Boston's Best Attractions For Kids

Most of the attractions that draw kids in Boston are the types of attractions that parents can enjoy as well. It is easy to have a family fun day in any neighborhood in Boston, but some potential destinations stand out among the rest. From hidden gems to unforgettable adventures, there is something for children of every age and disposition. Why settle for a run-of-the-mill day in the park when the best sites for children in Boston await?

Codzilla
Long Wharf
296 State St.
Boston, MA 02109
(617) 227-4321
www.bostonharborcruises.com

The name of this boat may seem a little cheesy as there is no cod or Japanese monster involved. However, the experience Codzilla provides for big kids is unbeatable. This 135-seater has an awesome 2,800-horsepower, or about 40 miles per hour, capacity that helps it tear through the water to the delight and terror of those on board. This boat whips around in full circles and takes corners so rapidly it is better than being on a roller coaster. As such, it is not suitable for very young children who may not like the loud music and terrifying turns.

Related: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Boston Children's Museum

Pleasure Bay And Castle Island
Boston Harbor Walk
Boston, MA 02109
(617) 482-1722
www.bostonharborwalk.com

Both Pleasure Bay and Castle Island are appropriate for all ages. The former has miles of beach on water bordered by the Head Island Causeway. The water quality is good for swimming and the beach is sandy enough for sunbathing. Castle Island is home to Fort Independence, a perfect attraction for adventurous children. This pentagonal structure is made with hammered stone, giving the impression to young minds that it is a great castle.

Mapparium
Mary Baker Eddy Library
200 Massachusetts Ave.
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 450-7000
www.marybakereddylibrary.org

A library is not necessarily the type of attraction many kids think of when they think of a day out, but the Mary Baker Eddy Library has a hidden gem that kids love. The library contains a glass globe that is three stories high. A catwalk runs through the center of it so guests can walk through the world and see the globe from the center. The globe was created in 1935 and has never been updated, giving kids an insight into the changes the world has seen since then, highlighted by an accompanying presentation titled "A World of Ideas."

Back Bay Fens
Boston, MA 02215
www.cityofboston.gov/Back_Bay_Fens

The Back Bay Fens, the inspiration for the name Fenway Park, is a large urban park. What makes the Back Bay Fens stand out are multiple water features, bridges, trails and gardens. This now beautiful natural area was once stagnant and useless. Today, children can play games, run down trails, picnic and enjoy the various flora that dot the landscape. The park is manicured according to the design of several famous landscape architects, so its flowers and trees are accentuated by its very form, making it easy for kids to appreciate everything that grows there.

Related: Best Children's Book Shops In Boston

 

Gondola Di Venezia
Charles River Esplanade
47 David G. Mugar Way
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 876-2800
www.bostongondolas.com

Kids can experience the gondolas of Venice without leaving Boston thanks to this company. The gondolas used by Gondola di Venezia are authentic Venetian gondolas. There is a very romantic quality to the experience. However, it is something children can enjoy as well as couples. The gondola ride takes passengers along the Charles River to appreciate the views of the city on either side. Its proximity to the Public Garden, Charles River Esplanade and the Boston Hatch Shell make it easy to build an entire day out around the gondola ride.