Kid-Friendly Cambridge

The Harvard Museum of Natural History holds endless fascination for children. It shares a building with the Botanical Museum, the Museum of Comparative Zoology and the Mineralogical and Geological Museum (admission covers all). But the Natural History Museum is what kids usually like best, specifically the Great Mammal Hall, filled to the brim with every animal you can think of, and some you probably have never even heard of.

On the weekends you may be able to catch a family program or story hour. Check with the museum for times. It will take less than 10 minutes to get to your next stop, but stop to admire some of the historic Harvard buildings along the way.

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Address: 26 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-495-3045
Admission: Adults $12, Non-Harvard Students with ID $10, Seniors (65+) $10, Children 3-18 $8
Hours: Open daily 9:00am – 5:00pm

For some running around time, the Alexander W. Kemp Playground has excellent climbing structures, swings and an area for tiny tots. As you make your way to the Curious George & Friends bookstore, you'll surely get distracted by window shopping. There are several shops to peek at as you stroll.

If it’s nice outside, Harvard Square can’t be beat for people-watching. Combine it with outdoor dining or an ice cream cone and you’ve got a winning combo.

There’s any number of spots to eat at, but a couple are super family-friendly. The Hi-Rise Bread Co. has a lovely shaded patio where you can enjoy delicious sandwiches made with artisanal bread.

For some history, head to the Longfellow National Historical Site. It may sound dry, but kids can have a lot of fun here.

The site is run by the National Park Service, so this is one place where they can earn a Junior Ranger badge. Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet, clipboard and pencil at the desk (two versions are offered, one for 5- to 8-year-olds and one for 9- to 12-year-olds), then take a tour of the house and grounds and complete the puzzles and activities in the booklet to earn a badge.

You’ll learn that the site was the home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, one of the world’s foremost 19th century poets, and it was headquarters for Gen. George Washington during the Siege of Boston, July 1775-April 1776.

Wander through the Harvard University Campus. Founded in 1636, there is plenty of gorgeous architecture to look at and if you’re really ambitious, you can take a free student-led tour.

End the day with gourmet cupcakes at Sweet, which blow most cupcakes right out of the water. You can eat in the shop or take your treat to go.