Boston Children’s Museum

About

Boston Children's Museum sits along the Fort Point Channel waterfront, a landmark destination that's been sparking curiosity in young visitors since 1913. It's one of the oldest and largest children's museums in the country, and it remains one of the best.

The museum spans three floors packed with interactive exhibits designed to get kids moving, thinking, and creating. Little ones can climb through a three-story climbing structure, explore a real Japanese house transported from Boston's sister city of Kyoto, or get messy in the Art Studio. The Construction Zone hands kids hard hats and real building materials. KidStage invites young performers to put on costumes and take the spotlight.

What sets Boston Children's Museum apart is its deep commitment to inclusive play. Exhibits are designed with different abilities in mind, and the museum actively develops programming for families who have children with disabilities or special needs. Sensory-friendly resources and accommodations help ensure that every child can participate fully.

The museum is located at 308 Congress Street in the Seaport District. It's reachable by public transit via the South Station stop on the MBTA Red Line, about a 10-minute walk along the waterfront. Paid parking is available in nearby garages, and there's a drop-off area near the entrance.

Plan for at least two to three hours, though many families spend a full half-day. The museum cafe offers kid-friendly meals, and there are places to sit and rest throughout the building. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, which can be a good option for families who prefer a quieter experience.

Admission pricing and hours vary by season, so check the museum's website before your visit. The museum also offers special discounted admission nights. For families planning around accessibility needs, calling ahead can help the staff prepare to make your visit as smooth as possible.

Accessibility

Boston Children's Museum's building and exhibit spaces are wheelchair accessible. The main elevator serves all three floors, providing full access to exhibit areas throughout the museum. The long hallways outside the exhibit spaces on the 2nd and 3rd floors offer room for mobility devices to move comfortably.

The museum offers various programs and resources designed to enhance accessibility and inclusion for visitors with disabilities and other special needs. Staff members, including Visitor Experience Managers, are available on-site to assist families.

The museum has developed sensory-friendly initiatives to support visitors with autism and sensory processing differences. These efforts reflect an ongoing commitment to making the space welcoming for children with a range of needs.

The entrance area accommodates wheelchair users and strollers. Accessible restrooms are available within the building.

For visitors arriving by car, nearby parking garages serve the Seaport District. The museum is roughly a 10-minute walk from South Station on the MBTA Red Line, though sidewalk conditions and distance may vary for mobility device users.

Contact Boston Children's Museum directly at (617) 426-6500 or visit bostonchildrensmuseum.org for current details on accessibility features, sensory-friendly event schedules, and any accommodations you may need for your visit. Staff can help coordinate specific arrangements in advance.

More accessible places in Massachusetts

• Museum of Fine Arts Boston (Boston)
• Boston Symphony Hall (Boston)
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum (Boston)
• Franklin Park Zoo (Boston)
• Museum of Science (Boston)
• New England Aquarium (Boston)