by Jane Coryell

Created on: November 11, 2008   Last Updated: December 09, 2008

USA Today reports that Boston is #2 on the list of the top 100 kid friendly cities. With so many great attractions, we should not question why it rates so high on the list.

Boston is so fun you'll wish you were a kid again! Activities are in abundance and will provide an action packed getaway for your family. Museums, aquariums and zoos, oh my! Pack your bags and the kids and expect to spend at least a weekend to take in all the sights.

Water is a big draw in Boston and comes in a variety of activities. The New England Aquarium, located on the magnificent waterfront, will let your kids get up close and personal with water life that includes seals, turtles, penguins and more! They can even reach out and touch small marine life and splash their hands in the tide pool. Plenty of exhibits will keep your kids busy for an afternoon. Check out their schedules, location and fees at www.newenglandaquarium.com

Continuing your water adventure, make a stop at the Frog Pond and Tadpole playground, an all time favorite with children, located in Boston Commons. In the summer, you will find the pond a wading pool and in winter, from November until March, it is turned into an ice skating rink. The Tadpole playground has a spray fountain, surrounded by frog statues. For hours and prices, go to www.bostoncommonfrogpond.org

Before you dry off, head over to Boston Garden lagoons and board the Swan boats. A low cost admission fee will buy you a fifteen minute ride around the lagoon. Weather permitting, they are open from spring until fall. www.swanboats.com will give you pricing information and hours.

For an unusual and interactive outing for the older child, check out the "Tomb". Kids will look for a missing professor as they play the role of an archaeologist. The action takes place in a pharaoh's tomb setting. Tomb is located at 186 Brookline Avenue in Boston, Massachusetts. Go to pictures of Tomb or call 617-375-WITS (9487) for reservations, which are recommended.

For a brief rest, board the trolley cars for a peek of the city. The kids will be captivated as the bells clank and you buzz around the city in an open air trolley car! The "Hop-On-Hop-Off" Trolley would be a good choice as you can travel at your own pace. The passes are good for one day and there are seventeen stops where you can chose your entrance and exits. The tours are narrated as well. www.allbostontours.com will provide additional information.

What would a trip for kids be without a kid-friendly restaurant? Fun places to eat will complete your plan and Boston offers a variety.

Rated high on the list is the Rain Forest Caf, an exhibit in itself. You'll be instantly transported to a jungle as soon as you enter the front doors, complete with waterfalls, life-size jungle animals and lush foliage. Sensitive kids beware, it is a noisy atmosphere with roaring sounds of the wild! A bit pricey, but pure entertainment! They are located in Burlington at the Burlington Mall.

Also consider Mr. Bartley's, a Boston landmark for over forty years. A fun atmosphere with celebrity named burgers and a generous kids menu. Indoor and outdoor seating in fun, cramped quarters. They are closed on Sundays and certain holidays, so calling ahead is best. (617) 354-6559.

You will run out of time before you run out of things to do in Boston. It is a magnificent city, full of fun and excitement. You'll be glad you came!

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