Easy and Fun Things To Do With Your Baby

1. Boston Public Garden Swan Boats – Beacon Hill

A classic for a reason. The gentle ride, water reflections, and slow pace are soothing for babies, while parents get a true “Boston moment.” Strollers park easily at the dock, and the ride is short enough to fit between naps. It feels special without turning into a whole production. We suggest going on a weekday morning and entering from the Arlington Street side to avoid crowds and uneven paths.

2. Ringgold Playground – South End

This playground has wide paths, shaded benches, and a fenced-in feel, making it ideal for baby carriers and early walkers. It’s especially good for meeting other parents during weekday mornings. It’s an easy win on days when leaving the house feels like a lot. There’s usually a cluster of caregivers mid-morning, making this an easy place for first baby playdates.

3. Jamaica Pond Loop – Jamaica Plain

The flat, stroller-friendly path around the pond is perfect for babies who love movement. Ducks, sailboats, and joggers provide just enough stimulation without overload. It reliably resets everyone’s mood, baby included. Insider tip: Park near the boathouse side for the smoothest stroller push and nearby bathrooms.

4. Seaport Lawn on D  – Seaport

Open green space with room for tummy time on a blanket and easy stroller access. Parents appreciate the nearby cafes and clean public restrooms. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy a morning outside. Insider tip: Weekday mornings are less crowded, making it easier for babies to explore.

5. Charles River Esplanade Playground – Back Bay

The paths along the river are smooth and wide, and the nearby playground offers sensory-friendly areas for little ones. Early mornings are calm and nap-friendly. On warm days, we recommend bringing a blanket for a mini picnic and quiet play.

There are so many events and activities around Boston for babies and little ones. Photo courtesy of the BPL

Sanity-Saving Activities for Parents

6. Little Groove Music Classes – Multiple Locations

These baby music classes are engaging without being overstimulating. Babies respond to rhythm and repetition, while parents get a structured reason to get out of the house. 

7. Boston Public Library Baby Storytime – Multiple Branches

Free baby-friendly activities that feel welcoming and relaxed. Babies can babble and crawl, and librarians are pros at keeping things flexible. It’s a good low-stress outing. Make sure to check branch schedules in advance; some storytimes fill up quickly.

8. Play Union – South End

An indoor play space designed with babies and toddlers in mind. Soft structures, clean facilities, and good coffee nearby make this a parent favorite. It’s easy to spend an hour here without stress. 

Indoor Activities for Babies

9. Boston Children’s Museum – Fort Point

The PlaySpace is designed specifically for babies and toddlers, with soft surfaces and simple sensory experiences. Weekday mornings are the calmest. It’s great when timed right, especially first thing in the morning. When your little ones start to get hungry, pop into Little Cocoa Bean for some tasty food in a kid-welcoming space.

10. New England Aquarium – Central Wharf

Dark lighting, glowing tanks, and slow movement make this surprisingly soothing for babies. The jellyfish exhibit is a standout. It’s one of the rare big attractions that actually works with a baby. Babywearing is easier than a stroller here, especially near the penguins.

11. Museum of Science – Science Park

Great for babies with older siblings. The museum offers lots of visual and interactive stimulation — babies will love staring up at the giant globe and lights. 

12. KidSpa at The Little Lovage Club – Brookline

A gentle sensory experience focused on touch and movement. It’s short, contained, and perfect for babies who enjoy new textures. 

13. Baby Yoga at Boston Yoga Union, Coolidge Corner – Brookline

Low-pressure classes that focus on bonding, stretching, and calm interaction. Great for encouraging tummy time. Pro tip: feed your baby before the class so they stay engaged longer!

Outdoor Activities for Babies

14. Arnold Arboretum – Jamaica Plain

Wide paved paths, seasonal blooms, and quiet corners make this a favorite for stroller walks. Spring and fall are especially lovely. It’s the kind of place parents end up returning to over and over. Insider tip: The Peters Hill area is quieter and great for nap-time walks.

15. Drumlin Farm – Lincoln

A working farm with gentle animals, wide paths, and stroller-friendly trails. Babies love watching goats, chickens, and the seasonal changes. Go early for feeding time — it's short, engaging, and stroller-friendly.

16. Castle Island Paths – South Boston

Flat, scenic, and breezy. Babies love watching planes and boats, while parents appreciate the predictable walking loop.

17. Magazine Beach Park – Cambridge

A peaceful riverside spot with wide paths and shaded areas. Ideal for morning walks and low-key outdoor time.

18. Franklin Park Zoo Stroller Routes – Dorchester

Stick to the main paths for a manageable outing. Babies are often mesmerized by giraffes and birds. 

19. Artesani Playground Splash Area – Brighton

A gentle splash pad area where babies can safely observe or participate with support.

Get out in Boston with the top things to do with your baby! Spectacle Island photo courtesy of Boston Harbor Now

Quirky & Unexpected Baby Outings in Boston

20. MIT Stata Center Outdoor Walk – Cambridge

The wild angles, bright colors, and unexpected shapes feel like visual sensory play for babies. Parents get a mini architecture fix without committing to a full museum visit. This works best as a stroller walk loop rather than a long stay.

21. Harvard Museum of Natural History Glass Flowers – Cambridge

Surprisingly calming for babies who love color and detail. The room is quiet, slow-paced, and visually rich without noise or flashing lights. 

22. Boston Athenaeum Children’s Library Floor – Beacon Hill

A hidden gem for babies who enjoy calm spaces and board books. It feels special and hushed, which many babies actually respond well to. Make sure to check access policies in advance, as hours can vary.

23. Spectacle Island Boat Ride – Boston Harbor

The boat ride itself is the main event for babies: wind, water, and motion. Parents can keep the visit short and still feel like they did something memorable. 

Seasonal Fun for Babies

24. Winter: Boston Common Frog Pond Lights – Downtown

Short evening walks with glowing lights are surprisingly engaging for babies bundled up in carriers.

25. Spring: Public Garden Bloom Walks – Beacon Hill

Babies love color contrast, and the spring flowers deliver. Easy to combine with a coffee stop.

26. Summer: Artesani Playground Splash Area – Brighton

Safe splash pad play, short enough to stay fun without meltdowns.

27. Fall: Apple Picking at Lookout Farm – Natick

Wide paths, animals, and short tractor rides make this one of the best baby outings outside the city.

Baby Activities in Boston FAQ

Q: What are the best things to do with a baby in Boston?
A: Indoor and outdoor classes, parks, splash pads, storytimes, baby gyms, and curated seasonal activities offer engaging experiences for both babies and parents.

Q: Where can parents find free baby-friendly activities in Boston?
A: Libraries, community centers, and local parks often host free baby storytimes, music classes, and seasonal events.

Q: What indoor activities work well for babies in Boston?
A: Baby gyms, yoga classes, museums with toddler-friendly exhibits, and sensory play workshops are perfect for rainy or cold days.

Q: What outdoor activities are best for babies in Boston?
A: Stroller walks, splash pads, botanical gardens, and petting farms provide fresh air and gentle stimulation.

Q: How can parents make baby outings easier?
A: Look for stroller-friendly locations, schedule around nap times, pack essentials like snacks and diapers, and pick activities with amenities like changing stations or nearby restrooms.