Things To Do
Faneuil Hall (National Park Service)
The first floor of the Great Hall is not just gift shops - it's also the National Park Service hub for the Freedom Trail. Stop in for some brochures, and then head up to the second level for a free peek at the historic Great Hall, nicknamed the Cradle of Liberty. From here, embark on the Freedom Trail in either direction.
Quincy Market
Immediately adjacent to Faneuil Hall, this is a spot with tons of shopping. The main building - Quincy Market Building - is a super awesome food court with every kind of food you could want in the main hall, and souvenir vendors lining the awnings on the side of the building. The other two buildings in the marketplace - North and South Market - have local and franchise stores to choose from, as well as some sit-down restaurant options. Be warned: the food may be a bit more pricey than you'd like.
New England Aquarium
Best aquarium we've been to! If the tickets are out of your price range, you can still walk up to the side of the building behind the ticketing booths and say hi to the seals.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Probably the coolest art museum on the planet. Used to be the mansion of a rich, eclectic lady who used to just love collecting really cool things.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Classic style of art museum.
The Institute of Contemporary Art
A little stuffier than most museums out there, but if contemporary art is your thing, this place is a must.
Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
Absolutely gorgeous botanical garden space to walk around in the August weather.
Samuel Adams Boston Brewery
Please note: this is NOT the taproom in the Quincy Market area! The Sam Adams taproom is okay to bring kids along. You can show up for a free tour of the brewery, do a tasting, and bring home the tasting glass you used at the brewery. Kids are served rootbeer.
Night Shift Brewing - Lovejoy Wharf
Super cool spot with outdoor seating on the locks in good weather!
Harpoon Brewery
Make sure to get a pretzel with your beer!
Trillium Brewing Company
A beer spot in Southie for the more adventurous and hop-minded individuals.