Usually when you think of Boston you think of history, and usually when you think of kids you think of fun (hopefully) – so my theory when travelling to Boston with kids has always been about combining a bit of both and finding fun things to do. Travel can be a great opportunity for learning and fun, so here are some suggestions on your next trip to Boston:
The Children’s Museum – A great way to play and learn with so much to see and do. The Boston Children’s Museum is located right next to The Boston Tea Party Ship in the Seaport District of the South Boston Waterfront. Admission is $17 a person for both adults and children. Money Saving Tips: Every Friday from 5-9 p.m. admission is $1 per person, and free admission to the museum is also part of the “Go Boston” card.
Swan Boats – If your feet need a break from taking in the beauty of the Public Garden, hop onboard a swan boat for a short, relaxing ride (12-15 minutes). The boats run mid April to mid September, weather permitting. Costs are $3.50 for adults, $2.00 for kids (2-15) and kids 2 and under are free.
Boston Tea Party Experience – the perfect way to combine learning and fun! This interactive experience combines a film, exhibits, live actors and you can even dump the tea into the sea. The cost is $28 for adults and $18 for kids under 12. * Note: this attraction is also a part of the “Go Boston” card.
The Greenway Carousel – who doesn’t love a carousel ride? Located along the Rose Kennedy Greenway, between Quincy Market and the North End this carousel is a fun stop for all ages. Don’t forget to stop for a splash in one of the 7 fountains/splash pads nearby along the Greenway to cool off on a hot day. Carousel rides are $3 per ride.
New England Aquarium – another great place to visit, full of exhibits and shows and even an IMAX theatre. Located at the waterfront at 1 Central Wharf. Admission is $27.95 for adults, $18.95 for children 3-11 and free for kids under 3. *Note: this attraction is also a part of the “Go Boston” card.
Boston Duck Tours – a super fun way to “sea” the city. The tour is 60 minutes on land and 20 minutes on the Charles River. There are 3 places throughout the city to catch the tour – the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium and the Prudential Center, Tickets are $39.50 for adults, $27.00 for children 3-11 and $10.50 for children under 3.
Mike’s Pastry – after all of this learning and fun, complete your day with a stop at legendary Mike’s Pastry, located in the North End. This stop will definitely put a smile on everyone’s face, but be prepared for a wait – there are usually line ups for a fresh pastry or scoop of gelato.
Money Saving Tip:
If you are interested in doing more than one of these attractions, a good way to save money is to purchase a “Go Boston” card.
I’ve always wanted to go to Boston for it’s history (like come on, even hubby wants to go after playing the Assassin’s Creed with old Boston as the setting). Not to mention the amazing food scene. But I like to know that we can take our son with us for family-friendly activities that will keep him interested.
Question for you: What’s the best thing to do in Boston with a toddler?
Probably the Duck Tour. It’s not too long, it gives an over view of the city and then it turns into a boat and goes into the water. Walking around the Public Garden would be nice too, there’s swan boats and you can feed the ducks. Lots to do and lots to eat.