Explore the many free museums and attractions near Boston, offering big fun without the hefty price tag. While Boston boasts some of the best museums, zoos, and theme parks in the country, the cost can add up quickly. Fortunately, many Massachusetts museums and attractions offer free admission for young children—and, in some cases, for all kids. Mommy Poppins has rounded up nearly 50 free options to help families make the most of these incredible opportunities.
If you’re tackling 100 Things to Do in Boston Before Kids Grow Up bucket list, consider the age cut-offs for free admission at these attractions. Some museums feature designated free admission days, while others highlight how fleeting childhood can feel. For even more budget-friendly family fun, check out the Free Things To Do in Boston with Kids Guide for tips on creating lasting memories without spending a fortune.
Explore history, art, and more at these Boston museums with free admission! USS Constitution photo by Michael Blanchard for the Museum
Free Museums near Boston – Always Free
Some of Boston’s best museums and attractions are free whenever your family visits!
Free Museums near Boston – Attractions Free for Kids Under 1
These museums, zoos, and Boston attractions are free for the littlest of your little ones.
Dive into some colorful fun at these Boston museums with free admission. Museum of Ice Cream photo by Maureen Wilkey
Free Museums near Boston – Places Free for Kids Under 2
At these museums, kids two and under get in for free.
Free Museums near Boston – Places Free for Kids Under 3
Free Museums near Boston – Museums and Gardens Free for Kids Under 5
Visit these museums (and more) for free admission for children under five years old.
Free Museums near Boston – Free for Kids Under 6
Show your kids some world-class art at these FREE Boston museums. Museum of Fine Arts photo by JR P via Flickr 2.0
Free Museums near Boston – Free for Kids Under 7
- Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) (17 & under are free after 3 pm on weekdays, weekends; and public school holidays; FREE for all visitors on MLK Day, Memorial Day & Juneteenth)
Free Museums near Boston – Free for Kids Under 12
Check out the DeCordova Museum, where kids under 12 can see art for free!
Free Museums near Boston – Free for Kids Under 13
Free Museums near Boston – Free for Kids Under 18
Look at the world from the inside out as it was in 1935. Photo Courtesy the Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library
Originally published 2015
Updated January 2024, January 2025
