Boston is a great city for families to visit, with a variety of activities, restaurants, and places to stay that accommodate even the youngest of travelers. With its rich history, natural beauty, and family-friendly attractions, it’s no wonder that so many families come to Boston for their vacation. Here are the top 15 child-friendly activities, 5 child-friendly restaurants, 3 hotels, top outdoor activity and top indoor activity for families to enjoy while visiting Boston.
Top 15 Child-friendly Activities
1. Boston Children’s Museum: Located in the Fort Point neighborhood, this museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities designed for children. Kids can explore the world of science and technology, play pretend in the Playspace, and take part in educational programming.
2. The New England Aquarium: Located in the heart of the city, the aquarium features hands-on exhibits, marine mammal shows, and over 12,000 animals from around the world. Kids can learn about the ecosystems and the creatures that inhabit them.
3. Museum of Science: Located in the West End, this museum features interactive exhibits and shows that explore the world of science, technology, engineering and math. Kids can explore science in the Hall of Human Life or explore the universe in the Charles Hayden Planetarium.
4. Franklin Park Zoo: Located in the Dorchester neighborhood, this zoo offers up-close encounters with animals from around the world, plus educational programming and events. Kids can learn about the habitats and behaviors of animals from different parts of the world.
5. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: Located in the Seaport District, this museum offers interactive exhibits and activities that bring the history of the Boston Tea Party to life. Kids can learn about the causes and effects of the event and explore a replica of the original tea ships.
6. USS Constitution Museum: Located in the Charlestown neighborhood, this museum offers interactive exhibits and activities that bring the history of the USS Constitution to life. Kids can explore the decks of the ship, learn about its history and crew, and take part in educational activities.
7. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum: Located in the Dorchester neighborhood, this museum offers interactive exhibits and shows that explore the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy. Kids can learn about President Kennedy’s life, his accomplishments, and the events that shaped his presidency.
8. Harvard Museum of Natural History: Located in the Harvard Square neighborhood, this museum features interactive exhibits, live animal shows, and educational programming on the natural world. Kids can explore the exhibits and learn about the science and culture of the natural world.
9. The Freedom Trail: Located in the downtown area, this 2.5-mile walking trail takes visitors through 16 historical sites that played a role in the American Revolution. Kids can learn about the events that shaped the nation’s history and explore the city’s colonial past.
10. Boston Public Garden: Located in the Back Bay neighborhood, this public park features lush gardens, ponds, sculptures, and other attractions. Kids can explore the gardens and take part in the Swan Boats rides around the pond.
11. Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Located in the downtown area, this marketplace offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Kids can explore the shops and take part in street performances and other activities.
12. Boston Common: Located in the downtown area, this park is the oldest public park in the country. Kids can explore the park and take part in a variety of activities, such as ice skating in the winter, or playing in the playgrounds in the summer.
13. USS Constitution Museum: Located in the Charlestown neighborhood, this museum offers interactive exhibits and activities that bring the history of the USS Constitution to life. Kids can explore the decks of the ship, learn about its history and crew, and take part in educational activities.
14. Franklin Park Zoo: Located in the Dorchester neighborhood, this zoo offers up-close encounters with animals from around the world, plus educational programming and events. Kids can learn about the habitats and behaviors of animals from different parts of the world.
15. The Aquarium: Located at Central Wharf, this aquarium features interactive exhibits and activities that explore the ocean and its inhabitants. Kids can learn about the creatures of the sea and explore the exhibits.
Top 5 Child-friendly Restaurants
1. Flour Bakery + Café: This fast casual restaurant serves up freshly-baked pastries and sandwiches. Kids will love the freshly baked muffins, croissants, and pastries. Reviewers noted that the atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
2. Tia’s on the Waterfront: This seafood restaurant is located right on the Boston Harbor. Kids will love the fish and chips and lobster rolls. Reviewers noted that the food is fresh and flavorful, and the views are spectacular.
3. The Salty Pig: This fast casual restaurant serves up Italian-inspired dishes and craft beers. Kids will love the wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads. Reviewers noted that the atmosphere is fun and family-friendly, and the staff is attentive and friendly.
4. Union Oyster House: This sit-down restaurant has been serving up classic New England seafood dishes since 1826. Kids will love the fried clams, lobster rolls, and fish and chips. Reviewers noted that the food is fresh and delicious, and the atmosphere is cozy and nostalgic.
5. The Thinking Cup: This fast casual restaurant serves up freshly brewed coffee and specialty pastries. Kids will love the freshly-baked muffins, scones, and croissants. Reviewers noted that the coffee is fresh and flavorful, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Top 3 Hotels
1. Luxury: The Liberty Hotel: Located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and a variety of amenities. Reviewers noted that the rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the staff is attentive and accommodating.
2. Family Friendly: Hampton Inn & Suites Boston Crosstown Center: Located in the Fenway area, this family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms, a pool, and a variety of amenities. Reviewers noted that the rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
3. Budget/Value: Boston Park Plaza: Located in the Back Bay neighborhood, this budget-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms, a variety of amenities, and a convenient location. Reviewers noted that the rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Top Outdoor Activity
The Boston Harborwalk: Located along the waterfront, this 6-mile walking and biking path takes visitors through a variety of parks, beaches, and attractions. Kids can explore the city’s waterfront, take part in recreational activities, and enjoy the beautiful views. Reviewers noted that the trail is well-maintained and easily walkable, and the views are spectacular.
Top Indoor Activity
The Children’s Museum: Located in the Fort Point neighborhood, this museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities designed for children. Kids can explore the world of science and technology, play pretend in the Playspace, and take part in educational programming. Reviewers noted that the museum is well-maintained and interactive, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
When traveling to Boston with young children, there are both pros and cons to consider. On the plus side, there are plenty of family-friendly activities, restaurants, and hotels to choose from. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, so there’s something for everyone. On the downside, Boston can be a crowded city, and the summer months can be very hot and humid. Traffic can also be a challenge, as the city is home to some of the most congested roads in the country.
In general, Boston is a great city for families to visit. The city is filled with a variety of child-friendly attractions, restaurants, and hotels, so families can easily find something to enjoy. The best months to visit are from June to August, when the weather is mild and the city is filled with events and activities. The best way to get around the city is by public transportation, as it is relatively easy to navigate and affordable. The top neighborhoods for families to visit include the Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and Fenway.
