Boston is one of the most historic cities in the United States. Exploring the historic cites is fun, informative, entertaining, and a good way to burn off calories and energy. The list offers a few tips and suggestions for things to do with your family on a trip to Boston.
Walking the Freedom Trail
One thing not to miss if you and your family are visiting Boston for the first time is taking a walk on the Freedom Trail. Boston was founded in 1630 and the historic architecture and heart of the old city is intermingled and interwoven with contemporary Boston. Walking the Freedom Trail takes you past historic sites such as the Old State House, King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, the Old South Meeting House, the Paul Revere House, and the Bunker Hill Monument across the river in Charlestown. You can walk the Freedom Trail for free at your own leisure or take a guided tour. The price is $12 for adults and $6 for children.
The Boston Common
The Boston Common is the starting point of the Freedom Trail. It sits at the heart of historic Boston. Cattle grazed in the Common until 1830. The Common was a site for public hangings up until 1817. British troops camped in the Common prior to the battle of Lexington. Boston Common is similar to Central Park in New York City. Boston Common is 50 acres and is the oldest park in the United States. In addition to its historic significance, Boston Common is a beautiful place for family picnics and outdoor activities. Boston Common is open all day, every day.
The Boston’s Children Museum
The Boston’s Children’s Museum was founded in 1913. It is geared to provide an interactive context with real objects so that kids can engage in fun and learning experience to teach them about science, culture, the environment, the arts, as well as about health and fitness. A list of actives and events is available at the Museum website http://www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org.
Boston’s Children’s Museum
308 Congress Street
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 426-6500
The New England Aquarium
The New England Aquarium is one of the premier institutions in the United States. It is located on Boston’s historic waterfront. The hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday to Sunday 9am to 6pm. General admission prices are $22.95 for adults, $15.95 for children, and $20.95 for seniors. Admission is free for children under 3 and for aquarium members. A variety of ticket option and special events are available including an IMAX theater. A full list of activities and events is available at the Aquarium website http://www.neaq.org/visit_planning/tickets_and_hours/index.php.
The New England Aquarium
1 Central Wharf Street
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 973-5200
Franklin Park Zoo
The Franklin Park Zoo is open all year round. The zoo is open from 10am to 5pm Monday through Friday, and 10am to 6pm on the weekends from April to September. The hours are slightly shorter between October and March, 11am to 3pm. It is possible to go online to take a virtual tour of the animals and exhibits at thttp://www.zoonewengland.org/.
Franklin Park Zoo
One Franklin Park Road
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 635-4505, (617) 541-5466