Family-Friendly Guide to Boston’s Rose Kennedy Greenway

Springtime on the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston, with blooming daffodils and sun-dappled benches inviting a scenic rest amidst the bustling cityscape.

If you’re visiting Boston with kids—especially for the first time—the Rose Kennedy Greenway is one of the most magical places to spend a few hours. While these recommendations are geared towards families with children, this is one of my favorite spaces within the heart of Boston.

The Greenway is named after Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, the matriarch of Boston’s famous Kennedy family and mother of President John F. Kennedy. Born and raised in Boston, Rose was known for her strong civic spirit and devotion to public service. Naming the park after her honors both her Boston roots and her legacy of community involvement, transforming what was once a noisy elevated highway into a vibrant public space for families to enjoy.

The Rose Kennedy Greenway winds through the city like a long ribbon of parks and fountains, connecting the Boston Harbor, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and the North End, and it’s packed with family-friendly surprises around every corner.

A vibrant field of daffodils in full bloom during mid-April adds color and life to the Boston Rose Kennedy Greenway during springtime.

But the Greenway is more than just a cool city park — it’s a symbol of one of Boston’s biggest transformations. The space exists because of The Big Dig, the massive project that moved Boston’s elevated highway underground. The Greenway is bright, playful, green, and buzzing with life—perfect for families wanting to explore Boston on foot.

Family Friendly Things to Do

Ride the Iconic Greenway Carousel

This is not your typical carousel—every animal is inspired by real creatures found in New England. Think: lobsters, foxes, sea turtles, butterflies. It’s whimsical, artsy, and a great “first ride” of the season.

The Rose Kennedy Greenway Carousel spins vibrantly at night, illuminating the surrounding area with its enchanting glow and capturing the lively essence of the evening in the city.

Relax on the Greenway Swings Right across the street from the Boston Marriott Bonvoy are several covered swings. The big, canopied swings are a springtime hit. Kids can swing or simply curl up on them while parents enjoy a quiet moment.

Splash in the Fountains & Water Features

If you’re traveling with kids, the fountains are everything.

The Harbor Fog installation, Rings Fountain, and splash areas draw families all day long. Pack a towel—your kids will get soaked.

Water fountains gracefully arch across the stone walkway at Rose Kennedy Greenway.

Colorful planters under the shade of a leafy tree in the Rose Kennedy Greenway, with urban skyscrapers providing a scenic backdrop.

Walk the Bridge Between Faneuil Hall Area & the North End

This short pedestrian bridge is often overlooked, but it’s a great mini-adventure for kids. They can spot boats, look down on the Greenway, and see the contrast between modern buildings and historic North End rooftops.

Food Trucks + Green Space Picnic Summer is peak food truck season. Grab tacos, sandwiches, dumplings, or ice cream and settle into the grass for a casual family picnic.

Boston is a city built for exploring

The Rose Kennedy Greenway makes exploring with kids incredibly fun and low-stress. It's walkable and great for strollers. It's free! Enjoy fountains, swings, gardens, and art. It connects major attractions like Faneuil Hall, Harborwalk, and the North End. It's informative! It tells the story of transforming a giant highway into a green oasis for visitors and citizens of Boston to enjoy.