Boston Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Boston
This weekend itinerary for Boston families with children (ages 3-12) offers a thoughtful blend of engaging, budget-conscious free activities and worthwhile ticketed experiences. We've focused on major attractions known for their consistent family programming, along with beloved local spots. Remember to confirm specific hours and any new event schedules closer to your visit dates, as details for January 2026 may be updated.
Friday Evening - Kids' Discovery & Dinner
Friday, January 2Children's Museum Fun
Dive into hands-on exhibits at the Boston Children's Museum, designed to spark curiosity and imagination in children.
Kids can explore a three-story climbing structure, interact with exhibits focused on science, culture, and environmental awareness, and participate in creative play.
Perfect for energetic kids aged 1-10, with plenty of interactive exhibits. The museum has family restrooms and is stroller-accessible. It's an excellent indoor option for any weather. Plan for 2-3 hours of exploration. Specific programs or workshops should be checked on their website closer to the date.
Located on the waterfront, accessible via MBTA Red Line (South Station) or Commuter Rail/Bus. Several parking garages nearby, including Stillings Street Garage and Atlantic Wharf Parking Garage (weekdays must enter after 10 AM, weekends all day).
Family Seafood Dinner
Enjoy a casual, kid-friendly dinner at Joe's Waterfront, offering delicious seafood and American classics with a view of Boston Harbor.
They have a dedicated kids' menu.
Kids will love watching the boats go by. The menu includes kid-friendly options like mac-and-cheese and chicken tenders. The restaurant is spacious and accommodating for families with strollers. It's a great spot to wind down after a busy afternoon. Afterwards, kids can run around Christopher Columbus Park, which is right across.
Within walking distance from the New England Aquarium and accessible via MBTA Blue Line (Aquarium Station). Parking garages are available in the Waterfront area.
Saturday - Marine & Ice Adventure Day
Saturday, January 3Aquarium Exploration
Explore the wonders of the ocean at the New England Aquarium, home to thousands of aquatic animals.
Kids will be mesmerized by the Giant Ocean Tank, playful penguins, and the marine mammal center with seals and sea lions. Don't miss the interactive tide pool touch tank.
Ideal for all ages, but particularly engaging for children 3-12. The aquarium is stroller-friendly with accessible restrooms. Plan for 2-3 hours. Daily presentations and feeding schedules are available and should be confirmed upon arrival.
Directly accessible via MBTA Blue Line (Aquarium Station). Numerous parking garages are nearby in the Waterfront area. Consider public transit to avoid high parking costs.
Casual Harbor Lunch
Grab a quick and tasty lunch at Granary Tavern, a family-friendly American tavern with a great kids' menu and a comfortable atmosphere near the waterfront.
The kids' menu offers classics like chicken tenders, burgers, and mac & cheese, often served with a drink and a small dessert. Spacious booths and high chairs are available. It's a great spot for a relaxed family meal before your next adventure.
A short walk from the New England Aquarium and easily accessible from the MBTA Blue Line (Aquarium) or Orange/Green Lines (State Street/Government Center). Parking available in nearby garages.
Frog Pond Skating
Experience a classic Boston winter activity: ice skating on the Frog Pond in Boston Common.
Enjoy gliding on the ice with the city skyline as a backdrop.
This is a beloved winter tradition. Children under 58 inches tall skate for free. Skate rentals are available for all sizes. A cafe is on-site for hot cocoa and snacks. Excellent for all ages, with staff on hand to assist beginners. Restrooms available at the Frog Pond Cafe.
Easily accessible by MBTA Green Line (Park Street or Boylston stations). Parking is available at the Boston Common Garage, though it can be pricey.
Downtown Play Time
Let the kids burn off any remaining energy at Martin's Park Playground, an inclusive and innovative play space right on the waterfront, adjacent to the Boston Children's Museum.
Designed for children of all abilities, this park offers a variety of play structures, swings, and open spaces. It's a fantastic free option that allows kids to play freely while enjoying the fresh air and harbor views. Suitable for ages 2-12. Restrooms available within the park facility.
A short walk from the Boston Children's Museum. Limited street parking might be available, but nearby garages are a safer bet.
Sunday - Wildlife & Science Fun
Sunday, January 4Franklin Park Zoo Visit
Spend your morning discovering amazing wildlife at Franklin Park Zoo.
Explore 72 acres filled with themed exhibits, featuring animals from around the globe, including gorillas, giraffes, lions, and more.
Excellent for families with children aged 2-12. The zoo is stroller-friendly and has numerous restrooms and snack options. Plan for 2-3 hours. January 4, 2026, is the first Sunday of the month, which means Boston K-12 students and two family members can get FREE admission through the 'Boston Family Days' program. Registration with the City of Boston is required in advance.
Free parking is available at the zoo. It is also accessible via public transit; check MBTA bus routes to Franklin Park.
Science Museum Wonders
Ignite your children's curiosity at the Museum of Science, one of the largest science centers globally.
Explore hundreds of interactive exhibits, watch live animal presentations, and learn about space, dinosaurs, and the natural world in an engaging environment.
Great for all ages, particularly 5-12, with plenty of hands-on exhibits to keep kids engaged. Highlights include the 'Lightning! Show' and various engineering and biology exhibits. Stroller-friendly with accessible restrooms and dining options. Plan for 2-3 hours.
The Museum has its own parking garage, but it is an additional cost. Accessible via MBTA Green Line (Lechmere Station, a short walk across the bridge) or Orange Line (Science Park/West End Station).
Library Story Time
Wind down the weekend with a relaxing visit to the Children's Room at the Boston Public Library's Central Branch.
Enjoy a story time (check their calendar for exact times) or simply let the kids explore the play space and vast collection of children's books.
The Children's Room is a vibrant space with soft toys, puzzles, games, and reading nooks, perfect for young children. It’s a quiet and educational way to end the weekend, suitable for ages 0-7. Restrooms and stroller access are available.
Directly accessible via MBTA Green Line (Copley Station) or Orange Line (Back Bay Station). Public parking garages are available nearby, though street parking is limited.
This weekend itinerary for Boston can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.