25 Things To Do on an MLK Weekend Staycation in Boston

1/10/17 - By Elyse Andrews

With winter break just behind us and February break coming up next month, you may be sticking close to home for the long weekend associated with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 16. But just because you aren’t traveling doesn’t mean your long weekend can’t feel like a vacation. We've rounded up 25 family-friendly activities that are sure to make your Boston staycation extra fun. And if you’re looking for MLK Day-specific events, check out our post on what's happening around the city.

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  1. Catch some of your kids’ favorite stories on the big screen at the Belmont World Film Family Festival. This year’s this theme is "Where Books Come Alive."
  2. Get some fresh air and exercise when the whole family explores 50 acres of paths and open spaces at Gore Place on snowshoes.
  3. The Coolidge Corner Theatre presents a monthly movie just for kids at a special time and January’s is the classic Fantastic Mr. Fox (Saturday).
  4. We recently held our Boston Bestie Awards at the Boston Fire Museum and it was a fantastic place to visit ​(open Saturday only). Kids will love the all of the real firefighting equipment on display.
  5. Instead of turning your living room into an obstacle course, take the kids to one of these local gyms that offer Little Ninja Warriors the chance to practice on obstacles made just for them.
  6. We might not have much snow in Boston yet this year, but outside the city, the white stuff is piling up. Enjoy it on a cozy, old-fashioned sleigh ride.
  7. Embrace winter when you take the whole family ice skating. Visit one of Boston’s many outdoor rinks, or save some cash when you visit one of these rinks where skating is totally free!
  8. Grab lunch or a snack from one of the terrific local vendors at the Boston Public Market. Don’t miss the kids’ playspace and the many special events held at the market just for kids.
  9. Bring the kids to Club Passim in Cambridge for the "Dayfest" part of the Boston Celtic Music Festival on Saturday. There will be songs, storytelling and other performances.
  10. Get outside for some fresh air and beautiful scenery when you visit one of these eight local spots that are made for wintertime walks.
  11. Stay active with your kids when you bring little ones to a fitness or yoga class that’s designed for mom and baby. Or take older kids to a yoga class of their own.
  12. Just because you decided to stay in town for the long weekend doesn’t mean you can’t venture out a little bit. Head to Salem for museums, family-friendly food or even a show.
  13. Make breakfast an adventure when you visit one of these kid-friendly spots in Somerville and Cambridge.
  14. The show Word Play makes words come alive through the magic of clowning and puppetry.
  15. Celebrate Chinese New Year at the Franklin Park Zoo. Check out traditional lion dances, which are said to bring good luck.
  16. Take to new heights when you visit one of Boston’s many indoor rock climbing gyms.
  17. Whether you prefer candlepin or ten-pin there’s a bowling alley in or near Boston that’s perfect for all ages.
  18. Enjoy Dr. Seuss' most beloved stories in a musical format adapted especially for young audiences at Seussical.
  19. Explore the city by train. We’ve got guides on the best stops for kids on the Red Line, Orange Line, Blue Line and Green Line.
  20. Visit the beautiful Boston Public Library for storytime, playtime, a movie, music or other kid-appropriate event.
  21. LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Assembly Row in Somerville is the perfect place to visit during the winter. Get inspired by the amazing MINILAND display of Boston before creating your own masterpiece.
  22. When the weather outside is frightful, we love heading to an indoor playspace to burn some energy and play with other kids. Here are our favorite spots north and south of Boston.
  23. Pretend it’s already spring at one of these gorgeous indoor gardens in or near Boston.
  24. Check out the BeanStalk Adventure Ropes Course tucked inside the entrance of the Jordan’s in Reading. It’s a true hidden gem for Boston families.
  25. Visit the Boston Children's Museum to celebrate the Japanese New Year (pictured) with Taiko drums, Mochi pounding and lion dances.

Image courtesy of Boston Children's Museum.

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