Boston’s Best Winter Activities for Families

Whatever city is on your family’s winter travel calendar will have activities and attractions for children, but few can beat Boston for entertaining the whole family, whatever the weather.

Two museums are especially geared to engage children. Boston Children’s Museum is filled with hands-on activities, science experiments and creative play areas. In winter, kids can skate in their socks and play winter games indoors at the Snowmazing Polar Playground at the museum.

At Museum of Science, the whole family will find exhibits that amaze and entertain, while at the same time teaching about nature, chemistry, electricity, the human body, space exploration, aeronautics and a wide range of other sciences.

For a closer look at the natural world of oceans and other watery environments, spend an afternoon at New England Aquarium, where kids can see sharks, giant turtles, penguins, seals and colorful fish from tropical reefs.

Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts offers self-guided Art Connection Activity Cards for kids, following kid-friendly themes encouraging kids to look more closely at art. Themes may include anything from mythical beings to chocolate, and cards are filled with activities and interesting facts to catch the attention of young visitors. Before you go, download the Art Connection Activity Cards or pick them up at the visitor’s desk.

If your Boston trip includes Feb. 18, you’re in luck, as it’s the date of this year’s Chinese New Year Parade. The route begins at Phillips Square, at the corner of Harrison Avenue and Beach Street, about halfway between South Station and Boston Common. You’ll see colorful floats, lion dancers and colorful costumes. There will also be music, fireworks and lots of Chinese food available.