With its rich history, vibrant population, thriving industries, and adequate public transportation system, Boston is a great place to live. Junior is now almost four, and in that time I’ve discovered several places that offer space or activities ideal for expending a youngster’s boundless energy. This is especially crucial in the depths of our miserable gray winters. Below is a brief list of Boston landmarks that Junior and I visit on rotation during my days off with him. All these places are easily accessible via the T.
Boston Children’s Museum—Junior’s favorite. We became members since we go at least once a month. His favorite area is the Construction Zone, with the grocery and barbershop of “Boston Black” as close seconds. There’s currently a dinosaur exhibit that has him literally screaming in terror whenever I go near the life-size dinosaur model. I’m sure the museum will become even more exciting for him once he starts getting into the climbing structure that spans all three floors.
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| Image source: Wikimedia Commons |
Boston Public Library—The main branch at Copley Square is a stately structure that seamlessly mixes classical and modern aesthetics. Our usual destination is the dedicated Children’s Library with all sorts of kid-friendly events every day, like Toddler Time and Baby Dance.
Boston Public Market—This newly-completed drain on my wallet (because I have weak resistance to food, you see) has a sizable Kids Corner hidden in the back, where Junior spends his time organizing the cash register and food stall, cooking a meal, or playing with trucks. Bonus: the Greenway Carousel and North End Playground are across the street!
Boston Common—The Boston Common Carousel is a big draw for kids when it’s warm. The nearby Frog Pond is a wading pool during the summer and an ice skating rink in the winter. The Common also has a playground, which I must say requires a lot of vigilance if you have a younger kid—it’s more of an “ages 5+” setup. Close to that is a great big fountain and some food trucks, and it’s nice to eat at the tables in that spot, weather permitting. Bonus: sometimes park rangers on horses go on patrol and say hi!
Prudential Center—Fancy shopping! Fancy restaurants! The Skywalk Observatory! But, really, Junior’s favorite here is Barnes & Noble. No, not because he can read already (don’t judge me, my family already does that), but because it sells toys, too! Speaking of toys—the Magic Beans at the Pru is tiny, innit?
Boston Fire Museum—Speaking of tiny, this little building a couple of blocks from the Children’s Museum is a cute 10-minute stop for the interested. It’s mostly great for kid birthday parties. I know I had fun! Also: they have an actual Dalmatian to greet visitors! Note: this is not one of our regular places, since it’s so small. I just thought I’d mention it.
TL;DR: Nearby local parks and playgrounds are your best bet for getting little ones ready to nap. But if you’re inclined to make the trip, I recommend the places above!
Go Pats! (obligatory)
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