The wonderful thing about Boston, capital of Massachusetts in United States of America, in fact, is its great diversity of attractions and activities that are great for kids from babies through teen. There is also so much for adults to do, and those two lists often have crossover.
Here is a list of some great Boston attractions and activities for kids to know before visiting:
New England Aquarium
New England Aquarium is probably one of the most universally fun attractions for kids and adults of all ages. A good half day or longer should be set aside to explore this aquarium featuring penguins, seals and a 20-foot octopus. There are also great hands-on areas, and families with small children shouldn’t miss the Curious George Discovery Corner.
Boston Children’s Museum
For almost about a century, the Boston Children’s Museum has been educating and entertaining kids in Boston. There are some really unique exhibits at this museum. The Art Studio is an exhibit where kids can create and learn. The Japanese House replicates a silk merchant’s home in Kyoto. Johnny’s Workbench lets kids learn via tools. It is suggested not to miss these museums.
Boston Common and Public Garden
Every kid loves a park, and Boston has what can only be called the uber park. Boston Common was the U.S.’s first park, and the Public Garden the first public botanical garden. This makes a great place to let kids run out some energy, to take family pictures, to picnic, or to ride the famous Swan Boats. The city of Boston’s site has some wonderful resources, including a free downloadable map and a free iPod Public Garden tour.
Cambridge
Just over the Charles River, Cambridge is will worth the short T ride (especially for parents with preteens, teens and 20-somethings). It is home to MIT and Harvard, both of which have a few museums well worth visiting. It’s also just a fun, funky and hip city filled with bookstores, boutiques and brewpubs. The streets are lined with street performers. It just oozes with coolness that older kids will love.
Newbury Street
Another good choice with older kids (particularly those who love to shop and thrill with the excitement of shopping) is Newbury Street. This hip Boston neighborhood has lovely brownstones that have been converted into cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Teen girls will go nuts for the many clothing and jewelry boutiques, but you can also find a wide variety of other shops in this area.
There are many great places to enjoy with kids in Boston, and this is certainly not a comprehensive list. One thing that is great about Boston is that it is a very pedestrian friendly city. Besides these attractions, strike out with a map and a list of attractions and wander.
It’s hard to go very far in Boston without hitting a historic attraction, museum, quaint neighborhood of shops, or happening on the real-life inspiration for Cheers. Parents and kids can find much to do in Boston.
