The Ultimate Cambridge Staycation Guide for Families

A family of tourists including two children interact with an exhibit at a Cambridge museum.

April vacation week is just around the corner, and parents, we’ve got you covered. Need ideas to keep the kids busy? Cambridge is packed with exciting activities, from hands-on museum exhibits to outdoor adventures and delicious kid-friendly eats. Here’s your ultimate guide to a quick getaway that can make the most of spring break – or any spring getaway – in Cambridge!

Splash Into Fun at a Family-Friendly Hotel

Is there anything that beats an indoor pool with kids? The Royal Sonesta and AC Hotel Cambridge offer cozy stays with inviting pools that will keep the little ones entertained for hours. Looking for a special package? The Kimpton Marlowe Hotel always has great family packages, including “Night at the Museum,” featuring four tickets to the Museum of Science, a dining credit to Bambara and a hardcover copy of ‘1,001 Science Facts.’

Explore Science, History, Culture

That’s pretty much Cambridge in a nutshell: Home to incredible museums that turn learning into an adventure.

  • MIT Museum – With hands-on exhibits and special April vacation programming, kids will love diving into the world of fiber arts, microscopy, robotics and AI.

  • Harvard Museums of Science & Culture – Explore everything from ancient artifacts to dazzling natural history collections

  • Harvard Art Museums – Inspire creativity through complimentary sketchbooks, scavenger hunts, and conversation cards, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit!

Outdoor Adventures for Active Families

With warmer weather, April is a great time to get outside and explore Cambridge’s parks and trails.

  • Lynch Family Skate Park – Whether your kids love skateboarding, inline skating or BMX, this park is a blast!

  • Kittie Knox Bike Path – This path connecting Broadway and Binney Street honors the life of Katherine “Kittie” Knox, a transportation pioneer who confronted general and racial barriers in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

  • North Point Park – A hidden gem along the Charles River with playgrounds, picnic spots and plenty of space to run around.

  • Urban Park Roof Garden. Stunning views of Kendall Square, Boston and Cambridge, as well as an actual secret garden.

Sweet Treats & Kid-Approved Eats

No staycation is complete without some delicious food! Here are some top spots for family-friendly dining:

  • Summer Shack – Fresh seafood with a relaxed vibe and a great kids’ menu.

  • Legal Sea Foods – A classic New England spot that started here in Cambridge with plenty of options for picky eaters.

  • Tasty Burger – With two Cambridge locations, this locally-owned spot is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Perhaps more important is dessert. Treat the kids to something special:

  • Off the Beaten Path Donut Tour – A fun way to explore Harvard Square while tasting some of the best donuts around.

  • Toscanini’s – Famous for their creamy, rich ice cream and dozens of unique flavors, including Raspberry Fluff and Cocoa Pudding.

  • Mike’s Pastry – Grab a box of cannoli for a classic Boston treat.

With so much to do, April vacation week in Cambridge is packed with opportunities for family fun. Whether you’re diving into a pool, exploring a museum or indulging in sweet treats, you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy. So book that hotel, plan your adventures, and get ready to make some unforgettable spring break memories.

More from Insider

Post Image

Beat the Heat

Post Image

Summer in Cambridge