splash & Giggle at the New England Aquarium
Central Wharf. Right on the harbor. The giant ocean tank in the middle is jaw-dropping. Penguins are always a hit. Touch tanks (ray and shark!) are messy fun.
| New England Aquarium Essentials | |
|---|---|
| Address: | 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 |
| Hours: | Mon-Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM, Sat-Sun: 9 AM - 6 PM (Summer & Holidays often extended, check website) |
| Tickets: | Adults: ~$39, Child (3-11): ~$32, Under 3: Free. Warning: It ain't cheap! Book online in advance for timed entry, especially weekends. Combo tickets with IMAX or Whale Watch available. |
| Best For: | All ages, toddlers to teens. Stroller accessible (elevators can get crowded). |
| My Take: | The main tank is unbeatable. The Simons Theatre (IMAX) shows great nature films. Cafe is pricey – pack lunch or walk to Quincy Market nearby. Gets VERY crowded on rainy days and weekends. Aim for weekday mornings. |
Roll Through the City on a Duck Tour
Quack quack! Riding in a WWII amphibious vehicle that splashes into the Charles River? Pure kid magic. Tours leave from the Museum of Science or Prudential Center. Lasts about 80 minutes.
- Tickets: Around $50-$55 per adult, $35-$40 per kid (3-11), cheaper online. Under 3 usually free but sit on lap.
- Pro Tip: Book WELL in advance, especially in summer. The Prudential start point often has shorter lines. Bring enthusiasm – the "ConDUCKtor" thrives on participation!
- Is it worth it? For a first-time visitor overview and the splashdown? Yeah, especially for elementary/middle school age. Teens might find it a bit corny, but secretly enjoy it.
Honestly, it’s one of those quintessential things to do in Boston with kids. Cheesy? Maybe. Memorable? Absolutely.
Beyond the Classics: Awesome Spots Every Parent Should Know
Okay, beyond the Freedom Trail and Aquarium, Boston has SO much more to offer families. Here’s where the locals go.
Get Hands-On at the Museum of Science (MoS)
Science Museum Road, near the river. Huge, engaging, something for everyone. Dinosaurs, lightning shows, live animal encounters, planetarium, butterfly garden (extra fee). You can easily spend a whole day.
| Museum of Science Breakdown | |
|---|---|
| Address: | 1 Science Park, Boston, MA 02114 |
| Hours: | Daily 9 AM - 5 PM (some exhibits may close earlier) |
| Tickets: | General Exhibit Halls: Adults ~$29, Child (3-11) ~$24, Under 3 Free. Planetarium/IMAX/Butterfly Garden require separate tickets or combo passes. Parking garage onsite is expensive ($25+). |
| Can't Miss: | Lightning Show (free with admission, schedule times), Dinosaurs, Engineering Design Workshop, Live Animal Presentation. |
| Parent Hack: | Check their "What's Happening Today" board. The 4D films are fun but short. The cafeteria is decent but crowded. Consider walking over to the North End for pizza afterward! |
Parking Reality Check: Driving into Boston? Parking is tough and expensive. Seriously consider the subway (the "T"). Most kid attractions are near Green, Red, or Blue lines. Get a CharlieCard for cheaper fares. Driving to MoS? Their garage fills up FAST on weekends. Get there early.
Run Wild (& Fly Kites) on Boston Common & Public Garden
Right in the heart of the city. The oldest public park in America (Common) and the gorgeous, formal garden next door.
- Boston Common: Huge open space. Playground (the Tadpole Playground is great for littles). Frog Pond: Spray pool in summer (FREE), ice skating rink in winter (rentals ~$6-$10, admission $6-$10). Swan Boats dock here.
- Public Garden: Beautiful flowers, the famous "Make Way for Ducklings" statues (photo op mandatory!), serene lagoon. The iconic Swan Boats operate here (Cash only! Open approx. April - Labor Day, weather permitting. Adults ~$4.50, Kids 2-15 ~$3.00, Under 2 Free).
This is your green oasis. Perfect for picnics, running off steam, or just relaxing between sightseeing sprints. Essential free thing to do in Boston with kids.
Imagine & Play at the Boston Children's Museum
308 Congress Street, Fort Point Channel. Geared specifically for younger kids, roughly infants to age 10. Three floors of hands-on exhibits: construction zone, bubbles, climbing structures (New Balance Climb is huge!), art studio, Japanese house.
- Hours: Wed-Sun 9 AM - 12 PM & 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM (Two timed sessions, closed Mon & Tue). Reservations required.
- Tickets: $20 per person (everyone age 1+). First Sundays 1:30-4:30 PM are FREE (but require separate, timed tickets released in advance, they go FAST).
- Verdict: Fantastic for the under-8 crowd. Older kids might get bored quicker. The playful exterior (giant milk bottle!) is iconic. Can get very loud and crowded, especially on free days.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites You Won't Find on Every List
Want to feel like a Boston insider? Check these out.
Castle Island & Fort Independence
Day Boulevard, South Boston. Not really an island anymore! A huge park with beaches, walking paths, and an old fort you can explore (free guided tours Sat/Sun in summer, otherwise walk the ramparts yourself). Fly kites, watch planes land at Logan, get famous fried seafood at Sullivan's (cash-only shack, opens March-ish, lines can be long). Parking is free but fills up on nice days. FREE (except food!). Amazing views.
Arnold Arboretum
Jamaica Plain. Part of Harvard University. 281 acres of trees, plants, and gardens. Feels miles away from the city. Great for nature walks, picnics, seasonal blooms (lilacs in May are stunning). Visitor center, self-guided tours. FREE. Accessible by Orange Line T (Forest Hills stop).
USS Cassin Young & Charlestown Navy Yard
Right next to the USS Constitution. A WWII destroyer you can tour for free (self-guided). Less crowded than "Old Ironsides" but just as cool for ship-loving kids. Walk the historic Navy Yard piers. FREE.
BPL Central Library: Children's Library
700 Boylston St, Copley Square. The main branch of the Boston Public Library is stunning. The Children's Library (Johnson Building, ground floor) is bright, welcoming, and has a fantastic collection. Storytimes, puppets, comfy spots to read. A perfect, calm escape on a rainy or cold day. FREE.
Waterfront Fun: Don't forget the Harborwalk! It's a public walkway stretching along much of the Boston waterfront. Great for strolling, bike riding (rentals available), watching boats, and finding little parks and piers to explore. Access near the Aquarium, North End, Seaport, Charlestown.
Fueling Up: Kid-Friendly (& Parent-Approved) Bites
Let's be honest, hungry kids = meltdown city. Here are reliable spots near major attractions:
Near Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market
- Quincy Market Food Colonnade: Endless choices under one roof (chowder, pizza, baked goods, international). Loud, crowded, chaotic, but something for everyone. Find a seat upstairs if you can.
- Regina Pizzeria (North End): Short walk away. Famous Boston brick-oven pizza. Expect a line, but worth it for authentic slices. 11 1/2 Thacher St.
- Modern Pastry (North End): Cannoli! Skip the Mike's vs. Modern debate, just get one. Great cookies too. 257 Hanover St.
Near Museum of Science
- MoS Cafeteria: Convenient, standard museum fare (burgers, pizza, salads). Pricey but okay.
- Walk to the North End: Only 15-20 mins walk across the bridge. Worth it for better food and atmosphere (Regina Pizzeria, Giacomo's - cash only, long lines but amazing pasta).
Near Boston Common/Public Garden/Newbury St
- Thinking Cup (Newbury St): Great coffee/sandwiches/pastries. 236 Newbury St.
- Parish Cafe (Boylston St): Famous for gourmet sandwiches created by local chefs. Fun vibe. 361 Boylston St.
- Picnic in the Common/Garden: Grab sandwiches from a deli (Sam LaGrassa's downtown for epic sandwiches, but pricey) and enjoy the park!
Snack Attack Savior: Always, ALWAYS carry water bottles and emergency snacks (granola bars, goldfish, fruit strips). You never know when the hunger pangs will strike, and finding the *right* food spot immediately can be stressful. Boston has tons of CVS/Walgreens for quick refills too.
Planning Your Adventure: Logistics Made Simple
Okay, let's talk nitty-gritty. This stuff matters.
Boston Through the Seasons: What Works When
Boston weather... it keeps you on your toes!
- Spring (April-May): Can be lovely (60s-70s) or chilly and rainy. Gardens start blooming (Arnold Arboretum!). Swan Boats open. Outdoor activities start ramping up. Pack layers!
- Summer (June-August): Peak season. Hot and humid sometimes. Expect crowds EVERYWHERE, especially at Freedom Trail sites, Duck Boats, Aquarium. Book tickets WAY in advance. Waterfront activities (spray pools, Castle Island) shine. Longer days = more exploring time.
- Fall (September-October): My personal favorite. Crisp air, stunning foliage (get out of the city for a day trip if you can!). Fewer crowds than summer. Perfect walking weather. Apple picking nearby is a classic New England thing to do near Boston with kids.
- Winter (November-March): Cold! Snow is common. Indoor attractions (Museums - MOS, Children's, Aquarium, Library) become havens. Boston Common Frog Pond ice skating is magical (but bundle up!). Festive lights. Travel can be tricky if snowstorms hit.
Getting Around Boston with Kids: T, Trolley, or Tootsies?
- The "T" (Subway): MBTA. Often the BEST way. Most key sights are near Red, Green, or Blue lines (Important: Orange Line was under construction recently, check status). Buy a CharlieCard (reloadable plastic card) at stations for cheaper fares than paper tickets. Strollers are allowed, but avoid rush hour if possible – elevators exist but can be slow/far apart. Be prepared for stairs sometimes. Kids under ~11 often ride free/reduced (check current policies).
- Walking: Boston is incredibly walkable downtown and between major sights (Common to Faneuil Hall, North End to Aquarium). Wear those comfy shoes!
- Hop-On Hop-Off Trolleys: Convenient overview, covers a lot of ground, commentary. Can be expensive for a family. Stroller friendly. Traffic jams can slow you down. Good option if walking long distances is tough.
- Driving: Generally not recommended downtown. Traffic is bad, confusing one-ways, parking is scarce and VERY expensive ($30-$50+ per day in garages). If you must drive, use apps like SpotHero to pre-book garage spots near your hotel/attractions.
- Rideshares (Uber/Lyft): Useful for specific trips (like from hotel to a starting point, or late at night). Install car seats if needed.
Staying in Boston: Family-Friendly Base Camps
Where to rest those tired feet?
- Downtown/Waterfront (Faneuil Hall, Aquarium): Most central, walkable to TONS. Most expensive area. Hotels like Boston Marriott Long Wharf (Aquarium views!), Battery Wharf Hotel.
- Back Bay (Copley, Prudential): Upscale, near Newbury St shops, Public Garden, Prudential Center (mall), easy T access. Hotels like The Colonnade (rooftop pool!), Sheraton Boston.
- Cambridge (Across the River): Near Harvard Square (fun vibe, bookstores), MIT Museum, short T ride into Boston. Often slightly better hotel value. Hotels like The Charles Hotel, Kendall Hotel.
- Budget-Conscious: Look slightly outside the core (Somerville, Brookline, near Orange Line stops like Malden) and commute in via T. Consider suites with kitchenettes (Homewood Suites, Residence Inn).
Things to Do in Boston with Kids: Your Questions Answered (FAQ)
Let's tackle those burning questions!
What are the best FREE things to do in Boston with kids?
Boston shines here! Top picks: Walk the Freedom Trail (exteriors, burying grounds, walk across Charlestown Bridge), Explore Boston Common & Public Garden (playground, "Ducklings" statues, people-watching, seasonal activities), Tour the USS Constitution & USS Cassin Young (free, ID required for Constitution), Stroll the Harborwalk, Visit the BPL Central Library Children's section, Hike/walk/bike in the Arnold Arboretum, Window shop on Newbury Street, Explore Castle Island/Fort Independence (free tours weekends summer). Watching street performers at Faneuil Hall is free too!
Where can I take my toddler in Boston?
Toddlers need space to move and simple fun! Prioritize: Boston Common (Tadpole Playground, Frog Pond spray pool in summer), Public Garden (Swan Boats, "Ducklings" statues), Boston Children's Museum (pure gold for this age, timed entry helps), New England Aquarium (colors, fish, penguins), BPL Children's Library (quiet reading, storytime), Arnold Arboretum (wide paths, space to run). Avoid long, structured tours. Keep stroller handy for naps!
What's fun for older kids and teens in Boston?
Engage them with history they can experience (Freedom Trail sites like Old North Church crypts & USS Constitution, maybe a ghost tour?), adrenaline (Duck Tour splashdown, Fenway Park tour if sports fans), science (MoS lightning show, Planetarium, MIT Museum), unique eats (Quincy Market variety, North End pizza/cannoli), shopping (Newbury St, Faneuil Hall), outdoor action (biking the Esplanade, kayaking on the Charles in summer - rentals available). The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) has fantastic collections if they appreciate art. Escape rooms are popular too!
Is Boston walkable with kids?
YES, the downtown core and connecting historic districts (North End, Beacon Hill, Back Bay) are incredibly walkable. Distances between major sights (like Common to Faneuil Hall to North End to Aquarium) are manageable. However:
- Cobblestones: Parts of the Freedom Trail and North End have uneven brick/cobblestone streets. Tough for small stroller wheels.
- Hills: Beacon Hill is... hilly (surprise!).
- Strollers: Bring a sturdy, maneuverable one if needed. Be prepared to lift it occasionally for stairs or curbs. Umbrella strollers work best on the T.
- Little Legs: Factor in rest breaks, playground stops, and snack refuels. Don't try to cram too much walking into one day.
How many days do I need for things to do in Boston with kids?
You can hit major highlights in 2 very full days, but 3-4 days is ideal, especially with younger kids or if you want a more relaxed pace. This allows time for:
- Day 1: Freedom Trail highlights (half-day), Boston Common/Public Garden, maybe Duck Tour or Aquarium.
- Day 2: Museum of Science OR Children's Museum (younger), North End exploration & food.
- Day 3: Museum you didn't do Day 2, Harborwalk stroll, maybe Castle Island or Charlestown Navy Yard.
- Day 4: Deeper dive (Arnold Arboretum, specialty museum like MFA for older kids, shopping, day trip to Salem/Gloucester/Lexington/Concord).
What's the best way to save money on Boston attractions with kids?
Boston can be pricey, but strategies exist:
- Prioritize Free Activities: See the list above! You can fill days with free fun.
- CityPASS or Go Boston Card: If you plan to hit multiple big-ticket paid attractions (Aquarium, MoS, Skywalk, Zoo - Franklin Park Zoo is outside downtown), these can offer significant savings. Do the math based on your specific itinerary first!
- Check Combo Tickets: Often the Aquarium, MoS, Duck Tours offer combos (e.g., Aquarium + IMAX).
- Library Passes: Some local libraries (including many suburban ones) offer discounted or even free passes to Boston museums. Check your home library BEFORE you travel!
- Discount Days/Times: Some museums have free or reduced hours (e.g., MoS Friday nights cheaper, BPL free Sunday afternoons). Requires planning.
- Pack Food: Minimize eating out for every meal. Hotel breakfast, picnics, snacks from grocery stores (like Roche Bros downtown).
Final Thoughts from a Boston Kid-Expert
Look, Boston with kids is fantastic. It's manageable, engaging, and full of character. The key is planning just enough but leaving room for discovery – chasing squirrels in the Common, finding the perfect cannoli, watching sailboats on the harbor. Don't try to cram it all in. Pick a few anchors each day (like the Aquarium in the morning) and let the rest flow. Focus on the experiences that match your kids' ages and interests. Use the T, wear comfy shoes, embrace the weather (pack layers!), and carry those snacks. Most importantly, soak it in. Seeing history come alive through their eyes? That's the real magic. Have an amazing trip finding all those wonderful things to do in Boston with your kids!