
30 + best things to do with kids in Massachusetts & New Hampshire
Summer is about to hit which means schools out for Summer. Now that I have a 5 going 6 years old, this Summer will be filled with day trips and kids learning activities. Since moving to a new town that’s even closer to the New Hampshire line so it will be a fun-filled Summer break.
I’ve put together the ULTIMATE list of things to do with kids in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
I decided to break it up between outdoor and indoor activities.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES TO DO WITH KIDS IN MASSACHUSETTS & New Hampshire
The best Massachusetts and New Hampshire based activities! These kids activities can range from age but are all so great to do.
STATE PARKS / Beaches
There are so many available. Make sure you visit the state park website for Massachusetts. You would never think there was much to do at a state park. From lakes, playgrounds, hiking and even some including splash pads.
SPLASH PADS
Everywhere is different so do your research. The splash pad in Stoneham, Ma is also known as Hall Memorial Pool is owned by the Boys & Girls Club so there is a charge. Bradley Palmer State Park redid theirs and opened up a really nice splash pad/kiddie pool which also has a playground.
Check out Bradley Palmer State Park and wading pool. They revamped their park and now have a splash pad/kiddie pool + even a playground.
DAVIS FARMLAND
Davis Farmland has so much to offer. We recently went on A‘s kindergarten field trip and we had a blast. You get to see the animals, go visit the petting zoos and more. Plus they even offer a splash pad and amazing playground area that varies from age. They even offer a membership you can purchase if you love it so much. In the Fall you can even go pumpkin and apple picking.
STONE ZOO
In between both Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo I do love going to Stone Zoo more. It’s smaller but also more intimate. Plus if you don’t feel like heading into the city Stone Zoo can be so close to home.
SOUTHWICK ZOO
Southwick Zoo is the largest zoo in New England. They have over 115 animals available for viewing etc.
BOSTON DUCK TOURS
Boston Duck Tours is such a fun tour for all ages.
Stonehenge USA
Stonehenge USA is an outdoor guided tour of handmade mazes and astronomical alignments. They also have alpacas that live on site you can visit.
Canobie Lake Park
I worked at Canobie when I was 15 and so hasn’t my brother and sister. They recently renovated their waterpark to become even bigger than what I remember.
Storyland
We went to Storyland a couple of years back and was so much fun.
Santa’s Village
If you love Christmastime then Santas Village will be a hit. Plus they even have great waterpark for the kids.
Candia Springs
I’ve never been to Candia Springs but have heard so many good things about them.
Whales Tales Water Park
Whales Tales is an outdoor waterpark similar to Water Country . We’re actually planning a trip to Whales Tales to help celebrate A’s 6th birthday once his ankle heals.
Clarks Trading Post
Clarks Trading Post has so many attractions available. From a famous Black Bear Show, riding a Steam Train, be chased by the Infamous Wolfman, and be amazed by Chinese Acrobats – all in the same day!
Great Bay
Great Bay offers so many great outdoor educational programs for the kiddos. It’s only $4 and a small fee for each adult.
Christies Maple Farm and Gift Shop
At Christies Maple Farm and Gift Shop kids can learn how a maple farm operates, taste-test different kinds of syrup from the trees of the White Mountains and explore an authentic sugar house with a trip to Christies Maple Farm.
Hampton State Beach
Hampton Beach is always a staple to visit during the Summer. Kids can pass the time collecting shells and playing at the shore. The beach has a bathhouse, tidal pools for children that want to wade in shallow waters, and a dedicated picnic area. Lifeguards are on duty in season.
LAWN ON D
The Lawn On D is powered by Citizens Bank in the waterfront district. I still haven’t made my way there yet but have heard how great it is. For kids and at night for the adults. They offer tons of family-friendly events, especially during the Summer months.
SALEM WILLOWS
Growing up I had always came to visit Salem Willows in Salem Massachusetts and was such a hit. From their famous arcades to kiddie land. Plus their homemade ice cream and popcorn is the best. They also have a beach nearby which is also great for family adventures.
Boston Pizza Tours
If you are a pizza lover (what kid isn’t) Boston Pizza Tours are so much fun. You get to learn the history behind each place in. Every tour includes Two+ hours of Food, Fun and History – plus slices from some of Boston’s very best Pizzerias!
Breezy Picnic Ground & Waterslides
With a lifeguard on duty, 3 large waterslides a lake and snack bar Breezy is such a fun experience.
Suess in Springfield
We always read Dr. Suess tales from Green Eggs & Ham to How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Suess in Springfield is where you will find everything Dr. Suess. They also have a museum, sculpture garden, character breakfast and more.
INDOOR ACTIVITIES TO DO WITH KIDS IN MASSACHUSETTS
The Butterfly Place
The Butterfly Place was such a fun place to visit growing up. They offer a special for homeschoolers so make sure you check them out.
Local Library
During the week they offer kid-friendly activities. You also can grab discounted tickets to your local museums and zoos.
Great Wolf Lodge
They have so many around the US but Great Wolf Lodge is such a fun time when you want an indoor waterpark.
Children’s Museum
Museum of Science
Coco Keyes Boston
Coco Keyes is another indoor water park. They now opened their splash pad.
Jay Gees Ice Cream & Fun Center
I’ve been going to Jay Gees since I was a kid. They recently updated their Methuen location and added water boat bumper cars.
Barnes & Nobles
Barnes & Nobles offers Funday Friday Storytime. They offer a lively story and an exciting activity. Check out your local store for more info.
BEANSTALKS ADVENTURE COURSE (Jordan’s furniture)
This is such a fun time. Especially if you are looking for an activity for your kids when your shopping around Jordans Furniture.
Monkey Joes
If your little ones like inflatable bounce house Monkey Joe’s is a blast.
Putnam Pantry
If you love ice cream Putnam Pantry is must have visit. They scoop your ice cream and you head to the ice cream bar and add whichever toppings at such an affordable price. Plus they sell old school candies I remember growing up with.
Kings Dining
If your kiddos love bowling then Kings Bowling is such a fun place. You can even do a date night here which we do frequently. Certain nights of the week you can bowl for free. Check your local bowling spots. A lot offer free bowling for kids during the Summer.
Launch Trampoline Park
Legoland Discovery Center
On cooler and rainy days we love visiting our local Legoland Discovery Center.
Scenic Train Rides
NH has so many to choose from.
Cedardale
They have so much to offer.
Local Schools
Sometimes your kid’s local schools may have free activities. Check your towns/ city recreation dept.
Movies
Regal Cinema and AMC Theatres are offering a deal. AMC Theatres is offering $4 and Regal Cinemas $1 days at the movies for select movies.
Visit your local Mall
Simon Malls offers Toddler Tuesdays on the Third Tuesday of the Month for Toddler Tuesdays
They can enjoy crafts, games, entertainment and more.
Movie Drive-In
We love heading to the Mendon Drive-In. They offer such a great deal. Each car is $25 and you actually can watch 2 movies. They also have a snack bar but you can bring your own food. Just get there early.
Lakeshore Learning Stores
They always have fun activities going on at their local stores.
Technology Camp at Microsoft
Check your local store to see if they offer it. They vary per age from 8 and up.
A Happy Place
If you and your little ones love taking pics. A Happy Place is in Boston until 6/30/19. They have the cutest photo opps.
Patricia @ Grab a Plate
Great photos – and what a comprehensive list! Folks are bound to find so many great adventures!
Madison
All of these activities look so fun! I’ve never visited either of these places but I’ve always wanted to. Maybe I’ll get to take my daughter one day!
Jennifer Morrison
I am so excited that I came across your post today! I am going to be in New Hampshire and Massachusetts next week! I am hoping to go on the Duck Tours and go to the Maple Farm. I have never done that when I have visited the area. Thanks again!