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United States/Things to Do in Boston, with kids

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum?

81%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Free admission, seek-and-find cards, Saturday art studio, and stroller access welcome children, but breakable art and quiet rules demand constant adult supervision.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 10,549 reviews)
The Lioness of Boston: The Life of Isabella Stewart Gardner
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The Lioness of Boston: The Life of Isabella Stewart Gardner
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Positives:

  • Free Kids Admission: Children under 17 enter free, so families can explore without extra ticket costs.
  • Stroller Friendly: Single strollers are welcome in galleries; leave double strollers at coat check.

Challenges:

  • Narrow Passageways: Some gallery corridors are tight and may be tricky with larger strollers.
  • No Designated Nursing Room: Parents must find a quiet corner for feeding; use courtyard benches or Calderwood Hall foyer.
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🏖️ Explore Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum?

  • A museum designed to evoke a 15th-century Venetian palace
  • A personal collection of over 2,500 artworks and decorative objects assembled by philanthropist Isabella Stewart Gardner
  • An architectural ensemble centered on a lush marble courtyard framed by historic galleries and modern additions

What is so special about Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum for with kids?

  1. Kids under 17 enter free, saving on admission costs.
  2. Activity cards and audio tours keep children engaged.
  3. Seasonal courtyard blooms offer interactive outdoor fun.
  4. Free drop-in art sessions make creativity easy.
  5. Café G provides kid-friendly meals and stroller access.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore highlights, enjoy art activities, and relax in the courtyard without rushing.

(View Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Seek-and-Find & Sketch Cards:

Pick up activity cards at the Ask Me table to guide kids through fun art hunts and quick sketches.

Tip: Visit the courtyard Ask Me desk early to get the cards before they run out.

Family Audio Guides:

Use free QR-code audio for Gallery Overview and Theft Walk to engage kids with stories.

Tip: Bring headphones and use museum Wi-Fi for clear audio in galleries.

Seasonal Courtyard Stroll:

See weekly plant displays in the open-air courtyard, like spring tulips or fall mums.

Tip: Let kids find hidden sculptures among the blooms and pack small snacks.

Drop-In Art Activities:

Join free hands-on projects Saturdays 1–4 pm in the Bertucci Education Studio.

Tip: Arrive at 1 pm to secure space and avoid end-of-session crowds.

Café G Kids Menu:

Enjoy sandwiches, snacks, and drinks from the children’s menu in Calderwood Hall or the courtyard.

Tip: Use single strollers to dine together and try seasonal salad options for adults.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

  1. Time Your Visit: Arrive on the hour to avoid crowds and get the first batch of activity cards at the desk.
  2. Use the Family Map: Grab a free map at the Admissions Desk for a one-hour highlight route that keeps kids engaged.
  3. Plan Snack Breaks: Visit Café G mid-visit to recharge energy and rest legs before more gallery time.
🏖️ Tour Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

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Steviejr

Steviejr

Jan 2026

One of the best museums of all time, the layout, the decor and her vision was just something so unique and beautiful. Every room was carefully curated and contributed to overall vibe of the place. Really recommend visiting this place.

Alessandro Gaggioli

Alessandro Gaggioli

Jan 2026

I visited this museum with one other person and arrived as soon as it opened. The art is absolutely stunning, alongside it's unique layout and presentation. I highly recommend going here especially if you are interested in older Catholic artwork, vestments and all sorts of other antique pieces from a church.

Abina Arthur

Abina Arthur

Dec 2025

What a wonderful museum in the heart of Boston. You can't believe a family had such a beautiful collection of arts. Takes about 2h to do the complete tour of the 3 floors and to admire the garden. This garden is really amazing, would definitely visit again if coming back to Boston.

Madeline Klein

Madeline Klein

Nov 2025

A really fun art collection housed in a beautiful building! Each room has its own theme and pieces are grouped how Isabella Stewart Gardner originally arranged them. There are only a few information signs, mostly explaining the rooms theme. If you want specific information about pieces there are QR codes to access audio guides. The garden is a highlight that you can see from multiple vantage point...

Lisa S

Lisa S

Oct 2025

I have wanted to visit for years and I finally got my chance. What a wonderful museum. I truly enjoyed that it was organized the way she wanted and that won't change. I found it refreshing that there weren't descriptions posted on everything because I'd recently felt that, for me personally, I was spending more time reading and less time observing. The courtyard is delightful and unifies the whole...

When is the best time to visit Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (Boston, United States)?

In spring, hunt for bubbling tulip cascades in the courtyard. In fall, spot chrysanthemums. Plan visits on Family Days (first two Sundays each month) to enjoy free admission for kids and two guests.

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

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

ItemCost (Approx.)
Admission (2 adults)USD 44
Café G lunch and snacksUSD 20
Total EstimatedUSD 64

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 Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Address: 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA 02115, USA

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About Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Opening Hours

Monday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:Closed
Wednesday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday:11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:10:00 AM – 5:00 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

+1 617-566-1401

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