This itinerary focuses on creating lasting family memories with a smart mix of free and affordable activities. From engaging outdoor festivals and interactive museum experiences to vibrant markets, each day offers something special for children aged 3-12, balanced with practical considerations for families living in Boston.
Kick off your weekend at the 3rd annual Fall Festival on The Greenway!
This free, family-friendly event features a variety of activities including food trucks, face painting, crafts, mini-golf, and an inflatable obstacle course. It's a perfect way for kids to burn off energy and enjoy the festive autumn atmosphere.
Ideal for children aged 3-12. Kids will love the inflatables, mini-golf, and getting their faces painted. Food trucks offer diverse and often kid-friendly dinner options. Restrooms are available along The Greenway. Plan for 1.5-2 hours of fun.
Easily accessible via public transport (MBTA Orange, Blue, Green Lines to State, Aquarium, or Haymarket stations). Limited street parking, but several paid garages are nearby. The Greenway is stroller-friendly.
After the festival excitement, enjoy a casual family dinner at a kid-friendly spot.
Consider a restaurant in the North End or a casual eatery near The Greenway. Afterward, a short visit to a nearby playground can help wind down before heading home.
Many restaurants in the area offer kids' menus. Faneuil Hall Marketplace has diverse, quick options for all tastes. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park offers space for kids to play and enjoy the evening air. Aim for an early bedtime after a fun-filled evening.
Walkable from The Greenway. Public parking garages available for those driving. Stroller access is good.
Start your Saturday morning at the vibrant Roslindale Village Main Street Farmers Market.
This market offers fresh local produce, baked goods, and often features live music and free children's activities. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience local culture and find some healthy snacks.
Great for all ages. Kids can enjoy browsing the stalls, listening to music, and participating in any organized children's activities. It's an outdoor market, so dress for the weather. Restrooms typically available in nearby businesses or public facilities.
Accessible by MBTA Commuter Rail to Roslindale Village or various bus routes. Street parking is available but can be competitive; consider arriving early.
Spend your afternoon at the Museum of Science, an exciting ticketed attraction where kids can explore interactive exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to electricity.
The museum offers engaging experiences that are perfect for curious minds aged 3-12.
Highly interactive exhibits make it perfect for energetic kids. Look for the 'Engineering Design Workshop', 'Colossal Fossil - Triceratops Cliff', and 'The Light House'. Allow at least 2-3 hours. Stroller accessible with elevators. Food court and restrooms available. Under 3 are free.
Accessible via MBTA Green Line (Lechmere or Science Park/West End stations). Paid parking garage on-site. The museum is stroller-friendly.
Enjoy a relaxed late lunch or early dinner near the Charles River.
Pack a picnic to enjoy along the Esplanade, or grab a bite at a casual restaurant in the area.
The Esplanade offers wide-open spaces for kids to run and play after lunch. Picnic areas are plentiful. Alternatively, many family-friendly restaurants are a short walk or drive away. Consider age and nap schedules when planning this relaxed break.
The Esplanade is easily accessible on foot or by bike from various points in the city. Public parking might be available, but public transport (MBTA Red Line to Charles/MGH) is recommended.
Catch a family-friendly theatre production like 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,' a comedic version of the classic tale. This professional show is suitable for all ages and is a fun way to enjoy an early evening.
Perfect for children aged 3-12, offering engaging storytelling and humor. Check performance duration to ensure it fits with early bedtimes. Confirm exact venue and age recommendations when booking. This type of event is a fantastic way to introduce kids to live theatre.
Transportation will depend on the confirmed venue. Public transport is usually an option for Boston theaters, with parking garages nearby.
Embrace the spooky season at the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) for their monthly 'Play Date', which falls on the first Sunday of October.
Enjoy free art-making activities like 'Monster Mashup' puppet creation and 'Lantern Lights' crafts, plus performances such as the 'Magnificent Monster Circus'.
Excellent for children 3-12. Activities like puppet making and lantern crafts are highly engaging. Performances typically have specific showtimes, so check the schedule upon arrival. Free admission for up to 2 adults when accompanied by kids 12 and under using code 'PLAYDATE' for online ticket reservations. Restrooms and stroller access are available.
Accessible via MBTA Silver Line (Courthouse station) or Red Line (South Station, then walk or connect to Silver Line). Limited paid parking nearby, but public transport is encouraged. Stroller-friendly venue.
Take advantage of 'Boston Family Days' at Franklin Park Zoo, offering free admission for Boston students (K-12 and Pre-K) and two family members on the first and second Sunday of each month.
Explore habitats from the Tropical Forest to the African Savanna, seeing gorillas, lions, and zebras.
Kids aged 3-12 will love seeing the wide variety of animals. The Children's Zoo area is specifically designed for younger visitors. Stroller-friendly paths and numerous restrooms are available. Plan for 2-3 hours of exploration. Pack snacks and water.
Accessible by MBTA Orange Line to Forest Hills or Ruggles, then bus connections. Free parking is available. The zoo is generally stroller-friendly.
Wind down your weekend at the SoWa Open Market.
Browse artisan crafts, art, and local goods. While it's primarily a market, the lively atmosphere, food trucks, and open space make it a fun place for a family stroll and an early evening treat before heading home.
Kids might enjoy looking at the art, trying a unique snack from a food truck, or simply walking around the vibrant, pedestrian-only Thayer Street. It's a great spot for an ice cream or a pastry. Open until 5 PM. Restrooms available.
Accessible by MBTA Silver Line (Washington Street @ East Berkeley Street). Street parking can be challenging; paid lots are available. The market area is stroller-friendly.
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