Top Kid-Friendly Attractions in Boston

Our Local Expert Says:

This is a great way to get a quick tour of the city (it goes by fast). When the captain of your tour asks, don't hesitate to volunteer to drive the boat in the Charles!

Description:

A fleet of Ducks, brightly colored, vintage World War II amphibious vehicles provide 80-minute, narrated, half-land, half-water tours of Boston. Do not be alarmed when your Duck abandons its wheels and lowers itself onto the Charles River! Tours depart on the half-hour and cover many of Boston's downtown tourist attractions. Keep in mind: Tour guides encourage quacking! Tickets, which may be purchased two days in advance, often sell out quickly, especially on summer weekends.

Description:

The experienced tour guides affiliated with Boston by Foot lead groups through the streets of North End, Beacon Hill and Back Bay, along the way pointing out buildings of architectural significance and sharing key bits and pieces of Boston's history. Tours of important sites along the Freedom Trail are available, as are ones that focus on the city's engineering feats and yet others that are geared toward kids.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
77 Washington St., tel. 617-367-2345
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Description:

The adventure begins before you step foot through the door. Watch the Harbor Seals swirl around in the outdoor tank while you wait for tickets, or linger when you finish and recount your time inside. A four-story tank spans the center of this aquatic marvel; filled with marine life this is a sight to be seen. Catch a show in the glass enclosed classroom, plunge your hands into the touch tank or pop by the children's room with your little ones. Whale Watch cruises are available seasonally and are a special way to enhance your day.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
1 Central Wharf, tel. 617-973-5200
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Description:

Faneuil Hall is of a greater historical interest than any other building in the United States. In September 1742, Peter Faneuil, a French merchant, decided to build it for the people of the town. Many famous orators of the country's history have addressed the public here. This area is a true reflection of the culture, history, and local ambience. Every year, performers audition to perform during tourist season but not many win a gig as a juggler, musician or artist. You can shop in the underground or get souvenirs like rare photo prints. Faneuil Hall is staffed by National Park Service Rangers from 9a-5p, except when used for public functions. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Park Rangers offer historical talks about Faneuil Hall every half hour on the second floor.

Description:

Boston's Institute of Contemporary Art is a cutting edge art museum showcasing funky works by artists who do things a little differently. Collections may seem like displays of "junk", but in reality are well planned exhibits that have garnered respect in the art world. The ICA takes its contemporary views into the realm of performances as well. With many evening shows in their spectacular theater, ranging from music to dance, these eclectic shows you won't find anywhere else. A waterfront cafe, gives you the chance to sit and view the Harbor, while the outdoor deck is often frequented by musicians during the warmer months.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert

100 Northern Ave., tel. 617-478-3100

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Description:

Many amazing adventures await at the Children's Museum; kids can climb the centrally located maze, blow big bubbles in the dedicated bubble room, build something solid in the construction zone, learn about culture, and even countdown to kindergarten in the make-shift classroom. The Boston Children's Museum also features the perfect place for the under 3 crowd, Playspace. This room comes complete with crawling structures, small-scale slides, cars to drive and even daily crafts. There is no doubt that kids will have fun here, but adults will also enjoy returning to childhood at the Boston Children's Museum.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
300 Congress St., tel. 617-426-6500
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Description:

Regina's looks almost like a movie set, but look a little closer -- this local legend is the place the movie sets are trying to re-create. It's been in business since 1926, and the only thing that's changed recently is the end of the cash-only policy in 2008. As it has for decades, the line stretches up the street on busy nights, but even at off hours, business is seldom slow. Locals often call for take-out; if you borrow that tactic, though, you'll miss the full experience. Busy waitresses who might call you "dear" weave through the boisterous dining room, shouting orders and questions as they deliver peerless pizza steaming hot from the brick oven. (You can also drop in for a slice, weekdays at lunch only.) Let it cool a little before you dig in. Nouveau ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes appear on the list of toppings, but that's not authentic. House-made sausage, maybe some pepperoni, and a couple of beers -- now, that's authentic.

Description:

Mike's pastry is where everyone flocks for a perfectly baked bite of Italy. From their filled to order cannoli, to their baked in house biscotti, there is a baked good that is sure to make you smile. The rainbow colored selection of Italian cookies are the perfect treat to bring you back to childhood (especially if you had an Italian Grandma). Mike's seems to always be packed, with lines often extending out the door. The few tables within are typically filled and the freshly baked bread goes fast. Still Mike's remains a must on every visit to Boston's North End.

-Jessica Polizzotti
300 Hanover St., tel. 617-742-3050
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Description:

Home to the largest "lightning machine" in the world the Museum of Science is a source of scientific excitement. With over 400 interactive exhibits you are greeted by a full-sized dinosaur, guaranteed to capture the attention of even the youngest of guests, and then brought on a fun-filled scientific journey throughout the museum where experimentation is encouraged. See the stars at the Hayden Planetarium, or travel the world in the Mugar Omni Theater. Many exhibits are permanent, but new exhibits arrive all the time. Large viewing rooms make this museum loads of fun for kids and adults alike.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
1 Science Park, tel.617-723-2500
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Description:

For a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding area, take a trip to this skywalk observatory. The windows here present a vista of Boston in all directions. On a clear day, visitors can see the mountains of New Hampshire. Museum-like displays offer detailed information on the history of Boston's geography. See their website for information on prices and further details.

Description:

One of the Nation's oldest public parks, Boston Common, encompasses nearly 50 acres and was once used as pasture land by Puritan settlers. Also former military grounds, The Boston Common played an important role in shaping America. Today, the park is a popular destination for recreational athletics, joggers, and families. The Frog Pond is a year round favorite; functioning as a wading pool in the summer and a skating rink in the winter, it transforms for use throughout the seasons.

- Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
148 Tremont St., tel. 888-733-2678
/freedomtrail/bostoncommon.asp

Description:

There's no place like Fenway. Whether you're a Red Sox fan or not, Fenway Park is a must-see. Built in 1912, it's the oldest baseball park in the country, and boasts the legendary Green Monster, which towers 37 feet in the air, threatening home run hopefuls. The manually-operated scoreboard paired with peanuts, Fenway Franks and historic fans, make this ballpark an epic timepiece. Can't make a game? Take a tour May through September.