Boston Activities to Explore Before College Commences: Summer To-Do List
Discovering Family-Friendly Summer Fun in Boston and Beyond
Boston and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to various ages and interests. Here are some of the top options to explore this summer:
Carousels
Step back in time and enjoy a ride on the Greenway Carousel, located on Boston’s Rose Kennedy Greenway. This unique attraction features hand-carved native New England animals, providing a delightful experience in the heart of downtown Boston.
Ball Games
Catching a game at local venues like Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, or nearby minor league teams offers an engaging outdoor experience for families. However, it's essential to check the schedules for summer 2025 before planning your visit.
Ferry Rides
Boston Harbor ferries provide scenic rides connecting Boston to nearby islands such as Spectacle Island and Georges Island, perfect for family exploration of nature and beaches.
Sunset Spots
Iconic places to watch sunsets include the Boston Harborwalk, Castle Island with its seaside views, and the Esplanade along the Charles River. These locations offer not only breathtaking views but also serve as hubs for outdoor concerts, picnics, and other summer activities.
Local Library Programs
Boston Public Library and many surrounding community libraries offer free summer programs for children, including storytimes, arts and crafts, and interactive educational workshops. These are great options for engaging kids on hot days or rainy afternoons.
Botanical Gardens
The Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain and the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill provide peaceful, stroller-friendly experiences for families. These gardens offer a chance to explore plant collections and trails in an outdoor setting that combines nature and learning.
County Fairs
Nearby county fairs such as the Essex County Fair or Middlesex County Fair occur during summer, featuring rides, games, food, live animal exhibits, and seasonal entertainment suitable for families.
Volunteer Opportunities
Local organizations often encourage families to volunteer together in summer community clean-ups, urban gardening, or at food banks. These opportunities provide children with meaningful experiences and help foster a sense of community connection.
Unique Experiences
Museums like the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and cultural events such as the Puerto Rican Festival at Franklin Park offer interactive historical experiences and cultural enrichment. These events often include live music, carnival rides, and local crafts.
Giving Back to the Community
Families can volunteer together at kid-friendly opportunities such as beach cleanups, food drives, or making care packages for shelters. These activities provide opportunities to model giving back to the community and instill a sense of civic responsibility in children.
Summer Traditions
Baseball games are a summer tradition in Boston, with options like Fenway Park for Red Sox games and more affordable family-friendly outings at WooSox or North Shore Navigators.
For up-to-date timings and ticketing, consulting event calendars like Boston Moms, MeetBoston, and The Boston Calendar is recommended. Additionally, don't forget to check out smaller, local fairs like the Topsfield Fair (late summer/early fall) or other small-town fairs for carnival rides, animals, and fried dough.
Enjoy the best of Boston this summer with these family-friendly activities!
Exploring home-and-garden destinations like the Arnold Arboretum and the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill offers tranquil outdoor experiences for families, combining nature and learning.
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and cultural events such as the Puerto Rican Festival at Franklin Park provide immersive historical experiences and cultural enrichment, often including live music, carnival rides, and local crafts.
