Depending on how long you are in the city, there’s an array of interesting sites and activities in Boston. Here I recap the things we did while exploring Boston with kids.
Exploring Boston with Kids – Boston Children Museum
The Museum is spread on 3 levels with different themes. Kids can make new discoveries, develop new skills and spark a love of learning. Parents are encouraged to make these new experiences together with their children.
I totally agree with this!
What our daughter (and our son, 3 years ago) liked best, is the three-story climbing structure with curved platforms right at the entry. They could have stayed here the whole time.
I’m not gonna reveal everything but kids can make bubbles, see turtles, see what kindergarten is like, style hair at an African Beauty Salon or visit a traditional Japanese home. You can easily spent an afternoon here.
The Museum is best for toddlers and young kids until the age of 6. You can bring your own food or buy something at Au Bon Pain which is right at the Museum. The Children Museum is located on Congress Street and is open every day from 10am to 5pm (Fridays until 9pm). More information: www.BostonChildrensMuseum.org
Exploring Boston with Kids – The Freedom Trail
Following the red brick…
Luckily we did the Freedom Trail on the nicest day during our stay in Boston. The sky couldn’t be clearer. After breakfast we made our way to Boston Common from where we started the Trail.
We came accross large crowds as they were waiting for former Boston Mayor, Michael Menino’s funeral procession. He was the longest serving Mayor of the City and was very appreciated by Bostonians.
The Freedom Trail is in fact 16 sites which are the backbone of the American Revolutionary story.
From Boston Common to USS Constitution
You can either take the walk with a costumed guide, an audio guide or at your own pace with the official free brochure (which I recommend if you are with kids). You just have to follow the 2.5 mile urban walking trail, marked with a bricked or painted red line. Your kids will love to show you the way!
Stop here for food!
Bunker Hill Monument
More information: http://www.thefreedomtrail.org
Exploring Boston with kids – The Paul Revere House
Paul Revere house is the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston and dates back to 1680. It serves today as a museum where you can learn about Reveres life and experience what home life was in the 17/18th century in Boston. This is especially informative for the kids nowadays. The tour is self guided and won’t take you more than 15 minutes.
Yup, that’s the house!
More info: www.paulreverehouse.org
Exploring Boston with kids – USS Constitution Museum
Unfortunately we visited on a Monday and the USS Constitution “Old Ironsides” is closed that day. But luckily for us, the close by Museum was open. It is an interactive hands-on exhibit for adults and kids where you learn what life was like at sea over 200 years ago. The museum is free, entry by donation. I recommend a visit as it was very informative and enjoyable.
Would you sleep here?
More information: www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org
Great interactive game: www.asailorslifeforme.org
Exploring Boston with Kids – Water Shuttle back to Boston
A great way to go back to Boston at the End of the Freedom Trail is to take the Water Shuttle on Pier 3. You’ll have spectacular views on the waterfront and downtown Boston. The cruise (approx. 10 minutes) takes you to Long Wharf, right next to the New England Aquarium.
The view on Boston can’t get any better!
Stay tuned for a second post on what to do in Boston with kids.
What’s your favorite activity in Boston?
