Beyond the historic cobblestones and colonial charm, Massachusetts is packed with kid-sized adventures. I love how this state blends hands-on learning with seaside fun, where every town seems to hold a museum, a lighthouse, or a chance to dig into something new.

To me, Massachusetts means seeing a real whale skeleton at the Museum of Science in Boston, following the Freedom Trail in tri-corner hats, and splashing in tide pools on the Cape. We head to Boston Children’s Museum for pretend play and climbing fun, or explore the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst for stories that come to life. Old Sturbridge Village lets kids churn butter and try life in the 1800s, while Woods Hole Science Aquarium offers free marine magic by the ocean. I love visiting in spring or early fall, when the weather is just right and the lines are short.

Picture this: The kids are walking on the deck of a historic ship, watching lobsters crawl in a tank, and twirling in the autumn leaves outside a storybook museum—all in a single weekend in Massachusetts.

Best Things to Do in Massachusetts with Kids

Get Wild About Nature at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

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Get Wild About Nature at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History - Tide pools, walking trails, and interactive exhibits bring the coastal ecosystem to life                                    

Unearth a Swashbuckling Tale at Real Pirates Salem

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Unearth a Swashbuckling Tale at Real Pirates Salem - Real treasure, real stories—this immersive exhibit dives deep into pirate history and legend                                    

Explore Curiosity in Every Corner at the Berkshire Museum

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Explore Curiosity in Every Corner at the Berkshire Museum - Science, art, and ancient mummies meet in this engaging hub for all things wonder                                    

Ride, Splash, and Learn on the Boston Duck Tours

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Ride, Splash, and Learn on the Boston Duck Tours - Roll through city streets and cruise the Charles River in a vehicle as quirky as the tour                                    

Play Your Way Through the Cape Cod Children’s Museum

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Play Your Way Through the Cape Cod Children’s Museum - Hands-on learning and creative exhibits designed to spark joy and imagination                                    

Go Full STEAM Ahead at the EcoTarium

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Go Full STEAM Ahead at the EcoTarium - Indoor-outdoor science fun with animals, a planetarium, and trails to roam in Worcester                                    

Create and Collaborate at Kidspace at MASS MoCA

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Create and Collaborate at Kidspace at MASS MoCA - A colorful, idea-filled zone where kids explore art through interactive installations and play                                    

In Summary...

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