Wondering how to enjoy autumn in the city? We’ve got tons of things to do in Boston with kids that are perfect for the fall-iday season
Fall has finally made its way to Boston! For all those families with kids who can’t wait to jump in the nearest pile of leaves—we feel you. For many families, this time of year is a last chance to get outside and explore with hikes at nearby parks to collect colorful leaves, one more picnic in the late afternoon, or a even a quick weekend getaway before the winter holidays hit. So if finding things to do tops your list, we’ve got 35 city adventures to check out. The only question is, how many will you get through before winter arrives?
1. Autumn is all about pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and leaf-peeping. While New England is known for its brilliant, changing leaves, you don't have to go too far to find dazzling reds, oranges, and yellows with the kids.
2. Put a whole new "spin" on dinner when you bring the kids to a sporty spot specializing in great food and ping pong, celebrating their grand opening this month. Psst...they even have a drink robot (and yes, it's what you think it is).
3. Make your Halloween plans now. It'll be here before you know it! And if you haven't grabbed your pumpkin yet, there's still time to head to a nearby pumpkin patch and get in on the fall fun. And even if you have, snagging another round of apple cider donuts is almost worth it.
4. Grab your tickets to one of Boston's most popular light displays before the sell out. It opens the day after Thanksgiving and runs through the end of the year. Our tip? Tickets go on sale on Halloween.
5. With Halloween just around the corner, you might need to stock up on sweets. We love the bulk and retro candy featured at these spots.
6. You don't need a flannel (or maybe you do) to find a cozy cabin and plan your getaway.
7. Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping at one of our favorite shops. Whether you need something for baby or big kids, you'll find what you need here.
8. Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo may have just ended, but now's the time to make plans to take the kids on the annual pilgrimage to see ZooLights; it opens next month.
9. Although we're sad to see summer go, once the temps drop, our list of indoor playgrounds will come in handy. Let the kids go wild any day of the week at these fun spots!
10. Put a weekend getaway to Niagara Falls, Bear Mountain State Park or Gettysburg on your family bucket list. Now is as good a time as any!
11. Autumn is such a busy time of year. Why not make an easy dinner plan your kids are sure to love!
12. Let your kids indulge their '80s obsession over a plate of bacon and eggs (or maybe Nutella french toast?) at a place that's all the rage with Bender and Clarie.
13. Go on a street art scavenger hunt before the first snowfall.
14. Plan a magical train ride full of hot chocolate, golden tickets, and jingling bells (if you still believe, that is). Grab tickets while you can!
15. Parenting can be tough. Find inspiration from Boston moms who are crushing it or find a supportive community through any number of Boston Facebook groups that were made for parents.
16. Plan a magical fall getaway when you sleep in a house that looks like it's right out of a storybook.
17. Quiz the kids with funky and fun trivia all about Boston.
18. Visions of the Sugar Plum Fairy will surely be dancing in your little ballet lover's head when you take them to see Mikko Nissinen's The Nutcracker (opening the day after Thanksgiving). Or you can opt for a more 21st century experience with total kid-appeal.
19. Turn the page on healthy eating for the fam without investing too much time and energy. The busy season is just around the corner, and these services are here to help you manage it all.
20. Find a waterfall near you.
21. It's never too early to start looking ahead to the holiday happenings around the city, especially since many events and experiences sell out quickly!
22. Fall is a great time to hike at the nearby natural preserve that inspired Thoreau.
23. Now that summer’s over, a trip to a nearby museum is in order. Whether your kids love science, nature, history of just having fun, Boston is chock full of museums that keep kids engaged.
24. Isn’t it time for a family road trip? Head beyond the city to find fantastic mountain adventures, cog railways, and a land that's lifted from the pages of your favorite childhood stories.
25. ‘Tis the season to go in search of dazzling light displays around the city. Psst… many open around Thanksgiving.
26. Fall's cooler temps and shorter nights were made for family movie night.
27. Shop local for upcoming birthdays, hostess gifts, and more. Hint: there's never a bad time to shop a Boston women-owned business either.
28. Wander through the world’s largest walk-in globe where you can learn and be amazed too!
29. You may not find Dory here, but you will find Myrtle the Turtle, who’s been a resident since 1970.
30. With the kids back in school, fall is a great time to make history come alive. Explore Black history in Boston whenever you've got time.
31. Check out one of our favorite kid play spots. Hint: they have a kid jam sesh every Friday.
32. Whether you’re getting together with family or friends for Thanksgiving or the winter holidays, these larger-than-life houses (just a short drive away) make large gatherings super easy.
33. If you've got a fall baby, you know it's not all playgrounds and spray decks for birthday parties. Check out our guide to Boston's best indoor birthday party spots for your fall and winter celebrations.
34. If snow falls early this year, break out the sled and bring it to a nearby sledding hill. Boston has lots, but we've got favorites for a reason.
35. Expecting or know someone who is? See just how “Boston” your baby name is before your sweet bundle gets here.
Need some fresh ideas?
Related reads
