3 Days in Boston with Kids: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Itinerary
Exploring Boston with kids might just be one of the most underrated family destinations in the United States.
It’s walkable, packed with history, filled with incredible museums, and somehow manages to feel both like a major city and a collection of charming neighborhoods all at once. Whether your kids love science, animals, boats, sports, or simply running through parks, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone entertained.
We recently spent three days exploring Boston as part of a larger New England road trip, and it quickly became one of our favorite city destinations we’ve visited as a family. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to spend your time, here’s exactly how I would recommend spending three days in Boston with kids.
First Things First: Is Boston Worth Visiting with Kids?
Absolutely.
One of the things I loved most about Boston is that many of the city’s biggest attractions naturally appeal to families. You’re not spending all day dragging kids through museums they aren’t interested in or walking endless city blocks with nothing to break up the day.
Instead, you’ll find parks, boats, interactive exhibits, waterfront areas, and plenty of opportunities to mix education with fun.
It’s also surprisingly easy to get around without needing a car, making it a great destination for families flying in.
Where to Stay in Boston with Kids
Boston is one of those cities where location matters. It can also feel overwhelming trying to decide the best location to stay in.
For families planning to explore many of the iconic Boston sites, I recommend staying in the downtown area, which is close to tons of dining options, popular attractions and public transportation.
Family-Friendly Hotel Recommendations
If you’re traveling with kids, I highly recommend ditching the car rental and taking the bus or subway instead. Boston’s public transportation system makes getting around much easier than navigating the busy streets, and it will save you big bucks on all those parking fees.
Day 1: Explore Historic Boston
One of the best things about Boston is that history feels alive here.
Even if your kids aren’t history buffs, or you think they are too young to appreciate it, there is something exciting about walking the same streets where so many important moments in American history took place.
Walk the Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is one of the most iconic experiences in Boston, and an absolute must do.
The full trail starts at the Boston Common Visitor’s Center and stretches 2.5 miles, connecting 16 of the city’s most famous historic sites, including:
- Boston Common
- Massachusetts State House
- Paul Revere House
- Old North Church
- Faneuil Hall
You don’t need to complete the entire route if you aren’t up to walking 2.5 miles; even walking portions of the trail provides a great introduction to the city and allows you to visit some really amazing places.
Explore Boston Common & Public Garden
After walking part of the Freedom Trail, head back to the Boston Common.
Kids can enjoy the open green spaces while parents soak up the historic atmosphere.
Next door, the Public Garden offers beautiful pathways, ponds, and the famous Swan Boats during warmer months. Make sure to spend some time wandering around looking at all the statues – my kids loved the duck and ducklings!
Explore Beacon Hill
One of Boston’s most historically and culturally significant neighborhoods, make sure you spend some time exploring this area! Located right next to the Public Gardens and Boston Commons, there are so many fun shops, bakeries and cafe’s to stop in.
Some of our favorites:
- Beacon Hills Books & Cafe (they have the cutest kids section!)
- Tatte Bakery & Cafe
- Beacon Hill Chocolate
- De Luca’s Market
Dinner at Quincy Market
Quincy Market is one of the easiest (and most fun!) lunch or dinner stops for families because everyone can choose something different.
The food hall offers everything from seafood and sandwiches to pizza and desserts – the hardest part is deciding what you want to order!
Day 2: Science, Museums, and Harbor Views
Boston Tea Party Museum
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum ended up being one of the most fun history attractions we visited during our time in Boston. Instead of reading plaques, you’re immersed in the story through interactive exhibits, costumed actors that guide you through the museum, and even the chance to throw “tea” into Boston Harbor.
Our kids loved being part of the action, and it was one spot that really got them interested in history.
Stop by Abigail’s Tea Room after your tour – for $5 you can taste 5 different types of tea that were actually thrown into the harbor during the real Boston Tea Party!
Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time – it’s a popular spot and tickets can sell out!
Martin’s Park
I love adding in fun and unique playgrounds as a stop on a big city trip, and Martin’s Park was perfect! Located right on the waterfront next to the Boston Children’s Museum, this is the perfect spot for kids to get some wiggles out.
The life-sized pirates ship (complete with a working flag pole) is the perfect spot for some pretend play, and there are plenty of shady spots for parents to catch a moment to relax.
New England Aquarium
Rated one of the top aquariums in the USA, this is a must-visit stop during your time in Boston with kids! Plan to spend a couple hours here – you will definitely want some time to explore the touch tanks, watch the trainer-led harbor seal or penguin programs, and walk around the giant ocean tank.
Pro tip: Keep reading to learn how we saved big on our visit to the New England Aquarium
Explore the Harbor Walk
Take a walk up and down the Harbor Walk to see some of the most iconic spots and views of the city. There is plenty of waterfront dining options along the way, so stop and grab dinner.
Take a Boston Harbor Cruise
One of the most unique ways to experience the city is from the water.
The Boston Harbor Cruise provides incredible skyline views while also offering interesting information about Boston’s history and harbor. Plus there is no bad view – indoor or outdoor seating available, onboard snacks, and the perfect length for kids.
Day 3: Harvard University & Afternoon Exploring
Harvard Museum of Science & Culture
If you’re like us, then you might have noticed that most science museums feel pretty similar. Sure, kids love them, but I really love finding unique spots that feel different. That’s why I recommend skipping the Museum of Science and instead taking a quick subway ride to Harvard University to see the Museum of Science & Culture.
This museum is the perfect size for kids, and has some really unique exhibits. Plus, it’s truly incredible to walk through the Harvard campus on your way to and from the museum.
Mapparium & Boston Observatory
Hop back onto the subway and head over to the Christian Science Plaza, located in the heart of Back Bay. Here you can explore the amazing Mapparium, take in the views from the View Boston Observation Deck, or get some fresh air in the open spaces and exploring the fountains.
If visiting the Mapparium – a larger than life stained glass globe that you can actually walk through – make sure you book tickets ahead of time, as time slots are limited and do sell out. Adult tickets are $6, and children are free to visit. The tour takes about 15 minutes.
Pick your afternoon adventure
After several busy days, spend your last afternoon in Boston relaxing, or head out on another adventure! Here are some suggestions:
– Boston’s Children Museum
Consistently ranked in the top 10 of all children’s museums in the United States, this is the perfect afternoon spot to let your kids be kids. 3 floors of interactive exhibits are sure to keep them happy and entertained for hours.
– Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Take a self-guided tour through this one-of-a-kind Venetian-style palazzo, where you can admire the lush greenery of the courtyard garden, wander through the eclectic artwork and themed rooms, and enjoy seasonal dining. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
– Museum of Ice Cream
A funky and unique museum full of color, sprinkles and lots of tasty samples, this is sure to please any ice cream lover in your family. Travel from room to room exploring the interactive exhibits and trying all the unique flavors.
Make sure to book your ticket ahead of time!
How to Save when Visiting Boston with Kids
If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, I highly recommend looking into CityPASS Boston.
We used it during our visit for:
Having multiple attractions bundled together made planning easier and saved our family so much money compared to purchasing tickets individually – our family saved nearly $200 by using our CityPASS!
Final Thoughts on Visiting Boston with Kids
Boston ended up being one of those destinations that surprised us in the best possible way.
It has enough history to feel meaningful, enough attractions to keep families entertained, and enough charm to make you want to stick around and explore a little bit more.
Whether you’re walking the Freedom Trail, cruising through Boston Harbor, visiting world-class museums, or simply enjoying a stroll through one of the city’s beautiful parks, exploring Boston with kids offers the kind of family memories that stick with you long after the trip ends.
If you’re planning a New England road trip, I would absolutely recommend dedicating at least a couple days in Boston – there is so much to see and do here!