Boston for families: a suggested one-day itinerary

Morning: Start your day with a history lesson like no other at Boston’s Freedom Trail. The 2.5-mile route, leading from Bunker Hill to Boston Common, tells the fascinating story of the American Revolution via 16 treasured attractions, including museums, churches, burial grounds, monuments and even a giant boat. A highlight for kids who love pirates, the historic USS Constitution warship was once captained by Captain Silas Talbot, a ‘licensed’ pirate or ‘privateer’. Walk the trail independently or step back in time on a 90-minute tour hosted by guides dressed in colourful 18th century costumes.

Afternoon: For lunch, enjoy a leisurely picnic at America’s oldest city park, Boston Common. From wildlife spotting at Frog Pond to boating on the lake, there’s plenty to discover here. Then, spend the afternoon exploring the city’s child-friendly museums. Boston Children’s Museum gets youngsters involved in interactive activities themed around science, culture and the arts, while the Museum of Science features over 700 hands-on exhibits guaranteed to interest the whole family. Another highlight for all age groups is the dinosaur display, home to Cliff the Triceratops, who’s 65-million years old. When you’ve had your fill of culture (and before the sun sets), make your way to Skywalk Observatory for unbelievable panoramic views of the city from 50 floors up.

Evening: When it comes to family entertainment in Boston, nothing beats a baseball game at Fenway Park. Watching the legendary Boston Red Sox in action is an exhilarating experience and there’s nothing quite like it when the home team scores and a sea of red and blue supporters bring the house down with their cheering. So learn the chants, wave your foam fingers and prepare to get swept up in the excitement. Just watch out for flying balls.

Image credits:

Baseball © iStock: EHStock

Boston Common © iStock: SeanPavonePhoto

Museum of Science, Boston © Michael Malyszko