Elyse Andrews

Latest posts by Elyse

Where to Pick Peaches, Plums, Cherries, Corn, and More at Boston Farms

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Fri, 07/07/2023 - 3:00pm

Wrap your hands around some delicious fruit at these family friendly Boston farms. Photo courtesy of Lookout Farm

High temps mean it's high time for picking peaches and more at Boston farms. Kids can pick late-summer produce, like pears, raspberries, plums, cherries, corn, and more—even currants! Children who enjoyed hunting for strawberr ies and blueberr ies on local farms in June and early July will have a blast plucking (and sampling) stone fruits and more at these nearby farms in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

For another fun u-pick experience that will lead to a beautiful centerpiece of sunflowers, snapdragons, and more for your summer table, consider a visit with kids to these flower farms around Boston. Or, pick your favorite flavor at these Boston farms with homemade ice cream. And be sure to bookmark our post on places to pick apples with Boston kids—some varieties are ripe starting late August. Happy harvesting!

15 Swimming Lakes near Boston You Need To Discover

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Fri, 06/16/2023 - 10:20pm

Walden’s waters are super clean and warm, with lifeguards and roped-off swimming areas for smaller kids.

There are plenty of area beaches that are perfect for families looking to spend the day outside, but some kids prefer the warmer and calmer waters of one of Massachusetts' many swimming lakes. We’ve rounded up swimming lakes and ponds around Boston where kids can splash around in freshwater all summer long. Read on for our picks for the Boston's top swimming lakes for summer fun.

Looking to stay closer to home? These local spraygrounds and splash pads are another way to beat the heat this summer. Don't miss our summer fun guide for more fun activities, outdoors or in.

Best Splash Pads, Splash Parks, and Water Playgrounds in Boston

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Sun, 06/04/2023 - 5:30pm

You know it's summertime in Boston when kids are running through splash pads, splash parks, and sprinkler playgrounds, on the Rose Kennedy Greenway and at area parks and playgrounds. When the weather heats up, the water turns on, and kids can splash around at several of the area's "coolest" spraygrounds, splash pads, and wading pools. As an added bonus, these spray parks are all free to visit. Read on for the best splash pads, splash parks, and water playgrounds in Boston and the surrounding communities. Make sure to check with the local parks departments before heading out for any updates or changes to hours and rules.

For more fun summer ideas, check out our guide to Drive-in Movie Theaters in and Around Boston for Outdoor Movie Night with Kids. If you're looking to get out of the city for some splash time, read up on The Best Cape Cod Beaches for Families. And our Ultimate Summer Bucket List Ideas:100 (Mostly) Free Outdoor Games and Activities for Kids can show you plenty of great ways to enjoy the season in your home and around the neighborhood.

Top Stroller-Friendly Hikes near Boston

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Fri, 04/21/2023 - 5:19pm

The whole family can explore the outdoors with the top stroller-friendly hikes in Boston and beyond. Francis William Bird Park photo courtesy of the The Trustees

You won’t be scaling any great heights on these stroller-friendly hikes, but you will be soaking up nature and getting some exercise too. There are so many amazing places in the Boston area to walk with kids, whether they’re trekking alongside you, riding in a carrier, or even being pushed in a stroller. With so many beautiful landscapes to take in—from salt marshes and woodlands to wetlands and farms—you’re sure to find a hike perfect for your family.

Once your kids are walking, check out these short hikes for preschoolers and great family hikes around Boston. For a real adventure, see our review of mountains to climb with kids across the U.S.

Boston's New England Aquarium with Kids: Must-See Attractions, Special Programs, and More

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Sun, 04/16/2023 - 5:00pm

Visiting Boston's New England Aquarium can provide kids with some amazing experiences! Harbor seal photo courtesy of New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium is such a fun way to spend a day in Boston, whether you're visiting Boston with kids or a lifelong local. My son loves animals of all kinds, so I knew we had to take him to the New England Aquarium as soon as he was old enough for the outing. Our trip did not disappoint! He was enthralled by the beautiful sea creatures and even got to experience some up close at the touch tanks.

Boston's aquarium has must-see exhibits, kid-friendly dining options, and more. Read on to also see how you can score discounts on NEAQ admission. With new live animals and frequently updated exhibits, it's an especially exciting time to visit the aquarium.

Interested in more of our favorite kid-friendly Boston attractions? Check out our Boston Museum Guide.

Ninja Warrior Gyms, Obstacle Courses, and Parkour in Boston for Kids

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Fri, 02/10/2023 - 8:05pm

Get your ninja warriors on the obstacle courses around Boston, for indoor fun and great exercise! Photo courtesy of Supercharged Entertainment

When the weather keeps you inside and your child is literally climbing the walls, it's time to head to ninja warrior gyms, obstacle courses, and parkour facilities in Boston. These gyms channel the TV show American Ninja Warrior. Just like the show, the indoor obstacles at these family-friendly gyms and indoor play spaces in Massachusetts require speed, agility, balance, and strength to complete. They are perfect for little monkeys who love to climb and appreciate a physical challenge. If your kids are inspired by the show, or just need a productive way to channel their energy, we've got a great list of Boston-area gyms with obstacle courses perfect for aspiring ninja warriors.

We love Boston's indoor play spaces for helping kids get their energy out. Find that and more in our Boston Indoor Fun Guide; it has great ideas for keeping kids active when it's cold or wet outside. And if your little one isn't so little anymore, see our guide to Teen Birthday Parties in Boston: Cool Party Places for Teens.

Best Breakfast Restaurants in Boston

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Fri, 02/03/2023 - 9:54am

Get big smiles, full bellies, and and some thumbs up for the best places for breakfast in Boston with kids! Photo courtesy of the North Street Grille

The best places for breakfast in Boston have family-friendly food that kids love. Eggs, French toast, waffles, and donuts—Boston's breakfast spots serve up kids' favorites in a fun atmosphere, and morning menus offer choices for the pickiest palates. Dining out with kids isn’t always an easy proposition, but breakfast or brunch can be a great time to go to a restaurant with the whole family. Kids tend to be less cranky earlier in the day, and mom and dad will be too, after a cup of coffee. And grabbing a yummy breakfast in Boston is a great way to start a day exploring the city. We've included our favorites, from full-service breakfast to diners and donut shops, here are the best places for breakfast in Boston with kids.

It's always fun to find a kd-friendly restaurant with great food. We especially love these Boston area restaurants where kids can play while you eat (and relax) after that day out with the family! Be sure and check out our Boston restaurant guide for the best spots to take kids around the city.

25 Things To Do in Salem with Kids

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Fri, 10/21/2022 - 10:00am

The Salem Witch Museum will give you and your kids an overview of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Photo courtesy of the Salem Witch Museum

Costumes are always on in Salem, but the city truly becomes Halloween Town through October. While Halloween has historically been packed with revelers, Witch City is always a great destination for an easy day trip or weekend getaway because there's always things to do in Salem. Take the ferry from Boston to learn the history of the Salem Witch Trials, experience everything from the magical to the macabre anytime of year, and explore family-friendly, hands-on exhibitions at the world-class Peabody Essex Museum. Try an International bevvy of delicacies—including choosing your fancy from a full menu of drinking chocolate—walk back in time through Pioneer Village at Forest River Park, stay at the country's oldest bed and breakfast, and more. It's easy to promise families year-round fun in this historic walkable town with our list of the top things to do in Salem with kids.

For more fun things to do this October, we've rounded up the best kids Halloween events 2021 near Boston and loaded up our Halloween Guide with the best of spooky season.

2022 Editor's Note: Salem is a very popular destination in October, particularly on weekends. Local officials have asked visitors to find alternatives to driving into Salem in October 2022. Be sure and have a plan for your excursion. Consult local resources for parking & directions and consider public transportation alternatives.