23 Legendary Things To Do In Boston MA With Kids

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There is an incredible amount of interesting, historical, and fun things to do in Boston MA with kids (and without kids). And Boston is definitely a city of firsts and superlatives!

tree and lake with buildings in the background at Boston Public Garden
Boston Common

On the list of firsts in America: public park, public school, printing press, newspaper, post office, police force, subway, first full face transplant, chocolate factory, anti-public smoking law, UFO sighting, and brothel.

Boston also has the oldest restaurant, oldest baseball field, oldest college, best business school, best public schools, most expensive hotels, and apparently is the city with the worst drivers!

Needless to say, there are tons of places to visit and things to see in this exciting city!

So if it’s time to visit Boston, a City of Wonder, and experience all the fabulous things to do in Boston with kids, then read on to see the best Boston attractions for family adventures!

Is Boston Worth Visiting with Kids?

This is a city that combines the flavor of some of my most loved cities in the world.

As we wandered around certain areas I had a feeling like I was back in London, or maybe Dublin, and at times even Sydney. And then gluing together the charm of these three cities is the American spirit.

All my favorite places in the world for charm, sophistication and a little mix of fun and debauchery.

That’s why Boston Massachusetts has probably scooted in as my favorite city in the USA, and is definitely worth visiting with kids.

In Boston the people are friendly, have a great sense of humor, they have a strong sporting culture (all four pro sports teams), and seem to love fun and acceptance.

We soon learned the way they pronounce their words – skipping the pronunciation of the letter r – means they sound really Aussie!

Finally, a bartender who can understand me when I ask for a beer or where I can park my car.

woman andgirl walking along tree lined path in Boston Common

Is Boston Walkable?

Boston is a small walkable city, absent of notable high rises, and is full of historical charm and beauty.

It wasn’t until walking around here and feeling so free and spacious despite all the crowds made me realize how constrictive and restrictive NYC can be.

Things to Do in Boston MA with Kids

There are many family-friendly things to do in Boston; we barely scratched the surface after our three-day trip to Boston.

We’ll definitely be back, probably more than one time. Boston was included in our best road trips in the USA list.

Go Boston Card helps you visit multiple Boston attractions for one low price. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities, and pay nothing at the gate.

Some Boston attractions include the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, New England Aquarium,  Boston Children’s Museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Boston harbor cruises. Get your pass here. 

1. The Boston Freedom Trail Tour

man dressed in revolutionary gear on the Boston Freedom Trail Tour

The Freedom Trail Guided Walking tour is definitely one of the best things to do in Boston.

We laughed the whole way through it at our guide’s dry sense of humor and his funny way of telling the truth about the history of Boston.

There’s no better way to learn and remember history than through entertaining stories whilst you stand in front of the historic sites where the stories happened.

We only did the short tour which takes in half of the Freedom Trail.

The Freedom Trail stretches 2.5 miles from Boston Common, the oldest public park in Boston, to Bunker Hill. I’d love to do the second half that ends in Bunker Hill. Ours stopped at Faneuil Hall.

The 2.5-mile tour would be best for older kids since it requires a longer attention span (and more energy).

graves in the Granary Burying Ground

You can take a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail.

But I’d recommend taking the guided tour though as you gain so much more from the stories and knowledge of the guides, who are friendly and happy to answer your questions.

2. Indulge in Italian coffee and Cannoli at Modern Pastry, North End

the outside of Modern Pastry, North End

This was seriously the best afternoon break experience I have had in a long time.

It was the perfect elixir after a long day of driving and walking to explore the historical North End area of Boston. We immediately fell in love with its cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways.

A wander down the main street brings an aroma of the coffee, pizza, and good Italian pastries.

We stopped at Modern Pastry for our Italian coffee and cannoli.

 coffee and Cannoli  on a balck table

Their pastry cabinet is filled with delicious pastries and cakes of all types, so put this on your list of things to do with kids in Boston.

You can order and go, or have table service. We chose to sit and rest for a while.

And we were thrilled they had gluten-free cannoli’s, which were delicious with a rich, black Italian coffee.

You know when you have a simple meal that you’ll remember for the rest of your life, not just for the taste, but for the moment it encapsulated.

This Italian coffee and cannoli at Modern Pastry in the North End is that for me!

Younger kids, older kids, teens and grandparents will all love this!

3. Marvel at the Old North Church, North End

statue of paul reverre looking at the steeple of Old North Church

As we wandered past the Paul Revere Statue, stopping to pay our tributes to the man who helped save America from being captured by the British, we stumbled upon a church that had a flow of people wandering inside.

Well, just another church I thought. You tend to get blasé about them.

But I could see Mum was interested so didn’t want to completely dismiss it. She had a peek in and decided it looked interesting enough to pay the suggested donation and have a look.

I loved it.

outside of Old North Church next to buildings on the street

It was unlike any church I have ever been in and upon entering we discovered its interesting American history story.

Founded in 1723, the Old North Church is the oldest standing church in the City of Boston, made famous by Paul Revere’s midnight ride and, “One if by land, two if by sea.”

On the evening of April 18, 1775, when the church sexton, Robert Newman, and Vestryman Capt. John Pulling, Jr. climbed the steeple and held high two lanterns as a signal from Paul Revere that the British were marching to Lexington and Concord by sea across the Charles River and not by land.

The American Revolution began.

The church is filled with white private cabined pews and is unlike any other church I have seen.

Various pews have names and numbers on them which tell the story of different people who worshiped in the church.

It also tells the true story of the Midnight Ride and how it was altered by Longfellow’s’ famous poem.

Don’t you just love unexpected surprises like this when you travel?

With our style of travel now in researching and planning and receiving tips from so many people around the world, we tend to not have so many of these surprises anymore.

It thrills me when we do, even if it does happen to come from a building with a steeple.

4. Visit Paul Revere’s House, North End

Paul Revere’s Statue, North End, Boston

Looking for even more things to do in North End Boston?

Paul Revere’s house is still standing, it is the oldest house in Boston and one of the most popular Boston attractions.

It’s located in the North End and can be visited on a short tour.

We decided just to look at it from the outside. After hearing more of the story over the next couple of days, I wished we had visited.

We’ll make it one of our top things to do in Boston next time we visit.

The Paul Revere House is part of the Freedom Trail and entry is also included on the Boston Go Card.

5. Eat at America’s oldest restaurant, The Union Oyster House

peopel outside of brown Union Oyster House, Boston

A Bostonian local, who is a Raleigh friend of ours, basically said we’ll be doing ourselves a great disservice if we don’t eat at the Union Oyster House.

I was concerned it might be one of those kitschy tourist traps, but it wasn’t at all.

It has a story behind it that makes it interesting.

The Union Oyster House is the oldest restaurant in Boston and the oldest restaurant in continuous service in the U.S. — the doors have always been open to diners since 1826.

And it possibly has had the most presidential customers.

Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George Bush Snr, and Obama apparently came in for a takeaway chowder. John F Kennedy was a frequent visitor, and even has his favorite booth dedicated to him.

A future king of France, Louis Philippe, lived on the second floor. Exiled from his country, he earned his living by teaching French to many of Boston’s fashionable young ladies.

Printer Isaiah Thomas published his newspaper “The Massachusetts Spy,” long known as the oldest newspaper in the United States, from the upper floor of the building in 117.

Federal troops received their “war wages” in the official pay-station, which was right where we sat for lunch.

It’s possible Washington himself sat there!

plate of shrimp and rice

And, the toothpick was first used in the United States at the Union Oyster House.

Never mind the delicious food, the fascinating history is enough to want to dine here.

Pull up a seat at the famous semi-circular oyster bar and enjoy a plate of freshly shucked oysters.

people sitting inside Union Oyster House, Boston

It’s in the most charming section of Boston, which is a triangle section of cobblestone streets and historic buildings, including the Bell in Hand Tavern across from it.

Be sure to try the traditional Boston dishes such as Lobster Rolls and Clam Chowder here.

6. Relax at Boston Common

people walking through a park

How beautiful are Boston Commons and the Boston Public Gardens which continue this sprawling urban green space?

In 1634, Boston Common was created as America’s first public park, making it the oldest public park in the USA.

The 44 acres of Boston Commons were sold by the first settler of the area, William Blackstone for 30 pounds to the Puritan Colonists on the condition that it would always remain a free public space.

A promise still kept today.

No ticketed events are allowed here and it’s open to the public to wander, picnic, and take a break from the hectic Boston pace.

Although, I don’t feel it’s too hectic, to be honest. Even the squirrels love it here.

The common land was used to graze local livestock until 1830. It was also a site for Puritanical punishments, home to a whipping post and stocks.

Pirates, murderers, and witches were hanged from the tree known as “The Great Elm,” now gone

We visited during Memorial weekend and saw the touching Memorial Day Flag Garden where more than 37,000 flags are planted, each honoring a fallen hero from Massachusetts in wars from the American Revolution until today.

monument with hundreds of tiny flags planted in the lawn in front

A must-see in Boston on Memorial day. 

But way too many flags. Let’s work for peace please!

Boston Common is the site of wide open green spaces and includes a bandstand, a carousel, a frog pond wading pool and playground, and tennis courts, as well as the site of many fairs & festivals. 

7. Drink at America’s oldest tavern, The Bell in Hand Tavern

Irish coffee and jameson bottle on bar
Image credit: Bellinhand.com

As we walked out of the Union Oyster I glanced to the right and briefly saw a sign at the pub diagonally across saying something about the oldest tavern in America.

I filed it away for another time.

And when that time came after watching a Red Sox baseball game at Fenway Park when Mum and Dad took the girls and insisted Craig and I take a break and have a night on our own, The Bell in Hand Tavern sprang into my head.

I’m so glad we did.

It had an English charm about it and made me miss my years of living in London.

Our bar lady was super friendly, we chatted away with a couple visiting from Texas, AND it had the best cider I have ever had (more on that below) perfect for a hot summer’s night.

pint of ciider on the bar Bell in Hand Tavern, Boston

The buffalo chicken nachos were pretty good too.

In the back room, they have live music. It was a little cramped and loud so we were happy to chill at the bar – kind of what happens when you get older.

The Bell in Hand Tavern is the longest continuously operating tavern in the United States, having been built in 1795 by Boston’s retired Town Crier.

The Town Crier’s job was to shout the big news and special events across town, and boy did the original proprietor of the Bell in Hand shout about some pretty famous news:

  • the Boston Tea Party
  • the Declaration of Independence
  • the impending Battle of Bunker Hill
  • and of course, the defeat of the British

The Bell In Hand Tavern has always been known as a place where anyone is welcome, and everyone comes to drink, eat and enjoy lively conversations.

It’s exactly what we experienced.

Consider this for your list of things to do in Boston at night, or during the day.

8. Smell the Roses at the Boston Public Gardens

people crossing bridge over the lake in Boston Public Gardens

Looking for more free things to do in Boston with kids?

Across from the Boston Commons is the Boston Public Garden.

As the name suggests, it is probably a little more colorful and prettier than the Boston Commons with its lake, swan boat rides, and pretty gardens.

This is also where you will find the George Washington Monument, one of the most photographed places in Boston.

George Washington Monument, Boston Public Gardens

Boston Public Garden, established in 1837, was the first public botanical garden in America.

Whereas the Boston Common was practical and pastoral and built for crosstown travel, the public garden was decorative and flowery and made for strolling along meandering pathways.

Walking with your family makes this a very kid-friendly park and a place to spend time together.

9. Shop and Eat at Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market

outside of Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Faneuil Hall Marketplace is another one of the downtown Boston historic sites in the center of the historical area in downtown and is a fabulous meeting point.

It also has a lot of history.

Surrounding it are various markets and, like most tourist areas, it’s here where you’ll find a lot of street performers and overpriced shopping and food.

We actually didn’t find it too bad, and I picked up a beautiful handbag from a Turkish store.

Looking for places to eat in Boston? The Quincy Market has loads of food stalls for you to choose from.

peoiple walking through Quincy Market, Boston

We were very happy as within Quincy Market we found gluten-free Boston Chowder. Now that is difficult to find and we finally were able to sample one of Boston’s most famous dishes.

There are also a few ice cream shops and boutiques inside too.

Check out these hotels near Faneuil Hall.

10. (Window) Shop on Newbury Street

buildings lining Newbury Street, Boston

I think it took my Mum and me a while to speak after we started walking down Newbury Street.

Each of us silently took in how beautiful it was.

Until finally, I think it was Mum who breathed and said, “Wow. It is just so beautiful. Look at those buildings.”

It’s not like any other high-end shopping street you have walked along before.

I’ve been to some of the most well-known, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, 5th Avenue New York, Magnificent Mile in Chicago, I love all of them, but Newbury Street is something special.

Inside rows of terraced houses are not families going about their day but boutique dress stores, jewelry stores, cafes, and restaurants.

red brick buildings along Newbury Street, Boston

Once again, I recognize the space due to a lack of high rises. It’s colorful and gentle moving.

I was so glad we decided to walk from Boston Gardens and along Newbury Street to Fenway Park for our Red Sox baseball game.

It took us longer than 30 minutes as we stopped to look at stores, take in the views of historical and magnificent churches, and drop in for a coffee in the sunken front courtyard of  Barrington Coffee Roasters.

Coffees here are good peeps. Having the name roastery in a café name is often a good sign it will be.

11. Watch a Boston Red Sox Game at Fenway Park

crowds watching Watching the Boston Red Sox play at Fenway Park

Take me out to the Ball Game!

Going to baseball games as a family is one of the best activities for kids in Boston and adults alike.

Not only do you get this iconic baseball song in the oldest baseball stadium in America, you also experience a very unique sing-a-long.

It made me fall in love with baseball and the Red Sox because of their acknowledgment and honoring of my soul.

Yes, at the bottom of the eighth innings, the stadium and the crowd breaks into the most truthful song in the world, Sweet Caroline!!

My parents were stoked that they sang that song especially for me, lol.

We had a great time watching the Red Sox beat Atlanta at Fenway Park.

family smiling at camera

It truly is one of the most iconic places to watch baseball in the US and one of the cool things to do in Boston MA. Don’t miss it!

These are the cultural experiences we travel for.

Fenway Park is a small baseball field and its legendary for its green monster, which is basically a giant green fence that the baseball players love to hit home runs over.

We saw a couple happen during the game.

You couldn’t have a bad seat in the house. We sat just behind the left field and had perfect views. It’s a really fun event and one of the most iconic places to go in Boston!

We recommend checking out the following fan-favorite bars around the stadium before (get there early) or after the game:

  • Cask ‘N Flagon
  • Game On
  • The Lansdowne Pub
  • Tony C’s Sports Bar & Grill
  • >Boston Beer Works
  • and the classic Bleacher Bar

Read more:

You can read more in this post about our experience at Boston Fenway Park.
If you can’t catch a game, you can also take tours of Fenway Park.
Tickets to a Red Sox game are also included on the premium version of the Boston Go Card.

12. See an Overview of Boston on The Boston Duck Tour

girl driving boat smiling

Looking for fun things to do in Boston with kids? Do this. 

We’ve been on a few duck tours and always enjoy them, but the Boston Duck Tour has been the best one yet.

There’s just something about this city, even their amphibious vehicles rock.

Our guide Betty, was hilarious.

I enjoyed her passion for the city and her stories were entertaining, informative and insightful. And her jokes weren’t too cheesy like some duck tour guides can do.

The tour goes for 80 minutes and drives around to the most important and historical Boston tourist attractions and neighborhoods.

The tour includes 20 minutes of cruising down the Charles River with views of Boston and Cambridge skylines.

Savannah welcomed the opportunity to be the Captain of the boat and steer it for little. Tell your child to not be shy in volunteering.

We got off the Duck with a much longer list of things to do in Boston after discovering one or two more places we wanted to go back and explore more.

These kind of city overview tours are so great to do at the beginning of your trip, not just for the stories and historical insights, but also to discover places of interest.

We certainly had a time constraint in doing so but we managed to rearrange a few things to fit in a few more attractions.

13. Get Educated on A Harvard Walking Tour

Harvard University building net to a row of trees and pretty flowers

Boston is home to Harvard University, so while you are here you have to take a stroll.

Even though when we joined the Harvard walking tour led by students we could not access Harvard Yard – the drawcard of the experience – due to a private event, I absolutely loved the Hahvahd Walking Tour.

And I would do it again even if it meant still missing the Yard.

It was awesome to gain insight into life in one of the most prestigious colleges in the world.

From our guide Tim we learned the history of Harvard, the culture of Harvard, and what incredibly inspiring, well-rounded individuals it helps produce.

young Harvard student giving a tour

I love their style and philosophy and I am sure no matter what you graduated with, a degree from Harvard would open up many doors just because of the education and how it raised fine young adults.

I’d be delighted if my girls went to Harvard. It has certainty gone them thinking about college.

You know something is good if you buy an item of clothing as a souvenir. My Mum went straight to the gift shop to buy herself a gorgeous sweater. She also bought one for me.

Perhaps she feels it’s not too late for her daughter to go to Harvard? Or maybe even herself.

It’s never too late Mum. As long as I can come to visit you!

Purchase your Hahvahd Walking Tour here. The Harvard Walking tour is included in the Go Boston Card.
If you go on the Duck your, keep your tickets as you can use them to get a free Harvard walking tour, or 50% off on the weekend.
Click here to read more about the Harvard Walking tour.

14. Wander the historical neighborhood of Beacon Hill

people walking up the cobble stone streets of Beacon Hill

Back Bay is the oldest neighborhood in Boston and is situated on the Boston Common.

You know it’s part of the original Boston as it’s hilly. Any flat piece of land in Boston is a landfill. It was once much smaller than it is.

Back Bay is where you’ll find cobblestone streets and residential terraced homes. Duck down some of these streets and you’ll find serenity – it’s surprising the lack of cars and people wandering around.

Head out onto the main street, however, Charles St, and you’ll find boutique stores, cafes, restaurants and plenty of people.

15. Find your Alibi at the Liberty Hotel

One of the most unique places in Boston to visit.

On our Duck tour, we learned about the Liberty Hotel, which used to be a former prison, Charles Street Jail, a national historic landmark and architectural gem built in 1851.

As we were wandering around Beacon Hill we decided to pop in and have a look. It’s worth it.

It’s certainly not what you’d expect a prison to look like. It has now been imaginatively restored into a five-star hotel complete with a restaurant, The Clink.

The Catwalk is a hotel-guest-only retreat that is on the original Charles Street Jail catwalk, and the former exercise yard, which is now a private, beautifully landscaped courtyard.

Don’t miss the Alibi bar, set in the old “drunk tank” for a drink either inside the brick cell walls or the outside patio.

Look at the posters on the walls of celebrities who have been arrested and what their alibis were. It’s hilarious and will be one of the things to do in Boston you’ll be telling people about when you get home.

We’d love to stay at the Liberty Hotel in Boston on our next visit. As it’s a luxury five-star hotel, the girls are demanding it!

16. Have a drink at the Cheers Bar

family smiling at camera

There is no real Cheers bar in Boston, however, there is the pub that inspired the massively popular TV show.

The Bull & Finch Pub as it was previously known was founded in 1969 in Beacon Hill and became the inspiration for the setting of the Cheers bar, as it was in an area that was famous for colorful pubs, sports teams and lively politics.

The exact recipe you need for interesting pub conversation right?

The

It’s a great neighborhood bar, albeit now a little bigger, and is across the road from the Boston Public Gardens.

Pull up a seat at the bar if you can find one, or a seat at the window for views over your pint – one of those “touristy” places to visit in Boston.

17. Visit Downeast Cider House

display of cider cans Downeast Cider House, Boston
Image credit: downeastcider.com

Okay, so we didn’t visit the Downeast Cider House, but I am recommending it as one of the best things to do in Boston, especially if you are gluten-free and love cider.

Downeast Cider is the best cider I have ever tasted.

It’s a local Boston craft cider house founded by some college friends in 2011.

We had a pint of it first at the Cheers Bar, and then several at the Bell in Hand Tavern.

It was quite citrusy in flavor and the closest to my favorite wheat-style beer that I can no longer drink. I’m currently trying to remember which cider it was so I can order some cases to be sent to me in Raleigh.

It’s that good!

Another couple of things I loved after checking out their website. They are committed to taking no shortcuts by using only fresh-pressed juices and natural ingredients.

No wonder it was so bloody good.

cider can andglass of cider on table
Image credit: downeastcider.com

And, on their website, they let you know they pay their employees well so no need to tip. I am on the hunt for more places like this in America to recommend to you!

The Cider House is located in East Boston and they do tours of the cider house with complimentary samples and flights of cider.

Look out for their ciders in the Boston bars as well.

18. Watch the Celtics and the Bruins at TD Garden

otuside of celtics stadium

Boston is a sport city and home to some of the best basketball teams in the country. The TD Gardens is a legendary venue for watching NBL, especially the Bruins and Celtics who were on the verge of leaving Boston, until The Boston Garden, now known as TD Gardens, was revamped in the early 90s.

Today you can still watch the Bruins and celtics play at the arena, as well as catch live music concerts and comedy gigs.

If you’re looking for things to do in Boston with kids at night, then be sure to check out the events calendar to see what’s happening.

19. See the Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library

The Mapparium is an enormous three-story stained glass globe located inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library. This marvelous structure was created in the early 1930s by local architect Chester Lindsay Churchill.

He was commissioned to design the new Christian Science Publishing Society HQ who wanted a gigantic structure to remember them by.

Mapparium offers a unique perspective of the map of the world. When you look at countries on a paper map, everything feels so small and far away. The Mapparium makes you realize the Earth is huge, but so small at the same time.

This is certainly an unmissable thing to see in Boston with kids.

20. Check Out Castle Island

jetty in the water at castle island

Castle Island is somewhat of a hidden gem in Boston. The island was constructed as a new fort in 1801 by the war department, which defended Boston from the British in an attack in 1812.

The island is an area of historical importance. It’s also where you’ll find a monument to Donald McKay, the maker behind the clipper ships Flying Cloud and Sovereign of the Seas.

Today people visit Castle Island not so much for the history but for the beaches. There is also a lovely pier where you can go fishing, and kids will enjoy playing in the huge playground.

21. Admire the Architecture of Massachusetts State House

gold dome of  Massachusetts STate House

Boston is not short of stunning buildings to marvel at, but one that should definitely be stopped and admired is the Massachusetts State House.

This old state house is the state capitol building and where you’ll find the Massachusetts General Court and the offices of the Governor of Massachusetts.

It was built in 1798 and designed by Charles Bulfinch, but has been enlarged several times since. It’s known for being one of the oldest state capitols still in use today.

It was declared a National Historic Landmark for its architectural significance in 2015.

22. Walk Along the Charles River Esplanade

orange leaf trees lining the Charles River

If you’re looking for something relaxing to pass the time, you can’t go wrong with a nice stroll along the esplanade. The Charles River Esplanade is a three-mile walkway that meanders along the river.

It passes several top attractions in Boston such as the Museum of Science and the Boston University Bridge.

If you’re visiting Boston in Autumn, this is a great place to check out. The colors of the trees are washed in oranges and yellows, which are reflected in the water of the river. Such a beautiful sight!

23. Learn About Maritime History at Charlestown Navy Yard

schooner docked in at wharf

The Charleston Navy yard is a former shipping yard that was in operation for more than 170 years. Today the yard is home to a crane, Building 10, Building 5, and the Marine Barracks.

Visitors can explore the navy yard which has been preserved in its original historic state.

Your children may enjoy a free tour of the Old Ironsides and the USS Constitution Museum in Charlestown – the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world.

If you’re interested in maritime history, you may also want to check out the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum in South Boston.

Other Things to Do in Boston with Kids

We tend to travel to experience what is unique to a destination. We find most children’s museums, playgrounds, and other generic museums to be pretty much the same no matter what city you are in.

So we invest our time and money into those attractions and activities that tell the Boston story. Our kids always have a great time.

Here are a few other Boston attractions we either did not have time for or decided it was too generic.

  • The Old Town Trolley tour provides entertaining commentary as you it takes visitors to Boston attractions like Paul Revere’s House, the Old North Church, the Old South Meeting House, Faneuil Hall, the Bunker Hill Monument, the Boston Massacre Site, the Gaslamp Quarter and 90 more really iconic Boston places. 
  • For those with a longer time in Boston, you may want to consider a day trip to the Boston Harbor Islands. There are 34 islands with their own attractions such as the historic Fort Warren and tours of America’s oldest lighthouse.
  • It’s popular for visitors to take a Boston Whale Watching tour. We’ve done so many of them that we chose to do the more unique Boston experiences instead.
  • The Boston Museum of Science has interactive exhibits that younger kids will love.
  • the LEGOLAND Discovery Center has several Boston landmarks recreated in Lego bricks in Miniland, rides, a $D cinema, and a play area.
  • The Franklin Park Zoo is a 72-acre zoo located in Boston, Massachusetts. Again, like a typical zoo you’ll find lions, tigers, giraffes, and zebras, along with gorillas, tropical birds, butterflies and farm animals
  • New England Aquarium has more than 8,000 aquatic animals including the playful penguin pool with three different species of more than 80 penguins. Don’t miss feeding time at the Giant Ocean Tank, home to a plethora of marine creatures such as sharks and loggerhead sea turtles.

Where to Stay in Boston

hotel
Image via West Square Boston

It was challenging to find accommodation in Boston that wasn’t hugely expensive.

Boston is said to have the most expensive accommodation in the country! There go those superlatives again.

And we visited over Memorial Weekend, one of the busiest weekends in the year.

Airbnb was not giving me anything too inspiring.

Then I remembered that Booking.com have apartment rentals and I found a great deal on a brand new apartment in the South End, not far from the Seaport District.

The South Boston Family Getaway at West Square Apartments was about a 40 minute walk into the city or a quick and relatively cheap Lyft ride downtown or anywhere really.

You can see more like it at the Sonder Seaport District. It seems the particular apartment we stayed in is no longer available but this one is in the same area and very similar.

We loved the apartment.

It was spacious and comfortable and so modern with beautiful décor. There were two bedrooms and a sofa bed.

One of the beds was a King so we could throw one parent in the King with the girls and the other on the sofa bed.

We like to do it that way so the girls can go into the room and sleep while us oldies relax with a bit of TV.

We got a little hooked on the Netflix show Turn while on our road trip, which is all about patriot spies during the War of Independence.

Perfect to watch when you’re in a city like Boston!

Read more reviews about the Boston apartment and book your stay through our partner, Booking.com

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Boston with Kids

I’ve just loved reliving our time in Boston writing this post. It’s a unique and fun city and I understand why so many people rave about Boston.

I am sure there are many more must not miss things to do in Boston. Sadly our time was too short to do them all.

Please let us know in the comments what your favorite things to do in Boston are so we won’t miss them on our next visit.

More Tips for New England

Visiting other parts of New England? Then you might find these resources useful.

Boston Travel Video

Check out the fun we had in Boston.

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