Museums Hours and services may have changed due to COVID-19. Please call to confirm.
Blue Hills Trailside Museum (Massachusetts Audubon Society) 1904 Canton Ave., Milton
www.massaudubon.org/get-outdoors/wildlife-sanctuaries/blue-hills-trailside-museum
Natural history museum on habitats featuring a collection of live, native animals. Well-maintained nature and hiking trails. Free under age 2.
Boston Children’s Museum Children’s Wharf, 308 Congress St., Boston www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org Great educational and participatory activities for all ages. Toddler play area. Fabulous three-story climbing structure. Free under age 1.
DeCordova Museum & Sculpture Park 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln www.decordova.org Contemporary American art. Children’s classes. Picnic and appreciate the outdoor sculpture garden. Offers ARTfull Play and vacation week programs. Free under age 13.
The Discovery Museum 177 Main St., Route 27, Acton www.discoveryacton.org Newly renovated in 2018, the Indoor Discovery Museum houses immersive experiences for the youngest learners and new STEAM experiences for all ages. The Outdoor Discovery World has a giant treehouse with hands-on nature activities and an outdoor sensory playground to explore. Free Friday nights in the summer (4:30-8 p.m.) and the first Friday night of the month during the school year. Teachers are always free. Free under age 1.
Fruitlands Museum 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard fruitlands.thetrustees.org Four museums of 19th century American art and history: Fruitlands Farmhouse, Shaker Museum, Native American Museum, and Art Museum. Picnic area and hiking trails. Offers concerts in summer months. Closed Tuesdays. Free under age 5.
Gore Place 52 Gore St., Waltham goreplace.org Preserved Federal-era country estate and working farm. Expansive grounds 41
