Family Activities in Boston, MA — 2026 Guide
Boston brings history to life for families with the Freedom Trail, world-class museums, and a walkable waterfront. From the Boston Children's Museum to whale watching, the city offers a perfect blend of education and adventure.
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Boston Children's Museum
A world-class museum with a three-story climbing structure, interactive exhibits, and hands-on learning.
308 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
Visit websiteMuseum of Science
Cutting-edge science since 1951 with a planetarium, laser shows, 3D cinema, and live demonstrations including the famous lightning show.
1 Museum of Science Driveway, Boston, MA 02114
Visit websiteNew England Aquarium
Giant ocean tank, sea otters, penguins, jellyfish, and seasonal whale watching cruises.
1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
Visit websiteBoston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Board full-scale replica sailing vessels, throw tea overboard, and experience the Boston Tea Party through interactive exhibits.
306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
Franklin Park Zoo
A 72-acre zoo with gorillas, lions, tigers, and a butterfly landing, included in the Boston CityPASS.
1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121
Outdoor Activities
Freedom Trail
A 2.5-mile red-line walking trail through 16 historic sites including Paul Revere's House and the Old North Church.
Boston Common & Public Garden
America's oldest public park with playgrounds, the famous Swan Boats, and the Make Way for Ducklings statues.
139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111
Charles River Esplanade
A lovely riverside path with three playgrounds, bike lanes, and views of the city skyline.
Whale Watching from Boston Harbor
See humpback, finback, and minke whales plus dolphins on a 3-4 hour cruise from Long Wharf.
Boston Harbor Islands
Ferry to islands with beaches, hiking, and historic Fort Warren on Georges Island.
Free Things to Do
Freedom Trail (walking)
Free self-guided walk along the 2.5-mile red-line trail through history.
Boston Common & Public Garden
Free parks with playgrounds and the Make Way for Ducklings statues.
Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market
Free historic marketplace with street performers and food stalls.
Charles River Esplanade
Free riverside path with three playgrounds.
Rainy Day Plan
Museum of Science
Interactive exhibits, planetarium, and live science shows.
Boston Children's Museum
Three-story climbing structure and interactive exhibits.
New England Aquarium
Giant ocean tank and marine encounters.
Boston Public Library
The stunning Copley Square branch with a wonderful children's section and free programming.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring
- •Swan Boats return to the Public Garden
- •Cherry blossoms on the Esplanade
- •Red Sox opening day at Fenway
Summer
- •Whale watching season
- •Boston Harbor Island ferries
- •Free concerts on the Esplanade
Fall
- •New England fall foliage
- •Head of the Charles Regatta
- •Salem witch history (30 min north)
Winter
- •First Night celebration
- •Frog Pond ice skating on Boston Common
- •Holiday lights at Faneuil Hall
Nearby Day Trips
Plymouth & Plimoth Patuxet Museum
40 miles south
Plymouth Rock, a living history museum with Pilgrim and Wampanoag exhibits, and Mayflower II.
Salem
25 miles north
Witch history museums, the Peabody Essex Museum, and the House of the Seven Gables.
Cape Cod
70 miles south
Beautiful beaches, whale watching, mini golf, and the Cape Cod National Seashore.
Local Parent Tips
Boston is very walkable. The T (subway) fills in the gaps. Kids under 11 ride the T free with a paying adult.
The Boston CityPASS saves money on the Aquarium, Museum of Science, and other attractions.
Fenway Park tours are available year-round and are a hit with sports-loving families.
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