Are you planning a fun and educational day out for your kids in Boston? Then you can go to the Boston Children’s Museum. It is one of the best places to visit in Boston. The Boston Children’s Museum is one of the first and most creative children’s museums in the world – offering hands-on exhibits, spaces to observe, and experience learning. There is nothing worse than going to a Children’s Museum, and kids enjoying it, but you have no idea what you paid for tickets, or their price, or other ways to get tickets, at our particular museum in this case.
In this guide, we will share everything you will need to know, from ticket prices, hours, travel tips, exhibits, the museum, history and more, so you can maximize your visit to the museum.
Why Visit Boston Children’s Museum?
The Boston Children’s Museum has been nurturing the minds of children for more than a century. Since it opened in 1913, it has become a recognized organization around the world where fun meets learning through exhibits grounded in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). Here are some reasons that families continue to enjoy their visit to the museum.
- Many interactive exhibits focus on encouraging children to explore, imagine, and create.
- Exhibits also include cultural, scientific, and artistic displays.
- Fun activities for all ages can be enjoyed, from children ages 0-3 to ages 10-12, and beyond.
- A focus is placed on hands-on learning and learning through discovery.
- Located conveniently on Fort Point Channel in Boston’s Seaport District.
Boston Children’s Museum Tickets
When planning your trip, ticket pricing is one of the first things to check. Here’s an overview:
- General Admission: $22 per person
- Children under 12 months: Free entry
- Museum Members: Free entry (with annual membership)
- Discounted Entry:
- TJX Sunday Afternoons: $1 tickets from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- EBT & WIC Cardholders: Only $2 per person (up to 4 people per card, per visit)
- TJX Sunday Afternoons: $1 tickets from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- Special Promotions: Families can often find seasonal discounts through local libraries or community programs.
Boston Children’s Museum Timings & Best Times to Visit
Day / Occasion | Opening Hours | Closing Hours |
Saturday – Thursday | 10:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
Friday | 10:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
Thanksgiving Day | – | – |
Christmas Day | – | – |
Thanksgiving Eve | 10:00 AM | 3:00 PM |
Christmas Eve | 10:00 AM | 3:00 PM |
New Year’s Eve | 10:00 AM | 3:00 PM |
New Year’s Day | 12:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekday mornings are often less busy.
- Visit an hour before closing (Saturday–Thursday) or Friday evenings for discounted tickets to save money.
How to Buy Boston Children’s Museum Tickets
Buying tickets is easy and can be done in a few ways:
- Online- This is the easiest and fastest method. Simply go to the official website, select the date of your visit and purchase tickets in advance.
- On-site – Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; however, it can be extremely crowded on weekends and holidays.
- Through Discounts – A few Boston-area libraries and community centers have discount passes available.
- Tip- Purchasing tickets online is helpful for time and ensures you have a ticket to enter, especially during school vacation weeks or weekends.
Highlights of Boston Children’s Museum Exhibits
The museum is not simply a location for kids to play-instead, it was established to teach through discovery! With more than 50,000 objects in its collection, and exhibits changing multiple times each month, let me share a few highlights you should see:
1. New Balance Climb
A three-story climbing structure that mimics a flying carpet ride, with sliding or climbing. A great spot for active kids who love to test their balance and coordination.
2. Japanese House
A real house (that is 100 years old) was transported from Kyoto, Japan. Kids can experience the Japanese family and cultural life.
3. Explore-a-Saurus
Featuring a life-size animatronic Dilophosaurus, kids can become paleontologists by examining fossils and creating their own theories about dinosaurs.
4. John Hancock Science Playground
Kids can test gravity, motion, and energy through golf balls, tracks, and bubble stations.
5. Culture & Arts
Everything from Afro-Caribbean carnivals to Native Voices exhibits, kids can learn about diverse cultures, music, and history.
6. Construction Zone
A hands-on area where kids can dig, build, climb, and play with tools, trucks, and construction equipment.
7. Art Studio & KidStage
Creativity percolates through painting, drawing, or even performing plays.
Read More: Salar Jung Museum || Albert Hall Museum
History of Boston Children’s Museum
The history of the museum has been as compelling as its objects:
- 1909 – The idea was raised by a group of science teachers in Boston.
- 1913 – Opened its doors at Pinebank Mansion with only two things to display, birds and minerals.
- 1936 – Expanded to a larger location due to its growing popularity.
- 1979 – Transferred the museum to the current location in Fort Point Channel in a renovated wool warehouse.
- 2013 – Received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest award for museums in the United States.
Over the years, the Boston Children’s Museum has inspired many similar institutions across the globe, including Museo Pambata in Manila and Le Musée des Enfants in Brussels.
Travel Tips for Visiting Boston Children’s Museum
To ensure that you can enjoy your visit in a relaxed and enjoyable way, please take note of the following helpful reminders.
- Parking: Spots nearby are limited and we suggest the use of public transportation to be convenient.
- What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a few snacks and a water bottle.
- Food Options: There is food available onsite; however, we do recommend you focus on the restaurants in the Seaport District.
- Accessibility: The museum is completely wheelchair accessible and allows service animals.
- Time Needed: You should plan for at least two to three hours to enjoy the exhibits at your leisure.
Nearby Attractions
If you would like to extend the trip into a full day, there are lots of family-friendly sites in the area, including:
- Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
- The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)
- Quincy Market
- Boston Public Garden
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Fenway Park.
Conclusion
The Boston Children’s Museum isn’t simply a wonderful destination; it’s also a learning experience that inspires curiosity and imagination in children. With tons of interactive exhibits and cultural exhibits, you can’t go wrong visiting with your family when you’re in Boston.
Before your travels, be sure to look at the Boston Children’s Museum ticket price, hours of operation, and available discounts. Whether you’re visiting or a repeat visitor, there will always be something new to explore.
FAQs
1. How much are tickets to the Boston Children’s Museum?
Ans: Tickets for general admission are $22 per person. Children under 12 months enter free, and members enter free.
2. Can I purchase tickets in advance?
Ans: Yes, you can purchase tickets online on the Boston Children’s Museum website. Purchasing online is recommended during weekends and school holidays.
3. Are there discounts available for Boston Children’s Museum tickets?
Ans: Yes. For instance, families with EBT/WIC cards enter for only $2 per person. There are also $1 tickets available during TJX Sunday Afternoons. Memberships also save money on tickets for visitors who come frequently.
4. What is the best age group for the Boston Children’s Museum?
Ans: The Boston Children’s Museum is designed for all ages, from infants to tweens. There are age-friendly zones combined with the different exhibits, so it will be fun for all children.
5. Can I enter the Boston Children’s Museum again on the same day after initially leaving?
Ans: Yes, typically a ticket will allow you to enter again the same day.