BostonExperience the Boston Tea Party first hand and relive the beginnings of a Nation
Andrew Baker
Children on holiday in Boston will be enthused by the exciting attractions and activities that abound in this buzzing city. With museums, kids' theatres, parks, playgrounds and everything in between, deciding where to start will be the difficult part.Of course, many of the city's most famous attractions are fun and educational for the whole family, but there are also many activities and attractions designed specifically for kids in Boston. Head to the stadium and watch a local Red Sox game at Fenway Park if you can, or for a more leisurely activity, enjoy seeing Boston by foot along the Freedom Trail.Little ones would be better suited to the less exhausting option of the 'Boston by Little Feet' tour, giving kids the opportunity to enjoy the highlights of the Heritage Trail, come rain or shine. Activities like Monster Golf and indoor playgrounds like Jump On It are great options for those days when activities for kids out of doors are not an option.In the evenings, why not take the kids out to see Shear Madness, a hilariously funny and constantly changing play where the whole family can be involved, along with the rest of the audience, in solving the mystery. With so much to see and do, parents will find Boston to be one of the most child-friendly and accommodating cities in the United States.
The first botanical garden in the United States, the Boston Public Garden provides a tranquil escape from the fast pace of the city centre. Maintained by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Friends of the Public Garden, the botanical garden is a must-see on any exploration of Boston.With more than 600 varieties of trees and colourful displays of well-ordered decorative flowers, visitors can go for a relaxing swan boat ride on the three acre lagoon, enjoy the attractive vista of the city's sardined skyscrapers through the trees, or take pleasure in the numerous public works of art that border the meandering paths. The gardens are a great stop for families wanting a break from sightseeing.
Address : 87 Mount Vernon Street
Website : www.friendsofthepublicgarden.org
Codzilla takes passengers on a high-speed cruise around Boston's harbour. People on board will scream in pure delight as the boat curves, spins, and rips through the harbour for 40 minutes, with music such as Bobby Darin and AC/DC blaring.You'll be travelling at a heart-pumping 40 miles (70km) per hour. Reservations are recommended. Very young kids may be frightened, but generally the whole family will relish the thrill. Numerous other boat tours and cruises are available in Boston's harbour, with more sedate options for those who aren't keen on braving Codzilla.
Address : Boston Harbour Cruises, Long Wharf
Website : www.bostonharborcruises.com/codzilla
Transport : Take the MBTA Blue Line to Aquarium Station.
Opening times : Hours vary according to season, visit the website for current times.
The New England Aquarium is home to Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch, which runs from April through October. It features a plethora of some of the world's most amazing marine species, such as the impressive giant pacific octopus, sand tiger shark, green sea turtles, and North Atlantic Right whales.It is an absolute must for children of all ages and any adult in love with the underwater world. The aquarium is a wonderful family attraction for a rainy day. Basic admission includes the aquarium, while the IMAX and Whale Watch charge additional fees.
Address : 1 Central Wharf
Website : www.neaq.org/index.php
Opening times : Saturday to Thursday 9am to 6pm; Friday and Saturday 9am to 7pm. Hours are slightly reduced in winter.
Admission : $26.95 (adults); $17.95 (children aged 3 to 11). Other concessions and packages available.
01474 814411
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