Plan the Perfect Summer Itinerary for Families Visiting Boston

Planning a family trip to Boston before school is back in session? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, Boston is full of family-friendly activities the kids will love! This three-day itinerary highlights top attractions, local favorites and plenty of tips to help make the most of your trip to Boston.  

Day 1- Start Your Trip High Above Boston

Morning: See all of Boston from View Boston Observation Deck

Start your Boston family vacation with the best view in town. Located at Prudential Center, View Boston offers 360-degree panoramic views, local art exhibits, and immersive exhibits that showcase over 400 things to do in Boston during your trip!

Tip: Use the barcode on your View Boston ticket to save landmarks to your Boston itinerary. If you forget to claim your itinerary before you leave, you can enter your ticket barcode on the official website.

Lunch: Eataly at Prudential Center

After your visit to View Boston, head downstairs to Eataly where you can choose from several stations offering pizza, pasta, paninis and salads- making it the perfect lunch stop if you have picky eaters in the group.

Afternoon: Take a Ride on the Boston Duck Tours 

All aboard! Just steps from the Prudential Center, hop on a Boston Duck Tour for an unforgettable sightseeing adventure the whole family will enjoy. Part bus, part boat, and 100% fun, these iconic vehicles take you on a lively, narrated journey through Boston’s historic neighborhoods before splashing into the Charles River for a scenic cruise with panoramic city views.

Evening: End the day in the North End’s charming neighborhood.

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine from award winning restaurants like Bricco or Trattoria Il Panino. And yes, the wait to get a pastry from Bova’s Bakery or Mike’s Pastry is very much worth it!

Day 2: From Parks to “Play Ball!”  

Morning: Relax in Boston Common & Ride the Swan Boats

Start your day with some fresh air and green space at Boston Common, America’s oldest public park. Right next door is the Boston Public Garden, home to the iconic Swan Boats—a peaceful pedal-boat ride that glides across the lagoon, offering a charming and relaxing way to take in the scenery.

Afternoon: at America’s Most Beloved Ball Park

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just want to experience the atmosphere, you can’t leave Boston without catching a game at Boston’s historic Fenway Park.  From enjoying a Fenway Frank to singing Sweet Caroline, you’ll be making major league memories with the family.

Tip: Arrive early to check out Jersey Street, which is closed to cars and features music, food vendors, and pre-game entertainment.

Evening: Catch a show at Emerson Colonial Theatre

Step back in time with a visit to the historic Emerson Colonial Theatre, Boston’s oldest continuously operating theater. From dazzling Broadway productions to captivating plays, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your day with world-class entertainment in a breathtaking setting. Check out the upcoming event calendar to find a show the whole family will love.

Day 3:  Waterfront Fun  

Morning: Dive Into the New England Aquarium

Spend your afternoon exploring the wonders of the ocean at Boston’s New England Aquarium. Walk through the mesmerizing Giant Ocean Tank, home to vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and colorful fish.

Tip: Don’t miss the Shark & Ray Touch Tank, where little hands can gently interact with these fascinating creatures.

Lunch: Faneuil Hall Marketplace is just a short walk from the waterfront and offers a variety of lunch options.

Afternoon: Keep Your Eyes Peeled on a Whale Watch

Departing right from the New England Aquarium, embark on one of Boston’s most unforgettable family adventures. Just a short boat ride from the city’s waterfront, these guided excursions take you out into the Atlantic Ocean, where you can spot humpback, finback, and minke whales in their natural habitat.

Tips for Visiting Boston With Kids 

      Timing: June through early August offers warm weather and plenty of family events, though weekdays are often less crowded. 

      Getting Around: Boston is walkable, and the T is easy to navigate. Kids 11 and under ride free with an adult. 

      What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, a water bottle, and good walking shoes. A lightweight stroller can be helpful but avoid the cobblestones                                   when you can. 

      Where to Stay: Downtown and Back Bay are central with easy access to transit and attractions. 

Make the Most of Your Family Trip 

Boston is a city made for curious minds and active days. Whether you’re building a full Boston family vacation or just looking for things to do in Boston with kids, the right mix of fun and flexibility makes all the difference. 

Start planning your visit with tickets to View Boston,  your launch point for seeing it all from above.