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Massachusetts

Youth Activity Directory

69 youth-friendly activities across Massachusetts — museums, state parks, beaches, nature centers, sports, volunteering, and more.

Fun, Educational, Active, and Meaningful Things for Young People to Do Across Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers young people an incredible variety of ways to explore, learn, stay active, develop new interests, and spend meaningful time with family and friends.

From Boston's museums and historic landmarks to the beaches of Cape Cod, the science centers of Central Massachusetts, and the outdoor adventures of the Berkshires, there is something for nearly every age and interest.

Important notice

Programs, admission prices, hours, age requirements, and registration policies may change. Please visit each organization's official website or contact it directly before making plans. Young people should involve a parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult when appropriate.

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69 of 69

Massachusetts State Parks

Statewide
Free-$$
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Explore beaches, forests, reservations, trails, historic sites, and recreation areas. Activities include hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, boating, camping, nature programs, and winter recreation.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree-$$
Planning note: Fees and hours vary by park. Check the DCR website before visiting.

State Park Programs and Events

Statewide
Free-$
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Join guided walks, nature programs, history presentations, Junior Ranger activities, family programs, and seasonal events at Massachusetts state parks.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Registration may be required for some programs.

Blue Hills Reservation

Milton·Greater Boston
Free
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Hike, bike, enjoy scenic views, and explore nature across more than 100 miles of trails.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Choose trails appropriate for your fitness level. Bring water and sun protection.

Middlesex Fells Reservation

Stoneham / Medford·North of Boston
Free
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Explore a large natural area with hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Trail maps are available online. Some trails are more challenging than others.

Walden Pond State Reservation

Concord·Greater Boston
Free-$
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Swim, walk, explore nature, and learn about author Henry David Thoreau and American literature.

OutdoorAll agesSpring-fallFree-$
Planning note: Parking fills quickly in summer. Swimming is seasonal.

Mount Greylock State Reservation

Lanesborough / Adams·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
Free-$
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Visit the highest point in Massachusetts for hiking, camping, scenic overlooks, and nature exploration.

OutdoorOlder children & teensSpring-fallFree-$
Planning note: Camping requires reservations. Weather can change quickly at elevation.

Bash Bish Falls State Park

Mount Washington·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
Free
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Visit one of Massachusetts' most dramatic waterfalls and explore the surrounding Berkshire landscape.

OutdoorOlder children & teensSpring-fallFree
Planning note: Stay on designated trails. Rocks near the falls can be slippery.

Halibut Point State Park

Rockport·North of Boston
Free-$
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Explore coastal trails, tide pools, rocky shorelines, scenic views, and the remains of a historic granite quarry.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Wear sturdy shoes. Rocks near the water can be slippery.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod·Cape Cod & the Islands
Free-$
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Discover beaches, biking and walking trails, lighthouses, wildlife, and educational ranger programs.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Beach parking fees apply in summer. Ranger programs are seasonal.

Minute Man National Historical Park Trails

Concord / Lincoln / Lexington·Greater Boston
Free
Outdoor Adventures & State Parks

Walk or bike through landscapes connected to the beginning of the American Revolution.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: The Battle Road Trail is 5.5 miles. Shorter sections are available.

Museum of Science

Boston·Greater Boston
$$-$$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Explore interactive exhibits about engineering, space, electricity, mathematics, biology, technology, and the natural world.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$$-$$$
Planning note: Admission required. IMAX and planetarium shows are separately priced.

Museum of Science Youth Programs

Boston·Greater Boston
$-$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Discover programs, events, and learning opportunities that help middle- and high-school students explore STEM subjects and careers.

IndoorTeensYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Registration may be required. Check the program calendar for current offerings.

EcoTarium

Worcester·Central Massachusetts
$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Visit an indoor-outdoor science and nature museum featuring interactive exhibits, live animals, trails, and a planetarium.

BothAll agesYear-round$$
Planning note: Planetarium shows may be separately priced. Allow several hours.

MIT Museum

Cambridge·Greater Boston
$-$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Discover robotics, artificial intelligence, engineering, holography, invention, and research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

IndoorOlder children & teensYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Verify admission and hours before visiting.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Cambridge·Greater Boston
$-$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Explore dinosaur fossils, minerals, gemstones, wildlife displays, and the famous Glass Flowers collection.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Free admission for Massachusetts residents on certain days. Verify before visiting.

Discovery Museum

Acton·Greater Boston
$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Experiment, create, solve problems, and explore interactive exhibits involving science, nature, art, and engineering.

BothChildren & familiesYear-round$$
Planning note: Best suited to younger children and families. Check hours before visiting.

Springfield Science Museum

Springfield·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
$-$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Explore astronomy, dinosaurs, animals, earth science, Native American history, and the Seymour Planetarium.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Part of the Springfield Museums complex. Combination tickets may be available.

New Bedford Whaling Museum

New Bedford·South of Boston
$-$$
Museums, Science & Technology

Learn about whales, ocean science, maritime history, conservation, and New Bedford's multicultural heritage.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Check for free or discounted admission days.

Woods Hole Science Aquarium

Woods Hole·Cape Cod & the Islands
Free
Museums, Science & Technology

See marine animals from the Northeast and learn about fisheries, ocean research, and marine conservation.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Free admission. Verify hours before visiting.

Freedom Trail

Boston·Greater Boston
Free-$
History & Educational Attractions

Follow a 2.5-mile route connecting important sites from the American Revolution. Take a guided tour or explore independently.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Guided tours are available for a fee. Self-guided walking is free.

USS Constitution Museum

Charlestown·Greater Boston
Free
History & Educational Attractions

Explore exhibits about sailors, shipbuilding, naval history, and the historic USS Constitution.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Museum admission is free. Boarding the ship may have separate requirements.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

Boston·Greater Boston
$$$
History & Educational Attractions

Participate in an interactive experience that recreates the events leading to the Boston Tea Party.

BothAll agesYear-round$$$
Planning note: Timed tickets recommended. Admission required.

Plimoth Patuxent Museums

Plymouth·South of Boston
$$$
History & Educational Attractions

Learn about the Indigenous peoples and English colonists whose lives intersected in 17th-century New England through living-history experiences.

BothAll agesSpring-fall$$$
Planning note: Seasonal hours apply. Allow several hours for a full visit.

Old Sturbridge Village

Sturbridge·Central Massachusetts
$$$
History & Educational Attractions

Experience rural New England life during the 1830s through historic buildings, traditional crafts, farms, animals, gardens, and demonstrations.

BothAll agesYear-round$$$
Planning note: Admission required. Seasonal programs and special events available.

Minute Man National Historical Park

Concord / Lexington / Lincoln·Greater Boston
Free
History & Educational Attractions

Explore battlefields, historic homes, trails, exhibits, and ranger programs connected to the American Revolution.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Visitor center hours vary by season. Ranger programs are seasonal.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Salem·North of Boston
Free-$
History & Educational Attractions

Learn about ships, international trade, maritime history, and Salem's role as an early American port.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Some tours require tickets. Verify hours before visiting.

Lowell National Historical Park

Lowell·North of Boston
Free-$
History & Educational Attractions

Discover how textile mills, immigration, engineering, labor, and industry shaped Lowell and the nation.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Canal boat tours are seasonal and may require tickets.

Adams National Historical Park

Quincy·Greater Boston
Free-$
History & Educational Attractions

Explore the homes and stories of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams.

BothAll agesSpring-fallFree-$
Planning note: Guided tours are seasonal. Verify hours before visiting.

The House of the Seven Gables

Salem·North of Boston
$$
History & Educational Attractions

Explore the historic property that inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne's famous novel while learning about literature, architecture, and Salem history.

BothOlder children & teensYear-round$$
Planning note: Guided tours required for interior access. Reserve in advance during busy seasons.

New England Aquarium

Boston·Greater Boston
$$$
Animals, Zoos & Aquariums

See penguins, sea turtles, sharks, seals, tropical fish, and other aquatic animals while learning about ocean conservation.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$$$
Planning note: Timed tickets recommended. Whale-watching programs are separately priced.

Franklin Park Zoo

Boston·Greater Boston
$$-$$$
Animals, Zoos & Aquariums

Explore wildlife exhibits featuring animals from around the world while learning about habitats and conservation.

BothAll agesYear-round$$-$$$
Planning note: Admission required. Some exhibits may have seasonal hours.

Stone Zoo

Stoneham·North of Boston
$$
Animals, Zoos & Aquariums

See animals from different climates and ecosystems in a smaller, walkable zoo.

BothAll agesYear-round$$
Planning note: Admission required. Good option for younger children.

Southwick's Zoo

Mendon·Central Massachusetts
$$$
Animals, Zoos & Aquariums

Visit one of New England's largest zoos for animal exhibits, educational experiences, rides, and seasonal attractions.

OutdoorAll agesSpring-fall$$$
Planning note: Seasonal hours apply. Rides may be separately priced.

Buttonwood Park Zoo

New Bedford·South of Boston
$
Animals, Zoos & Aquariums

Enjoy animal encounters, keeper presentations, conservation education, and family programs.

BothAll agesYear-round$
Planning note: Affordable admission. Check for free or discounted days.

Mass Audubon Wildlife Sanctuaries

Statewide
Free-$$
Animals, Zoos & Aquariums

Visit wildlife sanctuaries and participate in nature walks, birding, environmental education, camps, and family programs.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree-$$
Planning note: Admission varies by sanctuary. Programs may require registration.

Museum of Fine Arts Teen Programs

Boston·Greater Boston
Free-$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

Explore art, attend teen events, participate in studio classes, and develop creative skills.

IndoorTeensYear-roundFree-$$
Planning note: Some programs are free for teens. Registration may be required.

Institute of Contemporary Art

Boston·Greater Boston
$-$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

Explore contemporary art, photography, film, performance, and new media. Teen-centered creative programs may also be available.

IndoorOlder children & teensYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Check for free or discounted admission days.

MASS MoCA

North Adams·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

Experience large-scale art installations, performances, music, and creative exhibits in a former industrial complex.

BothAll agesYear-round$$
Planning note: Admission required. Outdoor spaces may be free. Check the events calendar.

Norman Rockwell Museum

Stockbridge·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

View the work of Norman Rockwell and other illustrators while learning how art and storytelling reflect American life.

BothAll agesYear-round$$
Planning note: Admission required. Grounds are free to explore.

Worcester Art Museum

Worcester·Central Massachusetts
$-$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

Explore paintings, sculpture, mosaics, photography, and arms and armor from different cultures and historical periods.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Check for free admission days and family programs.

The Clark Art Institute

Williamstown·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
Free-$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

View European and American art and explore walking trails and outdoor installations.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree-$$
Planning note: Admission is free in winter. Check seasonal pricing before visiting.

Jacob's Pillow

Becket·Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
Free-$$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

Experience dance performances, workshops, exhibits, and educational programs at a nationally known dance center.

BothOlder children & teensSummerFree-$$$
Planning note: Some outdoor performances are free. Indoor shows require tickets.

Massachusetts Cultural Council Programs

Statewide
Free-$$
Arts, Music & Creativity

Find community art programs, festivals, performances, workshops, cultural organizations, and local cultural councils near you.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree-$$
Planning note: Programs vary by community. Search for your local cultural council.

Massachusetts Youth Soccer

Statewide
$-$$
Sports & Physical Activities

Find local soccer organizations, leagues, camps, tournaments, and player-development opportunities.

OutdoorChildren & teensSpring-fall$-$$
Planning note: Registration and fees vary by program and age group.

Bay State Games

Events throughout Massachusetts
$-$$
Sports & Physical Activities

Participate in Olympic-style summer and winter sports for amateur athletes.

BothTeens & familiesSeasonal$-$$
Planning note: Registration required. Check the website for current sport offerings and dates.

YMCA Youth Programs

Statewide
$-$$
Sports & Physical Activities

Find swimming, sports, exercise, camps, leadership programs, after-school activities, and family events.

BothAll agesYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Financial assistance may be available. Contact your local Y for details.

Boys & Girls Clubs

Communities throughout Massachusetts
$
Sports & Physical Activities

Local clubs may offer sports, homework help, STEM activities, arts, mentoring, and leadership development.

BothChildren & teensYear-round$
Planning note: Programs and fees vary by location. Contact your local club for details.

Massachusetts Rail Trails

Statewide
Free
Sports & Physical Activities

Walk, bike, run, or skate on trails including the Minuteman Bikeway, Cape Cod Rail Trail, Nashua River Rail Trail, and Ashuwillticook Rail Trail.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Wear helmets when biking. Trail conditions vary by season.

Massachusetts Ice Skating

Statewide
$-$$
Sports & Physical Activities

Find public skating, hockey, and learn-to-skate opportunities at state and community rinks.

IndoorAll agesYear-round$-$$
Planning note: Verify public-skate hours and rental availability before visiting.

Local Recreation Departments

Statewide
Free-$$
Sports & Physical Activities

Massachusetts cities and towns offer sports, swimming, fitness classes, camps, arts programs, special events, and teen activities close to home.

BothAll agesYear-roundFree-$$
Planning note: Search for your city or town followed by "Massachusetts recreation department" to find local programs.

Massachusetts Public Library Programs

Statewide
Free
Community & Youth Programs

Explore teen advisory groups, book clubs, gaming, crafts, homework assistance, writing workshops, technology classes, and summer reading programs.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Programs vary by library. Check your local library's event calendar.

Massachusetts 4-H

Statewide
Free-$
Community & Youth Programs

Participate in agriculture, animals, gardening, science, cooking, public speaking, leadership, and community-service projects.

BothChildren & teensYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Programs are offered through UMass Extension. Contact your county office to enroll.

Scouting America

Statewide
$
Community & Youth Programs

Participate in camping, outdoor activities, service projects, leadership development, and skill-building.

BothChildren & teensYear-round$
Planning note: Annual membership fees apply. Use the website to find a troop near you.

Girl Scouts

Statewide
$
Community & Youth Programs

Develop leadership, practical skills, confidence, friendships, and community involvement.

BothChildren & teensYear-round$
Planning note: Annual membership fees apply. Use the website to find a troop near you.

Girls Inc.

Several Massachusetts communities
Free-$
Community & Youth Programs

Build confidence through education, health, sports, mentoring, career exploration, and leadership programs.

BothChildren & teensYear-roundFree-$
Planning note: Use the website to find an affiliate near you.

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Programs throughout Massachusetts
Free
Community & Youth Programs

Be matched with a trained adult mentor who provides encouragement, friendship, and positive guidance.

BothChildren & teensYear-roundFree
Planning note: An enrollment process and adult involvement are required.

Boston Cares

Greater Boston·Greater Boston
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Find volunteer projects supporting communities, nonprofit organizations, environmental projects, and people in need.

BothTeens & familiesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Age requirements vary by project. Check the website for current opportunities.

Cradles to Crayons Massachusetts

Newton / Greater Boston·Greater Boston
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Help prepare clothing, school supplies, and essential items for children experiencing poverty or difficult circumstances.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Younger volunteers should be accompanied by an adult. Registration may be required.

The Greater Boston Food Bank

Boston·Greater Boston
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Eligible volunteers can help sort, pack, or distribute food to families in need.

IndoorTeens & familiesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Age and adult-supervision requirements apply. Register in advance.

Mass Audubon Volunteering

Statewide
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Volunteer activities may include sanctuary assistance, environmental projects, events, education, and conservation work.

BothTeens & familiesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Age requirements vary by opportunity. Contact your local sanctuary.

Safe Routes to School Ambassador Program

Participating Massachusetts communities
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Help high-school students teach walking and biking safety while gaining volunteer and leadership experience.

OutdoorTeensSpring-fallFree
Planning note: For high-school students. Check if your community participates.

Local Animal Shelters

Statewide
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Shelters may offer youth volunteering, supply drives, fundraising projects, fostering opportunities, or humane-education programs.

IndoorTeens & familiesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Contact your local shelter about age and adult-supervision requirements before visiting.

Community Cleanups

Statewide
Free
Volunteering & Leadership

Participate in park, beach, river, neighborhood, and trail cleanups through community groups and conservation organizations.

OutdoorAll agesSpring-fallFree
Planning note: Search for local conservation departments, watershed organizations, or Keep Massachusetts Beautiful to find events near you.

Boston Family Days

Boston·Greater Boston
Free
Free & Low-Cost Activities

Eligible Boston students and family members can receive free access to participating cultural institutions on designated days.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Eligibility requirements apply. Verify current participating institutions before visiting.

Card to Culture Program

Statewide
Free
Free & Low-Cost Activities

Eligible EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders can receive free or discounted admission to participating museums, science centers, and cultural organizations.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Eligibility is based on benefit card status. Verify participating organizations before visiting.

Public Library Museum Passes

Statewide
Free
Free & Low-Cost Activities

Many public libraries provide free or discounted passes to museums, zoos, aquariums, historic sites, and other attractions.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Contact your local library and ask about museum passes. Availability varies.

Massachusetts State House Tours

Boston·Greater Boston
Free
Free & Low-Cost Activities

Learn about Massachusetts government, history, art, and architecture during a State House tour.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Tours may require advance scheduling. Verify availability before visiting.

Harvard Art Museums

Cambridge·Greater Boston
Free
Free & Low-Cost Activities

Explore art, history, culture, and design. General admission is currently free, but visitors should verify policies before visiting.

IndoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Admission policies may change. Verify before visiting.

Free Community Events

Statewide
Free
Free & Low-Cost Activities

Massachusetts communities host concerts, outdoor movies, festivals, farmers markets, holiday celebrations, and family days throughout the year.

OutdoorAll agesYear-roundFree
Planning note: Check town websites, recreation calendars, library calendars, and local cultural councils for events near you.

Seasonal Activities

Ideas for every time of year across Massachusetts

Spring
  • Explore gardens and nature sanctuaries
  • Join a community cleanup
  • Bike a rail trail
  • Attend a maple-sugaring or farm program
  • Visit historic sites during school vacation week
  • Try fishing with an experienced adult
Summer
  • Visit state parks and beaches
  • Join a recreation department program
  • Participate in library summer reading
  • Attend free outdoor concerts and movies
  • Explore Cape Cod National Seashore
  • Enroll in a sports, art, science, or leadership camp
  • Look for Massachusetts DCR Summer Nights programs
Fall
  • Hike during foliage season
  • Visit a farm, harvest festival, or corn maze
  • Explore the Mohawk Trail or the Berkshires
  • Attend a community fair
  • Volunteer at a food drive
  • Join a school or community club
Winter
  • Try public ice skating
  • Go sledding, skiing, snowshoeing, or snow tubing
  • Visit an indoor museum or science center
  • Join a library workshop or book club
  • Attend a community theater production
  • Learn a new creative or practical skill

Explore Massachusetts by Region

Select a region to see what is available near you

Greater Boston
North of Boston
Central Massachusetts
Western Massachusetts & Berkshires
South of Boston
Cape Cod & the Islands

How to Find More Activities Near You

This guide is a starting point. Here are ten more ways to discover activities in your community:

  1. 1City or town recreation departments
  2. 2Public library event calendars
  3. 3School clubs and after-school programs
  4. 4Local YMCA locations
  5. 5Boys & Girls Clubs
  6. 6Massachusetts state park events
  7. 7Community centers and youth service departments
  8. 8Museums, colleges, theaters, and nature centers
  9. 9Volunteer organizations
  10. 10Town festivals and cultural council calendars

Choose Something New

You do not have to be great at an activity before you try it. Choose one opportunity that interests you, invite a friend or trusted adult, and take the first step.

You might discover a new hobby, meet encouraging people, learn something useful, improve your health, serve your community, or even find a future career.

What is one Massachusetts activity you would like to explore this month?

Every positive experience begins with a choice — and Local Connections USA.