Boston is a brilliant city to explore with kids, and one of the best things about it is that so much of what makes the city special doesn’t cost a cent. History, green space, museums and even a night under the stars are all on offer for free — perfect if you’re planning a family trip on a budget.
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If you’re staying for a few days, a Go Boston Card is worth looking into — it can offer discounts on Boston’s paid attractions and faster entry, so you spend less time queuing. Worth checking current pricing and inclusions before you travel.
Here are our picks of the best free things to do in Boston with kids. Let us know if there’s something we should add!
#1. The Boston Children’s Museum
It’s not entirely free, but it comes close enough that it deserves a spot on this list. The Boston Children’s Museum has significantly reduced admission on Sundays, and kids may go free with a Go Boston Card, so it’s worth checking current terms before you visit.
Inside, you’ll find spaces and activities designed for children aged roughly 3 to 10, with plenty to explore, climb on and touch.
“Everything is built at child height and the kids are encouraged to climb, play with and even touch the exhibits!” — Andrea L.
#2. Explore Boston’s Parks
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The grassy Boston Common is gorgeous at any time of year — there’s ice-skating in winter, and it truly comes alive in spring. It’s the country’s oldest public park, and a traditional carousel operates here during the warmer months.
Next door, visit the Public Garden and snap a photo at the much-loved Make Way for Ducklings sculpture — a set of child-sized bronze figures by sculptor Nancy Schön, inspired by Robert McCloskey’s classic picture book. Picking up a copy of the story is a lovely way to bring the visit home with you.
The Rose Kennedy Greenway, one of Boston’s newer green spaces, runs from Chinatown to TD Garden and the North End. Shaped like a ribbon linking Downtown and the Waterfront, it stretches about a mile and a half and includes a series of smaller parks, art installations and seasonal events along the way.
#3. Tour the State House
This one’s probably best suited to older children. Tours of the Massachusetts State House run for around 40 minutes and cover the history and architecture of the building — it’s worth calling ahead to schedule a guided tour.
With its striking gold dome, the State House is open to the public on weekdays, and admission is free.
#4. Street Theatre at Faneuil Hall
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More than just a shopping destination, Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market often feel like a festival, with jugglers, magicians, clowns and musicians performing throughout the year.
There are usually free family-friendly seasonal events, including summer concerts, so it’s worth checking what’s on before you go.
#5. Free Discovery Packs at Arnold Arboretum
Borrow a Discovery Pack at the Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University and head off to explore 281 acres of plant life and trees, part living museum, part science lab. Activities suit different ages, and the packs can be tailored to your child, generally from age 3 up.
Beyond the packs, there are self-guided activities to enjoy, as well as family walks and drop-in sessions exploring the sights and sounds of the Arboretum, aimed at children roughly aged three to eight and above. These walks are free and led by Arboretum staff or volunteers, usually meeting at the Visitor Center or on the Hunnewell Building lawn, with a limit on the number of children per adult. Registration is generally requested for the guided hikes.
#6. Take in the View at the Bunker Hill Monument
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For some of the best views in Boston — plus a dose of history — head to the Bunker Hill Monument. It suits all ages, but is especially rewarding for older kids and teens studying the American Revolution.
The climb to the top involves a good number of steps, but the payoff is a spectacular view over the city.
“The Battle of Bunker Hill Museum is free! It’s very interesting for history buffs and features a large diorama.” — Teresa R.
#7. The Freedom Trail
Follow Boston’s historic Freedom Trail and get a real sense of the city’s landmarks and story. There’s plenty to see along the route.
If you’re travelling with younger children, it’s perfectly fine to pick just a short section that includes a stop they’ll enjoy — the USS Constitution (see #8 below) is a popular choice.
Round off your walk with tea and a treat at Quincy Market or a North End bakery.
#8. Visit the USS Constitution
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The USS Constitution, affectionately known as “Old Ironsides,” is the oldest commissioned warship still afloat in the world. Located in the Charlestown Navy Yard as part of Boston National Historical Park, and a stop on the Freedom Trail, the ship is open to the public free of charge throughout the year (donations are welcomed).
Visitors can chat with active-duty US Navy sailors who serve as onboard interpretative historians, bringing the ship’s history to life.
Note: anyone aged 18 or older will need to show photo ID or a passport to board.
#9. Stargaze at the Coit Observatory, Boston University
Enjoy a free evening of stargazing at the Coit Observatory, typically held on Wednesday evenings, weather permitting, with timing that shifts a little between the darker and lighter months. Visitors can look through telescopes and binoculars while learning some basic astronomy — a lovely, low-key outing for the whole family.
Tickets are free but limited, and are usually released online a few days ahead of each session, so it’s worth checking the observatory’s website for the current booking process before you go.
#10. Take Your Picture With Paul Revere
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The statue of Paul Revere is one of the most photographed sculptures in Boston. The sculptor chose to depict Revere during his famous Midnight Ride — though unlike many illustrations that show him at full gallop, this bronze version feels a little more composed and dignified.
You’ll find the statue in Boston’s Paul Revere Mall, near the Old North Church, right along the Freedom Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston a good city for a family trip on a budget?
Yes — Boston has a great mix of free attractions, from parks and historic sites to museums and monuments, which makes it easy to fill several days of family activities without spending much at all.
What’s the best free thing to do in Boston with kids?
It really depends on your children’s interests. History-loving families tend to enjoy the Freedom Trail and the USS Constitution, while younger kids often love the parks and the Make Way for Ducklings statues in the Public Garden.
Is the Freedom Trail manageable with young children?
Yes, if you don’t try to do the whole thing in one go. Many families pick a shorter section and combine it with a stop young kids will enjoy, like the USS Constitution, then take a break for a treat afterwards.
Do any of these free activities need to be booked in advance?
Some do have limited spots or a booking process, particularly the stargazing sessions at Coit Observatory and the guided walks at Arnold Arboretum, so it’s worth checking each attraction’s website shortly before your visit.
Is the Boston Children’s Museum actually free?
Not entirely, but it’s heavily discounted on Sundays and can be free for kids with certain discount cards, which is why we’ve included it here as a near-free option.
Related Articles
- 10 Best Things to Do in Boston with Kids
- Free Things to Do in Philadelphia with Kids
- More family-friendly city breaks and travel ideas from MyKidsTime
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