Promoting a vacation that is full of fun, anticipation and excitement is sure to banish any kid’s boredom away from home. And planning a family vacation in Boston, Massachusetts is as easy as ever with this list of 50 things for kids to do.
1. Boston Children’s Museum (Also called the McDonald’s Children Museum)
Believe it or not, there really is a museum dedicated to keeping children occupied and entertained. The Boston Children’s Museum is located at 300 Congress Street. This place is pure entertainment for children from small babies to pre-teens. From arts and crafts to theatre performances that kids can relate to, kids have many activities to choose from. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and on Fridays from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Admission fees vary from free to $10 based on age.
2. Boston Duck Tours
An exciting way to see a section of Boston is riding in the only vehicle that runs on land and sea. Children will love touring Downtown on this unusual tank that has the best of both worlds. Tickets prices range from $5.00 to $29.00 per person. Check out their website for full details and tour times.
3. Plymouth National Wax Museum
The wax museum is located at 15 Carter Street. Life size figures of Boston’s famed will fascinate kids of all ages. Admission is under $10 per person.
4. Ride on Codzilla
Pure, plain fun! The Codzilla boat looks just like a mad shark, but there’s nothing to worry about here. It is a fast, thrilling ride however, so if you and your family missed the amusement park rides, this is your next best bet. Prices: Adults $19, Seniors $17 and Children $14. Surcharges may apply.
5. The Museum of Science
Kids love science. Located at Science Park in Boston, this museum is filled with hands-on activities for the entire family. Dinosaur exhibits, The Charles Hayden Planetarium, and hundreds of interactive exhibits make this one of the best places to spend at least one of your vacation days while in Boston. Admission: Adult $17.00, Child $14.00. Check their website for summer and winter hours, since they may change with the season.
6. Camp at Lovell’s Island
If your family has never camped out on an island before, experience camping on either Bumpkin, Grape or Lovell Islands located within sight of Downtown Boston. Camping is available every day of the week from June 21st through September 1, 2008. Some typical camping restrictions such as no alcohol, pets, fireworks or amplified sound, apply. Reservations are required.
7. Jillian’s Boston
Entertainment and dining go together here at Jillian’s Boston, located at 145 Ipswich Street. This is a sports restaurant at night, but during the day families can enjoy the game room and eat a lunch of macaroni and cheese and buffalo chicken crisps. Your family can play darts and table tennis. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., and Sunday Noon- 2:00 p.m.
8.Boston Aquarium
Leafy Seadragons, African Penguin and Moon Jellies are just a few of the exotic aquatic life forms on display at the unique Boston Aquarium. The daily feeding shows entertain both children and adults. Plan your visit around a show so that you can see more of Boston. The Aquarium is conveniently located in Downtown Boston. Summer hours are from July 1st through Labor Day. Monday through Thursday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Labor Day Hours: from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
9. Whale Watching
The Boston Harbor Cruise is the best place to watch whales in their natural habitat. Located at One Long Wharf in the Downtown area, the yacht is very easy to find. Cruises are usually daily from either 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Call ahead. Prices may change slightly and range from about $30 – $36 per person. The best price deal for a family of four is $100. Cruise times are 8:30 a.m. or 5:30 a.m.
10. Take a Boat instead of a Taxi
Here’s an interesting way to get around Boston and the kids will enjoy the ride. Take an MBTA commuter to avoid the traffic on the land. These catamaran’s get your family around from point A to point B in good time. One way fares range from $1.70 to $12.00. Purchase online or at one of their sales locations listed on their website.
11. The Mapparium
Located at 200 Massachusetts Avenue, The Mapparium houses a large stained glass globe– a map of the entire world in early times. Visitors stroll through the middle of globe on a walkway. Pre-teens and teenagers will enjoy this the most. Exhibits are Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission: $6 and under per person.
12. Swan Boats
Taking a leisurely swan boat ride is an inexpensive way to see nature in about 15 minutes as well as to be able to say that you have “been on the water.” Fees range from $1.50 to $2.75. Located in the Boston Public Garden, Swan rides take place 7 days a week in nice weather conditions. Hours of Operation: Spring through Labor Day, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
13. Franklin Park Zoo
The Franklin Park Zoo is located at One Franklin Park Road in Dorchester and is just a stone’s throw from inner city Boston. The children will enjoy seeing the new Wattled Crane Exhibit. Summer hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekends and major holidays. General Admission is from $7.00 to $12.00 per person. View their website for special deals.
14. Stone Zoo
Stone Zoo at 149 Pond Street in Stoneham and is about 7 minutes away from the Franklin Park Zoo. The children will enjoy the Lord of the Wings: Birds of Prey show. General Admission is from Free for children under 2, others $6.00 – 9.00 per person. Summer hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekends and major holidays.
15. Mirabella Pool
If you want to take a load off and let the kids burn off excess energy, try stopping at the Mirabella Pool located in the North End of the Boston Harbor. Toddlers will enjoy the shallow spray pool.
16. Langone Park
Watch or learn to play a game of Italian Lawn Bowling (three regulation bocce). It is located on Commercial Street next to Puopola Park.
17. Fishing by the Harborwalk
Spend a relaxing afternoon and catch the big one! Fishing is a favorite pastime near the Harborwalk located in the Downtown North End area of Boston. Pack a picnic lunch, fish and enjoy the ocean scenery.
18. Steriti Memorial Ice Skating Rink
The indoor rink, open for the winter season, is located on Commercial Street, in the North End of Downtown Boston is a pleasant departure from the usual vacationing fare. Spend quality time experiencing this so that you don’t have to let the warm weather stop you and your family from enjoying a good afternoon if ice skating. Skating hours, as for all of the skating facilities listed, are varied because of pre-scheduled games.
19. Kendall Square Community Skating
Located at 350 Kendall Street is “the neighborhood ice skating rink” where you can skate with the locals. They open in Mid-November. Daily admission rates: Adults: $4.00, Seniors and Students: $3, and Children 10 and under, $1.00.
20. The Skating Club of Boston
This is one of the best skating clubs ever! A professional atmosphere with plenty of fun! And don’t be put off by the “Club” in the business name– they welcome visitors. They have summer and winter hours. Visit their website to see updated schedules and call to obtain the current fee schedule.
21. Simoni Ice Rink
Located at 165 Gore Street in East Cambridge, this may be one of Boston’s best kept secrets. Admission fees are under $6 per person, so ice skating here is very reasonably priced.
22. Paul Revere Mall and The Paul Revere House
Play Frisbee and soak in the Italian and Bostonian culture of this quaint, family oriented neighborhood. This mall is a really a park and nature reserve. It’s a nice way to relax before your next adventure in Boston. And don’t forget to visit The Paul Revere House. Tour their museum as children will learn the true story of Paul Revere and his family, in a way that kids can relate to. Admission fees are only $3.00 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 5-17 years of age.
23. Trolley Tours
Trolley Tours are located at 380 Dorchester Road has many exciting tours to suit everyone in your family. Fees for children ages 4+: $13, Adults: $34. Children under 3 ride FREE. Tours last from 1 to 3 hours, so choose the one that best suits your vacationing schedule. The tour guide gets the kids involved by having trivia games, coloring books and crayons on hand.
24. Trolley Tour: Ghosts and Gravestones
From April through October, this tour takes you through the gravesites of Paul Revere and other famous Bostonians. The teenagers may get a kick out of this one.
25. Trolley Tour: Historical Educational Tour
Boston’s history is about the American Revolution. Experience true Boston culture on this special tour.
26. Trolley Tour: The Chocolate Tour
Kids from ages 2 to 102 will love this tour. Cure your sweet tooth on your last day vacationing in Boston by indulging in the best chocolates you can experience.
27. Freedom Trail Tour
There is so much more to see and do on this tour. The Freedom Trail Tour Foundation located at 99 Chauncy Street, offers interactive performances, audio presentations, land and sea and even trolley tours. Try the “Reverse Walk Into History Tour”, which lasts about 90 minutes. Tickets are about $12. Tour times are at 11a.m, Noon, 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
28. Freedom Trail Tour: People and Places Tour
Treat your family to a cultural and educational experience that is as unique and diversified as Boston is.
29. Freedom Trail Tour: Historic Holiday Stroll Tour
You will learn about the Bostonian holiday traditions on this tour. Admission fees for Adults are $27 and Children $18. Reservations are required.
30. The House of the Seven Gables
Located at 54 Turner Street, The House of the Seven Gables features guided tours of this historical property. You will want to take the children the NEW Kid’s Cove at Seaside Gardens here. It is always fascinating to learn about the history of long standing structures. Prices range from $7.25 for children ages 5-12, to up to $12 for adults.
31. Plymouth Rock
Popular with children, Plymouth Rock is a must-see for family vacationers. The historical significance is fundamental to our country’s history. Narrated Plymouth Rock Trolley tours are from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
32. Mayflower II
Tour the Mayflower II and learn about the history of the ship. Open April through November. Check their website for current admission fees.
33. Plimoth Plantation (not Plymouth)
Step back in time to a 1627 Pilgrim village. The kids will get a kick out of the authentic speech of the actors’ portrayal of “a time way back when” as they stroll through an ole time village, built to portray new Boston. And overall, Plimoth Plantation knows that vacationing can both fun and educational. Prices vary, but are usually $10 and under per person. Visit their website to learn about other activities that the entire family can enjoy that will bring back fond memories.
34. Cold Stone Creamery
Nothing rounds out a vacation than stopping by a good quality ice cream shop. And what kid doesn’t like ice cream? Here at Cold Stone, you can choose from homemade specialties and take a pint “To Go” if you are in a hurry. Or better yet, why not enjoy a scoop right in the shop? With several locations in Boston, so it’s a good idea to visit their website for the location nearest to your travel destination.
35. Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream
Another good ice cream choice is the ever famous Ben and Jerry’s located at 20 Park Plaza in Boston. If you do not have one in your hometown, then while in Boston take time out to sample the freshest ice cream and enjoy their unique presentation of ice cream culinary creations such as their unique and scrumptious waffle cones.
36. Emack and Boilios
This ice cream shop is unique to the Boston experience. Located at 255 State Street in Boston, this is what I would call “the neighborhood ice cream parlor”. They make healthy and great tasting ice cream.
37. Charley’s Saloon
Dine at the only Saloon that is for kids and adults alike. Located at 284 Newbury Street in Boston, Charley’s homemade food is what really adds to the value of sights, tastes and visuals. Stop in for lunch before you leave Boston.
38. Full Moon Restaurant
At 344 Huron in Cambridge, Full Moon restaurant is all about the family dining experience. Children can be kids and parents can be grownups and everyone can enjoy a good meal. There is a play area so that children can keep occupied after they eat. Full Moon serves the food kids like best, such as hot dogs, cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese. Mom and dad can enjoy the adult fare items such as the grilled sirloin with blue cheese butter.
39. PF Changs China Bistro
Reasonably priced, yet tasty Chinese food is a crowd pleaser. The food offerings of PF Changs China Bistro are no different. PF Chang’s is located at 8 Park Plaza.
40. Summer Shack
Located at 50 Dalton Street, The Summer Shack is a casual fun place to take the kids for seafood. Hours are Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
41. Ice Skate on the Boston Common Frog Pond
Kids love to skate at the Boston Common Frog Pond. It’s also a great way to get in your exercise while out on vacation. The admission prices are: $4.00 for those 14 and up. 13 and under admission is free. Skate rental is $8.00, locker rental is $1.00. Hours are Monday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
42. Whale Watching Cruise from Massachusetts Bay Line
Kids are amazed at the sight of these large beautiful creatures. The Massachusetts Bay Line dock is located in downtown Boston, so this makes for a convenient boarding spot for Boston’s visitors. Since the cruise is lasts about four hours, this is one of those excursions that you need to plan ahead for. Ticket Prices: Children and Seniors: $29.95, Adults $34.95. Other fees may apply. During the summer months, cruises saild once daily and sail out twice on weekends. Visit their website to get more information on ticket purchasing, tour schedule and tips on how to prepare for the cruise.
43. Boston Bowl
The Boston Bowl is located at 820 Morrisey Blvd in Boston. The huge new game room of over 80 interactive and prize games is conducive to hours of fun. I like the fact that kids can save up the tickets that they win from playing these games and turn them in for prizes. A s always, an afternoon of bowling is always fun at Boston Bowl! Hours are Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Shoe Rentals go for $4.50 for adults and $2.95 for children. A ten pin game is from $3.60 to $5.20 depending on the time and day you decide to bowl.
44. Skate at one of the FMC Arenas
Public Skating at the FMC Arenas is reasonably priced at $4.00 for general admission and $4.00 for rental skates.
45. See an event at the Hatch Memorial Shell
In the summer months watch one of outdoor movies that are free to the public. Check ahead of time to make sure that the movie is kid friendly.
46. Flying Horse Carousel
Kids will love to ride the Flying Horse Carousel on Martha’s Vineyard. This ride is an historical landmark as it is the oldest operating carousel in the country. With plenty of video games, cotton candy and this means all the fun! Rides are $1.50.
47. Be a Junior Ranger
If you are visiting the Boston Harbor Islands, your son or daughter can be a Junior Ranger and learn as well as teach others how to respect nature. Island restrictions apply, such as no dogs allowed and no vehicles are permitted. Bicycles are permitted on Nut Island, Deer Island and Worlds End. Other restrictions may also apply
48. Appalachian Mountain Club
For a true outdoor adventure, visit the Appalachian Mountain Club at 5 Joy Street in Boston. They promote outdoor activities that include the entire family experiencing, and appreciating nature. Use their trip planner to find out what age appropriate activities are happening during your travel time. The Club is open all year round.
49. USS Constitution Museum
Boston and the Navy go hand in hand. Try not to leave Boston without visiting the U.S.S. Constitution, otherwise known affectionately as “Ole Ironsides”. Summer hours are from April 1 through October 31st. Winter hours are from November 1st through March 31st. Tours are given every 30 minutes. And best of all it’s FREE! Visit their website first and plan ahead prior to visiting to get the most enjoyment out of seeing this important historical artifact.
50. Castle Beach on Castle Island
What vacation destination list of things for kids to do would be complete without at least one suggested beach location? Castle Island is on the Harborwalk’s South End of Downtown Boston. Relax and take in some sun and join the kids in making sand castles on Castle Beach. Since the beach is open year round, it fits all vacation plans.
As you can see, if you refer to this list, youngsters are sure not to become bored or restless while vacationing in Boston. When planning, always call first or visit web sites to get the most current information.
Sources linked above and these listed here were accessed between July 9, 2008 and July 15, 2008:
DK Eyewitness- Top 10 Travel Guides Boston, DK Publishing, Authors: Patricia Harris, David Lyon and Jonathan Schultz, 3rd Edition
Boston for Dummies, Wiley Publishing Inc, Author: Marie Morris, 1st Edition.
