Boston’s rich history, varied attractions, and walkability make it a fantastic destination for your family’s next vacation. Filled with activities for children and grownups alike, my own family’s trip to Boston was both enriching and fun, and I encourage everyone to explore all this city has to offer.
As I prepared for our trip to Boston, I kept the budget in mind and was both impressed and surprised at the varying price points for activities. While tickets to a sporting event or museum can be pricey, there are plenty of free or less expensive outings for families around the city. I recommend maintaining an activities budget and planning the paid attractions in advance, so you don’t get caught up in unplanned expenses.
With that in mind, here are some budget-friendly tips for visiting Boston as a family:
Boston’s Great Outdoors
Prior to visiting Boston, be sure to follow the weather closely. Our visit was during April, and while it was warm in Virginia, the spring had not yet hit Boston, and we needed to pack warm clothes and prepare for the cold weather we’d been so happy to bid farewell to at home. Think of Boston being about two weeks behind Virginia as far as weather, and this should help as you plan what clothing to pack.
Boston Public Garden
As the first public botanical garden in the U.S., Boston Public Garden is not only gorgeous but also filled with history. As a bonus, it is completely free to stroll through the paths and take in the statues, plants, fountains, and pond. My family especially loved the Make Way for Ducklings statue, based on Robert McCloskey’s 1941 bestseller Make Way for Ducklings, a book I read to my children many times. For a unique experience, try a Swan Boat ride through the garden. Rides are 10-15 minutes and run from mid-April through September 1.
Boston Common
Adjacent to Boston Public Garden, Boston Common is also free. This 50-acre park offers The Tadpole Playground, a public playground, and in the summer, The Frog Pond, a splash pad and large open area to picnic and escape the heat. As the oldest public park in the nation, Boston Common has hosted visitors like George Washington and Martin Luther King, Jr. The Embrace, a monument representing Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King’s love and leadership, is a moving must-see.
The Freedom Trail
Experience the revolutionary history that happened along The Freedom Trail with 18th-century costumed guides. These tours are interactive and engaging, and the best part is that you select the tour to fit your family’s needs, including the sites, the walking distance, and the duration. Tour choices include Revolutionary Women, African American Patriots, Walk into History, and more. If you prefer self-guided tours, you can purchase The Freedom Trail app which has audio at stops, an interactive map, and GPS mapping.
Boston’s Indoor Attractions and Museums
If you’re looking to beat the heat or stay indoors due to inclement weather, Boston has plenty of attractions and museums to keep the whole family entertained all day.
Boston Children’s Museum
Combine learning with play at Boston’s Children’s Museum. With three floors of exhibits, this is a great option for those with young children. Popular exhibits include Kid Power, which represents how important healthy eating and exercise are for our bodies; Play Space, a place for little ones ages 0-3; and Construction Zone where children can build, play, and drive trucks.
Boston Public Library
As the first large, free municipal library in the United States, visiting the Boston Public Library is a must for any bibliophile. Take a tour or explore on your own to see the Renaissance architecture, vast array of books, courtyard, and true community hub that make the Boston Public Library the archetypical library.
New England Aquarium
Sea lions, penguins, and sea turtles – oh my! With thousands of aquatic animals, the New England Aquarium is an entertaining and exciting venue. My children especially loved the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, the Penguin Colony exhibit with over 50 African and southern rockhopper penguins, and the Sea Jellies, a relaxing and mesmerizing exhibit.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
While free for children 17 and under, I suggest saving this experience for children who truly love art. To enhance your visit, start at the information area of the Living Room and pick up a Family Guide. Then, head to the Courtyard for sketching materials so children can make reproductions of their favorite works or be inspired to make their own art. This museum is unique in that it was a Venetian palace now home to eclectic art and a beautiful courtyard. For background information, watch This Is A Robbery: The World’s Biggest Art Heist and learn about the unsolved robbery that happened here.
Boston’s Family-Friendly Dining
There is no shortage of dining options in Boston, including family-friendly options. Whether you’re looking for kid classics like chicken tenders and fries or New England staples, you’re sure to find something everyone will enjoy.
Café Bonjour
If your children are like mine and wake up early and ready to go, you’ll want to try Café Bonjour for breakfast. Open at 7 a.m., the restaurant is within walking distance to several Boston attractions, including Boston Public Garden, making it a great starting point for your day. Beyond the location, the menu is kid-approved with smoothies, crêpes (the Bonjour Classic with Nutella was a hit with my son), omelets, and more. It is important to note that Café Bonjour is a small restaurant, so if you’re bringing a stroller, bring one that is easy to fold.
Granary Tavern
Granary Tavern has typical kid-friendly fare: kid’s burger, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, as well as salad and macaroni. Kid’s meals at Granary Tavern come with a soda and a hoodsie cup, which is an iconic New England ice cream treat. Another reason to eat here? It’s only a short walk to the fascinating and fun New England Aquarium.
Regina Pizza
Located in Little Italy in Boston’s North End, Regina Pizza has been serving pizza since 1926 and was named one of America’s Top 10 Pizzerias. We are huge pizza lovers in my house, so Regina’s was a must on our list, and it definitely lived up to the hype. The sauce is very fresh, and the crust is thin and delicious.
Mike’s Pastry
Within walking distance from Regina Pizza, Mike’s Pastry’s legendary cannolis are a staple in the area. With several flavors from Oreo to blueberry, you’ll want to make time to stop here during your trip. If you’re not up for a cannoli, there are other pastries, including Boston Cream Puff or Boston Cream Pie. Mike’s Pastry does not accept cards, so be sure to bring cash.
Travel Tips
Parking can be difficult in Boston, so download the SpotHero app before you go. You can reserve a place in a parking garage near your destination before you even get there. This will save you time and money.
If budget is a concern, be sure to do the math on flying versus driving. If you can score an affordable flight, this may be the better option when adding in gas and wear on your car.
The sports fan in your family may want to purchase some team merch. Even if you don’t make it to a game, the Boston ProShop located inside TD Garden sells Celtics and Bruins apparel and memorabilia.
If you happen to be visiting family in the Boston area, check with them about obtaining a museum pass from the Boston Public Library. If your family member has a library card, these museum passes offer discounts at many of the local attractions and add up to a huge savings.
Many museums and attractions also offer discounts, including those for military, teachers, and EBT passholders. Check attractions’ sites in advance to take advantage of applicable savings.
