Family-Friendly Adventures in Boston!

Waterfront

Why Visit?

Welcome to Waterfront, a bustling hub perfect for families looking to blend relaxation with adventure! Here"s a day full of fun that will keep everyone entertained.

Morning: Visit the Waterfront Aquarium

Kickstart your day at the Waterfront Aquarium. Easily accessible by the downtown shuttle, this aquarium offers a mesmerizing glimpse into marine life. Dive into the daily interactive shark and ray feedings at 10 AM, a big hit with kids and adults alike. Don’t miss the Ocean Tunnel, where you can walk beneath a stunning display of sea creatures.

Lunch: Picnic at Waterfront Park

Just a 10-minute walk from the aquarium, Waterport Park offers scenic views and plenty of space for a family picnic. Grab some local street food—like the famous Waterfront fish tacos—and enjoy a tranquil lunch by the water. The park also features several playgrounds, perfect to let the kids burn off some energy.

Afternoon: Explore the Maritime Museum

After lunch, head to the Maritime Museum, just a 5-minute walk from the park. This museum is home to a collection of historic ships, including a submarine! Engage with the interactive exhibits or join one of the family-friendly tours available at 1 PM and 3 PM, where you can learn about the area’s naval history and maritime adventures.

Evening: Sunset Ferris Wheel Ride

Conclude your day with a ride on the Waterfront Ferris Wheel, accessible by a short walk from the museum. This iconic attraction provides stunning views of the coastline and the city skyline, especially at sunset. It’s a magical experience that captures the beauty of Waterfront, leaving lasting memories.

This itinerary promises a delightful mix of education, nature, and fun, tailored to keep a family entertained and engaged throughout the day. Enjoy your adventure at Waterfront!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family outing at Boston"s historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace, a vibrant hub combining rich history, unique shopping, and delicious dining!

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day by taking the MBTA to Government Center or Haymarket stations; both are just a short walk from Fanehill Hall. Begin at the iconic Faneuil Hall, known as the "Cradle of Liberty." Built in 1742 and a witness to speeches by key figures like Samuel Adams, this building offers a dive into America"s revolutionary past. Don"t miss the fourth floor"s Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum, showcasing artifacts from Boston’s military history.

Midday: Quincy Market

Next, stroll over to Quincy Market, adjacent to Faneuil Hall. This bustling market complex is perfect for families, with over 50 shops and 14 restaurants housed in a historic setting. The centerpiece is the 1826 colonnade where a diverse array of food vendors will entice every palate. Enjoy lunch here; options range from Boston clam chowder to international cuisines.

Afternoon: Street Performances and Shopping

After lunch, catch one of the live street performances that frequently animate the marketplace’s cobblestone promenades. Performers vary from jugglers and magicians to musicians, providing entertainment for all ages. Following the fun, dive into some shopping at unique boutiques and national chains available around the marketplace.

Evening: Dinner and Departure

For dinner, settle into one of the family-friendly restaurants like Cheers, which offers a taste of local flavor alongside an ambiance inspired by the famous TV show. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk to the nearby waterfront, offering picturesque views and a perfect spot for family photos to remember your day at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

With its blend of historical intrigue and contemporary excitement, Faneuil Hall Marketplace promises a delightful day out for the entire family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fenway Park

Why Visit?

For families planning a memorable visit to Fenway Park, here"s an engaging and fun-filled itinerary for an unforgettable experience:

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early to fully savor the Fenway experience. Arriving by public transit is convenient; take the MBTA Green Line to Kenmore Station, which is just a short walk from Fenway Park. This avoids the hassle of parking and adds an authentic local twist to your adventure.

### Fenway Park Tour

Kick off with the official Fenway Park Tour available from 9 AM. Purchase tickets in advance as they can sell out, especially on game days. The tour lasts about one hour and offers a behind-the-scenes look at America"s oldest ballpark. You"ll visit iconic spots like the Green Monster, Pesky"s Pole, and the press box. Fun fact: Fenway Park has its own garden, Fenway Farms, located on the roof of the Front Office!

### Lunch at Lansdowne Street

Post-tour, head to Lansdowne Street for a family-friendly meal at one of the many sports bars and restaurants. Try Bleacher Bar directly beneath the bleachers of Fenway Park, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the field.

### Afternoon at the Red Sox Hall of Fame & Museum

After lunch, explore the Red Sox Hall of Fame & Museum, which features artifacts, interactive exhibits, and displays about the history and legends of the Red Sox. It"s educational and engaging for fans of all ages.

### Evening Game or Concert

If you visit during the baseball season, cap off your day by attending a Red Sox game. Experience the electric atmosphere of a live game among passionate fans. Alternatively, check the schedule for concerts held at Fenway during the summer for an exhilarating live music experience.

### Departure

Conclude your visit by picking up some souvenirs at the official Red Sox Team Store on Yawkey Way to remember your day at this historic ballpark. Catch the Green Line back or grab a taxi from outside the park.

This packed day at Fenway Park offers a blend of sports, history, and family fun, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Boston Common

Why Visit?

Welcome to Boston Common, America’s oldest public park and a treasure trove of family fun!

Morning: Explore the Park

Start your morning by entering through the Charles Street gate. Stroll through the park and enjoy its lush landscapes. Don’t miss the Frog Pond – in summer, it"s perfect for splashing around, and in winter, it transforms into a charming ice-skating rink.

Interesting Fact: Boston Common was established in 1634 and has witnessed everything from Revolutionary War gatherings to famous speeches by Martin Luther King Jr.

Midday: Playground and Picnic

Head to the Tadpole Playground, ideally located near the Frog Pond. It’s a perfect spot for kids to unwind and play. Nearby, you’ll find several benches perfect for a family picnic with views of the State House’s golden dome.

Afternoon: Historical Walk & Swan Boats

Walk along the Freedom Trail, which cuts through the Common. This famous path will lead you past historic sites like the Park Street Church and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

Interesting Fact: The Swan Boats in the Public Garden (adjacent to Boston Common) have been operating since 1877 and were inspired by the opera "Lohengrin" by Richard Wagner.

Evening: Relax and Reflect

Conclude your day by relaxing on the Great Lawn. Enjoy a casual dinner at one of the eateries along Tremont Street. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk back through the park, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful city views.

Getting Around

Boston Common is centrally located and easily accessible by public transit. Park Street Station (Red and Green Lines) and Boylston Station (Green Line) are directly adjacent to the park. If driving, there are several parking garages nearby, such as the Boston Common Garage.

An enchanting day awaits at Boston Common, where historical charm meets family fun!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Skywalk Observatory

Why Visit?

Start your family adventure at the Skywalk Observatory, Boston"s only sky-high vantage point that offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the historic city and beyond.

### Morning

Arrival at Skywalk Observatory

- Location: Located in the iconic Prudential Center at 800 Boylston Street.

- Getting There: The easiest way to get there is by public transit. Take the Green Line to Copley Station or the Orange Line to Back Bay Station. Both stations are a short walk away from the Prudential Center.

- Interesting Fact: The Prudential Tower, completed in 1964, is one of the tallest buildings in Boston and was the tallest in the world outside of New York City at the time of its completion.

Experience the Observatory

- Spend the morning exploring the observatory. Don’t miss the Dreams of Freedom Museum inside, which celebrates the role of immigrants in Boston’s unique cultural mosaic.

- Interactive Touch Screens: Let your kids engage with the high-definition screens that provide information about landmarks and historical sites visible from the windows.

### Lunch

- Where to Eat: Enjoy lunch at one of the Prudential Center’s eateries. For family-friendly options, try the food court for a variety of choices that cater to all tastes.

### Afternoon

Audio Tour & Photo Ops

- After lunch, take the audio tour available in multiple languages, detailing the history of Boston’s famous sites like Fenway Park, Harvard University, and the Charles River.

- Capture family photos with a stunning backdrop of the city. The Observatory provides an excellent opportunity for unique panoramic shots.

Shopping and Exploration

- What to Do: Post-visit, explore the shops within the Prudial Center or walk to nearby Newbury Street, famed for its Victorian architecture and boutique shopping.

- Interesting Fact: Newbury Street was once part of Boston’s underwater harbor before being filled in 1860.

End your day with a stroll through the nearby Boston Public Garden, just a pleasant walk from the Prudial Center, where the kids can enjoy a swan boat ride in the warmer months.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.