We’ve all survived another winter, and now we’re rewarded with the glorious spring season — when Boston really comes to life! The birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, the warmer weather brings us all out of hibernation, and there are so many exciting ways to enjoy the spring season! Whether rain or shine, we’ve got you covered with 20 things to do in Boston this spring.
1. Take a ride on the swan boats.
Riding on the swan boats in the Public Garden is a unique experience for the whole family. The boats, which hold about 20 passengers each, are powered by drivers pedaling them around the pond. The ride is about 15 minutes long, and tickets are purchased right on the dock. Opening day this year is April 13.
2. Explore Castle Island.
Located in South Boston, Castle Island doesn’t technically have a castle, but it does have historic Fort Independence and excellent views of the Boston Harbor Islands. While there, you can stroll along the Harborwalk, visit the playground, watch planes take off, and stop for lobster rolls or ice cream at Sullivan’s. Castle Island is also a prime location for kite flying!
3. Enjoy a picnic at the Public Garden.
The Boston Public Garden was the first public botanical garden in America. It is one of the most photogenic spots in Boston — especially during springtime. With flowers around you, it’s the perfect spot to stop for a picnic, enjoy the sunshine, and watch the swan boats pass by.
4. Ride the Frog Pond carousel.
Located on the Boston Common, the Frog Pond carousel is open each spring, summer, and fall. Hop on a horse or choose one of the other quirky characters for a spin around. After, make your way over to the Frog Pond playground or enjoy a snack at the Frog Pond Café.
5. Take a Duck Tour!
A Boston Duck Tour is the perfect way to explore the city by land and water. You’ll learn some cool facts and have a blast along the way. The 2024 season starts March 29, and pickup locations are at the Museum of Science, Prudential Center, and New England Aquarium.
6. Watch the street performers at Faneuil Hall.
Located in downtown Boston, Faneuil Hall is near the waterfront, Boston Common, the North End, and many other great spots for families! There is a plethora of shops and restaurants to choose from. Don’t miss the world-renowned street performers there every day!
7. Wander the Charles River Esplanade.
Spring is the ideal time to walk or bike the Esplanade along the Charles River as you enjoy the cherry blossoms coming into bloom. There are a few playgrounds along the way and plenty of grassy areas to stop for a snack.
8. Visit one of Boston’s zoos.
The zoo is such a fun way to spend the day — and Boston has two of them! Try Franklin Park Zoo for a bigger, Boston-based experience, or visit Stone Zoo in Stoneham with younger children who may appreciate a smaller space. Spring is the perfect time to observe the animals that are no longer hiding from the cold!
9. Spend a day at the Rose Kennedy Greenway.
The Rose Kennedy Greenway is 1.5 miles of park area that curves through Boston. The park is beautifully landscaped, with food trucks, a beer garden, and art exhibits. Don’t miss the Greenway Carousel, with its hand-carved characters inspired by the air, land, and sea animals of Boston Harbor.
10. Catch a game at Fenway Park.
Head to America’s most beloved ballpark and cheer on the Red Sox. Opening day this year is April 9. Make sure to visit the Kids Concourse, which offers games, activities, and kid-friendly food.
11. Visit the Arnold Arboretum.
Spring is one of the best times to visit the Arnold Arboretum, a Harvard University living museum. This 280-acre preserve in the heart of Boston hosts a beautiful display of colorful flowers and the chance to spot some fantastic birds and wildlife that emerge this time of year. There are tours with Arboretum experts, children’s programs, story walks, and a collection of more than 400 lilacs. On Lilac Sunday — May 12 this year — you can bring a picnic and participate in tours and children’s activities.
12. Cheer on the runners at the Boston Marathon.
Marathon Monday is such an exciting day in the city! The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon, and runners travel globally to compete. The marathon occurs on Patriot’s Day, which is Monday, April 15, this year. The race starts in Hopkinton and finishes on Boylston Street in Boston — and there are great spots all along the course where the whole family can cheer on the runners!
13. Catch a 4-D film or planetarium show or at the Museum of Science.
Is rainy weather limiting your outdoor fun? With the ever-changing exhibits and shows at the Omni theater and planetarium, the Museum of Science never gets boring.
14. Be a part of the Duckling Day parade.
If you want something to do on Mother’s Day, head to the annual Duckling Day event at the Public Garden. Children dress up like characters from the classic children’s book “Make Way For Ducklings” and parade through the park, with the Harvard marching band leading the way. There will be family-friendly entertainment, live music, and photo opportunities with the famous “Make Way For Ducklings” sculpture.
15. Shop the farmers markets.
You can get sunshine and fresh air while buying groceries at one of the many Boston-area farmers markets. Greater Boston has more than 25 farmers markets filled with farm-fresh produce from Massachusetts farmers. Many of these outdoor markets open in May.
16. Spend the evening at a family-friendly beer garden.
Finally, you can sit outside and toast to warmer weather! Boston has more than its share of beer gardens throughout the city and surrounding areas. Many beer gardens open in April and May, and most are family friendly.
17. Try al fresco dining.
Spring kicks off the start of the outdoor dining season! I always find it less stressful eating outside with kids, where the sounds of the city buffer noise, and people watching offers a distraction while waiting for food. Boston has some of the best patios, rooftops, and sidewalk spots for dining outside.
18. Take a hike.
A great family hike is within reach, no matter where you live in Greater Boston! Whether you make it a full-day trip or just a morning in the woods, the whole family will feel refreshed after spending time in nature. Want to stay in Boston and still get outdoors? Check out this list of 10 places IN Boston where you can take a nature walk!
19. View the courtyard at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
If rain in the forecast is forcing you indoors, head to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum for art and beautiful courtyard blooms. The museum’s horticulture staff assembles a series of nine dramatic seasonal displays each year, so there’s always plenty to see! And don’t forget, kids under 18 are free!
20. Spend the day at the Lego Discovery Center
A place for Lego lovers of all ages, the Lego Discovery Center is located at Assembly Row in Somerville. You can immerse yourself in a Lego playground, ride on two indoor attractions, explore the world of awesome Lego builds, and watch expert Lego builders in action.
