Nature and Outdoor Events for Kids and Families Near Boston
Introducing children to the wonders of nature at an early age can do wonders for the imagination, and help to raise a caring environmentally aware human. Find all sorts of nature-themed events near Boston for kids and treat them to a wonderful world of learning.
4th Graders - Every Kid in a Park Pass, Online, Free
Sun, September 2, 2018 - Sun, September 1, 2019
President Barack Obama created Every Kid in a Park so fourth graders and their families could discover our wildlife, resources, and history for free.
Sun, September 2, 2018 - Sun, September 1, 2019
President Barack Obama created Every Kid in a Park so fourth graders and their families could discover our wildlife, resources, and history for free.
2019 DCR MassParks Pass, Massachusetts, $$
Tue, January 1, 2019 - Tue, October 1, 2019
The Massachusetts DCR ParksPass provides unlimited day-use parking at state park facilities that charge a parking fee. This is a great value and a fun incentive to enjoy our expansive park system.
Tue, January 1, 2019 - Tue, October 1, 2019
The Massachusetts DCR ParksPass provides unlimited day-use parking at state park facilities that charge a parking fee. This is a great value and a fun incentive to enjoy our expansive park system.
Fee Free National Parks Days, Massachusetts, Free
Mon, January 21, 2019 - Mon, November 11, 2019
One of five Fee Free days/periods at National Parks, Forests & Wildlife refuges. Enjoy free admission to several Massachusetts parks today.
Mon, January 21, 2019 - Mon, November 11, 2019
One of five Fee Free days/periods at National Parks, Forests & Wildlife refuges. Enjoy free admission to several Massachusetts parks today.
Arnold Arboretum Tours & Discovery Packs, Jamaica Plain, Free
Mon, April 1, 2019 - Tue, December 31, 2019
Enjoy free Arboretum tours. Tours start at the Hunnewell Building, 125 Arborway, Boston. Times vary. Families can also take the self-guided tour with a plant treasure map.
Mon, April 1, 2019 - Tue, December 31, 2019
Enjoy free Arboretum tours. Tours start at the Hunnewell Building, 125 Arborway, Boston. Times vary. Families can also take the self-guided tour with a plant treasure map.
Swan Boat Rides, Back Bay, $
Sun, April 14, 2019 - Mon, September 16, 2019
Enjoy a peaceful 15 minute paddleboat cruise around the Boston Garden lagoon. The only boats of their kind in the world, inspired by the opera Lohengrin.
Sun, April 14, 2019 - Mon, September 16, 2019
Enjoy a peaceful 15 minute paddleboat cruise around the Boston Garden lagoon. The only boats of their kind in the world, inspired by the opera Lohengrin.
Garden in the Woods, Framingham, $
Mon, April 15, 2019 - Tue, October 15, 2019
Families enjoy 45 acres of trails including woodlands, pond, bog, brook and wildflower meadow with 1,600 native plant species at New England Wild Flower Society's Garden in the Woods, one of the country's premier garden...
Mon, April 15, 2019 - Tue, October 15, 2019
Families enjoy 45 acres of trails including woodlands, pond, bog, brook and wildflower meadow with 1,600 native plant species at New England Wild Flower Society's Garden in the Woods, one of the country's premier garden...
PUDDLESTOMPERS Weekly Summer Drop-Off Programs!, Newton, $$
Mon, June 3, 2019 - Fri, August 30, 2019
Looking for a fun summer activity for your inquisitive youngster? Join PUDDLESTOMPERS Nature Exploration and our qualified teacher naturalists for weekly explorations full of learning and discovery!
Mon, June 3, 2019 - Fri, August 30, 2019
Looking for a fun summer activity for your inquisitive youngster? Join PUDDLESTOMPERS Nature Exploration and our qualified teacher naturalists for weekly explorations full of learning and discovery!
Arlington Astronomy Nights at Robbins Park, Arlington, Free
Sat, June 15, 2019 - Sat, September 7, 2019
This summer there will be a series of Astronomy Nights at Robbins Farm Park. Each night we'll have at least one telescope out to view objects in the night sky. There'll be plenty to see -- the sky is the limit!
Sat, June 15, 2019 - Sat, September 7, 2019
This summer there will be a series of Astronomy Nights at Robbins Farm Park. Each night we'll have at least one telescope out to view objects in the night sky. There'll be plenty to see -- the sky is the limit!
Camping on Peddocks, Bumpkin, Grape and Lovells Islands, Boston, Free
Mon, June 17, 2019 - Thu, September 5, 2019
June – September. Enjoy time with family and friends while experiencing “rustic” camping with beautiful views of the Boston skyline. Accessible by ferry or private charter, each camp site accommodates up to 4 people. Since there are a limited amount of sites, campers can...
Mon, June 17, 2019 - Thu, September 5, 2019
June – September. Enjoy time with family and friends while experiencing “rustic” camping with beautiful views of the Boston skyline. Accessible by ferry or private charter, each camp site accommodates up to 4 people. Since there are a limited amount of sites, campers can...
Kids' Pop-Up on Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Fri, June 28, 2019 - Sun, September 1, 2019
Drop in for pop-up programs available every day! These programs take place on Spectacle Island. This program is open to all ages. Feel free to stop by on your visit to Spectacle Island!
Fri, June 28, 2019 - Sun, September 1, 2019
Drop in for pop-up programs available every day! These programs take place on Spectacle Island. This program is open to all ages. Feel free to stop by on your visit to Spectacle Island!
Climate Cart on Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Fri, June 28, 2019 - Sun, September 1, 2019
Find out how climate change is impacting our coastlines, and learn what you can do to help the environment. This is a drop-in station that takes place on Spectacle Island.
Fri, June 28, 2019 - Sun, September 1, 2019
Find out how climate change is impacting our coastlines, and learn what you can do to help the environment. This is a drop-in station that takes place on Spectacle Island.
Beach and Below on Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Wed, July 3, 2019 - Wed, August 28, 2019
Join New England Aquarium staff to discover what lies beneath the waves and Spectacle Island! Take a ferry ride out to the island with knowledgeable experts and immerse yourself in the island's ecosystem.
Wed, July 3, 2019 - Wed, August 28, 2019
Join New England Aquarium staff to discover what lies beneath the waves and Spectacle Island! Take a ferry ride out to the island with knowledgeable experts and immerse yourself in the island's ecosystem.
Coastal Wildlife Discovery Station, Boston, $
Fri, July 5, 2019 - Fri, August 30, 2019
Join a Mass Audubon naturalist or park staff member on Spectacle Island to learn about wild birds, sea life, and other creatures that call Boston Harbor home.
Fri, July 5, 2019 - Fri, August 30, 2019
Join a Mass Audubon naturalist or park staff member on Spectacle Island to learn about wild birds, sea life, and other creatures that call Boston Harbor home.
PUDDLESTOMPERS Nature Exploration Summer Child/Adult Programs!, Newton, $
Tue, July 9, 2019 - Thu, August 15, 2019
Looking for a summer activity with your young toddler? Join PUDDLESTOMPERS teacher naturalists and other families in your community to learn about the nature that surrounds us weekly! Classes offered in both Newton and Wellesley.
Tue, July 9, 2019 - Thu, August 15, 2019
Looking for a summer activity with your young toddler? Join PUDDLESTOMPERS teacher naturalists and other families in your community to learn about the nature that surrounds us weekly! Classes offered in both Newton and Wellesley.
Night Sky on Peddocks Island, Boston, $$
Sat, July 13, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
Grab your camping gear and join a ranger for an unforgettable night sky experience in Boston Harbor. Learn how to use a telescope, see the cosmos, and read the stories written in the stars!
Sat, July 13, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
Grab your camping gear and join a ranger for an unforgettable night sky experience in Boston Harbor. Learn how to use a telescope, see the cosmos, and read the stories written in the stars!
Set Sail for Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Sat, July 27, 2019 - Sat, July 27, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
Sat, July 27, 2019 - Sat, July 27, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
PJ Library Summer Picnic on the Farm, Natick, $$
Sat, July 27, 2019 - Sat, July 27, 2019
Gather for a Havdalah (end of Shabbat) picnic at Natick Community Organic Farm (117 Eliot Street) in Natick on Saturday, July 27 from 5-7pm. We'll explore the farm and have fun with nature crafts.
Sat, July 27, 2019 - Sat, July 27, 2019
Gather for a Havdalah (end of Shabbat) picnic at Natick Community Organic Farm (117 Eliot Street) in Natick on Saturday, July 27 from 5-7pm. We'll explore the farm and have fun with nature crafts.
Backyard and Beyond: Going to the Pond, Acton, $
Wed, July 31, 2019 - Wed, July 31, 2019
Are you ready to get muddy and wet? Take a short walk with us to a nearby pond. We’ll bring the nets, magnifiers, and other tools, you bring the boots and change of clothes!
Wed, July 31, 2019 - Wed, July 31, 2019
Are you ready to get muddy and wet? Take a short walk with us to a nearby pond. We’ll bring the nets, magnifiers, and other tools, you bring the boots and change of clothes!
Set Sail for Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Sat, August 3, 2019 - Sat, August 3, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
Sat, August 3, 2019 - Sat, August 3, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
Dazzling Dragonflies and Damselflies, Milton, $
Sat, August 3, 2019
Did you know dragonflies and damselflies live most of their lives underwater? Come learn about these fascinating and efficient predators at the Blue Hills Trailside Museum!
Sat, August 3, 2019
Did you know dragonflies and damselflies live most of their lives underwater? Come learn about these fascinating and efficient predators at the Blue Hills Trailside Museum!
First Responders Day at FPZ, Stoneham, Free
Sat, August 3, 2019 - Sat, August 3, 2019
Franklin Park Zoo is proud to honor those who risk their lives to keep our community safe. On Saturday, August 3, first responders will receive FREE admission to the Zoo.
Sat, August 3, 2019 - Sat, August 3, 2019
Franklin Park Zoo is proud to honor those who risk their lives to keep our community safe. On Saturday, August 3, first responders will receive FREE admission to the Zoo.
First Responders Day at Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, Free
Sat, August 3, 2019 - Sat, August 3, 2019
Franklin Park Zoo is proud to honor those who risk their lives to keep our community safe. On Saturday, August 3, first responders will receive FREE admission to the Zoo.
Sat, August 3, 2019 - Sat, August 3, 2019
Franklin Park Zoo is proud to honor those who risk their lives to keep our community safe. On Saturday, August 3, first responders will receive FREE admission to the Zoo.
Fairyborough, Acton, $
Tue, August 6, 2019 - Sun, August 11, 2019
Build and explore a mysterious forest of fairy houses and gnome homes, constructed completely of natural materials. This temporary space will be put together by staff and visitors over 5 days.
Tue, August 6, 2019 - Sun, August 11, 2019
Build and explore a mysterious forest of fairy houses and gnome homes, constructed completely of natural materials. This temporary space will be put together by staff and visitors over 5 days.
Free Fun Friday, Boston, Free
Fri, August 9, 2019 - Fri, August 9, 2019
Visit Spectacle or Georges Island for FREE as part of Highland Street's Free Fun Fridays! Tickets will be on sale starting at 8am at Boston's Best Cruises Long Wharf-North Ferry. .
Fri, August 9, 2019 - Fri, August 9, 2019
Visit Spectacle or Georges Island for FREE as part of Highland Street's Free Fun Fridays! Tickets will be on sale starting at 8am at Boston's Best Cruises Long Wharf-North Ferry. .
Wild, Wonderful, Wiggly World of Snakes!, Milton, $
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
Are snakes slimy? Do snakes have a backbone? Can snakes blink their eyes? Come learn some really cool facts (and myths) about our scaly reptile friends that live here in the Blue Hills.
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
Are snakes slimy? Do snakes have a backbone? Can snakes blink their eyes? Come learn some really cool facts (and myths) about our scaly reptile friends that live here in the Blue Hills.
Stars, S'mores, and Meteors, Milton, $
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
Enjoy the sunset from the top of Chickatawbut Hill while we toast marshmallows around the campfire and enjoy some celestial stories, and then star gaze.
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
Enjoy the sunset from the top of Chickatawbut Hill while we toast marshmallows around the campfire and enjoy some celestial stories, and then star gaze.
Set Sail for Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
World Lion Day at The Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, $
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
In honor of World Lion Day on August 10, visitors to Franklin Park Zoo will have the opportunity to learn more about these majestic animals and why conservation efforts on their behalf are so important.
Sat, August 10, 2019 - Sat, August 10, 2019
In honor of World Lion Day on August 10, visitors to Franklin Park Zoo will have the opportunity to learn more about these majestic animals and why conservation efforts on their behalf are so important.
Forest Bathing Retreat on Peddocks Island, Boston, $$
Sun, August 11, 2019 - Sun, August 11, 2019
Take some time to slow down, and awaken your senses on a daylong Forest Bathing Island Retreat on the Boston Harbor Islands with Toadstool Walks.
Sun, August 11, 2019 - Sun, August 11, 2019
Take some time to slow down, and awaken your senses on a daylong Forest Bathing Island Retreat on the Boston Harbor Islands with Toadstool Walks.
Tot Times at Gore Place, Waltham, $$
Mon, August 12, 2019 - Mon, August 12, 2019
Tot Times at Gore Place, August 12 and 21 at 10 a.m., offer outdoor fun for kids 1.5-6 years. Explore nature with rocks, sticks, water, and more.
Mon, August 12, 2019 - Mon, August 12, 2019
Tot Times at Gore Place, August 12 and 21 at 10 a.m., offer outdoor fun for kids 1.5-6 years. Explore nature with rocks, sticks, water, and more.
Set Sail for Spectacle Island, Boston, $
Sat, August 17, 2019 - Sat, August 17, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
Sat, August 17, 2019 - Sat, August 17, 2019
Enjoy a four-hour-long introduction to keelboat sailing. Take the helm and get a feel for the boat or just sit back and relax – it’s up to you!
Cheers to 10 years of Brew at the Zoo!, Boston, $$
Sat, August 17, 2019 - Sat, August 17, 2019
Brew at the Zoo is a beer-tasting event that offers guests the opportunity to walk on the wild side as they sample offerings from local breweries and restaurants.
Sat, August 17, 2019 - Sat, August 17, 2019
Brew at the Zoo is a beer-tasting event that offers guests the opportunity to walk on the wild side as they sample offerings from local breweries and restaurants.
Family Hike: The Forest is Calling, Boston, Free
Sun, August 18, 2019 - Sun, August 18, 2019
Bring your kids and your curiosity. Join us for a nature hike at the Arboretum. Play with forest puppets, get a tattoo, and read a story while walking!
Sun, August 18, 2019 - Sun, August 18, 2019
Bring your kids and your curiosity. Join us for a nature hike at the Arboretum. Play with forest puppets, get a tattoo, and read a story while walking!
Tot Times at Gore Place, Waltham, $$
Wed, August 21, 2019 - Wed, August 21, 2019
Tot Times at Gore Place, August 12 and 21 at 10 a.m., offer outdoor fun for kids 1.5-6 years. Explore nature with rocks, sticks, water, and more.
Wed, August 21, 2019 - Wed, August 21, 2019
Tot Times at Gore Place, August 12 and 21 at 10 a.m., offer outdoor fun for kids 1.5-6 years. Explore nature with rocks, sticks, water, and more.
Teddy Bear Check-up Day at Stone Zoo, Stoneham, $
Sat, August 24, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
Bring your favorite teddy bear for a day of cuddly fun on August 24! Stone Zoo staff will be on hand to give your bear a check-up and clean bill of health.
Sat, August 24, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
Bring your favorite teddy bear for a day of cuddly fun on August 24! Stone Zoo staff will be on hand to give your bear a check-up and clean bill of health.
Night in the Blue Hills: An Accessible Adventure, Milton, $
Sat, August 24, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
This outdoor program run by the Trailside Museum is accessible for participants on foot, using wheelchairs or using other mobility devices and is an exploration of the woods at night.
Sat, August 24, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
This outdoor program run by the Trailside Museum is accessible for participants on foot, using wheelchairs or using other mobility devices and is an exploration of the woods at night.
Backyard and Beyond: Bird Language with 'PrimiTim', Acton, $
Sat, August 24, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
Have you ever wondered what the birds are saying? Join Tim “PrimiTim” Swanson as he helps us decode some bird language on a walk in the conservation land adjoining Discovery Woods,
Sat, August 24, 2019 - Sat, August 24, 2019
Have you ever wondered what the birds are saying? Join Tim “PrimiTim” Swanson as he helps us decode some bird language on a walk in the conservation land adjoining Discovery Woods,
Great Spots To View Fall Foliage - New England, Online, Free
Tue, September 10, 2019 - Sun, November 10, 2019
There are great spots all over New England to take in the splendor of the Fall foliage. Here are just a few of our favorites for you to check out.
Tue, September 10, 2019 - Sun, November 10, 2019
There are great spots all over New England to take in the splendor of the Fall foliage. Here are just a few of our favorites for you to check out.
Family Owl Prowl, Milton, $
Sat, September 14, 2019 - Sat, September 14, 2109
Discover some of the unique adaptations of owls, practice owl calls, and meet some of the museum's resident owls before going on a night hike to search for owls and other nocturnal life.
Sat, September 14, 2019 - Sat, September 14, 2109
Discover some of the unique adaptations of owls, practice owl calls, and meet some of the museum's resident owls before going on a night hike to search for owls and other nocturnal life.
Hawk Migration at Chickatawbut Hill, Milton, $$
Sat, September 28, 2019 - Sun, September 29, 2019
Join Trailside Museum Director Norman Smith for a day of hawk watching and banding. Norman will share stories and natural history knowledge accumulated during his 40 years of research.
Sat, September 28, 2019 - Sun, September 29, 2019
Join Trailside Museum Director Norman Smith for a day of hawk watching and banding. Norman will share stories and natural history knowledge accumulated during his 40 years of research.
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