30 Things to do in Boston with kids as a first time visitor

Did you know that Boston is ranked among the top U.S. destinations for a family vacation? This information comes as no surprise to us! With countless museums, landmarks, festivals, and outdoor activities, it’s tough to think of a better city to take your crew on a fun-filled getaway. 

Avoid the fatigue, boredom, and overtiredness that often come with family trips by intentionally planning a kid-friendly itinerary. Check out our list of 30 things to do in Boston with kids so you can hit the ground running upon arrival! 

Wondering how you’ll get around? A passenger van rental is spacious and comfortable, and a great place to rest between landmarks. So book yourself a big van and get ready to explore one of the oldest cities in America!

Historical attractions

While your little ones might roll their eyes at the mere mention of visiting a museum on vacation, the truth is checking out historical attractions is one of the best things to do in Boston with kids. Here are a few ideas to keep the entire family entertained while sneaking in a bit of education, without being too obvious.

Boston Children’s Museum

The museum’s engaging exhibits and captivating programs are so much fun, your kids won’t realize they’re learning. Head to the Japanese House for a glimpse into a foreign culture, encourage healthy habits and active play at KidPower, and foster their creative side in the Art Studio.  

Freedom Trail

Is there a better place to introduce youngsters to American history than Boston, one of the oldest cities in the U.S.? If your kids are aged 6-12, consider booking a youth-focused tour like Boston By Little Feet, which weaves engaging interactive elements into their presentations. Guides skillfully bring to life the history behind important landmarks such as the Paul Revere House and Old North Church.

The Black Heritage Trail

This 1.6-mile walking tour through Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood highlights the rich history of Black Bostonians. Pass by the oldest standing African American church in the country and the Abiel Smith School, which stood central to many of the city’s desegregation battles.

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

For a true blast from the past, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum has mastered the skill of reenactments. Between costumed actors and simulated historical events, you’ll feel like you’re actually present for the famous event that sparked the American Revolution. Walk through a full-scale replica of the 18th-century ship from which tons of tea were thrown, and finish your experience in Abigail’s Tea Room & Terrace for a cup of…you guessed it…tea.

USS Constitution Museum

Give your child, and your own inner child, the chance to experience life as a sailor at this fantastically interactive museum. Steer a ship, fire a cannon, and conquer the waves while guides break down the complex history of the iconic USS Constitution, the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat.

Outdoor activities

On the list of kids activities in Boston, these outdoor adventures rise to the top. Between boat rides on the harbor and picnics in the park, these sunny day experiences will help you burn off some steam and see the city from a unique point of view.

Boston Common and Public Garden

Morph a classic Boston experience into something more than a garden stroll. Start with a quintessential ride in a swan boat before making your way to Frog Pond, which transforms from a splash pad in the summer to an ice skating rink in the winter. 

Franklin Park Zoo

When in doubt, head to Boston’s Franklin Park Zoo, whose diverse animal exhibits and family-friendly amenities make it a perfect place to spend a day. Get up close and not-too-personal with lions at Lion Encounter, walk among free-flying birds in the aviary, and visit the zoo’s rainforest to see your favorite reptiles. There’s a giant playground on the premises for little ones with a lot of energy to burn.

Boston Harbor Islands

Visit any one of the 34 islands and peninsulas floating in the Boston Harbor, if only for the ferry ride. Take in unobstructed views of the skyline as you cross the harbor toward the island of your choosing. Relax on the beach, search for wildlife, and explore trails that range from simple strolls to challenging climbs. 

Duck Tours

Take city touring to a whole new level on a Duck Tour. Climb aboard the famous amphibious vehicle and visit Boston’s most historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. Hang on tight as the vehicle transforms into a boat, taking you for a one-of-a-kind ride on the Charles River to see the city from the harbor.

Emerald Necklace

Why visit one park when you can see nine? Boston’s urban planning masterpiece known as the Emerald Necklace is a chain of interconnected parks and parkways that outline the city. Within the loop, you can find abundant animal life, arboretums, biking trails, and picturesque picnic spots. 

Whale watching 

One of the best things to do in Boston with kids is also one of the most extraordinary things to do, well, anywhere. It’s one of the few cities that offers whale watching cruises. In fact, whales are spotted in such plenitude that Boston Harbor City Cruises guarantees a sighting in the three to four hours you’ll be sailing.

Educational experiences

Boston knows how to bring out your inner genius. Learn by osmosis with a pop into these fascinating museums and mind-blowing exhibits, all crafted to entertain visitors of any age.

Museum of Science

For rainy day kids activities in Boston, museums hit the spot. The Museum of Science is laden with entertainment, offering hands-on experiments, planetarium shows, and the chance to see a decommissioned missile up close. Next, explore a sustainable farm and dive into the wonders of AI, all under one roof.

New England Aquarium

Watch the world under the sea come to life in front of your very eyes. Peep at colorful fish, electric eels, and other ocean creatures including Myrtle the Turtle, the aquarium’s most beloved resident for over 50 years! Feel the texture of sea urchins and starfish in the touch tank and visit the tropics and a true-to-life Amazon Rainforest exhibit.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

From crystal flora to prehistoric fauna, Harvard’s natural history museum is a treasure trove of scientific delights. Check out the 112-million-year-old skeleton of the Kronosaurus, a whopping 42 feet long. Move on to the coveted glass flower exhibit, where over 4,300 glass flowers and plants will make you feel like you’re standing in the world’s biggest garden.

Lego Discovery Center Boston

Blast off to LEGO space, find your way through a LEGO kingdom, and admire the entire city of Boston made out of tiny LEGO bricks. For a hands-on experience, visit one of the center’s workshops before a film at the 4D cinema, which combines visual effects with physical sensations like wind, water, and scents.

The Mapparium

Despite what the news reports, society has advanced significantly in the past decades and the Mapparium is out to prove it. Using a three-story-tall, spherical room with stained glass walls depicting the world as it was in 1935, Boston’s Christian Science center documents the positive changes we’ve witnessed since pre-World War 2. 

View Boston

Don’t leave town without a birds-eye view of Boston’s urban expanse. From the View Boston tower, you’ll see everything including Boston Common, Charles River, the Emerald Necklace, and the glittering harbor. Grab a drink at the cafe and admire the city in all its glory from one of the indoor-outdoor observation decks.

Arts and culture

For the crafters in the crew, Beantown is a goldmine of art-related activities – from visual masterpieces to award-winning symphonies, you’ll find it easy to satisfy your creative side, even on vacation. 

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Easily one of the most beautiful museums in Boston, the center’s dedication to kid-friendly activities is a major perk for families. Start with a wander around the flower-filled courtyard before checking out the art studio. Little artists are invited to use a variety of supplies to create their own masterpiece to take home. 

Museum of Fine Arts

At first glance, a Museum of Fine Arts might not strike you as a family-friendly activity. However, with all the interactive art experiences and enchanting galleries, youngsters are sure to have a great time. Check out classes, workshops, and the mysterious Mummies Gallery. 

Institute of Contemporary Art

In an attempt to make the institute more attractive to families, the Institute of Contemporary Art has stepped up its game. Enjoy a variety of kid-focused experiences like experiential gallery games and play dates while perusing the center’s impressive art collection.

Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Family Concerts

The Boston Symphony Orchestra’s family-oriented concerts rely on a mix of storytelling, visual aids, and audience participation to make chamber tunes more exciting for young ones. Beyond concerts, the BSO offers workshops and opportunities for kids to try different instruments and meet the musicians.

Sports and recreation

Few cities relish sports like Boston does. Even if your family doesn’t know a homerun from a touchdown, it’s near-impossible not to be drawn to the hype. Tap into your sporty side with these family-friendly activities. 

Fenway Park Tours

Red Sox fan or not, the oldest field in Major League Baseball is worth a visit. Tour the press box, locker room, and fun interactive exhibits. Browse the different packages available to optimize your visit, especially if you’re a big baseball fan or celebrating a milestone. 

Boston Bowl

Designed with families in mind, Boston Bowl is the ultimate kids night out. Ramps and bumpers ensure an enjoyable experience for beginner bowlers and a kids menu will satiate everyone. Additionally, the alley boasts a vast arcade with new and traditional games including virtual race cars and skeeball.   

Charles River Esplanade

Take advantage of the Charles River and all the kid-friendly recreation that comes with it. Water lovers can rent paddle boards or kayaks when the weather is warm, while those who prefer to be on firm ground can explore the many hiking and biking trails along the riverbank. 

Catch a game

To say Boston is a city of sports fanatics is likely an understatement. In a town where sports run akin to religion, it would be a real shame to miss a game. Whatever time of year you visit there is a team to see and a throng of wild fans to watch. Before your Beantown visit, check the schedule of the following teams to see if any competitions coincide with your dates:

• Red Sox: One of the most famous baseball teams in history known for passionate, sometimes unruly fans.
• Bruins: A professional hockey team whose fierce rivalry with Montreal regularly fills the stadium with fierce followers.
• Patriots: A famous football team that has long dominated the NFL and won multiple Super Bowl championships. Love ‘em or not, they’re a spectacle to see.
• Revolution: Boston’s newest team is bringing the zeal of soccer to the Northeast.

Seasonal events

One of the great things about northeast cities is a commitment to making the most of the four seasons. Boston is no exception, so no matter what time of year you’re visiting you can be sure there will be a celebration on the calendar. Here are some to check out:

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular (Fourth of July)

One of the best things to do in Boston with kids over the Fourth of July holiday is the iconic concert and fireworks show. The combination of a world-class orchestra performance with a dazzling fireworks display is truly unique and fun for the whole family.

Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo (Fall)

Franklin Park Zoo transforms into a magical experience by night in the fall. A wonderland of light, the enchanting event displays thousands of handcrafted lanterns that shimmer throughout the park. Its varied landscapes are brought to life with glowing animals and mythical creatures, a real-life fairy tale unfolding before your eyes. 

Ice skating at Frog Pond (Winter)

Boston is one of our favorite New England winter getaways for the plethora of kid-friendly activities available at every turn. Despite the chill, you can beat the cold at Frog Pond, which turns into a wintry wonderland when the temperatures drop. Rent ice skates and glide around the rink as the city skyline envelopes you. On certain nights, professional skaters take to the ice to perform whimsical shows sure to inspire your inner ballerina.

Dining and entertainment with kids

Between child-friendly dining, cute spots for sweet treats, and entertaining games, families of all kinds are guaranteed a pleasant night out in Beantown. Here are some ideas:

Family-friendly restaurants

With so many families living in the Boston area, it’s no wonder there are plenty of kid-friendly dining options. Here are a few ideas to consider when making meal plans with youngsters.

• Mothership: Aside from a robust kids menu, staff ensures the little ones are entertained with crayons and games and the big ones with trivia and a full cocktail menu.
• Legal Harborside: Watching the boats sail in and out of the harbor is fascinating enough in itself, but did you know there is an actual trout-filled pond inside the restaurant for fishing?
• Bit Bar: An upscale kids menu and arcade games onsite? Yes please.
• Life Alive: With multiple locations and a kids dining area filled with toys, no one will realize that the food is healthy until it’s too late.

Unique treats and desserts

• Scoop N Scootery: Famous for their over-the-top sundae creations, delivered to your door.
• Christina’s Homemade Ice Cream: Known for classic and inventive flavors like fresh rose and Mexican chocolate.
• Mike’s Pastry: The classic North End bakery whips up traditional and unique spins on the cannoli, with creative filling flavors that run from oreo to limoncello.
• Boston Cream Pie: Don’t leave Boston without sampling one, or several, of this legendary New England dessert.

Kings Dining and Entertainment

Everyone will love a night out at Kings Dining and Entertainment. Between bowling lanes, billiard tables, and an array of arcade games, the amusement is non-stop. When it’s time to eat, chow down on burgers or tacos and wash’em down with a local brew.

Tips for visiting Boston with kids

The list of things to do in Boston with kids is lengthy, making it one of the best cities in the country to explore as a family. Ensure an easy, happy vacation for you and your little ones by considering the following tips when planning your trip.

• Best times to visit: Late spring and early fall are often touted to be the best times of year to visit Boston. However, charming winter festivities and outdoor summer activities indicate that it’s truly a year-round destination. Consider your preferences and plan your trip accordingly. 
• Stay safe: It never hurts to carry a first-aid kit while on vacation. Additionally, have the local emergency numbers on hand just in case the unpredictable arises. 
• Pack for the weather: Boston weather is known to fluctuate, especially in the spring and fall. Be prepared for rain, wind, and temperature changes with layers and an umbrella.
• Rent a passenger van: Traveling with kids often requires a lot of stuff. With a spacious rental van, you can pack everything you need, and perhaps some things you don’t, for the day. It also provides a comfortable place to rest while sightseeing.
• Plan rest breaks: Speaking of rest, young children will benefit from scheduled downtime. Bring pillows and blankets in the van to incorporate nap times throughout the day.
• Consider a Boston CityPASS: If your plan is to visit many attractions, a CityPASS will save you a lot of money. Unlike a tour, the pass is flexible, allowing you to visit museums and other landmarks at your own pace.

FAQs about things to do in Boston with kids

Is Boston a family-friendly city?

Boston is a very family-friendly city! There are lots of museums, restaurants, landmarks, outdoor activities, and sports-related activities that kids will love. Add to that its rich history and vibrant culture, you’ve got yourself an ideal family getaway. To top it off, it’s easy to get around and has been long considered a safe city.

How many days to see Boston with kids?

Three to four days of sightseeing with kids is a good amount of time for your first trip to Boston.

Is Boston good for toddlers?

There are so many kid-friendly activities, from museums to parks to child-focused restaurants, making Boston a good destination to visit with toddlers.

Can you go inside Castle Island?

Yes, you can. The structure on Castle Island is actually a fort that is open to the public during daytime hours.

Bet on a memorable family trip to Beantown with a Boston van rental – get your free quote here!