It’s time to start planning next year’s vacation and your already dreading what should be a fun and stress free activity. Planning vacations can be hard enough for just two adults, but throw a couple eager kids into the mix and it can sometimes seem like the back porch is about as far as you want to venture.
If you’ve had enough of cramped theme parks, less than kid friendly beaches, and over priced and overrated activities maybe it’s time to take your luggage to the north east. Boston, one of America’s oldest cities, can be a perfect place for your next family vacation.
With an abundance of activities for any age any time of year, the only problem you may encounter is not having enough time to see everything. Here are just a few things that might make this kid friendly vacation destination a must for your family.
- The Aquarium: The New England Aquarium, located at Central Wharf in Boston is probably one of the most popular attractions for people of all ages. Moderately priced (around $18 dollars for adults and $10 for children over 3) the aquarium provides a whole afternoon worth of under the sea fun. Inside the gigantic building you’ll find everything from penguins and seals, to some of the world are craziest looking fish. One of the most unique attractions kids and adults alike will love, is the Giant Ocean Tank. The massive fish tank spans three floors and houses sharks, sea turtles and a variety of other fish. There are a assortment of kid’s programs that are scheduled all year round so be sure to grab a brochure and see if there is anything you and your family might want to check out.
- The Freedom Trail: Boston is a beautiful city and on a nice day the best way to get around is by foot. In a unique attempt to tie together Boston’s history, the city painted a red line that takes visitors through a self guided tour of colonial Boston. So grab the kids and start out at Boston Common’s for a quick stroll through the park, then take a leisurely stroll past the Old South Meeting House, Paul Revere’s House, and Old North Church. Make sure to stop at Faneuil Hall for some excellent food and shopping. Many of the places along the trail offer tours for a minimal fee or donation so make sure to stop in a check them out.
- Museums: Although a trip to a museum isn’t always the first thing your youngsters are thinking about, Boston offers several museums that are extremely kid friendly. The Museum of Science makes learning fun with exhibits like the Discovery Center, where kids can play with costumes, blocks, or hide out in a cool cave. There are also other great attractions that entertainment value for all ages such as the Theater of Electricity, and Perception and Illusions. Another fun learning experience for the kids is the Boston Children’s Museum which offers limitless amounts of fun in the form of interactive exhibits where kids and their parents can learn and play. Some really cool highlights are the Art Studio and Air play, where kids can get in touch with their artistic side and Blue Cross Blue Shield Massachusetts Kid Power where they can play; learn about exercising and being healthy; or tire them self out climbing walls and dancing on the interactive dance floor.
Boston’s a great place to bring the whole family for a vacation they’ll never forget and that won’t drain your bank account. Many places offer packages that include admission to several of the attractions mentioned above.