Taking the family to Boston, and not so sure the kids are excited that “it’s got a lot of history”? True, that is one of its great boasts, and many historical sights are interesting enough to make even a grumpy teenager cheer up, at least for a while! However, there is a lot of other fun to be had throughout town, both in summer and winter, to make your family’s Boston trip an unforgettable one:
All Year Round:
Faneuil Hall
A bustling marketplace is still paved in cobblestone, offering shopping of all kinds, from clothing to souvenirs to toy stores. The real fun of Faneuil Hall comes with the ever-present street performers: magicians, acrobats, living statues, historical re-enactors and musicians, always a different variety with each visit. It’s also a nice place to walk, with year-round tree lights and seasonal decorations that never fail to please.
Quincy Market
In the centre of Faneuil Hall was the one-time heart of Boston’s harbour marketplace. Currently, it houses an extensive, beautiful indoor food court featuring the finest in multicultural cuisines, hearty New England chowders and mouthwatering desserts, perfect for a meal or a snack to suit everyone’s wishes.
The Children’s Museum
Located downtown, it offers exciting cultural, scientific and creative exhibits ranging from a bubble-blowing room to a multi-story indoor jungle gym. It’s open every day from 10-5, Fridays 10-9, and provides hours of happy diversions for the under-13 set.
New England Aquarium
One of the country’s foremost centres for marine life, research and conservation features, among hundreds of unique and lovely live sea and freshwater habitats, a vast Great Ocean tank extending from floor to ceiling and housing everything from coral and tropical fish to giant sea turtles and sharks. At the base of the Great Ocean tank is a penguin habitat that has charmed thousands of visitors of all ages. Adjacent to the main aquarium building is an IMAX theatre featuring 3-D films about space and our environment’s more visually stunning aspects.
Spring-Autumn
Duck Tours
Start with the fun of a full driving tour of the city- and then add the excitement of a boat tour as the amphibious sightseeing vehicles navigate the Charles River! Popular with people of all ages, Duck Tours are a memorable way to see a lot of the city in a short period of time.
Fenway Park Tours
Essential for the Red Sox Nation family or baseball fans everywhere will love a guided tour of the park, including a visit to the Green Monster seats for a fantastic full view of the park and surrounding city. Note that tours may change subject to construction or game schedules.
Whale Watch
A perfect summer adventure can be time-consuming for very young children (it takes an hour each way for the boat to travel in a range of whales and back), but it is well worth it for anyone else- harbour whales seem to be clowns around the watch boats, frequently flipping fins and diving nearby. There is no guarantee of a whale sighting, but it’s rare not to see a terrific natural show.
Winter
The Frog Pond in Boston Common is a small ice-skating rink populated by families and fun-lovers of all ages in the winter, complete with outdoor music and scenic views of the surrounding city skyline, from skyscrapers to the golden-domed Capitol Building.
So, set out with your family at any time of year and get ready to have the time of your lives!