15 Things to Do in Boston with Kids (That Adults Will Enjoy Too)

Starting off our list of the best things to do in Boston with kids, a fun, interactive way to introduce history.

Scavenger Hunts like these go beyond the Freedom Trail and pivotal turning points of US history without any of the boring, too in-depth stuff. 

What do I mean by that? Well, you’ll still see major landmarks like Old State House, Post Office Square, Old South Meeting House, but you’ll also get a nice dose of sites where historical unrest and revolution occurred. 

Even better than that, you’ll have to work together to reveal Boston’s many layers of history! Enjoy some puzzle-solving, riddle unraveling and plenty of exploration while your little detectives uncover Boston’s lesser-known stories. 

Practical information:
Available any day, any time. Price: $20 each.

What’s that I hear, you’ve never heard of Candlepin Bowling? That’s the easiest way to show you’re not from New England (apart from the chowder thing, obviously!). 

Luckily, anybody from anywhere can try their hand at candlepin bowling, and that pretty much goes for all ages too. This family-friendly activity features lighter balls (about the size of a softball) and narrower pins, making it a fun challenge for kids. Pair the game with a delicious wood-fired pizza, and you've got a perfect outing for both play and a meal.

Practical information:
Open daily. Bowling prices vary by time; pizza is additional.

Looking for cheap things to do in Boston with kids? Hop aboard the historic Mattapan Trolley for a charming ride through Boston’s neighborhoods. 

In case you don’t already know, the Mattapan Trolley is a vintage streetcar that offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past and provides a fun, scenic trip that’s ideal for kids. The trolley's old-school appeal makes it a memorable journey that feels like stepping back in time and hey, it beats sitting in traffic for sure. 

Practical information:
Runs daily with frequent service. Standard MBTA fares apply.

When in Boston, do as the Bostonians do. Well, at least, it's something all tourists do in Boston!

The Swan Boat is an iconic mainstay of Boston, and while locals may take it for granted, you absolutely shouldn’t. For over 140 years, this gentle, pedal-powered boat has glided across the pond, giving its passengers picturesque views and a relaxing break from the city’s hustle. 

If you’re worried about your kids getting bored, don’t worry, the trip is short and sweet and just enough time to enjoy the novelty of being on the water!

Practical information:
Operates daily from mid-April through Labor Day. Tickets are affordable, with discounts for children.

Experience the excitement of America’s favorite pastime at Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. 

Whether your kids are baseball enthusiasts or just love a lively atmosphere, a Red Sox game is a must-do. The iconic setting, complete with Fenway Franks and the Green Monster, creates memories that last a lifetime (and who doesn’t want that?). 

Practical information:
Game times and ticket prices vary by season. Tours are available year-round.

Boston is a city that loves to celebrate, so no matter when you’re looking for things to do in Boston with kids, there’ll always be *something*. 

Whether it’s food, culture, or history, these festivals offer a fantastic way to experience the city with your kids.

Here are some highlights to keep in mind: 

1. Lunar New Year: February
2. Dine Out Boston: March
3. South Boston Saint Patrick's Day Parade: March
4. Duckling Day: May
5. Harborfest: June/July
6. Dragon Boat Festival: June
7. Boston Pride: June
8. Independence Day: July
9. Revere Sand Castle Sculpting Festival: July
10. Free Shakespeare on the Common: July-August
11. Boston Lights: August-November
12. Labor Day Fireworks: September

Practical information:
Festival dates, locations, and prices vary. Some events are free, while others may require tickets. Check individual festival websites for specific details.

Honestly, you can’t not mention a trip to Salem in a list of things to do in Boston with kids.

Yes, strictly speaking it’s not in Boston, but since it’s just a short drive away (although, I’d actually recommend you park somewhere north of the city and take the train), it’s absolutely worth a mention.

I’m guessing you already know about Salem’s witchy history, but you might not know just how much cool stuff there is apart from the spooky stuff. 

Historic sites, museums, a chocolate-lover’s paradise called The Chocolate Pantry, an awesome arcade bar called Bit Bar, the Peabody Essex Museum, and a personal highlight, Winter Island (it’s just beautiful). 

Practical information:
Salem is accessible by car, train, or ferry. Many attractions are open year-round, but hours and prices vary. I’d recommend visiting during November (it’s less busy after the Halloween hype!).

Well, it’s called a petting zoo and playground, but Davis Farmland is way bigger than that (quite literally). 

This place is a kid’s paradise, it’s got a petting zoo, playgrounds, and seasonal activities like corn mazes and apple picking. The farm is home to adorable animals that kids can feed and interact with, plus a splash pad to cool off in during the summer. 

All in all, it’s a perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun and learning about farm life with your little ones.

Practical information:
Open seasonally from spring through fall. Tickets are required.

Another classic idea but one that kids will love: hopping aboard Codzilla.

What is Codzilla? A high-speed boat ride experience that includes everything kids adore: noise, big splashes, and plenty of thrills.

Perfect for kids who’ll get bored on a sightseeing tour, Codzilla is all about fast turns, loud music, and getting soaked. Don’t worry, there are free ponchos available onboard (though I recommend having spare clothes near to hand anyway, nobody likes a soggy outfit). Kids have to be at least 4 years old to ride and 42” talls. 

Practical information:
Operates seasonally from May through October. Tickets are required, and it's advisable to book in advance. Be prepared to get wet!

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Boston with kids that involve a little education, your first thought will probably be the museums–and you’re absolutely correct.

Boston is home to several top-notch museums that cater to curious young minds. All you’ve gotta do is figure out which one suits your kids’ needs best.

Here are my recommendations:

• 📍New England Aquarium
• 📍Boston Children's Museum
• 📍Museum of Science
• 📍Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
• 📍USS Constitution Museum

Practical information:
Hours and ticket prices vary by museum. Many offer discounts for children and families.

Boston’s libraries are more than just books. They’re places to learn, reflect, open up new worlds and a place to feel inspired, and we’re lucky enough to have two great examples.

The Boston Public Library looks like something straight out of Harry Potter’s world (and hey, it’s the oldest public library in the US, which is cool). It also has a beautiful children’s section, complete with storytelling sessions and activities. 

Over at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, the Mapparium—a three-story stained-glass globe—offers a unique, immersive experience that kids won’t forget, and it’s totally free for kids 17 and under. 

PSST: Be sure to tell your little ones that the Papparium works as a “Whispering Gallery” (if you stand at one end and someone else stands at the other, you can whisper something to the other person and they’ll be the only one to hear it!). 

Practical information:
Both libraries are open daily with free admission. Check for special events and programs.

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend time outdoors with kids in Boston, visit Castle Island.

First things first, Castle Island isn’t an island (anymore). Just over a hundred years ago, a strip was added to connect it to the mainland, which is great for accessibility purposes. It also has no castle, the name was (probably) a joke from the 17th century about the island’s first fort.

Beyond unusual trivia, Castle Island is an awesome place to explore with your family. There’s the historic Fort Independence to check out, plenty of nice trails for walks and spots for family picnics (grilling is also allowed in the picnic areas), and during the summer, it’s a great place to take a dip. 

Practical information:
Open year-round with free admission. Fort tours are available seasonally.

Speaking of picnics, if you’re looking for somewhere else to squeeze in some outdoorsy food fun in the city, I’d recommend a visit to Arnold Arboretum. 

This sprawling, 281-acre botanical garden is perfect for a peaceful walk or a family picnic. 

Kids will love spotting wildlife and exploring the various plant species, while the adults can appreciate the stunning landscapes and seasonal blooms. It’s a win-win!

Practical information:
Open daily from sunrise to sunset with free admission.

On the topic of stunning views, there’s no better place to take in Boston’s skyline than from the View Boston Observation Deck at Prudential Tower.

What used to be the Skywalk Observatory is now even bigger and better and has been renamed “View Boston” – and it’s got some cool twists to the usual “viewing experience”.

There are levels to it (literally), and the highest being on the 52nd floor. On the 51st floor, the open-air deck provides a 360-degree view of Boston, fresh air and plenty of fun photo opportunities, and the 50th floor has an interactive 3D model of Boston that lets kids explore the city digitally, finding cool places to visit and learning about neighborhoods in a hands-on way. 

Practical information:
Open daily with ticketed admission.

Last up on our list of things to do in Boston with kids, an easy activity that works no matter how old your kids are. 

Boston Common is the city’s central park, and it has plenty of space for kids to run, play, and explore. In the summer, Frog Pond transforms into a splash pad perfect for cooling off, while in the winter, it becomes an ice-skating rink (a must-do activity if you’re here during the colder months). Shout out to the Tadpole Playground, also: it’s full of frog-themed statues and art, it’s super fun tracking them down with your little ones.

Practical information:
Open daily with free access. Skating and splash pad have seasonal hours and fees.