Foster parenting is all about creating meaningful moments — sharing laughter, discovering new experiences, and building bonds that last a lifetime.
Luckily, in a city like Boston, you don’t need to spend a lot to make those memories special!
There are plenty of fun, affordable activities designed to bring joy to kids of all ages while offering opportunities for family connection and adventure.From peaceful afternoons in scenic parks to hands-on learning at museums, Boston (and the surrounding area) is full of experiences that are both enriching and budget-friendly.
Whether you’re a foster parent in Massachusetts or simply looking for some great kids activities that won’t break the bank, there’s something here for everyone.
Boston is full of beautiful outdoor areas where families can play, explore, and enjoy nature — without spending much.
These parks and green spaces are perfect for creating joyful moments together, whether you’re having a picnic, going for a walk, or just letting the kids burn off some energy.
Outdoor adventures are especially great when the weather is warm — in fact, Massachusetts features fantastic summer activities for families.
In addition to summer fun, many of these spots offer seasonal events and activities that are completely free!
Looking for a perfect family day that won't break the bank? Boston Common, America's oldest public park, awaits!
This open space is ideal for playing catch, having a picnic, or just letting the kids run free. Right across the street, the Public Garden feels like stepping into a storybook with its beautiful bridges and colorful flowers.
Your little ones will love riding the iconic Swan Boats ($4.75 for adults, $3.25 for children), and don't miss the Frog Pond — it's a splash zone in summer and transforms into a magical ice skating rink in winter (priced at just a small fee).
Pack your sense of adventure and hop aboard a ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands.
Kids will have a blast exploring Fort Warren on Georges Island. Imagine their excitement as they discover secret tunnels and learn about history in the most engaging way possible.
The ferry ride itself is part of the fun, with amazing views of Boston that'll have everyone taking pictures. You can also get $10 off the ferry ride cost as a Massachusetts resident with this link.
Pro parent tip: Pack a lunch and sunscreen for a full day of budget-friendly exploration.
The Charles River Esplanade has everything families need — playgrounds for the little ones, plenty of space to run around, and paths perfect for walks or bike rides.
During summer, you can enjoy free concerts while the kids dance to the music, or join family yoga sessions. It's an ideal spot to spread out a blanket, enjoy a packed lunch, and watch boats row and sail by as your children play.
South Boston's Castle Island delivers a full day of family fun without costing a penny to enter.
Your budding historians will love exploring Fort Independence — offering free tours on summer weekends — while the playground nearby is perfect for burning off extra energy.
The paths around the harbor are great for strollers, and when hunger strikes, Sullivan's serves up kid-friendly favorites like hot dogs and ice cream at reasonable prices.
Discover a peaceful sanctuary where your children can connect with nature at the Arnold Arboretum.
This free outdoor wonderland offers endless opportunities for exploration — from counting different types of trees to watching for birds and butterflies. Why not make it extra fun with a nature scavenger hunt?
The Arboretum welcomes families year-round, offering new discoveries in every season — from spring flowers to crunchy fall leaves.
Part of Boston's beautiful Emerald Necklace, Franklin Park is a family paradise that fits any budget.
Your kids will love the playgrounds and open spaces perfect for family games. Throughout the year, you can join free community events that bring the neighborhood together.
Planning a special day? Check out the Franklin Park Zoo — Massachusetts residents can often get discounted tickets, making it an affordable way to create lasting family memories for animal lovers.
The zoo also offers free admission to students on the first and second Sundays of each month until January 2026!
Welcome to the Rose Kennedy Greenway — a winding ribbon of park through downtown Boston that offers an abundance of free entertainment for families.
On warm days, watch your little ones splash in the fountains. Food trucks offer affordable treats and cuisine from around the world, perfect for trying new flavors.
Keep an eye out for free events like markets and performances — there's always something exciting happening here for families to enjoy together.
Boston is home to some of the best museums in the country, and many of them offer affordable ways for families to learn, explore, and have fun together.
From interactive exhibits to hands-on science experiments, these spots offer something for every age — and many have free or discounted admission days to help stretch your budget further.
Here are some of the best museums and educational spots for foster families in Boston.
The Boston Children's Museum is a wonderland for kids of all ages, packed with hands-on exhibits and interactive play areas.
From exploring the giant climbing structure to learning through science experiments and art workshops, this museum offers endless fun.
The $1 Sunday afternoons program is one of the most budget-friendly ways to experience this beloved attraction.
The New England Aquarium is a must-visit for families with kids who love marine life!
While regular admission can be a bit steep, many Massachusetts libraries offer discount passes that make the experience more affordable — even free in some cases. Also, residents of Massachusetts get $5 off regular admission price.
Highlights include the massive ocean tank, playful sea lions, and hands-on tidepool touch tanks where kids can gently interact with sea stars and hermit crabs.
It's a memorable outing that's both educational and fun!
The Harvard Museum of Natural History is full of fascinating exhibits, from shimmering gemstones to life-sized dinosaur skeletons.
Free admission for Massachusetts residents on Sundays from 9 AM to noon makes it a great budget-friendly choice for families.
Kids will love the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, while adults appreciate the museum's stunning glass flower collection and biodiversity displays.
The MIT Museum blends science, art, and technology into a fascinating experience for curious minds.
Kids can engage with interactive robotics exhibits, optical illusions, and kinetic sculptures that inspire creativity and innovation.
Admission is affordable, and the museum often hosts workshops and events specifically designed for young visitors.
Located in the historic Charlestown Navy Yard, the USS Constitution Museum offers an interactive glimpse into life aboard a historic naval ship.
Admission is by donation, making it a flexible option for families on a budget. Kids can explore exciting exhibits, learn about maritime history, and even try hoisting a sail or firing a (simulated) cannon!
Afterward, visit the nearby USS Constitution itself — the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world.
Boston shines with family-friendly events throughout the year — many of which are free or come with a very low price tag.
From outdoor movies to community festivals, these activities are perfect for creating fun memories without stretching your budget.
Keep an eye on seasonal calendars, as many of these events pop up annually and offer something new each time.
The Boston Public Library offers more than just books — it's a hub for free, family-friendly programming all year long.
You'll find storytimes for younger children, craft workshops, and even live performances designed to engage kids of all ages.
Many branches also offer free educational events, homework help, and cultural celebrations, making this a fantastic (and free!) resource for foster families looking for enriching activities.
Every summer, the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade hosts Free Friday Flicks — an outdoor movie series perfect for families.
Bring a blanket, pack some snacks, and enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars. It's a relaxed, no-cost way to end the week and experience a little bit of Boston's summer magic!
If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, Shakespeare on the Common offers free outdoor theater performances during the summer months.
It's a fun way to introduce kids to classic literature in a laid-back, open-air setting. Bring a picnic dinner, spread out on the lawn, and enjoy an evening of live theater that's completely free.
On select weekends, Newbury Street transforms into a pedestrian-only haven filled with live music, family-friendly activities, and pop-up performances.
While window shopping can be fun on its own, the real highlight for families is the festive atmosphere and free entertainment lining the street. It's a great way to explore one of Boston's most iconic neighborhoods without spending much.
Held every October, the Boston Book Festival brings together authors, illustrators, and book lovers for a full day of free events and workshops.
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities, including storytimes, workshops, and opportunities for children to meet their favorite authors. It's an inspiring way to encourage reading and creativity without any admission cost.
For kids who love animals, Boston offers plenty of opportunities to meet furry, feathered, and scaly friends!
These spots combine fun and education, giving foster families the chance to learn about wildlife while making unforgettable memories.
Plus, many of these places offer discounted tickets or free admission days to help keep outings affordable.
Operated by Mass Audubon, Drumlin Farm offers a blend of farm life and wildlife exploration.
Kids can meet farm animals like sheep, goats, and cows, while also spotting native wildlife on the sanctuary's scenic trails. Admission is free for Mass Audubon members, and discounted rates are available for families through library passes.
Seasonal events, like sheep-shearing festivals or harvest weekends, provide extra fun at little to no additional cost.
It’s an ideal way to spend an afternoon with kids who love animals!
Located just outside Boston in Stoneham, the Stone Zoo is smaller than Franklin Park Zoo but still packed with excitement.
Families can see black bears, jaguars, and even flamingos, all in a walkable setting that's perfect for younger kids. Like its sister zoo, discounted tickets are available through local libraries or with family membership deals.
During the holidays, don't miss the ZooLights event — an affordable way to experience dazzling holiday displays.
Boston's rich history offers many opportunities for families to explore the past together — often at little to no cost.
From interactive museums to historic landmarks, these activities help kids connect with stories that shaped the city and the country. Many of these experiences are designed to make history come alive in a fun, memorable way.
Here are some of the best budget-friendly historical and cultural activities for foster families in Boston.
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking path that connects 16 historical sites, including the Paul Revere House, Faneuil Hall, and the Old North Church.
Guided tours are available for a fee, or families can easily download a free map and enjoy a self-guided adventure at their own pace. It's a fun way for kids to learn about American history while getting some fresh air and exercise.
Along the way, stop for a picnic or explore one of the many parks scattered throughout the trail.
Located in Charlestown, the Bunker Hill Monument commemorates one of the first major battles of the American Revolution.
Admission to the monument is free, and climbing the 294 steps to the top offers kids a sense of accomplishment — and a fantastic view of the city.
The nearby museum, also free, features exhibits that bring the history of the battle to life with artifacts and interactive displays.
Step back in time with a visit to the Paul Revere House, Boston's oldest surviving structure.
Admission is budget-friendly, with discounted rates for children and families. Inside, kids can explore the home of one of America's most famous patriots and learn about life in colonial Boston.
The house also offers family-friendly events throughout the year, including hands-on history days with interactive activities.
Boston has plenty of indoor activities that are just as exciting as outdoor adventures — especially on rainy days or during the colder months.
These fun, budget-friendly spots offer hands-on learning, creative play, and opportunities for kids to burn off energy without breaking the bank.
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Somerville is every LEGO lover's dream, with interactive rides, a 4D cinema, and creative building stations.
While general admission can be pricey, keep an eye out for discounts on their website, and check if your local library offers discounted passes.
The indoor play zones are perfect for younger kids, and the MINILAND display — a LEGO replica of Boston — will amaze visitors of all ages!
For a laid-back, cozy indoor activity, head to Knight Moves Café, Boston's first board game café.
For a small fee, families can access a huge library of board games — perfect for kids of all ages. The friendly staff is always available to help explain the rules, and the café offers snacks and drinks at reasonable prices.
It's a fun way to spend an afternoon together without screens, encouraging teamwork and creativity.
Creating meaningful experiences for foster children doesn't have to strain your budget — and you don't have to do it alone.
Mentor Foster Care’s dedicated team serves families throughout the state with locations in:
Reach out to us today!