Astronaut Steve Bowen speaking at Children's Museum Boston

Boston Children'S Museum

Boston Children’s Museum Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Boston Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Boston Children’s Museum stands as a beacon for family-friendly learning and cultural enrichment in the heart of Boston’s Seaport District. Founded in 1913, it is the second-oldest children’s museum in the world and has been a pioneer in hands-on, experiential education for over a century (Boston Children’s Museum: About). The museum’s mission revolves around fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through interactive exhibits and inclusive programming that welcome children and families of all backgrounds. This guide provides up-to-date information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby historical sites, ensuring that your visit to Boston Children’s Museum is both smooth and memorable.

Astronaut Steve Bowen pointing to Boston city from space to a visitor at Boston Children's Museum

Boston Children's Museum building in Boston, Massachusetts with inflatable Arthur the Aardvark on the roof

History of Boston Children’s Museum
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Museum Layout and Accessibility
Highlight Exhibits
Special Programs and Events
Practical Visitor Tips
Nearby Boston Historical Sites
Transportation and Parking
Health and Safety
Membership and Group Visits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit
References

History of Boston Children’s Museum

Founding and Early Vision (1913–1930s)

The museum was established in 1913 in Jamaica Plain by educators from the Science Teachers’ Bureau, aiming to enhance science education through practical, hands-on learning (Boston Children’s Museum: History). Early leadership, notably curator Delia Griffin, emphasized training children to observe and think critically. Instead of static displays, the museum invited children to interact with nature, prepare specimens, and build models, setting a precedent for immersive learning.

Growth, Relocation, and Influence (1940s–1970s)

In response to growing attendance and evolving educational philosophies, the museum moved to 308 Congress Street in the Seaport District in 1979, transforming a wool warehouse into an innovative learning space (Trolley Tours: Boston Children’s Museum). The museum pioneered tactile, object-based exhibits, encouraging children to touch and experiment—a model that inspired children’s museums worldwide (Britannica: Mind over Matter).

Educational Innovation and Milestones

Boston Children’s Museum introduced groundbreaking features such as “PlaySpace” for infants and toddlers, and the three-story “New Balance Climb” in its lobby (BostonCentral). The museum’s multicultural focus is exemplified by the authentic 100-year-old Japanese house, “Kyo-no-Machiya,” brought from Kyoto (Boston Children’s Museum: Exhibits). Its vast collection of over 50,000 objects supports global cultural awareness (Mommy Poppins).

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Accessibility and inclusion are central to the museum’s philosophy. Initiatives include wheelchair access, sensory-friendly tools, quiet rooms, and programming that reflects Boston’s diverse communities (Condé Nast Traveler). The museum also offers free educator-designed afterschool activities and online resources, broadening its impact (Boston Children’s Museum: Beyond the Chalkboard).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Standard Hours

Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Extended Hours: Thursdays until 8:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and major holidays (verify on the official website)

Ticket Prices

Adults (18+): $18
Children (1–15): $18
Seniors (65+): $15
Children under 1 year: Free
Discounts: Available for military personnel, groups, and Boston residents (Boston Children’s Museum Tickets)

Discounted and Free Admission

$1 Sundays: $1 admission on Sunday afternoons (Upparent – Free Museum Days)
Library Passes: Many local libraries offer discounted passes.
Boston Family Days: Free admission for Boston school-aged children and families on select Sundays (Boston.gov)

Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

Museum Layout and Accessibility

Structure

The museum’s three public floors are accessible by elevators and stairs, with wide corridors for strollers and wheelchairs. The main entrance opens into a welcoming lobby, leading directly to the core exhibits. A glass bridge connects the building to Boston Harborwalk, offering scenic views (Wikipedia – Building).

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-accessible: Adult and child wheelchairs available free at the Admissions Desk
Sensory-friendly: Noise-reducing headphones, sensory resources, quiet rooms, and low-sensory hours (Museum Accessibility)
Large print maps: Available at the Information Desk or for download
Assistive listening devices: For theater programs and tours
Morningstar Access: Pre-registered low-crowd hours for children with medical or sensory needs
Pre-visit guides: Social stories for children who benefit from visual schedules

Highlight Exhibits

New Balance Climb

A visually stunning three-story climbing structure that encourages physical activity, risk assessment, and fun for children (supervision required for younger kids).

Kyo-no-Machiya (Japanese House)

An authentic, 100-year-old Kyoto townhouse reconstructed inside the museum, offering immersive cultural experiences and insights into traditional Japanese life.

Science Playground

Hands-on exploration of water, light, air, and simple machines to nurture curiosity and early STEM skills.

Dinos In Space

Combining dinosaur adventures and space exploration, this exhibit sparks both creativity and scientific inquiry in children ages 4–8.

Additional Notable Exhibits

Kid Power: Focus on health and fitness
Art Studio: Rotating art projects
Construction Zone: Building with real tools
Peep’s World: Science for preschoolers
Bubbles: Interactive exploration of bubble science
Explore-a-Saurus: Dinosaur fossils and paleontology
Countdown to Kindergarten: Literacy and social skills for school readiness
PlaySpace: Safe play for infants and toddlers
STEAM Lab: Science and art workshops

For a full list of exhibits, visit the Exhibits page.

Special Programs and Events

Boston Children’s Museum offers a robust calendar of workshops, educator-designed activities, and seasonal celebrations. Group tours and tailored educational programs can be reserved in advance. For up-to-date schedules, visit the museum’s calendar.

Practical Visitor Tips

Arrive early for smaller crowds, particularly on weekdays.
Dress comfortably; many exhibits involve climbing and hands-on activities.
Stroller policy: Strollers are allowed, with parking areas available.
Restrooms and nursing rooms: Family facilities are located on each floor.
Food and drink: Outside food is not permitted, but the Hood Milk Bottle snack bar and nearby Seaport restaurants offer refreshments.
Gift shop: Located on the ground floor for souvenirs and educational toys.

Nearby Boston Historical Sites

Boston Children’s Museum is centrally located for exploring many of Boston’s top attractions:

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: Interactive Revolutionary War history
New England Aquarium: Marine exhibits and whale watching
Martin’s Park: Inclusive playground across the street
Old State House: Historic government site
Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Shops and eateries in a historic setting
Boston Harborwalk: Adjacent scenic trail

(Time Out Boston)

Transportation and Parking

Public Transit: MBTA Red Line (South Station) and Silver Line (Courthouse Station) are both within a 10-minute walk (Wikipedia – Location).
Parking: Several paid garages and lots nearby; street parking is metered and limited.
Biking: Bike racks available near the entrance.

Health and Safety

The museum adheres to rigorous cleaning and safety protocols. Hand sanitizing stations are provided throughout, and visitor numbers may be limited during special access hours (Boston Children’s Museum – Accessibility).

Membership and Group Visits

Membership: Includes unlimited free admission, program discounts, and special member events.
Group Visits: Field trips and group tours require advance booking and come with additional resources for teachers (Boston Children’s Museum – Calendar).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Boston Children’s Museum hours?
A: Typically Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Check the official website for holiday hours.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: $18 for adults and children (1–15), $15 for seniors, free for children under 1 and members. Discounts and $1 Sundays available.

Q: Is the museum accessible for children with special needs?
A: Yes, with wheelchairs, sensory-friendly tools, quiet spaces, and Morningstar Access.

Q: Are strollers allowed?
A: Yes, with designated parking areas.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Paid garages and lots are nearby; public transit is recommended.

Q: Does the museum offer free or discounted admission days?
A: Yes, including $1 Sunday afternoons and library passes.

Q: Can I bring food or drinks?
A: Outside food is not allowed; snacks are available at the Hood Milk Bottle.

Planning Your Visit

For the most up-to-date information on hours, tickets, special programs, and accessibility, visit the official Boston Children’s Museum website. Download the Audiala app for guided tours, interactive maps, and exclusive deals to enhance your Boston adventure. Stay connected on social media for updates, event announcements, and insider tips.

Summary

Boston Children’s Museum is a landmark institution that merges play, education, and cultural exploration in a welcoming environment for all families. With its innovative exhibits, inclusive practices, and proximity to Boston’s historic sites, the museum is an essential stop for anyone seeking meaningful family experiences in the city. Plan ahead, take advantage of special programs, and enjoy a day of discovery in the heart of Boston.