Go Boston with your family Now!
The most obvious place to take the kids in Boston is the Children’s Museum. In a world that is not child proof and where you are constantly telling your kids “Don’t touch”, the Children’s museum is a refuge. Everything is built at their height and they can touch, climb and play with just about everything. They even have an infant waterbed! But be careful because this luxury was only built for non-walkers and your older child will be very tempted to jump in!
On your travels through Boston, don’t forget about the Science Museum. This timeless classic constantly has new exhibit – as well as the old ones that some remember from countless elementary school field trips. The discovery center is great for smaller kids, featuring a water table and a crawling area for non-walkers. And a visit would not be complete without a viewing of a film at the Mugar Omni Theater. Sit back and enjoy a movie like you’ve never seen before with most films boasting an educational aspect as well as fun for the whole family as the movie surrounds you on a domed screen. The Museum of Science also has some of the best views of Charles River, especially from the top floor – worth checking out.
A trip to the New England Aquarium can make for a nice outing. Parking is convenient and tickets can be purchased online. If you happen to be in the area when school is out it can be crowded though. The food is a bit pricey so find something nearby. It’s a short walk to Quincy Market from here for family friendly dining options.
The Swan Boats of Boston bring back an old, nostalgic feeling when families visit the Public Garden. The Swan Boats are only available during the summer months (mid-April to mid-September) and this lazy paddle across the pond may be the perfect thing for a family to do to get their youngster to grin ear to ear.
The Swan Boats of Boston date back to the 1870s when Robert Paget was granted a boat for hire license by the City of Boston. The concept of a “Swan” came about when he developed a catamaran that was such a gross eye sore that he decided to house it inside a swan, a perfect choice for the Public Garden’s soft and airy atmosphere. Now, 125 years later Paget’s decendents still operate the famous Swan Boats so families can enjoy them year-round.
The Boston Duck Tour is a fantastic family experience. See the historic areas and enjoy a cruise on the Charles River. The ConDUCKtor of your “Duck,” a World War II refurbished amphibious landing vehicle, knows Boston’s history as well as a lot of corny jokes. It’s history and fun at the same time. Sometimes the ConDUCKtor even lets the kids take a turn at the wheel while you are on the river. Great if you only have a limited time in town.
If you really want to add some adventure to your trip you should also plan an expedition to TOMB presented by 5 Wits, Inc. TOMB is a 45 minute adventure that takes place inside a faithfully recreated Egyptian tomb. You act as experts trying to discovery the mystery of a missing professor. TOMB is part Disney, part live action video game and has educational aspects as well. Great for kids, but it can get a little intense for small children. Located in the Fenway with lots parking and tons of resturants. It’s also close to the MFA, the Gardner Museum and Fenway Park.
Part Amazing Race, interactive theater, and treasure hunt, UrbanInteractive creates adventures that immerse tourists in the history and cultureof Boston . It’s especially good for kids, who love using the cell phone that they provide to you. Families play as a team, solving riddles and clues (downloaded to the phone) that take them to landmark locations in the city. Their adventures have taken place in the North End, Copley Square, the Museum of Science, and Boston Common.
If you’re thinking of seeing these attractions while staying in Boston with your family, consider the budget-friendly Go Boston Card which allows vistor’s admission into top attractions in Boston for a lower price. The Go Boston Card also aids frazzled mom & dad by providing card-holders quick admission into The New England Aquarium and other popular attractions thereby maximizing the family’s attraction time while avoiding long waiting times in line. The card comes in 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 day cards and are available in Adult (13+) and Child Cards on the Go Boston Card website. Great if your family is staying for a long weekend or week.