The next time you need a quick thing to do with the kids, head to one of the best playgrounds in Boston to get the wiggles out
Sometimes, the unpredictable New England weather isn’t such a bad thing. While we definitely get cold days that are perfect for sledding and tubing or taking the kids to an outdoor ice rink in the winter, as we get closer to spring, we also have the occasional warm days in Boston—the best times to get the kids out of the house. Thankfully there are so many great parks in Boston to visit with the family where the kids can release all that energy. We’ve gathered the 10 best playgrounds in Boston (and parks too!) that the kids will enjoy whether it’s warm or chilly outside.
1. Boston City Hall Plaza Playground
Looking for a new park in Boston? It’s a great time to take a trip to Boston City Hall Plaza, which has been renovated and reopened in November. The plaza has numerous great changes, including ramps and being more accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. The spacious area also has many places for parents to sit and nearby bathrooms are a great addition for when the little ones suddenly need to go! The playground is definitely worth checking out if you have to run to city hall for errands, it’s a nice place to sit and relax and watch the kids climb the futuristic looking play area.
5 Congress St.
Boston
2. Christopher Columbus Playground
Christopher Columbus Park is just one of those magical spots in Boston with a little something for everyone. Overlooking Boston Harbor and best known for the beautiful trellis that is the location of many engagement and wedding photos, it’s a great place to take photos of your own kiddos during the holiday season due to the amazing decorative lights. The park itself is fenced so it’s ideal for little ones who like to run. Alongside the slides and climbing areas, there is also a nice sandpit for some sensory play and a splash pad for the warmer days in Boston.
100 Atlantic Ave.
Boston
3. Carter Playground
Located in the South End of Boston, Carter Park is perfect for kids of all ages, especially those who are old enough to do sports. With its separate fields for soccer, football, baseball, and tennis, there is also a lovely playground for the little ones to explore while the bigger kids get practice in the fields. Carter Park is a short walk away from the train station and with plenty of benches, you may find the family will want to stay for hours.
709 Columbus Ave.
Boston
4. Martin’s Park
Martin’s Park is a beautiful tribute to a young victim of the Boston Marathon Bombings, and was built with inclusivity in mind. This park features some great climbing structures, such as ladders and rock climbing. There is also a wooden “marooned” ship where kids can use their imagination and have pirate adventures. Martin’s Park is especially beautiful in the spring due to the many trees and flowers which have been planted in memory of Martin Richard.
64 Sleeper St.
Boston
5. Esplanade Playground
If you like jogging near the Charles River, you may want to stop at Esplanade Playground with the kids for their daily exercise too! This park is best for kids ages 5-12, with challenging features like zip lining, climbing, and spinning. The giant jungle gym also has a tall blue slide that the kids will be lining up for again and again! This park in Boston is a sure to have the kids ready for bed by the time they get home!
State Hwy. 28 & Charles St. (West End)
Boston
6. Tadpole Playground
Boston Common is a historic site and home to one of the best places to skate in Boston, Frog Pond. But if the kids aren’t old enough to skate, the recently renovated Tadpole Playground is a great place to stop for a day of play! With its amusing little frog statues and enclosed area, this park is the perfect running ground for little ones and big kids too! During the summer months, the sprinklers stay on so families can cool off after a busy day in the city.
131 Tremont St.
Boston
7. Miriam and Sidney Stoneman Playground
Another playground located near the Charles River, the Stoneman Playground has designated play areas for toddlers and bigger kids. The toddler section has a slide, a pretend car, and small climbing obstacles, whereas the bigger kids’ section has taller obstacles, monkey bars and a firepole. This park was envisioned and revamped by parent volunteers who wanted a safe playground for local kids. We can truly see how these parents have succeeded in creating just that for all kids in Boston.
Charles River Esplanade
Boston
8. Mayor Thomas M. Menino Park
Boston is a community that comes together during times of both triumph and tragedy. Menino Park was created during a time when the city was in desperate need of healing and peace. This beautiful, modern park is within close proximity of Spaulding Hospital and has a great view of the waterfront. While this park is best suited for kids ages 5-12, children of all ages will enjoy the brightly colored jungle gym and swings. This park also emphasizes it’s devotion to inclusivity and accessibility for kids of all abilities.
98 16th St.
Boston
9. Hunt Almont Playground
If you’re looking for a one and done spot for everyone in the family to get their dose of exercise, then be sure to visit Hunt Almont Playground. With an outdoor fitness center for adults, a baseball field and basketball court for your sports lovers. The playground has many colorful climbing nets and foam ground that encourages safe and curious play for kids. This is also the perfect spot for a family picnic as there are many grassy areas and trees for shade. Best of all, you should plan to bring the kids here in the warmer months for some splash pad fun!
40 Almont St.
Boston
10. Auntie Kay & Uncle Frank Chin Park
The next time you visit Chinatown, make sure to stop at the Auntie Kay & Uncle Frank Chin Park. The park is surrounded by many Asian plants and there is a little stream that runs through the length of the park. The main attraction here are the vibrant cubes that make up the playground structures. Your little ones will have a blast climbing in and out of these shapes and sliding down the slide. Fun fact: this structure was a temporary exhibit but became a permanent playground due to its popularity, we can certainly see why!
John F. Fitzgerald Surface Rd.
Boston
