Family outings in Boston
Boston is one of the easiest American cities to explore on foot with kids. The historic centre, the Freedom Trail and the big parks can be visited without a car, and the subway, known as the T, links the main museums. In summer you enjoy the parks, waterfront and boats; autumn brings beautiful colours; winter is cold but museums are plentiful. Many attractions are popular, so it is wise to book ahead during school holidays. The harbour and waterfront add boat rides and good spots to eat outdoors, and Cambridge, across the river, is an easy subway trip for a change of scene during a longer stay.
Must-do activities
Boston Children's Museum
A museum designed for kids: climbing structures, water play, a toddler zone and hands-on exhibits. Allow half a day.
New England Aquarium
A giant central tank with sea turtles and sharks, penguins and a touch area. Located on the waterfront.
Museum of Science
Interactive exhibits on electricity, dinosaurs and space, with a planetarium and a large-format theatre.
Boston Common and Public Garden
Two neighbouring parks, with duckling statues to photograph, a pond, a playground and a splash pad in summer. Free.
Freedom Trail
A walking route marked by a red line on the ground that links the city's historic sites. Do only part of it with young children. Free.
Franklin Park Zoo
A zoo in a large park, with gorillas, lions and a contact area for little ones; it works well as a half-day outing.
Free parks and playgrounds near Boston
- 🛝 Adventure Play Slope
- 🌳 Curley Memorial Plaza
- 📚 The Bostonian Society Library and Special Collections
- 🏖️ Carson Beach
- 🌲 Buena Vista Urban Wild
- 🛝 Myrtle St. Playground
- 🌳 Carmen Park
- 📚 Boston Public Library Kirstein Business Branch
- 🏖️ L Street Beach
- 🌲 Hall's Pond Sanctuary
- 🛝 Tadpole Playground
- 🌳 Boston National Historical Park
Making the most of Boston as a family
Whether you live in Boston or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.
To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.
Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.
Bookable activities in Boston
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Boston, often with free cancellation.
See activities on GetYourGuide →See experiences on Viator →
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Family outings not to miss
→ Discover activities in Boston on FamiSwipe
FAQ
What can kids do in Boston when it rains?
The Boston Children's Museum, the Museum of Science and the New England Aquarium each fill a day under cover. Public libraries also have children's areas.
What are the free family activities in Boston?
Boston Common, the Public Garden, the Freedom Trail and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.
Is Boston easy with a stroller?
The centre is compact and pavements are generally manageable, but the streets of Beacon Hill are steep and cobbled. Not every subway station has a lift, so check before you go.
When is the best time to visit Boston with kids?
From May to October the weather is mild and the parks are pleasant. Autumn adds foliage colours, while winter calls for warm clothes but means smaller crowds.