Planning a family getaway? Cambridge boasts kid-approved activities everyone will enjoy; it’s no surprise Cambridge was named the Best Place to Live for Families (Fortune) and Most Family-Friendly City in the US (Opendoor). Read on for ten family-friendly things to do in Cambridge:
1. Cruise the Charles River
Take in Cambridge’s sights aboard a riverboat! Charles River Boat Company’s narrated cruises pass local landmarks like MIT and Harvard University. Their sightseeing and architecture tours depart from Lechmere Canal in East Cambridge.
2. … or paddle it!
For another way to play on the Charles, think Paddle Boston. Ages 6 to 12 can captain their own kid-sized kayak. Boats launch into the Charles River from Kendall Square, and rental options range from one hour to a full day.
3. Explore one of the world's largest science centers.
Nearby in East Cambridge, Museum of Science provides hours of entertainment. The museum’s exhibits span a variety of subjects from dinosaurs and fossils to vaccines and the human body. Stop in for a show at the planetarium, or check what’s playing at the Mugar Omni Theater, New England’s largest IMAX theater.
4. Visit Harvard's science and culture museums.
For more museum excitement, head to Harvard Museums of Science & Culture in Harvard Square. Marvel at Harvard Museum of Natural History's Glass Flowers then visit the Peabody Museum to learn about cultures from around the world. Tickets include admission to both museums. The Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments and Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near East are both free and not to be missed.
5. Unwind in an outdoor space.
After a day of exploring, kick back and relax at Cambridge Crossing. The East Cambridge complex is home to 11 acres of public space, including a bike path and a large lawn, where community events like yoga and fitness classes are often held. Play a pickup soccer game on the field or a round of bocce on the dedicated court, with free equipment available for use. Furry friends are welcome to stretch their legs at the dog run and other park areas. Throughout the summer, listen to local bands at CX Summer Nights, a free, seasonal concert series.
6. Paint pottery.
Show off your creative side at Made by Me. All ages can paint mugs, bowls and other pottery at this Porter Square studio. If you prefer to design at your own pace, you can pick up a Port-A-Pottery take-home kit then, when you're ready, bring your creation to the studio for firing.
7. Discover the latest technology.
The new MIT Museum in Kendall Square is packed with hands-on fun. Interactive science and technology exhibits are scattered across the museum’s three floors. Be sure to ask Jibo, a social robot, to show you his dance moves!
8. Learn Cambridge history.
At Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters in Harvard Square, park rangers lead free tours of the historic house May–October. Visitors are always welcome to roam the grounds and garden. Plus, Longfellow House hosts community events with live music, lawn games and more outdoor festivities.
9. Soak up the sun.
Located alongside the Charles River, Magazine Beach is Cambridge’s second largest park. The outdoor splash pad and Olympic-sized swimming pool offer the perfect way to stay cool. On your way over, pick up lunch from a local restaurant
10. Play outdoors. Another must-see is Louis A. DePasquale Universal Design Playground. The North Cambridge park is the first in Cambridge to fully incorporate Universal Design, ensuring the playground is as usable as possible for all. Here, you’ll find a music area, sensory walk zone plus other accessible features. We’d love to see the family memories you make in Cambridge! Tag @CambridgeUSA or #PictureCambridge on social media for a chance to be featured on our profile or website.
