Boston Long Weekend with Kids

Birthplace of the American Revolution

Give your kids a leg up on learning about their American history. Down the road, they’ll be happy to share what they’ve learned on their trip to Boston with teachers and classmates. A perfect way to introduce your kids to the “event that started a revolution” is the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. A visit to this small museum will take just one hour and the costumed storytellers and multimedia presentations will engage your whole family in the story of the American Revolution. Then, for an interactive and active history lesson, move on to a guided walk of the Freedom Trail; there are plenty of excellent tours of varying lengths.

Walk with Ducklings

No visit to Boston is complete for the younger set without a visit to the Make Way for Ducklings statue on Boston Common. Follow it up with a cruise on the Swan boats in the Boston Public Garden for a quintessentially Boston experience.

Rose Kennedy Greenway

One of Boston‘s best areas for families is also one of its newest. Check out the Rose Kennedy Greenway, which before Boston’s infamous “Big Dig” was a massive elevated highway that bisected the city. The Greenway now joins the city together and provides opportunities for families to splash in fountains, ride the creatures on the magical Greenway Carousel and enjoy treats from food trucks and seasonal beer gardens.

Museums Galore

Boston has a museum to suit every taste, but some of the best for kids include:

Children’s Museum - Look for the iconic Milk bottle at the entrance, with plenty of interactive exhibits for little visitors.

Museum of Fine Arts - A world-class museum that offers a variety of art-themed scavenger hunts and during vacation weeks, family museum tours with complementary (and here I do mean complementary not complimentary) arts and crafts projects.

New England Aquarium - Kids will be in awe of the Giant Ocean Tank, delight at the Penguin Colony and meet a harbor seal nose to nose.

Harvard Museum of Natural History - Across the Charles River in Cambridge, visit the Museum of Natural History at the world’s most famous university. Families will enjoy the glass flowers exhibit and their extensive collection of wildlife specimens, from tiny hummingbirds to a Siberian tiger. Afterwards, wander the storied Harvard Yard.

North End

The North End is Boston’s Italian quarter. By it’s nature, Italian food is plentiful, kid-friendly and served family-style. Wander around the neighborhood looking for just the right menu, but Giacomos and Carmelina are consistently wonderful. Join the line at Mikes Pastry on Hanover Street for their world-famous cannoli; it's worth the wait.

The Paramount

Located in Beacon Hill, The Paramount is a family-friendly spot to enjoy a delicious breakfast or grab a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Sail Loft

Head to the Sail Loft on Boston’s Waterfront to sample their award-winning chowder and gaze out at Boston Harbor through their large windows. Uber casual and perfect for kids.

Summer Shack

A Boston institution, the Summer Shack allows parents to get their fix of New England seafood while being casual enough to bring the whole family along.

Flour

The Bakery and Cafe of James Beard-winning pastry chef Joanne Chang is a treat for kids and parents, with incredible baked goods (think homemade oreos and sticky buns) as well as gourmet sandwiches