The Best of Boston for Families

Our city is one of the most family-friendly in the country, so when you’re looking for things to do in Boston with kids, there are a lot of options.

A Boston family vacation provides memories for years to come. Boston Park Plaza is perfectly situated to make getting around our city easy and convenient, which is why we are considered one of the premier kid-friendly hotels in Boston. Besides the wonderful outdoor spaces of The Common and Public Garden nearby, some of the city’s most popular attractions are easily accessed on foot, the T (our subway) or by a short car or taxi ride.

When you’re planning things to do with kids in Boston, consider some of these family-friendly destinations. And when you’re booking your accommodations, consider Boston Park Plaza, one of the best hotels in Boston for nearly 100 years.

Boston Children’s Museum

This beloved attraction is designed to delight kids of all ages. Established in 1913 by a group of educators dedicated to the advancement of learning, the exhibits at the Children’s Museum emphasize knowledge though experience. There are numerous programs related to math, science, literacy and the performing arts. The museum also has extensive collections of Americana, dolls and dollhouses and Native American history. A day spent here will entertain, educate and spark curiosity in your child.

New England Aquarium

For nearly 50 years, the New England Aquarium has been delighting its visitors with innovative exhibits and world-leading conservation and research programs. Located along Boston’s inner harbor, it is filled with awe-inspiring wonders of our blue planet. Visit the Atlantic harbor seals exhibit, or learn about the two species of penguins that live at the aquarium. Make time for the shark and ray exhibit, and the giant ocean tank that replicates a Caribbean coral reef. The New England Aquarium is also a marine mammal center where California sea lions and northern fur seals demonstrate their strength and agility in regular training sessions in the open air exhibit space. There’s something for everyone at this favorite destination.

Museum of Science

When it comes to fun things to do in Boston with kids, look no further than this incredible facility, one that could be called the museum of wonder. The current feature exhibit is The Science Behind Pixar, which explores the technology behind some of Pixar’s most popular animated films. Other highlights include the IMAX® film experience at the Mugar Omni Theater, the live butterfly garden and insect zoo, and the Planetarium where kids can learn about our solar system. The numerous permanent exhibits include the Hall of Human Life, A Bird’s World, Colossal Fossil and To the Moon which features full-size models of the Apollo capsule that helped Americans be the first to set foot on the moon. The Museum of Science inspires a love of life-long learning in its visitors.

The Gardner Museum

Opened in 1903, the Gardner Museum is filled with the wonder and beauty of the Italian Renaissance. Created by Isabella Stewart Gardner, an art collector and art patron who was known as “one of the seven wonders of Boston”, the museum is a city favorite. The building was designed by Willard Sears and inspired by the architecture of Italy, especially Venice, a city that Isabella loved. Filled with more than 7500 paintings, sculpture and artifacts collected by Isabella Gardner, it offers a fascinating journey to another time. The museum has many kid-friendly activities. There is drop-in art to enjoy on Saturdays, and be sure to ask for the family guides to exploring the museum. Admission is free for kids aged 18 and under.

Note that many attractions currently require advanced booking. But with the wealth of places to explore as a family, there is always something special to do in Boston with kids.