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United States/Things to Do in Boston, with kids

Boston Common (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Boston Common?

95%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 can splash at Frog Pond, ride the carousel, run in fenced playgrounds, and skate in winter; on-site toilets and a changing station help parents, although traffic edges need supervision.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 38,093 reviews)

Positives:

  • Open Space for Kids: Wide lawns let children run freely and safely.
  • Central Location: Steps from the Public Garden and downtown, making it easy to combine stops.

Challenges:

  • Weekend Crowds: Paths and attractions can fill up, leading to wait times.
  • Limited Shade: Bring hats or umbrellas; some play areas have little cover midday.
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🏖️ Explore Boston Common with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Boston Common. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Boston Common?

  • A colonial-era public park established in 1634 as the nation’s oldest municipal green space
  • Nearly 50 acres of landscaped lawns, tree-lined paths and historic monuments in downtown Boston
  • A designated National Historic Landmark preserving Revolutionary War–era sites and civic gathering grounds

What is so special about Boston Common for with kids?

  1. Free summer splash pool action for kids
  2. Affordable carousel rides on a historic ride
  3. Gentle swan boat pedal trips the whole family enjoys
  4. Safe playground and open lawns for snacks and breaks
  5. Seasonal ice skating lessons and holiday events

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for play at the splash pool, a carousel ride, a swan boat trip, and a relaxed stroll with breaks for kids.

(View Boston Common on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Boston Common

Frog Pond Splash Pool:

Kids can run through water jets and splash in the shallow wading area.

Tip: Open daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m. June through Labor Day. Bring a towel and change of clothes.

Boston Common Carousel:

Ride the hand-carved 1947 carousel horses.

Tip: Anyone under 42″ must ride with an adult. Buy a 10-ride card for better value.

Swan Boat Ride:

Pedal a swan boat around the Public Garden lagoon.

Tip: Children under 2 ride free; no reservation needed. Arrive early to avoid lines.

Tadpole Playground:

Climb, slide, and explore in this fenced play area.

Tip: Located on the east side of the park. Ideal spot for a snack break on benches nearby.

Evening Monument Walk:

Spot statues like George Washington and the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ sculpture.

Tip: Bring a small flashlight after sunset to highlight sculptures on the paved paths.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Boston Common

  1. Early Arrival: Get to the splash pool or carousel right when they open to avoid lines.
  2. Pack Picnic: Use the grassy areas and benches for a low-cost meal between activities.
  3. Use Public Transit: Take the T to Park Street station to skip parking hassles.
🏖️ Tour Boston Common like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Boston Common. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Boston Common

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ELOCIN RUZAM

ELOCIN RUZAM

Jan 2026

The Boston Common is a great spot in any weather to walk through! Whether its spring, summer fall or winter you can always find something to do! We really loved the holiday drone show this year! Such a fun and FREE activity to do this December, I hope you guys bring it back!

Shashank Kumar

Shashank Kumar

Jan 2026

A Winter’s Day at Boston Common — Quietly Magical Boston Common in winter feels like the city’s shared breath slowing down. Visiting this month, I was struck by how peaceful and almost reverent the space becomes once snow settles over it. The familiar paths soften under a thin white blanket, and the usual hum of the city fades into a distant murmur, replaced by the crunch of boots on snow and the...

Ms. Mercy

Ms. Mercy

Jan 2026

The Christmas and New Year celebrations at Boston Common were truly unforgettable! From the dazzling ice skating show to the lively parade and spectacular fireworks, I had an amazing time. Everyone was friendly and courteous, making the festive atmosphere even warmer. Despite the cold, being surrounded by so many cheerful people made it all incredibly enjoyable.

Amy B

Amy B

Nov 2025

It was a lovely visit to be able to drink a cup of hot coffee and stroll through Boston Commons in the nice crisp weather. There is so much history to take in. While the red bricks are there to guide you through the Freedom Trail, it is nicer in my opinion to book a tour. Not only does it cut down the amount of steps, it also adds so much more to the learning of all the historical facts- which ma...

Nan Liu

Nan Liu

Oct 2025

It's is a big park with a very popular arm crossing sculpture at one end of the park. There is also a welcome center where you can find a lot of merchandise. And also there are restaurants fast food around the park. In the park you can see many people sitting there with their children and a lot of people. They are many people listening to the guides introduction of the history of Boston. There ar...

When is the best time to visit Boston Common (Boston, United States)?

Summer: pack swimwear and sunscreen for the splash pool. Spring–fall: carousel and swan boats run daily. Winter: swap the pool for ice skating lessons and skating aids at Frog Pond.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Boston on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Carousel ride ($3 per child/adult)USD 3
Swan boat ride ($4.75 adult, $3.25 child)USD 16
Snacks and drinksUSD 15
Total EstimatedUSD 34

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Boston Common

Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111, USA

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Boston Common (Boston)?

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About Boston Common

Opening Hours

Monday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Tuesday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Wednesday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Thursday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Friday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Saturday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Sunday:6:00 AM – 11:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 617-635-4505

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