Award-winning hands-on exhibits and programmes designed for young children and their families, on the Fort Point Channel waterfront.
The museum beside USS Constitution tells the story of the ship and the sailors who served on her. Boarding the ship itself is a separate visit.
A large science museum on the Charles River with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and live presentations. There is plenty to fill a half-day indoors, so pick a few areas rather than trying to see it all.
A waterfront aquarium built around a tall central ocean tank, with penguins, sea turtles and a touch tank. A good indoor stop near Faneuil Hall that works well for animal-loving kids of all ages.
Costumed interpreters lead you from a 1773 meeting house aboard the replica tea ships, where you join in throwing the tea overboard, then on to a 3D reenactment and a short film about the first battles of the Revolution.
Swan Boat rides in season, the Make Way for Ducklings statues and the Frog Pond.
Gorillas, a tropical forest and a children's zoo, a short drive from downtown.
Boston's 2.5-mile walking route, marked by a red line in the pavement, links 16 historic sites through the city streets. Walk a section with younger children.
Dinosaurs, whale skeletons and the famous glass flowers in Cambridge.
A ferry ride to islands with a fort, beaches and tide pools in summer.