22 Wicked Fun Things To Do in Boston With Kids

Updated August 11, 2023

This interactive Boston family fun list isn't curated by an editor...it's crowdsourced from regular parents adding the best Boston family attractions they've tried with their kids.

Zoom in on the map to see fun kids activities near you around Boston, read parent reviews, and remember to chime in to share your own favorites.

This is only the beginning of the Boston family activities you'll find on Upparent. Set your location at the top of the screen, check out our family event calendar, and browse Upparent for many more things to do in Boston with kids!

21 Recommendations

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bostonharborislands.org

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Tracy Snyder Molina said: 34 islands and peninsulas (some accessible by ferry) where families can explore tide pools, walk through a Civil War fort, climb a lighthouse, hike lush trails, camp, fish, picnic or swim - all a short distance from downtown Boston.

Boston, MA

May-Oct Ferry Service

bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Boston Children's Museum

Tamara Klein Bowman said: With an emphasis on the power of play, and interactive exhibits - like dinosaurs - this is our kids' dream destination for a half day or day trip. From bubbles to the KidStage, to the Construction Zone and Art Studio, it's as exciting for the parents as it is for the kids. The New Balance Foundation Climb with its curves and height is a great way for kids to conquer their fears, gain confidence or just burn off some energy. My kids always want to go back to the amazing museum in Boston that has so many fun things to do.

Boston, MA

Landscape Structures

Mayor Thomas M. Menino Park

Tracy Snyder Molina said: This special Charlestown playground features inclusive play equipment across rubber ground. There are roller slides, a seesaw, climbing structures, swings and a merry-go-round with room for wheelchairs, giving kids of all abilities the opportunity for play.

Boston, MA

mass.gov

Castle Island

Tracy Snyder Molina said: This land-bound island on Boston Harbor is a great place to walk and enjoy the views of the harbor and the airplanes landing and taking off at Logan. A paved loop walkway makes it a great choice for strollers, bikes or scooters and you can bring a picnic lunch or make a visit to Sullivan's for delicious lobster rolls, fried food, hot dogs and ice cream. Castle Island is also home to Fort Independence, a granite fort that provided defense for Boston during colonial and revolutionary times.

Boston, MA

hmnh.harvard.edu

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Tracy Snyder Molina said: Explore thousands of specimens drawn from Harvard’s vast research collections including dinosaurs, meteorites, gemstones and animals from around the globe. Be sure to check out the world’s only mounted Kronosaurus, a 1600 pound amethyst geode and the world famous Glass Flowers exhibit.

Cambridge, MA

bostonharborislands.org

Boston Harbor Islands

Tracy Snyder Molina said: The Boston Harbor Islands offer varying terrain and magnificent scenery for hikers and walkers of all fitness levels. Peddocks Island offers great bird-watching, scenic vistas and tree-lined paths. Spectacle Island is home to the highest point in Boston Harbor, the North Drumlin. Once at the top, relax in the gazebo and don't miss the perfect photo opportunity with 360-degree views of the harbor. Worlds End in Hingham offers some of the best hikes for all abilities with a trail system that offers loops from 1-5 miles.

Boston, MA