During the weekend or holidays, it can be hard to keep energetic kids entertained – and keep up with them! But all across Massachusetts you’ll find incredible attractions that are perfect for the whole family. Whether that’s going to the zoo or berry picking, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Massachusetts with kids.
The team at Keolis massAdventures are Massachusetts locals running fun day trips near Boston, so we know exactly how many fantastic things our state has to offer! If you’re on vacation in the area or a local family looking for new adventures, we hope this blog gives you great ideas on how to spend time with your children. Let’s dive in!
Play at Lego Discovery Center
You may have a hard time getting the kids to leave the Lego Discovery Center. Located in Somerville, this indoor theme park has thrilling rides, a virtual reality zone, a climbing wall, a laser maze, and more! Children can play and create with Lego bricks, and build a minifigure who will accompany them throughout the center. There is even a replica of Boston made entirely out of 1.5 million Lego bricks! The Lego Discovery Center will provide endless entertainment and is perfect for a rainy day.
Meet the Animals at Weir River Farm
Who doesn’t want to meet some friendly farm animals? At the Weir River Farm, kids can enjoy a barnyard visit and interact with cows, horses, goats, chickens, and more. This is a unique opportunity for children to learn about animals they wouldn’t typically see. The farm also has Autism Welcoming status, making this an excellent attraction for neurodivergent children and their families.
Beyond the barnyard, you can walk one of the numerous trails on the 75-acre farm and enjoy a picnic lunch. Our Barnyard Adventures at Weir River Farm gives you a commuter rail ticket and entry to the farm, making this an easy and convenient day trip from Boston.
Explore Old Sturbridge Village
The Old Sturbridge Village is a living museum where kids can step back in time to the 1830s. Explore historical buildings and admire actors recreating what life was like in 19th-century New England. This is both an informative and interactive excursion, with opportunities to take part in craft workshops or ride in a horse-drawn carriage. On Tavern Days, you can also enjoy live music and games. There is even the opportunity for children to attend a summer program where they experience the village over a period of days!
Pick Fresh Berries at Wards Berry Farm
At Wards Berry Farm, you and the family can enjoy a day of delicious berry picking! Depending on the season, you can pick anything from blueberries and strawberries to blackberries and raspberries. You can also pick flowers and vegetables for a fresh harvest! There are plenty more things for the kids to do, with a playground and bounce pillow on the farm, as well as rides on a haywagon. This is the perfect outing in the summer when there is plenty to pick.
The farm is located in Sharon, which can be easily accessed on a 20-minute train ride. Whether you want to Pick Your Own Blueberries or Pick Your Own Strawberries, our adventure packages include all you need for a fun day out!
Discover the Whydah Pirate Museum
The Whydah Pirate Museum offers a one-of-a-kind exhibition on the world’s first discovered pirate ship! The Whydah Gally was once used in the slave trade before being captured by pirates. In 1717, it was shipwrecked off the coast of Cape Cod and was only discovered again in 1984.
At the Whydah Pirate Museum, you can see an incredible array of artifacts recovered from the ship, including silver coins and an old bell, as well as a partial replica of the vessel. Guided tours offer an interactive experience of the museum, while the Vast Explorers Camp will give kids a hands-on deep dive into history!
Go White Water Rafting on Fife Brook
Do you want to up the excitement? How about some thrilling whitewater rafting? Fife Brook is the only river in Massachusetts where you can raft, with Class I and Class II rapids that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy. With a guide, helmet, and life jacket, this is a safe activity for kids ages 12 and up to experience. You’ll work up an appetite while rafting, but there’ll be food available after your trip as part of our White Water Rafting Adventure from Boston. We are the only company offering transportation from Boston to Fife Brook, allowing you to save your energy for tackling the river!
If you are just starting to introduce your kids to water sports, then check out our Cape Cod Kayaking Tour on Lawrence Pond, which is great for beginners.
Visit Franklin Park Zoo
At the Franklin Park Zoo, the kids are in for a treat with the opportunity to encounter animals like giraffes, gorillas, red pandas, hippos, and even lions! Better yet, there is even a Children’s Zoo section, where kids can have closer access to the exhibits while staying safe. Family-oriented programs like painting sessions of animals and up-close encounters allow children to have fun while learning about the natural world. There is also a zoo carousel and a playground, ensuring endless amusement!
The Franklin Park Zoo is best visited on a summer’s day. For more ideas on what to do in good weather, check out our blog on the Best Way to Spend a Sunny Day Near Boston.
Tour More of Massachusetts with Keolis massAdventures
There is still so much more to see and experience in Massachusetts for the whole family. Thanks to the state’s efficient railway system, it’s easy to explore plenty of attractions in a single day. That’s why we offer Fun Day Trips Near Boston using the commuter train. If you want to find out more about our tours in Massachusetts, don’t hesitate to contact us. We want everyone to experience all that our state has to offer!
