Boston is a fantastic city for families, offering a unique blend of American history, beautiful green spaces, and kid-friendly culinary delights. From revolutionary tales to interactive museums and delicious pizza, there’s something to capture every child’s imagination. Let’s jump into all the fun things to do in Boston with kids.
A Walk Through History: The Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a must-do for any family visiting Boston. This 2.5-mile red-lined path connects 16 historically significant sites, providing a fascinating journey through the American Revolution. Older kids will love tracing the footsteps of the Founding Fathers, while younger children will just enjoy the adventure of it all.
Top Freedom Trail Stops for Kids:
- Boston Common: Start your adventure at the oldest park in the United States. Kids can run around, and during warmer months, the Frog Pond offers a spray pool for cooling off or ice skating in winter. There’s also the Tadpole Playground for fun any time of the year.
- Massachusetts State House: While the interior might not hold a child’s attention for long, the impressive golden dome is a great photo opportunity.
- Park Street Church: A beautiful historic landmark, though perhaps less engaging for younger children.
- Granary Burying Ground: Kids might find it interesting to see the gravestones of famous historical figures like Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock.
- King’s Chapel & Burying Ground: Another historic church and burying ground, offering a glimpse into colonial life.
- Old South Meeting House: The site where the Boston Tea Party was planned. The interactive exhibits here can be engaging for older children.
- Old State House: The oldest surviving public building in Boston, with a fascinating museum inside. Kids can learn about the Boston Massacre, which happened right outside.
- Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market: A bustling marketplace and meeting hall. Grab a snack here and enjoy the street performers. Thirsty? Stop by the Samuel Adams Boston Taproom. Although the beer is for adults, it’s kid-friendly and just outside of Faneuil Hall.
- Paul Revere House: Head to the North End next and step inside the oldest house in downtown Boston, once home to Paul Revere. It’s a small house, but it offers a tangible connection to history.
- Old North Church: “One if by land, and two if by sea.” This is where Paul Revere’s famous signal was sent. The crypt tour can be a unique experience for brave kids.
- USS Constitution Museum & “Old Ironsides”: Located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, this is often a highlight for kids. Explore the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world and visit the museum for interactive exhibits. It’s a free museum and kids of all ages will love the boat.
- Bunker Hill Monument: Climb the 294 steps to the top for panoramic views of Boston. This is a great way to burn off some energy!
Tip: Consider doing portions of the Freedom Trail rather than the entire thing with younger children. Many companies offer kid-friendly walking tours that bring history to life with engaging stories. The above only visits 12 of the 16 locations.
Green Spaces for Play and Relaxation
Boston boasts several beautiful parks perfect for letting kids burn off some energy.
Must-Visit Parks:
- Boston Common: As mentioned, a fantastic starting point with plenty of space to run, a playground, and the Frog Pond.
- Public Garden: Adjacent to Boston Common, the Public Garden is famous for its Swan Boats (seasonal) – a classic Boston experience for families. Enjoy the beautifully manicured flower beds and statues.
- Charles River Esplanade: A long stretch of parkland along the Charles River, perfect for walking, biking, or playing on the various playgrounds. The views of the Boston skyline are spectacular. Ride bikes, walk the dog, or just sit by the river.
- Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park: Located near the North End, this park offers a great playground and spray fountains, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. It’s also a good spot to watch boats in the harbor.
Pizza: A Kid-Friendly Fuel Stop
After all that exploring, every family needs a delicious and kid-approved meal. Boston’s North End, the city’s historic Italian neighborhood, is renowned for its incredible pizza.
Top Pizza Spots in the North End:
- Regina Pizzeria: One of Boston’s oldest and most famous pizzerias, serving classic Neapolitan-style pizzas since 1926. Expect a wait, but it’s worth it!
- Santarpio’s Pizza: A bit further out in East Boston, but legendary for its unique, crispy-crusted pizzas. It’s a no-frills, cash-only spot, but a true Boston institution and in my opinion, serves the best pizza in town.
- Pizzeria Uno (original location in Chicago, but Boston has several): While not exclusively a Boston pizza, Pizzeria Uno is famous for its deep-dish style, which can be a fun and filling option for families.
Tip: Many North End pizzerias are small and can get very busy, especially during peak meal times. Consider going a bit earlier or later, or opt for takeout to enjoy in a nearby park.
Other Kid-Friendly Attractions
Beyond history, parks, and pizza, Boston offers a wealth of other attractions designed to engage young minds.
- New England Aquarium: Explore marine life from around the globe, with a giant ocean tank and interactive exhibits.
- Boston Children’s Museum: One of the oldest and most respected children’s museums in the world, offering hands-on exhibits for all ages.
- Museum of Science: A fantastic museum with hundreds of interactive exhibits covering various scientific disciplines. The planetarium and Mugar Omni Theater are also big hits.
- Fenway Park Tour: For sports-loving families, a tour of America’s Most Beloved Ballpark is a memorable experience.
Clearly there are so many things to do in Boston with kids! Exploring Beantown with kids is an adventure filled with learning, play, and delicious food. By combining historical activities with plenty of outdoor fun and tasty treats, you’re sure to create lasting family memories in this vibrant city.
