Family-Friendly Travel In Massachusetts
With endless family memories to be made, explore all Massachusetts has to offer for travelers of all ages. The Bay State welcomes visitors with all interests to experience our museums, nature exhibits, and interactive activities. For families looking for an activity for a rainy day or to continue their learning over school breaks, each region has something special to offer. For those who want to travel as a family, here’s where to learn about family-friendly attractions, activities, dining, and lodging in Massachusetts. Plan the ultimate family road trip in Massachusetts, any time of the year.
- Western Massachusetts
Explore the outdoors, museums, and historic destinations with the whole family.
- Central Massachusetts
Explore historic villages, quaint towns, and nature escapes.
- North of Boston
Explore family-friendly beaches, historic landmarks, and seafaring activities.
- South of Boston
Explore historic activities, thrilling adventures, and ocean escapades.
- Cape Cod & The Islands
Explore beaches, marine life, and charming seaside towns.
- Greater Boston
Explore the history, food, and culture of this world-class region.
North of Boston
Families will find sandy beaches, outdoor activities, history, festivals, and fun in the northeastern region of Massachusetts. The North Shore offers a range of activities from miles of rocky coastline, landmarks from key moments in American history, and seafood hot spots that guarantee something for everyone in the family.
Accommodations
Photo: Cape Ann MarinaCape Ann Marina Resort
75 ESSEX AVE, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930
The site of the National Geographic television show "Wicked Tuna", this hotel offers endless waterfront views and various room types for all types of travelers. Walk from the rooms through the indoor skywalk to the lobby, hotel bar, and dining. Plus, the Annisquam River, marina, and salt water wildlife are right on the hotel's doorstep.
Photo: Hampton Inn SalemHampton Inn Salem
11 DODGE ST, SALEM, MA 01970
Located in Salem and with Glendale Cove Beach and Dead Horse Beach nearby, Hampton Inn Salem provides concierge services, a fitness center, free WiFi, a shared lounge, and an indoor pool. Buffet and American breakfast options are available every morning at the hotel, as well.
Photo: The Local Spread, LLC / @thelocalspreadma (IG)Dining
Photo: Chococoa
Photo: @foodiest.food (IG)George’s Restaurant and Bar
178 WASHINGTON ST, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930
Since its days as a corner store market in the early 1900s, George's has been a Gloucester staple serving three meals a day and offering rotating daily specials. Family owned and operated for over 100 years, local regulars and one-time visitors alike are welcomed to join the family.
Educational Activities
Photo: Greater Merrimack Valley CVBLowell National Historic Park
246 MARKET ST, LOWELL, MA 01852
Explore Lowell, a living testament to the dynamic human story of the industrial revolution. Visitors can learn more at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center, explore historical stories at the Boot Cotton Mills Museum, discover the ins and outs of transportation at the Streetcar Museum, and experience the surrounding areas on the canal tours.
Photo: Dan Lovy / Maritime GloucesterMaritime Gloucester
23 HARBOR LOOP, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930
Maritime Gloucester is committed to inspiring visitors to value maritime heritage, marine science, and environmental stewardship through hands-on education and experiences. Since the early 2000's, Maritime Gloucester has rotated exhibits & experiences that highlight the rich history and culture of the area, and offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the Northern Massachusetts waterfront through different lenses.
Photo: Visit North of BostonReal Pirates Salem
CHARLOTTE FORTEN PARK, 285 DERBY ST #5, SALEM, MA 01970
The family-friendly Real Pirates Salem experience features the true tale of “Black Sam” Bellamy and Maria Hallett, the love of his life and so-called “Witch of Wellfleet.” Visitors can see the world’s only fully authenticated pirate treasure ever discovered retrieved from a wreck more than 300 years ago.
Indoor Activities
Photo: Discovery Museum
Photo: Visit North of BostonIn the Game Peabody
535A LOWELL ST, PEABODY, MA 01960
In the Game Peabody is Northern Massachusetts' most extensive arcade, offering exciting activities for any member of the family. Activities include laser tag, a ropes course, virtual reality, a rock wall, in addition to all the favorite arcade games. With a delicious menu offering bites and drinks, it is easy to lose track of time at In the Game.
Photo: Paul Lyden / North Shore Music Theatre
Photo: Waterpark of New EnglandWater Park of New England
50 FERNCROFT RD, DANVERS, MA 01923
Open year round, Water Park of New England is the perfect one-stop-shop for a fun-filled day for the family. There are plenty of slides and attractions to choose from. For extra fun, guests can enjoy the Dip-In Theater and Parrot’s Perch Play Area, which include jungle gyms, water cannons, kiddie slides, and water-dumping buckets. The Palm Grotto Indoor/Outdoor Spa ensures adults will have just as much fun as the kids.
Outdoor Activities
Photo: Amanda Johnston7 Seas Whale Watch
63 ROGERS STREET, 7 SEAS WHARF, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930
7 Seas Whale Watching has been serving visitors from all over the world for nearly 50 years; guests can get up close and personal with wild marine life in their natural habitat. As part of this family-owned adventure, visitors will see untrained whales and marine life, and each trip is bound to be different and exciting.
Photo: Cider Hill FarmCider Hill Farm
45 FERN AVE, AMESBURY, MA 01913
For three-generations Cider Hill Farm has been a family owned and operated farm that enjoys bringing visitors into the fold not simply as guests, but as an extension of the family. Walking through the orchards, picking peaches, or eating a hot cider donut, time spent at Cider Hill Farm is time spent enjoying the simple pleasures of life with those that mean the most.
Photo: Crystal Allen / @_wicked_aht_ (IG)High Rock Tower Park
30 CIRCUIT AVE, LYNN, MA 01902
At a height of 170 feet, High Rock Tower is less than a mile from the ocean and commands unobstructed views of Boston, Nahant, and Swampscott. Since 2002, this Olmstead designed tower and park have been open to the public for tours and hikes. From the tower's meade telescope, guests can view Saturn's rings and the moon's crater.
Photo: Kimball Farm
Photo: Schooner FameSchooner Fame of Salem
86 WHARF ST, SALEM, MA 01970
At Schooner Fame, sail on a full-scale replica of the first American privateer schooner to get to sea during the War of 1812. Since 2003 Fame cruises have sailed on the Salem Sound, where pirates and men of war have been making history for 400 years. Fame sails from Memorial Day through Halloween from Pickering Wharf Marina in downtown Salem, MA, and is suited for groups of all ages.