List of tourist attractions in Boston facts for kids

Boston is a super cool city in Massachusetts with tons of history and fun places to explore! It's one of the oldest cities in the United States, and you can find amazing museums, parks, and historic sites around every corner. Whether you love learning about the past, seeing cool animals, or just enjoying the outdoors, Boston has something for everyone. Get ready to discover some of the best spots in this awesome city!

Historic Places and National Parks

Boston is packed with important places that tell the story of America. Many of these spots are part of the Freedom Trail, a special path marked by a red brick line on the ground that takes you to 16 historic sites.

Famous Freedom Trail Stops

• Boston Common: This is one of America's oldest public parks. It's a great place to relax, play, and enjoy nature right in the middle of the city. The beautiful Boston Public Garden is right next to it, famous for its Swan Boats.
• Bunker Hill Monument: A tall monument remembering an important battle during the American Revolutionary War. You can climb to the top for amazing views!
• Faneuil Hall: Known as the "Cradle of Liberty," this building was a meeting place for revolutionaries. Today, it's part of Quincy Market, a lively spot with shops and food.
• Granary Burying Ground: An old cemetery where many famous people from American history are buried, like Paul Revere and John Hancock.
• Massachusetts State House: The home of the Massachusetts government, with a shiny gold dome that you can see from far away.
• Old North Church: The oldest church building in Boston. It's famous for the signal lanterns that started Paul Revere's famous ride.
• Old State House: This historic building was the center of colonial government and played a big role in the events leading up to the American Revolution.
• Paul Revere House: The oldest house in downtown Boston, where Paul Revere lived. You can step back in time and see what life was like in the 1700s.
• USS Constitution: Also known as "Old Ironsides," this is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. It's an incredible wooden ship that fought in many battles.

Other Historic Sites

• Black Heritage Trail: This trail explores the history of Boston's African American community in the 1800s.
• Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area: A group of islands in Boston Harbor perfect for exploring, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
• Boston National Historical Park: This park includes many of the historic sites mentioned above, helping to protect and share their stories.
• Castle Island: A historic fort and park on the water, great for walking and enjoying harbor views.
• Custom House Tower: A tall, historic skyscraper that used to be a customs house.
• Dorchester Heights Monument: A monument marking a key spot where American forces gained an advantage during the Revolutionary War.
• Old City Hall: A beautiful old building that once served as Boston's city hall.

Museums, Aquariums, and Zoos

Boston has a fantastic collection of museums, perfect for learning about art, science, history, and more!

• Boston Children's Museum: A fun, hands-on museum designed especially for younger kids, but enjoyable for all ages.
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum: Located on the Fort Point Channel, this museum lets you experience the famous Boston Tea Party. You can explore replica ships and even "throw" tea into the harbor!
• Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate: This unique museum has a full-size copy of the U.S. Senate Chamber. You can learn how laws are made and what it's like to be a senator.
• Franklin Park Zoo: A large zoo with animals from all over the world, including gorillas, lions, and kangaroos.
• Institute of Contemporary Art: A modern art museum with exciting and thought-provoking exhibits.
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: An amazing art museum built to look like a Venetian palace. It has a beautiful courtyard and a huge collection of European art.
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum: This library and museum is dedicated to the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy, a former U.S. President.
• Museum of Fine Arts: One of the largest art museums in the United States, with art from ancient times to today.
• Museum of Science: A super popular science museum with interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium where you can explore space.
• New England Aquarium: Home to thousands of amazing sea creatures, including penguins, seals, and a giant ocean tank.
• Old South Meeting House: A historic church where colonists gathered to protest British rule, leading to the Boston Tea Party.
• USS Constitution Museum: A hands-on museum right next to "Old Ironsides" (the USS Constitution). You can learn all about the ship's history and what life was like for sailors.

Parks and Squares

Boston has many beautiful parks and public spaces where you can relax, play, and enjoy nature.

• Arnold Arboretum: A huge and beautiful park with thousands of different trees and plants from around the world. It's a great place for a peaceful walk.
• Charles River and Esplanade: A lovely park area along the Charles River, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying views of the city skyline.
• Copley Square: A historic public square surrounded by famous buildings like the Boston Public Library and Trinity Church.
• Rose Kennedy Greenway: A modern park that runs through the heart of downtown Boston, with gardens, fountains, and public art.

Performing Arts Centers

If you love music, theater, or dance, Boston has some fantastic places to catch a show.

• Boston Opera House: A beautiful and historic theater that hosts Broadway shows, ballets, and concerts.
• Symphony Hall: Home to the famous Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops Orchestra. It's known for its amazing sound.

Religious Buildings

Boston has many historic and beautiful churches, some of which played important roles in the city's past.

• Cathedral of the Holy Cross: A large and impressive Roman Catholic church.
• Old North Church: The oldest church building in Boston, famous for its role in Paul Revere's ride.
• Trinity Church: A stunning Episcopal church in Copley Square, known for its beautiful architecture.

Restaurants and Pubs

Boston has some unique places to grab a bite, from historic restaurants to seafood favorites.

• Union Oyster House: The oldest restaurant in the United States, serving delicious seafood since 1826.
• Legal Sea Foods: A very popular seafood restaurant with many locations in Boston, known for its fresh fish and clam chowder.

Shopping Areas

If you love to shop, Boston has a variety of places to find everything from souvenirs to trendy clothes.

• Copley Place: An upscale shopping mall with many well-known stores.
• Newbury Street: A famous street in the Back Bay neighborhood, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.
• Quincy Market: Part of the larger Faneuil Hall Marketplace, this lively area has lots of food stalls, shops, and street performers.

Sports Arenas and Stadiums

Boston is a huge sports city, and you can visit the homes of some of the most famous teams.

• Fenway Park: The historic home of the Boston Red Sox baseball team. It's one of the oldest and most beloved baseball stadiums in the country.
• TD Garden: The arena where the Boston Bruins hockey team and the Boston Celtics basketball team play.

Tours

Exploring Boston is even more fun with a guided tour!

• Boston By Foot: Offers walking tours that teach you about Boston's history and architecture in different neighborhoods.
• Boston Duck Tours: A unique tour that uses special vehicles (called "duck boats") that can drive on land and float on water! You'll see the city from both the streets and the Charles River.
• Boston HarborWalk: A path designed for people to walk along the entire shore of Boston Harbor, offering great views and access to waterfront areas.

Images for kids

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  Copley Square is a beautiful public square in Boston.

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  The historic Paul Revere House in Boston.

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  Boston's Museum of Science is full of amazing exhibits.

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  The Charles River Esplanade is a great place to walk and relax.

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  The historic Old North Church played a key role in the American Revolution.

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  "Cheers" on Beacon Hill is a famous pub.

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  Fenway Park is the home of the Boston Red Sox.