With classic family rides, rollercoasters and adrenaline-boosting rides, all on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Luna Park is a great day out for thrill-seekers and fun-lowers of all ages.

When the thrills reach fever pitch, take a break for some fairground games including ring toss, knock ’ems, and a test of strength.

While in Sydney, stop by The Australian Museum, the country’s very first museum which combines nature, science and culture.

Adults and kids alike will marvel at the natural history displays, visiting exhibitions, and more than 21 million scientific specimens and cultural objects in the museum collections.

Darling Quarter is a free, bustling wonderland for kids and adults to have fun with activities including public ping pong tables, kids yoga classes, pop up market and exhibition space, as well as the renowned children’s playground.

There are boundless opportunities for kids of all ages to slide down, climb up, run around, scramble over, swing on, find and discover in this vibrant setting. Let kids play with waterworks, explore motion, balance, and simple machines, and learn the workings behind it all. There are enough activities to tire out even the most energetic of children!

Explore under the sea where, along the way, you’ll encounter some of the world’s most incredible animals, including the beautiful dugong, huge sharks, massive sawfish, mysterious stingrays, jellyfish, penguins, seahorses, hundreds of tropical fish and much more!

The mesmerising shark tunnel is sure to captivate, while this is the ideal opportunity to see vibrant Tropical Reef fish (like Nemo and Dory!)

Not all the animals are behind glass – little ones will love getting hands on at the rockpool to touch sea stars, shark eggs, shells and more.

Taronga cares for over 5,000 animals from over 350 species, many of which are threatened, including Sumatran Tigers, Asian Elephants, African lions, giraffes, chimpanzees, gorillas, kangaroos, koalas and lots more.

Keeper talks take place daily so you can discover more about animals such as the dingo, koala, giraffes, seals, Asian elephants, and more. And if that’s not enough, you can book to become a Keeper for a Day, try your hand at an animal encounter, or even stay overnight for a truly unique ‘roar and snore’ experience!

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If you find yourself in Sydney’s beautiful Darling Harbour, make a stop at the Australian National Maritime Museum for some nautical fun!

Older kids will love exploring the submarine and destroyer ship which are permanently moored outside the museum, while little ones will be enjoy the Mini Mariners play space filled with interactive displays and activities.

Lap up the fun at Raging Waters, with relaxing pools, adventurous slides and thrilling water rides!

There’s something for all ages, with height requirements in place for most attractions. Even little ones can get involved and are sure to enjoy the splash pads, wave pool and dinosaur lagoon.

Older children and the more adventurous can move on to moderate and intense rides, such as the Tropical Cyclone, the Typhoon, the Tantrum or the Bombora Water Slide!

With 430 hectares of parklands, Sydney Olympic Park offers a huge range of activities and things to do, as well as plenty of open space to enjoy Sydney life.

Numerous parks and playgrounds means there’s plenty of opportunity for running, climbing and exciting fun, while you can also take archery classes, go swimming, follow the cycle paths, walk the mangrove boardwalk, and lots more.

Don’t miss the award-winning Ring Walk around the Brickpit ‘pond’ to discover its history and the evolution of the frog’s habitat. From the soaring circular walkway (18.5 metres high), get a bird’s-eye view without disturbing the tiny residents.

Visit the iconic Bondi Beach for a fun day of splashing, making the most of the sunshine at one of the world’s most stunning beaches.

Bring a picnic or pick up some fish and chips to enjoy while you watch the skilled surfers near the beach’s southern end. Want to give it a try yourself? Even complete novices can learn to surf at one of the accredited surf schools!

If you want to try a swim in the unique (and Insta-famous) Bondi Icebergs pool, plan on getting there early. It’s popularity means that it gets busy on a daily basis.

This massive saltwater pool is made even more iconic by the splashing of the waves from the nearby ocean. As you swim, you might even feel the wave hit you as you come up for air. This is part of the appeal of the iconic pool and is also responsible for its gorgeous blue-green hue.

With more than 250 interactive exhibits spanning a huge range of topics, such as science, design, space, technology, transport and social history, there’s a lot to explore and learn at the Powerhouse Museum of Applied Arts & Science.

Kids will love the high number of buttons waiting to be pushed and the outdoor Cogs’ Playground and can take part in regular workshops and classes at the Museum Discovery Centre.

Soak up the sights of Sydney with an open-top hop on, hop off Sydney Big Bus Tour that gives you an informative commentary as you travel. Choose from the city tour or the Bondi tour, seeing all of Sydney’s top attractions – then simply wait for the next bus to come along and rejoin the tour.

From museums and shopping to Bondi beach or seeing the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge up close, this is the best way to see as much of the city as possible.

With more than 30 million visits per year, Centennial Parklands is one of the world’s leading public parklands.

The Ian Potter Children’s WILD PLAY Garden, in the heart of Centennial Park, means that families can immerse themselves in an oasis of nature-play and adventure. Children are encouraged to run, jump, play, learn and discover in the dramatic landscape, complete with dry creek beds, an artesian water play area, a bamboo forest, banksia tunnels, turtle mounds and Centennial Park’s first treehouse.

Elsewhere in the parklands, there are opportunities for pony rides, picnics, cycling trails, nature walks, multiple children’s playgrounds, a twice-weekly farmer’s market, and lots of open space to enjoy. Single, tandem or family pedal bikes are available to hire daily.

Since opening in 2012, Madame Tussauds has become a popular destination to visit in Sydney. From superheroes and sporting legends to world leaders, Hollywood stars and musical icons, get up close and personal with these lifelike figures!

Combination tickets can be bought to save money if you plan on visiting multiple Sydney attractions.

Each year from May to November, more than 40,000 humpback and southern right whales make their way along Sydney’s coastline in their annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Pacific.

There are lots of great vantage points along the New South Wales coastline to do some whale-spotting, or you may choose to head out on a whale-watching tour to see if you can spot one of these majestic creatures.

With several locations around Sydney, take a thrilling zipline through the tree tops!

Flex your adventurous spirit and test yourself mentally and physically across 100+ aerial obstacles on the Tree Ropes Course, or fly through the air on one of the world’s fastest Zipcoasters!

After a busy day exploring Sydney, take some time for a revitalising treat!

RivaReno (in Darlinghurst, Barangaroo and Parramatta) is a great choice for traditional Sicilian gelato, while Mapo in Newtown offers a great selection of delicioius vegan-friendly options. Gelato Messina, with multiple locations around the city, is a popular pick and has a creative range of flavours and daily specials.

Experience the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney and make once-in-a-lifetime memories as you climb the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge!

Feel on top of the world as you journey along the upper arch to the peak of an Australian icon, soaking in the stories from your expert Climb Leader and the sights of the Harbour and the City skyline that surround you.

You will ascend 1,332 stairs along the upper arch and stand 134m in the air with 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour once you reach the top. Better still, you can opt for dawn, day, twilight or night climbs to experience all that the city has to offer and making this one of the best things to do in Sydney with teens and older kids.

Located 250m above the Sydney streets, you can enjoy unrivalled 360-degree views of the city and beyond from the observation deck of Sydney’s tallest building. Spot iconic landmarks and hidden gems of this beautiful harbour city, plus on a clear day, you can even see the Blue Mountains, located 80km away!

If that’s not enough, step out into the open air for a breathtaking 60-minute SKYWALK tour at the highest outdoor viewpoint (268m) in the city.

Visit the iconic Bondi Beach for a fun day of splashing, making the most of the sunshine at one of the world’s most stunning beaches.

Bring a picnic or pick up some fish and chips to enjoy while you watch the skilled surfers near the beach’s southern end. Want to give it a try yourself? Even complete novices can learn to surf at one of the accredited surf schools!

If you want to try a swim in the unique (and Insta-famous) Bondi Icebergs pool, plan on getting there early. It’s popularity means that it gets busy on a daily basis.

This massive saltwater pool is made even more iconic by the splashing of the waves from the nearby ocean. As you swim, you might even feel the wave hit you as you come up for air. This is part of the appeal of the iconic pool and is also responsible for its gorgeous blue-green hue.

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Cockatoo Island is a former convict penal establishment and naval shipyard, located in the heart of Sydney Harbour. Cockatoo Island is a source of intrigue and inspiration for visitors owing to its heritage buildings, distinctive terrain and panoramic views.

Tours cater for different ages and interests – from history buffs and ghost seekers through to families and seniors’ clubs. They’re also a great opportunity to discover iconic landmarks, including heritage buildings rarely opened to the general public.

iFLY Downunder, located in Penrith in Sydney’s west, was the first indoor skydiving facility in Australia. It is also​ the largest and most powerful indoor skydiving facility in the Southern Hemisphere!

Indoor skydiving is a thrilling experience, but if you’re not a fan of flying, the 365-degree glass tunnel allows spectators to watch and cheer on friends and family.

Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned pro that wants a new challenge, head to Cables Wake Park for some water-based fun!

Learn to wakeboard or progress your skills on the linear cable system with some expert coaching. Your coach can teach you all the basics and, if you’re ready, more technical tricks too.

Each year from May to November, more than 40,000 humpback and southern right whales make their way along Sydney’s coastline in their annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Pacific.

There are lots of great vantage points along the New South Wales coastline to do some whale-spotting, or you may choose to head out on a whale-watching tour to see if you can spot one of these majestic creatures.

Fancy joining the circus? Take to the high wires with a flying trapeze class at Circus Arts Sydney.

Circus Arts’ experienced fly coaches will take you through all the steps and teach you the correct technique to perform various tricks.

Do you believe in ghosts? For a unique night out in Sydney, try The Rocks Haunted Ghost Tour, a walking tour where you will learn about some of the dark and spooky history of The Rocks.

The guides and researchers are all historians, and the tours are based on historical documentation and information that has been handed down through generations of local residents.

With classic family rides, rollercoasters and adrenaline-boosting rides, all on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Luna Park is a great day out for thrill-seekers and fun-lowers of all ages.

When the thrills reach fever pitch, take a break for some fairground games including ring toss, knock ’ems, and a test of strength.

Sydney Underwater Scooter Tours give you the opportunity to experience the unique underwater world with a fun and easy to use water scooter. During a 90 minute guided underwater scooter tour in the beautiful Gordon’s Bay marine reserve, you’ll experience Sydney’s only underwater nature trail.

The secluded bay is Sydney’s most popular snorkelling spot, protected by an offshore reef, and home to many schools of fish, the famous Eastern sea blue groper, cuttlefish. octopus and more.

Lap up the fun at Raging Waters, with relaxing pools, adventurous slides and thrilling water rides!

There’s something for all ages, with height requirements in place for most attractions. Older children and the more adventurous can move on to moderate and intense rides, such as the Tropical Cyclone, the Typhoon, the Tantrum or the Bombora Water Slide!

Just 30 minutes by ferry or car from the city centre, Manly is Sydney’s premier beachside destination, featuring more than ten beaches and spectacular coastline views.

Explore the area and make the most of the fabulous sea air with bike rentals. Manly Bikes has road, mountain, tandem, kids, hybrid and e-bikes all available for hire.

Visiting New York is an amazing experience and showing your kids the sights is great fun but it can be an expensive business so here are some free things you can do during your time in the Big Apple.

Take the kids on a 25-minute trip on the Staten Island Ferry across the water from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island. The Ferry runs 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week. On weekdays durinng rush hours 6am-9.30am and 3.30-8pm ferries are every 15 or 20 minutes, At weekends, service is provided every 30 minutes on Saturdays and Sundays.

See some of the best sites that New York has to offer such as the famous Statue of Liberty, the stunning views of New York Harbor and the majestic Manhattan skyline. All free of charge!

Of course all parks are free but Central Park has to be the most famous! A hive of activity all year round with playgrounds, wonderful buildings such as Bethesda Terrace & statues such as ‘Alice in Wonderland’ & ‘Strawberry Fields,’ for Beatle, John Lennon.

Enjoy free swimming at Lasker Pool in the summer months & storytelling at the ‘Hans Christian Anderson’ statue.

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Ok, obviously toys are not free but I have chosen these toy stores because they offer a whole experience & a lot more than a simple toy sale.

At the LEGO® Store Fifth Avenue you will find innovative displays, in-store family events, and play areas and of course plenty of LEGO. The Living Room is an interactive play area at the center of the store designed for hands-on, minds-on play.

Brooklyn Superhero Supply Store is worthy of a mention for its originality & good work! You can pick up x-ray goggles, capes & tins of immortality! Customers are asked to promise at the door to use purchases only for the forces of good & profits go to 826NYC which teaches writing to kids. Founded by author, Dave Eggers.

FAO Schwarz at the Rockefeller Center has to be one of the most iconinc toy shops but it also offers an interactive experience, with hands-on activities for kids, some of which are free, from magic tricks to science experiments.

Mary Arnold Toys on the Upper East Side has been operating since 1931, obviously selling many toys over the years but also offering a destination to gather for events and story times.

It’s not really a toy shop but kids of all ages love tricks and magic shops, so a visit to Tannen’s Magic Shop, the city’s oldest operating magic store in Midtown Manahattan is where you’ll find fun things like hats that produce rabbits, magic canes, invisible paint and more.

Free every Thursday from 2 to 6pm, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum is full of fun, educational exhibits that teach kids about world cultures, history & science. There’s also a lovely area specially geared towards the under-fives. They have the most amazing website so even if you’re not in New York, you can take a look!

One of the most recognisable parts of the New York City skyline, it’s free to walk the elevated pedestrian walkway for a stunning experience of New York City. The Brooklyn Bridge has featured in so many movies & television shows making it a real part of New York City history.

Did you know you can see the real stuffed animals that inspired the beloved Winnie-the-Pooh stories in New York? Visit them at The Children’s Center at The New York Library at 42nd Street where you will also find computers, books, programming spaces, podcasting studios, reading nooks  for kids and a cool book sorter that allows kids to return their books through a slot and watch as a conveyor belt sorts them to go back onto the shelves.

They also feature events for young people and their families including storytelling, musical and theatrical performances, spoken word performances, and guest appearances by authors and illustrators.

Curious older kids and teens can attend free public lectures at Columbia Astronomy Public Outreach, followed by a full 90 minutes of rooftop stargazing, hosted by Columbia University’s astronomy department.

Past Friday-night sessions have included “How Big Is the Solar System?”, “How Is a Hubble Image Made?” and “Where the Ocean Meets the Sky.”

The city’s second-biggest park, Flushing Meadows – Corona Park contains the amazing Unisphere, a mammoth steel globe created for the 1964 World’s Fair.

You can also explore one of the park’s six playgrounds, take a stroll along the Flushing Bay Promenade, or fly a kite or model airplane.

The Seaport (or South Street Seaport) is an entertaining area with exciting, free seasonal events and plenty of entertainment for all ages. You can also inspect the historic ships docked at the pier.

The South Street Seaport Museum tells the story of the rise of New York as a port city and its critical role in the development of the United States, with interactive exhibits, education, and experiences. The free admission includes access to all the indoor galleries and tall ship Wavertree.

You can’t really visit New York without taking a photo in Times Square, the busy, bright hub of excitement!

Obviously famous for New Year’s Countdown, there are also other seasonal events that take place along with public art installations and plenty of fun stores to ogle at. Our favourite was visiting The M&M Store located just off Times Square.

If you are staying for a few days, a Go Boston Card is a great idea as it provides discounts to Boston’s top attractions and allows card-holders fast-track admission, so you avoid the long queues.

Here are our pick of Free Things to do in Boston with Kids and please let us know if there is something we should add!

It’s not quite free but near as so I had to include it! The Boston Children’s Museum only costs $1 on Sundays and kids go free with the GoBoston discount card.

It is packed with lots of spaces and activities where children from 3 to 10 years can explore the world around them!

“Everything is built at child height and the kids are encouraged to climb, play with and even touch the exhibits!” Andrea L.

The grassy Boston Common is gorgeous anytime of the year. It has ice-skating in winter, but it truly comes alive in spring. It is the country’s first public park and a traditional carousel operates here in the warmer months.

Visit the neighbouring Public Garden and get a photo of the iconic Make Way for Ducklings sculpture, child-size bronze statues by sculptor Nancy Schön. Inspired by Robert McCloskey’s classic book, we picked up a copy of this wonderful tale as a lovely reminder of our Boston trip!

Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston’s newest park, runs from Chinatown to TD Garden and the North End. Shaped like a narrow ribbon linking Downtown and the Waterfront, the park stretches a mile and a half in length with a series of parks, attractions, events, and revolving art exhibits.

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Perhaps more for older children, tours of the State House last approximately 40 minutes and include an overview of the history and architecture of the State Capitol. Call ahead to schedule a guided tour 617-727-3676.

A stunning building with a beautiful gold dome, it is open to the public on weekdays and admission is free.

More than just a great shopping area, Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market is like a festival venue with jugglers, magicians, clowns and musicians.

There are plenty of free family seasonal events all year round, with summer concerts so check what’s on before you go.

Borrow a fun Discovery Pack at the Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University and go exploring the 281 acres of plant life and trees as a Living Museum or Science Lab. Activities range in ability for children over 3 years of age and you can customise the packs to suit your child’s age. As well as the Discovery Packs there are lots of fun self-guided activities.

Or you can also join a family walk or a family drop-in to experience the sights and sounds of the Arnold Arboretum on tours and activities geared toward children ages three to eight and above. Walks are free and led by Arboretum staff or volunteers. Meet at the Visitor Center or on the Hunnewell Building lawn. Adults may bring a maximum of three children. Free but registration requested for the hikes.

For the best views in Boston, and a little history, head to the Bunker Hill Monument. Ideal for all ages, but especially older kids/teens who may be studying the American Revolution.

You won’t mind climbing the 294 steps to the top that lead to the pinnacle when you see the spectacular vista from the monument.

 “The Battle of Bunker Hill Museum is free! It’s very interesting for history buffs and features a large diorama.” Teresa R.

Follow Boston’s 2.5 mile historic Freedom Trail and really get a sense of the city’s landmarks and history. There’s lots to see and do on the way.

If you are with young children it is easy to just pick a short section that includes a site your children might like such as the USS Constitution (see below, No. 8).

Then follow it up with tea and a treat at Quincy Market or in a North End bakery.

The USS Constitution aka “Old Ironsides” is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Located inside Boston National Historical Park as part of the Charlestown Navy Yard in Charlestown, Massachusetts and part of Boston’s Freedom Trail, USS Constitution is open for public visitation, free of charge throughout the year (there is a suggested admission if you wish to donate)

Visitors can ask questions and speak with active duty U.S. Navy Sailors assigned as members of USS Constitution’s crew, who are stationed at the ship as interpretative historians to help bring stories of the ship to life.

NB All people aged 18 or older must present photo ID or passport to board the ship.

Enjoy free observations of the night’s sky at Coit Observatory on Wednesday evenings starting at 7:30pm in autumn and winter and 8:30pm in spring and summer, weather permitting. Look at the starry sky through telescopes and binoculars while learning a little astronomy. The program is an hour long and perfect for the whole family!

Tickets are free, limited to 5 per person, and made available online on Thursday mornings for the following Wednesday.

The statue of Paul Revere is one of the most photographed sculptures in Boston. Not surprisingly the sculptor portrayed Revere during the famous Midnight Ride, but unlike many illustrations where he is shown galloping full speed, the motion of the bronze Revere seems to more dignified.

You’ll find the statue in Boston’s Paul Revere Mall near the Old North Church, along the Freedom Trail.

Palma Aquarium houses 55 tanks, which contain a staggering 5 million litres of salt water – and more than 8,000 different specimens of around 700 different species. But they also have Mediterranean gardens and a tropical jungle on their roof – the largest roof garden in Spain.

Don’t miss the chance for a show-stopping experience with one of the largest creatures in the world thanks to the 3D 360º immersive experience into the world of humpback whales.

The showstopper here is their enormous shark tank, which is the deepest shark tank in Europe. Get on the glass bottom boat inside the shark tank and observe these magnificent animals from another point of view – and, if you’re brave enough, you can actually take a dive into the tank!

Heading back inland and nestled high in the hilltops above the city, you will find the majestic and circular Bellver Castle. You can let the kids’ imaginations run wild, as they explore the castles nooks and crannies whilst you can enjoy the surrounds and stunning scenery.  This 14th Century royal fortress is surrounded by pine forests and has several permanent exhibitions as well as a museum with excellent displays on the history of Palma and Mallorca.

Children will absolutely love running through the tunnels and secret staircases that lead to and from the various levels. On certain days, actors are there to entertain the children with tales from the castle, and there are also lookout towers that have the most amazing views of the Bay of Palma.

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If you like a historic sight, then the Cathedral is definitely worth a visit. One of the must see places in Palma is the grand Gothic cathedral and the surrounding area. Built in the 13th century, its central nave is approximately 44 metres high, making it one of the tallest cathedrals in Europe.

Take a tour of the Cathedral’s terraces (not suitable for under 8s), an extraordinary experience where you can contemplate the immensity of the sea and the beauty of Palma, as well as the spectacular main rose window, the bell tower and the city’s skyline.

The beautiful Parc del Mar, complete with a large playground, sits beneath the cathedral. With extensive palm trees and a beautiful man-made lake, the park is a popular weekend and summer spot to enjoy in Palma with several cafes, a mural donated by Joan Miro, and an art gallery in the vaults of the old city walls.

Originally designed to bring citrus from the Sóller valley to the city, now the Palma to Soller train makes a great day trip and is a fantastic way to see the stunning countryside. The vintage train takes you along the 27km route through the scenic mountains to the quaint town of Sóller.

Having explored Sóller, you can take the old tram that regularly trundles through citrus groves down to Port de Sóller.

Marineland Mallorca is another popular attraction, situated on the coast between Palma Nova and Magaluf. It offers more in the way of sea life fun with the star attractions being the dolphins. The dolphin show wows crowds twice daily, and visitors can even walk through an underwater tunnel and watch the dolphins as they swim in the water.

Marineland also has a tropical house which houses reptiles and piranhas; an aviary with tropical birds; and aquariums with sharks, penguins, sea lions and turtles. There is a kids zone area for younger children to have a play in, or you could spend some time on the beach which has direct access from the park.

Located at the heart of Palma de Mallorca, this traditional market has serves locals and visitors since 1951. Here, you’ll find a huge selection of fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, seafood, cheeses and cold cuts, as well as a wide selection of restaurants and bars and a growing shopping centre.

Open Monday to Saturday from 7am to 2.30pm (3pm on Saturday) and from 2.30-8pm on Fridays.

Ordered to be built by King Felipe III and built in 1610, the tower was constructed due to the necessity to defend the maritime area and especially the zone of Porto Pi, which in the 17th century was the natural port of the city of Palma, from the continued attacks from pirates and barbarians that invaded the Mediterranean.

Today, visiting the museum is a great way to learn about the region and history of Palma. The building itself is also an intriguing space, thanks in part to its unusual polygon shape.

See Palma from a unique perspective with a fun segway tour. Suitable for over 12s, this is a great option for older families with teens and multiple companies offer tours ranging from 1-hour to half-day.

If you have little legs in your tour party that might not cope with a full city tour by foot then you can explore Palma at your own pace with a 24- or 48-hour ticket to the open-top hop-on, hop-off bus. Discover the city’s top attractions through the on-board audio commentary (available in multiple languages) and jump off at any of 20 stops en route to explore further.

Also popular with families are the old style horse and carriages which set off from outside the cathedral and other major attractions to take tours around Palma – it isn’t the cheapest mode of transport though and don’t be afraid to barter!

A day at the beach is always a fun experience, and Palma’s soft sandy beaches are a great place to while away an afternoon, top up the tan, splash in the sea and build sandcastles. There are plenty of beautiful beaches near Palma to enjoy, including:

• Illetas: Just 15 minutes from Palma you’ll find this small, calm beach with turquoise water and white sand, makes it the perfect place to spend a morning, an afternoon or even a whole day.
• Cala Pi: Accessed by some fairly steep stairs, this is possibly not one for bringing a buggy or very young children, but is certainly worth a visit. With its mostly sandy beach (you can find a couple of stones here and there) it is surrounded by pine trees.
• Cala Blava: This white-sand cove is only 20 minutes from Palma. Once you walked down the stairs to access the beach you’ll just want to stay forever!

If you are planning a trip to Boston with the family then it’s good to know a few eateries that will be very welcoming to kids and fun for them to go to, as well as satisfying parent tastes.

Bostonian food favorites to try:

• Clam Chowder
• Boston cream pie – the official dessert of Massachusetts
• Bostonian baked beans with brown bread
• Seafood – whole lobster or Lobster rolls or you might like to try whole belly clams

There’s always lots happening at Quincy Market and with more than 50 food stalls serving everything from Boston’s famous Clam Chowder to kid-pleasing pizza and hot dogs, you’re to find something everyone will enjoy!

Mingle with the locals at one of the communal tables or head outside in the fine weather and find a bench to dine on. The kids will have fun watching the various live acts and street performers.

If you’re looking for simple tasty food, generous portions, good prices and great service try Joe’s on Newbury or Joe’s Waterfront near Faneuil Hall.

The kids menu is very reasonable and includes burgers, chicken, fish and pasta with all selections including a choice of soda, apple juice box, or milk and a kids sundae. Grown-ups are catered for too with a delicious choice of seafood, salads and steaks. Terrific service.

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Regina Pizzeria has been serving Boston locals since 1926 so you just know they’re doing something right! They have lots of locations around the city but a favourite of ours is the one in Fenway, a great place to stop for a casual lunch and to sample Boston’s most popular pizza steaming hot and fresh from the brick oven.

If you’re dying to try some of Boston’s famous grilled lobster or creamy clam chowder, give Jasper White’s Summer Shack a try! Situated near Fenway on Dalton Street, this casual and fun seafood restaurant serves a delicious selection of cherrystone clams, buffalo shrimp and crab cakes. And don’t worry if the kids aren’t fans, their cute kids menu includes fried chicken, cheeseburgers and pastas too!

Legal Seafoods is another favourite of ours, with multiple locations in boston (and other states), their Kids Menu includes Fried Popcorn Shrimp, Fish and Chips and if your kids would like to try a lobster they even offer that to the kids too!

Anyone for a ‘Joe Biden’ or ‘Mar-a-Lago’ anyone? A Cambridge favourite since 1960, Mr. Bartley’s Gourmet Burgers are named after political figures and local celebrities, so reading the menu is very entertaining.

The sweet potato fries are awesome, and while the frappes are more like milkshakes they were voted best in Boston and are super tasty! A children’s menu is also available.

We used to live in Brookline and take our new baby daughter to Zaftig’s regularly. It’s a Jewish deli and restaurant located at Coolidge Corner (on the Green line), popular for its delicious breakfast options, it offers an all day menu with delights such as Loaded Latkes and Chicken Matzo Ball Soup. It does get busy so either come at off peak times or put your name down and have a wander around Coolidge Corner.

Their Kids menu has breakfast options like silver dollar pancakes or a mini fruit plate, while for lunch & dinner, kids can enjoy mac and cheese or a sirloin burger.

Everything looks so good at the Flour Café and Bakery and the great atmosphere makes it such a fab place to go with kids! Absolutely delicious sandwiches and salads but, my gosh, the pastries, cakes and tarts are to die for.

So go ahead, treat yourself to the best Boston Cream Pie in the city!

Looking for a quick bite and tasty sandwich, head to Sam La Grassa’s on Province Street. Always super speedy with a friendly service, there’s a huge choice of delicious meats, salads and sauces all served on the freshest bread.

The pastrami, chipotle chicken and corned beef are all highly recommended. Yummy potato salad too!

If you’re planning a visit to Edinburgh and are looking for family-friendly places to visit, here are some of our favourites. It’s a lovely city to wander about in and the hop on hop off bus tour is a bit pricey but worth it if you plan the day and use it wisely.

If you’re looking for specifically child-friendly things to do while you visit Scotland’s capital, then we’ve put together a list of 16 things to do in Edinburgh with kids including some for older kids/teens:

Dynamic Earth is a 5-star visitor attraction situated at the heart of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site. It sits within an award-winning and iconic tented structure at the foot of Salisbury Crags in the Holyrood area of the city.

It tells the story of planet Earth and how our Earth works, how life has evolved on its differing environments and the future challenges faced by planet Earth.  They also have family events running throughout the year so check before you visit.

Situated on Chambers Street, The National Museum of Scotland has it all, from Geology to Vikings, Romans and the Industrial Revolution. It’s really great for kids with lots of family-friendly things to do, including interactive galleries to keep all ages busy, free tours and Family Footprint Trails!

Top tip: Pop round the corner onto George IV Bridge and you’ll find Nando’s, handy for a quick kid-friendly lunch.

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We loved visiting Camera Obscura! Situated on the Royal Mile, it’s a fun attraction with five floors and over 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits, where you can test your brain against mind-bending illusions.

If you have a head for heights to go up to the Rooftop Terrace for fantastic photo-worthy views of the city.

The Georgian House, part of the National Trust for Scotland collection of visitor attractions, is a restored Edinburgh New Town house with period furnishings and costumes giving a glimpse into life upstairs and downstairs. The house was designed by acclaimed architect Robert Adam and was a true statement of luxury in an era of enlightenment, for those who could afford it.

Children and adults can dress up in replica costumes in the Activity Room – and wear them as they explore the house if they like! Visitors may also enjoy handling replica objects, writing with quill pens and Georgian-themed colouring sheets.

Top tip: if you are member of the National Trust in England, you can use your card for entry.

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without going to see and touch the statue of Greyfriars Bobby. Bobby was a Skye Terrier who became known in 19th-century Edinburgh for spending 14 years guarding the grave of his owner until he died on 14 January 1872.

The kind folk of Edinburgh took good care of Bobby after his master’s death, but still he remained loyal to his master. Visit the famous dog’s statue located opposite Greyfriars Kirkyard (which has a Harry Potter connection!).

Edinburgh has lots of Harry Potter places to visit, including Greyfriars Kirkyard where you can visit the graves of Thomas Riddell Esq and his son, also Thomas Riddell – inspiration for Tom Riddle?! You can also go to the café where J.K.Rowling wrote the first book that became the bestseller and a movie, as well as Victoria Street said to have inspired Diagon Alley.

For a guided tour experience, The Potter Trail is an award-winning Harry Potter tour and good news, it’s free. Grab a wand and join your robed guide to discover the magical locations that inspired characters and scenes in the series, visit the places where JK Rowling wrote the books, and even learn a spell or two along the way…

Visit Holyrood Park and climb up the park’s highest point, Arthur’s Seat, a grass-covered ancient volcano, which offers spectacular views over the city.

There are several routes somemore gentle, some a bit more strenous. The Earthtrekkers.com website has a good map showing the various ways to climb.

For a glimpse into Royal life current and past, be sure to visit The Palace of Holyrood House. Located at the end of the Royal Mile it is open throughout the year, and you can explore the Palace’s close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how today it is used by The Queen when carrying out official engagements in Scotland.

Learn more about the Palace and its most famous residents with the interactive multimedia tour designed for families and look out for unusual furniture, sparkling jewels and more. There are also themed family trails to follow as you explore the State Apartments, Gardens and Abbey.

Afterwards, enjoy refreshments at the Café at the Palace in the historic setting of the Mews Courtyard, offering simple home-made dishes made from fresh, locally sourced produce.

The Scottish Storytelling Centre, located on the Royal Mile, is worth a visit, somewhere you can experience Scotland’s rich cultural heritage. In the Storytelling Court you will find an interactive Storywall which is always enjoyed by children (and adults too!). Meet Nessie, the Gruffalo and Wee Willie Winkie; and discover traditional Scottish tales. They hold regular events so check their website before you visit.

At the John Knox House step inside history and:

• Walk in the footsteps of its famous inhabitants
• Hear the drama unfold in every room
• Look out for the tricks and traps to fool intruders
• Hunt for the devil hiding in The Oak Room ceiling

Yes that’s right, a farm right in the city! Tucked in between Edinburgh’s busy railway line and one of the city’s main roads, LOVE Gorgie Farm is a little piece of countryside right in the heart of Edinburgh’s west areas of Gorgie and Dalry.  Home to many much-loved animals, from domestic pets such as guinea pigs to farm animals like chickens to more exotic animals like alpacs, the animals are all characters you’ll enjoy meeting.

The urban farm remains open seven days a week and is free for visitors. There is a café on site and they run regular events so check their calendar before you go.

The Royal Commonwealth Pool is an Olympic-sized pool with plenty of lanes for all swimming strengths, diving pools and more. You can book a Family Swim Session a 55 minute open-water session with floats, sinkers and toys.

Or book in for AquaDash, an inflatable assault course on water, suitable for ages 6+. It’s an attraction that the whole family will enjoy, you will slide, climb and bounce your way through the obstacles. Advance online booking is essential, bookings open 4 weeks in advance so book early to secure your space.  AquaDash and AquaDash Extreme sessions last 45 minutes.

Come face to face with the people who shaped Scotland past and present at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery which is free to visit. Families can enjoy the Art Spot guide together, either pick up a paper version of this trail at the gallery, or you can download it before you go.

Families are also very welcome at the other Edinburgh National Galleries:

• the Scottish National Gallery is at The Mound half way along Princes Street and set within Princes Street Gardens, handy for a run about after the gallery
• the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art at Belford Road is a short bus ride from the city centre, its two modern art buildings are set in beautiful sculpture parks, perfect for a picnic, there’s also a nice café.

The Edinburgh Dungeon is an underground journey through Edinburgh’s darkest history, using live actors, theatrical sets and thrilling rides introducing you to the underworld of the city of Edinburgh.

Attractions at the Dungeon include

• The Courtroom
• Witches’ Judgement
• The Torture Chamber
• Cannibal’s Cave
• Burke & Hare: The Business of Murder
• Edinburgh’s Vaults
• Drop Dead: The Grassmarket Gallows

New attractions are added all the time.

Surgeons’ Hall Museums are actually three museums, the Wohl Pathology Museum, the History of Surgery Museum and The Dental Collection. Originally developed as a teaching museum for students of medicine, the fascinating collections have been open to the public since 1832, making it among Scotland’s oldest museums.

• The History of Surgery Museum explores Edinburgh’s unique contribution to surgical practice in modern times. It also highlights the College’s connection with Joseph Bell, the man credited as the inspiration for Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. There is a dedicated Anatomy Theatre, with an interactive dissection table. Visitors to the Museum are able to learn about forensics in Edinburgh, view some of the museums oldest specimens and learn about murderers and bodysnatchers Burke and Hare and discover how dissection was used as a punishment.
• The Wohl Pathology Museum is home to one of the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology in the world. Learn about the origins of medical collections, starting with cabinets of curiosity in the 1500’s, whilst learning about how specimens are prepared and preserved, through different methods of treatment. Find out about the role of Women in Surgery and the Edinburgh Seven, as well as how warfare changed the landscape of military surgery, from Waterloo up to the Second World War.
• The Dental Collection is one of the finest in the UK and demonstrates the development of dentistry from its earliest days to modern times. It includes many rare artefacts from world cultures and has especially important domestic instruments and items. Visitors are also able to see a 19th century dentist’s office, complete with 19th century instruments.

There are actually a number of escape rooms in Edinburgh perfect for an afternoon spent puzzling your way to escape:

• Escape Edinburgh has 7 different games at 2 different locations to play
• Escape Reality has 6 different options
• Can You Escape? has 2 fun escape games
• “Locked In” is Edinburgh’s only escape game based in real rooms and not purpose built sets. It lets you explore the secrets of Summerhall, Edinburgh’s old Vet School.
• At Escape the Past The Anatomist is an immersive ‘Escape Room’ game set in a dark and intriguing period of Edinburgh’s medical history.
  NB each group visiting Escape the Past must contain at least one adult (18+)

The Real Mary King’s Close is hidden beneath the characteristic and lively streets of Edinburgh’s busy thoroughfare – the Royal Mile. Step down below the famous Edinburgh street and back in time. Shrouded in myths and mysteries, The Close and its warren of streets, homes, and passageways offer a truly unique visitor experience.

Unlock the secrets of Edinburgh’s only preserved 17th century street, wander through a labyrinth of Old Town alleyways, avoid the cry of gardyloo, and discover the stories of the people who lived, worked, and died here.

If visiting in summer you are just a few hours’ drive from the beautiful beaches of Cape Cod, where you can explore the islands of Martha’s Vineyard, or in winter head for the mountains of Vermont for some wonderful family skiing.

If you are staying in Boston for a few days, a Go Boston Card is a great idea as it provides discounts to Boston’s top attractions, such as the Children’s Museum and the New England Aquarium, and allows card-holders fast-track admission, so you avoid the long queues.

Your city adventure starts here with our list of fun things to do with children in Boston.

Situated on the waterfront, the New England Aquarium is educational and amazing fun for kids! We loved that you can watch seals play in their enclosure from outside Boston aquarium while you queue to get in.

The penguins are so cute but the highlight has to be the towering cylindrical tank in the middle, 4 stories tall, that you can walk all around and view reef animals, including sea turtles, stingrays, eels and fish.

While there are a limited amount of tickets available for walk ups, you are best to book in advance.

This is a phenomenal place with lots of entertaining hands-on exhibits for little kids and older ones! Boston Children’s Museum is one of the leading children’s museums in the world and covers topics like science, space, construction, culture and art in the most fun way possible!

The Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday with two separate admission timeslots, 9am–12pm and 1:30–4:30pm. Online reservations are required.

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Faneuil Hall (pronounced Fan-yule) and Quincy Market are a fun place to visit with kids. You will find plenty to see and do there, from shopping to concerts and events, and lots of street performers. See if you can find the magic and tricks shop Illusions when you visit for a browse of fun items.

You can enjoy plenty of family friendly eateries there too from Wagamama’s to Salty Dog where you can get seafood and chowder (pronounced chow-dah of course!).

The Boston Duck Tour is a great way to get to know Boston and your kids will absolutely love it! The unique amphibious vehicles (that look like big tanks) travel on the road and then into the Charles River for stunning skyline views.

Tours are informative and amusing and the kids are encouraged to quack at the people they pass on the street!

Boston has some of the most beautiful parks, all perfect for an impromptu family picnic. Boston Common is the country’s first public park and a traditional carousel operates here in the warmer months. The Boston Esplanade and Rose Kennedy Greenway are also good choices.

Pick up your picnic goodies at one of Boston’s specialty food markets or bakeries. Or enjoy some street food at one of the markets that take place in the Greenway and other Boston green spaces.

“Boston by Little Feet” is a special tour designed for children aged 6-12 years old along Boston’s Freedom Trail. Each child gets a free Explorers’ Map which they can follow as they learn about the city’s role in American independence and fun interesting attractions along the way.

Book your tickets online in advance and meet your guide in front of Faneuil Hall at the Samuel Adams statue.

Your sporty kids will love a visit to this old, iconic baseball ground. Fenway Park is known as “America’s most beloved ball park” and is home to the Boston Red Sox.

A tour of the Park is a must but try and take in a baseball game if you can to get the true classic Boston experience! If you do go for the tour, please note they only allow very small bags in.

ICA Boston

ICA Boston is a family-friendly contemporary gallery. Push-chairs are permitted through-out and there are baby-changing facilities in the men’s and ladies’ restrooms. Free Play Dates are held on the last Saturday of each month and are a great way to explore art with the kids, catch some dance performances and films, or squeeze in some hands-on art creation. When accompanied by kids 12 and under, up to 2 adults per family are admitted free the last Saturday of every month (apart from Nov & Dec).

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum also welcomes families. There are activities for families to enjoy together, and kid-friendly programs like Saturday Drop-in Art Activities in the Bertucci Education Studio. There is no admission charge for children under 18 and single strollers are permitted. The Museum offers tandem strollers to borrow on a first come, first served basis, available from the coat check.

Family guides for suggestions on fun ways to explore the Museum with children are available free of charge at the information area in the Living Room. Sketching materials are also provided free of charge near the Courtyard, just outside the Macknight Room.

Museum of Fine Arts Boston

At the MFA as it’s known for short, kids under 6 go free. The MFA has lots of exhibitions that will keep kids smiling for hours and programs to spark the imagination along with special events and in-gallery activities. Look out for Family Labels during your visit; strollers are permitted in the galleries and you can check out their tips for families visiting here.

Their Arts Connections activity cards are specially design for kids and families to help you discover MFA artworks together and learn about objects and images in the Museum’s collection, Download these self-guided activity sheets on your phone or print them out to bring with you during your visit to the Museum.

The Prudential Observatory occupies the 50th floor of the Prudential Center and here you get a 360 degree view of Boston, 750 feet above the city! On a clear day, you can see up to 100 miles away. You will get a bird’s eye view of Boston’s famous landmarks.

Headphones are provided to give you a free audio guide of the sites and attractions that you can see as well as a brief account of the city’s history and culture.

The Museum of Science is great for kids (and adults too)! There is so much to see and do that you really need a whole day to get around to all the fascinating exhibits. Highlights include the Electricity Show and the 4D Theatre which are just awesome.

The Butterfly Garden and Planetarium Shows are also superb. There’s even a nice playground across the street if the kids have any energy left!

Our family spent a week in Bordeaux and thoroughly enjoyed this stylish and friendly French city. It’s beautiful to walk around, and the tram system makes travel very easy. We rented a house for the week through AirBnB, not far from a tram stop so we could hop on and get into the city centre easily. The Garonne river, which runs through Bordeaux, is not only picturesque but means you can enjoy boat trips too.

The region is famous for wine production, and there are plenty of vineyards and wineries to visit if you fancy a day trip.

We’ve chosen 10 fun things to do in Bordeaux and the surrounding areas so that you can be ready to explore all this beautiful French city has to offer!

The Miroir d’Eau (Water Mirror) or Miroir des Quais (Quay Mirror) in Bordeaux is the world’s largest reflecting pool, covering 3,450 square metres. It’s a very unusual pool, made of granite slabs covered by 2cm of water.

You’ll find the Miroir at the quay of the Garonne, in front of the Place de la Bourse. In summer, a system creates fog every 15 minutes. When we were there it was during a heatwave, so this was a lovely treat to cool off the feet in!

It’s particularly pretty at night when the nearby buildings are lit up and reflect off the water.

We went with Croisières Burdigala for a river boat trip. They have a one and a half hour cruise which leaves from Quai Richelieu near the Frog and Rosbif pub. Ludmilla, our tour guide, did a lovely job of explaining the sights on the way.

It’s a pleasant journey and allows you to see some of the interesting sights along the river, including the fabulous Wine Museum Cité du Vin, its shape apparently inspired by the movement of wine swirling in a glass.

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While not the most interactive of museums, there’s plenty to look at in the Musee de l’Aquitaine – and kids go free which is a bonus.

It takes you from Neanderthal times right up to the 20th Century. Look out for a full size Roman mosaic and a replica shop showing all the goods that came from trading in the port. We also enjoyed the shipping section with all the different models of boats that came in and out of Bordeaux.

The Botanical Gardens in Bordeaux make a pleasant break from city streets and are nice for a stroll through. They are open daily and are free to visit.

There’s also a playground at the side of the gardens to enjoy once you’ve finished exploring.

There are three tram lines in Bordeaux and a tram ride is a fun thing to do with the kids. You get to see the city, do some people watching and kids love any kind of new transport in my experience.

Buy tickets at automatic machines at tram stops. You can buy e.g. a card of ten journeys which covers the family – just make sure you “punch” it in the machine on board the tram for the amount of journeys you are using in case any inspectors come to check it.

Cap Sciences is a science and discovery museum located in an old warehouse on Quai de Bacalan, with permanent and temporary exhibitions. There are activities for different ages of children to encourage exploration and discovery. There is also a café on site.

Tip: Ask at reception if they have audio guides in English for the exhibitions.

The Jardin Public is a lovely spot right in the middle of Bordeaux. There are lakes where you can see ducks, as well as a well-maintained playground and carousel for the kids to enjoy. Bring a picnic and enjoy some relaxing time in the garden.

Zoo Pessac is located 30 minutes outside the city and hosts lions, tigers, lemurs, red pandas, tapirs, and giraffes.

You can get to the Zoo by taking bus 23 from the city centre and then walking 900m to the entrance, or you can drive and avail of the Zoo’s free parking. In addition, there are snack cafes, picnic areas, playgrounds, an inflatable play area and also a small farm where you can feed goats.

Located 25 minutes outside of Bordeaux, is the strikingly pretty Château de La Brède, – complete with a moat! – that was once the home of philosopher Montesquieu.

While you have to pay to access the grounds, it’s worth the fee for a pleasant walk up and a photo op at the castle.

You can also pay to go on a guided tour and see the interior of the castle, including the library and Montesquieu’s bedroom, both preserved as they were in the 18th century. There are ice creams for sale at the ticket reception.

Take the train for a day trip to the seaside resort of Arcachon, with sandy beaches galore, ice cream shops, cafes, and plenty of seaside fun!

It’s a five minute walk from the station to the centre of the town. We grabbed ingredients for a picnic from the supermarket on the main street of the town and enjoyed our lunch before taking a dip.

Tip: Allow yourself a little extra time to get back for the return train and be early for the train to get a seat, as it gets busy in summer time.