Boston with Kids: Complete Family Travel Guide
Boston is one of our favorite big cities in the U.S., and one of the most underrated family destinations on the East Coast. It’s walkable, packed with history, overflowing with green space, and genuinely fun for kids of all ages, from toddlers to tweens.
Whether you’re doing a long weekend or full week, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
- Best time to visit: Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) for mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is lively but hot and busy. Winter is cold but magical, especially with ice skating on the Frog Pond.
- Getting around: Boston is very walkable and has a solid public transportation system (the T). Many top attractions are clustered together, ride shares are easy. Parking can be frustrating and expensive.
- How many days do you need? 3 days is a great sweet spot for families. It’s enough time to see the major sights without exhausting little ones.
- Budget: Boston can be pricey, but there are plenty of low-cost and free options. Check out a few of my budget tips!
- Kid age range: Boston works for all ages. Toddlers love Boston Common and the Children’s Museum, older kids love the New England Aquarium, history and harbor.
- Kid-friendly rating: ★★★★★ (One of the most family-friendly major US cities)
Is Boston family friendly?
Absolutely! Boston consistently ranks as one of the most family-friendly cities in the U.S. It has abundant parks, world-class children’s museums and aquariums, and a walkable layout that makes it easy to explore with strollers and little legs.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Boston with kids?
Back Bay and Downtown are both excellent bases for families. Back Bay puts you near the Public Garden and Prudential Center. Downtown puts you steps from Faneuil Hall, the harbor and the Freedom Trail.
Is Boston expensive for families?
It can be, but you have options. Admission to many outdoor spaces is free, and attractions like the Children’s Museum offer heavily discounted admission on Sunday afternoons. Check out my full budget guide for tips on a great trip without overspending.
Why do I love visiting Boston with my family?
Boston has something other big cities don’t. It actually feels manageable with kids. The neighborhoods are compact, parks are everywhere, and the city has a genuine pride in its history that makes even young kids curious. On top of that, Boston restaurants are so kid-welcoming. Not just tolerant, but genuinely set up for families with spacious seating, solid kids menus and staff who don’t flinch at a meltdown.
From world-class museums to historic landmarks and wide-open parks, Boston is packed with things to do with kids. Here are my family’s favorites!
Boston Children’s Museum
Three floors of hands-on exhibits covering science, space, movement, building and more. We could have easily spent a full day here!
Pro tip: Sunday afternoons 1-4 p.m. offer $1 admission (reserve online in advance).
Read my full review
New England Aquarium
Thousands of sea creatures, a giant central tank, a stingray touch tank, and resident sea turtle, Myrtle.
Book tickets in advance or buy them when you arrive.
Boston Common
America’s oldest park (founded in 1634!) with a playground, splash pad in summer, ice skating in winter, and a carousel. Perfect for burning off energy mid-trip.
Don’t miss Boston’s free & budget friendly activities
Boston is packed with free and affordable things to do with kids. The Freedom Trail (a self-guided 2.5 mile walk through 16 historic sites), Boston Common, the Public Garden, and free museum days top our list. I put together a dedicated list of the best free and budget-friendly activities so you don’t have to hunt.
Read: Boston on a budget with kids
Ready to plan? Start here: My perfect 3-day Boston itinerary
Not sure how to structure your days? I’ve done the planning for you! My 3-day itinerary is designed for families with kids of all ages. It’s designed to balance big attractions with rest time and mix free options with splurge-worthy picks.
Read: Boston with kids: My 3-day itinerary
Finding the right hotel and knowing where to eat with picky eaters can make or break a family trip. Here’s what worked for us!
Our favorite downtown hotel:
The Bostonian
Steps from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, a 5-minute walk to the harbor, spacious rooms and an on-site restaurant for breakfast through dinner. Ideal if you want to be in the middle of the action.
Our favorite Back Bay hotel:
Fairmont Copley Plaza
A stunning historic hotel with elegant but comfortable rooms, walkable to the Prudential Center and tons of great restaurants. The biggest kid perk? Cori, their resident dog ambassador who greets guests in the lobby. A total hit with my son.
Read: Best Boston hotels for families
Joe’s Waterfront
Right on Boston Harbor with views of the boats, an upscale casual menu for adults, locally sourced ingredients, and a kids menu that comes with an ice cream sundae.
Bonus: Directly across from a playground for post-dinner energy burn.
The Barking Crab
Laid-back waterfront spot, perfect for lunch after the Children’s Museum.
Great seafood, but plenty of non-seafood options too. Even my picky eater found something he loved (hot dogs!).
Bell In Hand
America’s oldest tavern (since 1795!), serving casual bar fare in a historic setting.
Their clam chowder is a must, and the casual menu is naturally kid-friendly.
Read: The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Boston
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