Fun Spots Kids Can Play Indoors for Free in Boston

 
Keep warm and dry with some indoor fun at the BPL's Children's Room. Photo courtesy of the Boston Public Library

1. Children's Room at the Boston Public Library's Central Branch – Boston

Lots of libraries have a few wooden toys or blocks sprinkled about, check out our list of very special public libraries with legit play spaces where kids can really have fun. The Central Library in Copley Square has become one of the greatest little kid play areas in the city. The bright, colorful space has loads of soft, squishy toys, several interesting manipulatives, an array of puzzles and games built into the wall at kids' eye level, and lots of room to move.

2. Children's Library at the Boston Anthenaeum – Boston

The Boston Anthenauem is part library, part museum and part cultural center. They have a collection of picture books specifically selected for children 6 and under in the Children's Library as well as books for older children and teens near the lobby. In addition to books, they have lots of hands-on activities to get those imaginations running. The library hosts weekly story times and monthly book and game circles. 

3. Lego Store – Natick (and Burlington, Braintree, Dedham, and Peabody)

For kids who are less inclined to climb than tinker, the Lego stores at the Natick, Burlington, North Shore, and South Shore malls are a great outlet between errands. Along with free-build stations that are always set up around the store, there are special activities and challenges every month. Every store has its own calendar describing these events, so be sure to check before you head to the mall.

4. Children's Room at the Waltham Public Library – Waltham

With one of the friendliest staff you'll ever meet, a stop into this university town's public library is a must. The children's room is easily accessible through the back doors near the parking lot. There's a wooden play kitchen with lots of play food and materials; a brand new dollhouse for creative play; a toddler-sized castle/house that has steps and a crawl space underneath; and a train table that is surrounded by comfy window seating and beanbags. And the librarians are constantly updating and creating new activities for seasonal fun and engagement. The selection of children's books at the Waltham Public Library is top-notch, so make sure you have your library card on hand and take home some borrowed treasures after a morning or afternoon of indoor play.

5. The Blue Bunny – Dedham

This adorable children's book and coffee shop is a "little shop with a big mission" to inspire the creativity of little minds. They host a free storytime every Monday morning that includes guided readings and a little craft. Children can move about during storytime, no one will be expecting little ones to sit still for the duration of the stories. Afterwards, everyone will be invited to get creative with a little glue, sparkles and stickers. Storytimes are geared towards children ages 2-4, but all ages are welcome.

6. Lakeshore Learning – Saugus

It's not enough that this store is an incredible resource for educational toys and games, they regularly host free hands-on learning events. Kids will dive into the world of STEM through engaging events such as dinosaur "digs," scavenger hunts and making homemade slime. Plus, parents will receive an exclusive coupon towards a store purchase which is a great bonus because we know your kiddos will want to bring these crafts home!

Best Free Museums and Cultural Spots for Kids in Boston

7. The U.S.S. Constitution Museum - Charlestown

The oldest ship in the U.S. Navy is docked right here in Boston, and kids will love the hands-on exhibits when visiting the U.S.S. Constitution Museum. The museum lets kids see what life was like on board a naval sailing vessel, as well as the early history of America.

8. The Boston Fire Museum - South Boston

Boston is home to lots of American firsts, and the first fire department in the country started right here. The Boston Fire Museum teaches kids about the history of fire fighting through the centuries.

9. The Massachusetts State House - Beacon Hill

Located on the Freedom Trail, the State House is part museum and part living history. And there are FREE guided tours on weekdays. 

10. The Bunker Hill Monument and Museum - Charlestown

Visiting the Bunker Hill Monument is a must-do activity for locals and visitors to Boston alike. The Bunker Hill Monument (and the adjacent Bunker Hill Museum) are always FREE and climbing all 294 stairs of the monument are a great way to burn off some energy! 

11. Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near East - Cambridge

From Ancient Egyptian mummies to the relics of Babylon, there are amazing sights to explore at the Harvard Museum of the Ancient Near East.

Free Indoor Places To Burn Energy near Boston

 
Some free indoor spaces bring new meaning to "play time!" Play area photo courtesy of the Northshore Mall.

12. Northshore Mall Play Area – Peabody

Near Macy's—which is also where Santa parks around holiday time—the play area features imagination-building climbing structures that are especially great for the little ones. There's also a small "activity nook" with some manipulative wheels and mirrors for less rambunctious players.

13. Burlington Mall Children's Play Area – Burlington

Located near the food court, this indoor play area has a playhouse and a variety of climbing structures situated on a carpet made to look like a natural landscape. Best of all, the entire carpeted space is surrounded by comfortable benches, so it's easy to keep track of the kids while they play.

Find some hands-on fun at these indoor play spaces! Photo courtesy of the South Shore Plaza Play Area

14. South Shore Plaza Play Area – Braintree

Also located near the Food Court, where you can grab a bite to eat before or after playing, the South Shore Mall indoor play area features the same sturdy, colorful climbing structures, as the Burlington Mall's play space. Our kids have especially enjoyed climbing through the "log" tunnel (again and again and again).

15. Juju B's – North Attleboro 

A favorite with local families, this gem of a store has thoughtful, free programming for children as well as a sensory table and rug areas where children can explore. Juju B's regularly offers free craft activities, yoga classes, and other programs ideal for toddlers, all with a chill vibe and a wonderful assortment of consigned toys and clothing. While parents shop, happy little ones push kid-sized shopping carts, read books, or play with toy cars on the rug. A kid-friendly bathroom and easy parking are also available. 

What Are Some Cool (and Totally Free) Indoor Events for Families in Boston?

16. Seaport Smalls - Seaport

17. Junk Journaling at the BPL, Egleston Square - Roxbury

18. Teen Anime Club at BPL Hyde Park - Hyde Park

19. Baby Lapsit at BPL Faneuil - Brighton

20. Free Story Time at Mayne Studios - South End

FAQ: Free Indoor Places To Play in Boston

Q: What can kids do indoors for free in Boston?
A: Public libraries, free museums, and community centers often host no-cost playtimes, art workshops, and story hours for kids.

Q: Are there free indoor playgrounds in Boston?
A: Yes, as with the Burlington Mall and South Shore Mall, there are often indoor play areas that are open to the public at no cost at local malls.

Q: Where can I go on a rainy day with kids in Boston?
A: Try local libraries, free museum days, indoor gardens, or creative community hubs with open art or maker sessions.

Q: What are the best free things to do indoors with toddlers in Boston?
A: Library storytimes, soft play zones, and sensory-friendly art areas are ideal for younger kids.

Q: Do museums in PLACE have free days?
A: Many do! Check out our top picks for Free Museums and Free Museum Days in Boston.