The Best Area To Stay In Boston With Family
Boston is one of America’s most historic and family-friendly cities. With world-class museums, parks, and attractions, as well as quiet, safe neighborhoods, it has something for visitors of all ages.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: the best area to stay in Boston with family is Beacon Hill. Its central location, walkability, and charming brownstones make it an ideal home base.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the top neighborhoods to consider when visiting Boston with kids and provide an overview of what each area offers in terms of attractions, dining, safety, affordability, and more.
Beacon Hill
When it comes to finding the best area to stay in Boston with your family, Beacon Hill is an excellent choice. This historic neighborhood offers a unique blend of charm, convenience, and family-friendly attractions that make it a top pick for families visiting the city.
Central Location and Walkability
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Beacon Hill is its central location. Situated in the heart of Boston, this neighborhood provides easy access to many of the city’s popular attractions. Families can take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Boston Common or explore the vibrant downtown area.
The neighborhood’s walkability makes it convenient for families with young children or those who prefer to explore the city on foot.
Historic Charm
Beacon Hill is known for its historic charm, with its picturesque cobblestone streets, red brick buildings, and gas-lit lanterns. Families will feel like they’ve stepped back in time as they wander through this charming neighborhood.
The historic architecture and well-preserved buildings add a touch of elegance and beauty to the area, creating a unique atmosphere that is sure to enchant visitors of all ages.
Parks and Green Space
Despite being located in the heart of a bustling city, Beacon Hill offers plenty of green space and parks for families to enjoy. The nearby Boston Common and Public Garden are perfect for picnicking, playing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll.
These green oases provide a welcome break from the urban environment and offer a chance for families to connect with nature.
Family-Friendly Attractions
In addition to its central location and historic charm, Beacon Hill is also home to a variety of family-friendly attractions. Families can visit the Museum of African American History to learn about the rich history and culture of African Americans in Boston.
The nearby Massachusetts State House offers guided tours and a chance to learn about the state’s government. For a fun and educational experience, families can also visit the Boston Children’s Museum, located just a short distance from Beacon Hill.
Dining and Cafes
When it comes to dining options, Beacon Hill has no shortage of fantastic restaurants and charming cafes. Families can enjoy a wide range of cuisines, from classic New England seafood to international flavors.
The neighborhood is known for its cozy cafes and bakeries, where families can grab a quick snack or indulge in a delicious dessert. Whether you’re looking for a casual family-friendly restaurant or a more upscale dining experience, Beacon Hill has something to satisfy every palate.
Back Bay
When it comes to finding the best area to stay in Boston with family, Back Bay is a top choice. This neighborhood is known for its picturesque streets, historic brownstones, and charming atmosphere. Here are some reasons why Back Bay is the perfect place for a family vacation:
Upscale Shops and Restaurants
Back Bay is home to some of the city’s most upscale shops and restaurants. From designer boutiques to high-end department stores, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll down Newbury Street, known for its trendy shops and cozy cafes.
And when hunger strikes, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants serving up delicious cuisine.
Architecture and Public Gardens
The architecture in Back Bay is truly a sight to behold. The neighborhood is filled with stunning Victorian brownstones and elegant townhouses. One of the highlights is the iconic Trinity Church, a masterpiece of Romanesque Revival architecture.
Families can also explore the beautiful public gardens, including the world-famous Boston Public Garden, with its iconic swan boats and lush greenery.
Proximity to Attractions
Back Bay is conveniently located near many of Boston’s top attractions. Families can easily walk to popular destinations such as the Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and the Museum of Fine Arts. The neighborhood is also well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
Safety
Safety is always a top priority when traveling with family, and Back Bay is known for being a safe and family-friendly neighborhood. The streets are well-lit and patrolled by police, giving parents peace of mind as they explore the area with their children.
Luxury Accommodations
Back Bay offers a range of luxury accommodations that are perfect for families. From boutique hotels to spacious apartments, there’s something to suit every family’s needs. Many of these accommodations come with family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools, play areas, and concierge services.
North End
The North End is considered one of the best areas to stay in Boston with family due to its old-world charm and family-friendly atmosphere. This historic neighborhood is known for its narrow streets, brick buildings, and iconic landmarks.
Walking through the North End feels like stepping back in time, making it a unique and memorable experience for families visiting Boston.
Old World Charm
The North End is rich in history and boasts some of the oldest buildings in the city. Families can explore the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful architecture that dates back to the 18th century.
The neighborhood’s historic charm creates a picturesque backdrop for family walks and photo opportunities.
Kid-Friendly Activities
The North End offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families with children. The Paul Revere House and the Old North Church are popular attractions that provide educational experiences for kids.
The nearby Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park offers a playground and splash pad, providing a fun and safe place for children to play.
Italian Cuisine
The North End is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, making it a great place for families who love food. The neighborhood is home to numerous Italian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes where families can enjoy authentic dishes such as pizza, pasta, and cannoli.
From fine dining to casual eateries, there is something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Affordability
Despite its prime location and historical significance, the North End offers a range of affordable accommodation options for families. There are numerous hotels, vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts that cater to families, providing comfortable and affordable lodging options.
Access to Public Transportation
The North End is conveniently located near public transportation options, making it easy for families to explore the rest of Boston. The neighborhood is within walking distance of several subway stations, allowing families to easily access popular attractions such as the Boston Common, Fenway Park, and the Museum of Science.
Cambridge
When it comes to finding the best area to stay in Boston with your family, look no further than Cambridge. This charming city, located just across the Charles River from downtown Boston, offers a range of attractions and amenities that make it an ideal choice for families.
Top Schools and Museums
Cambridge is home to some of the top schools and museums in the country, making it a perfect place for families with children. Institutions like Harvard University and MIT are not only renowned for their academic excellence, but they also offer a wealth of educational opportunities for visitors.
From the Harvard Museum of Natural History to the MIT Museum, there are countless opportunities to expand your knowledge and engage in hands-on learning experiences.
Riverfront Parks
One of the major highlights of Cambridge is its beautiful riverfront parks. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along the Charles River Esplanade, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
There are also plenty of picnic areas, playgrounds, and open spaces where kids can run around and play. Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing day by the water!
Diverse Culture
Cambridge is known for its diverse and vibrant culture. With a thriving arts scene, numerous festivals, and a wide range of international restaurants, there’s always something exciting happening in this city.
Families can explore different cuisines, attend cultural events, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Cambridge’s multicultural community.
Apartment Rentals
One of the advantages of staying in Cambridge is the availability of apartment rentals. Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment or a spacious house, there are plenty of options to suit your family’s needs.
Rental platforms like Airbnb offer a wide range of accommodations, allowing you to find the perfect home away from home during your stay in Boston.
Easy Transportation to Downtown Boston
While Cambridge has its own unique charm, it’s also conveniently located just a short distance from downtown Boston. With easy access to public transportation, including subway and bus lines, getting to the heart of the city is a breeze.
Families can easily explore popular attractions like Fenway Park, the Freedom Trail, and the New England Aquarium without the hassle of driving and parking.
Brookline
If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Boston with your family, look no further than Brookline. This charming suburban neighborhood offers the perfect combination of a suburban feel with urban convenience.
Suburban Feel, Urban Convenience
Brookline provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city while still being just a short distance away from downtown Boston. With its tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and historic buildings, Brookline offers a picturesque setting that is ideal for families.
Parks and Recreation
One of the highlights of Brookline is its abundance of parks and recreational areas. The town is home to several well-maintained parks, including Larz Anderson Park, which offers expansive green spaces, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
The Emerald Necklace, a series of interconnected parks and green spaces, provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking.
Family-Friendly Dining
Brookline is known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide range of family-friendly dining options. From cozy cafes to international cuisines, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, sushi, or a classic American burger, Brookline has it all.
Public Transportation Accessibility
Getting around in Brookline is a breeze, thanks to its excellent public transportation system. The neighborhood is well-served by buses and the MBTA Green Line, making it easy to explore other parts of Boston without the need for a car.
This convenience is especially beneficial for families who want to avoid the hassle of driving and parking in the city.
Safe Neighborhoods
When it comes to safety, Brookline is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Boston. The town has a low crime rate, giving families peace of mind and allowing children to play and explore their surroundings without worry.
The community’s strong sense of community and vigilant neighbors contribute to its overall safety.
Conclusion
With its lively neighborhoods, historical charm, parks and recreational facilities, Boston has something special to offer families of all kinds. We recommend Beacon Hill as the best area to stay for its central location and family-friendly attractions, followed by Back Bay, North End, Cambridge and Brookline as other excellent options.
Wherever you choose, Boston’s walkability, public transportation and range of kid-centric activities make it an outstanding vacation destination the whole family can enjoy.
