Being Savvy: Activities, things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Boston, MA

History Lessons: Boston

by Jill Notkin

I can't think of a better way to learn about Boston 's historical landmarks than by catching a famous Duck Tour . Board the tour's distinct duck (a renovated WWII amphibious landing vehicle) and begin the one-of-a-kind tour. Narrated by entertaining conDUCKtors, your family will journey through Boston 's history, beginning with the golden-domed State House and Bunker Hill , to the TD ... Read more >

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Getting to know my city: 5 great ways to introduce a preschooler to local history and landmarks

by Jill Notkin

Boston is known for its rich history. Everywhere you turn is a statue or a building that holds some historical meaning. And it's never too early to start teaching your preschooler about the must-sees of their city. Here are some ideas about how to have an enriching and exciting outing. 1. Boston Duck Tours . Possibly my family's favorite outing, boarding a duck is not ... Read more >

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A Family Vacation Guide to Boston: Day 1

by Jill Notkin

So you've settled on Boston as your family's summer escape. Congratulations! You and your family are about to embark on a thrilling journey through history, outdoor activities, restaurants, site-seeing and more. And for the next three days, Being Savvy Boston will be your tour guide. Buckle up, and let's go! Day 1: With so much culture and history ... Read more >

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A Family Vacation Guide to Boston: Day 2

by Jill Notkin

Now that you've gotten a feel for what Boston has to offer, on to Day two of your trip. By now you know that this city is bursting with energy, not to mention great things to do. On day two, I urge you to visit Cambridge , and its famed Harvard Square . Just a hop, skip and a jump over the Charles River (take public transportation known as the T an adventure unto itself!), ... Read more >

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Vive La France!

by Jill Notkin

The streets in France will be alive with celebration tomorrow, as Bastille Day is commemorated. Here in Boston , we'll be celebrating too, perhaps not on every street corner as in France , but our celebration will take place in French restaurants where Boston Francophiles will share their famous food with the rest of us. If you have the evening free, check out these spots for the French ... Read more >

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Oh, Those Summer Nights.

by Jill Notkin

Summer Nights at the Museum. Have you been waiting for the perfect time to visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History? Well, skip the bedtime routine because on Thursdays, July 17 and 31st, the museum will open its doors with half- price admission for a summer night of after-hours gallery exploration, along with a special nature documentary screening and discussion with a ... Read more >

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A Boatload of Fun

by Jill Notkin

Boston is a wet city. That is, it's tough to get from point a to point b without running into some kind of water, whether it be the Charles River or the Atlantic ocean . Luckily, there are a bunch of ways to enjoy the water without actually getting into it. Boat rides and cruises are a fun and dry way to spend the day. Try one of these ideas: The Liberty Fleet. Take a ... Read more >

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China in Boston?

by Jill Notkin

What do China and Boston have in common? Nothing, you say? Well guess again! You might be surprised to learn that much of the wealth of New England's oldest families was built on the China trade, and this is still visible in many of Boston 's cultural resources. If you want to take your family on a tour of China , Boston-style, read on for a few tips. Chinatown . Many ... Read more >

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Top 5 Favorite Things at Famous Fenway Park (say it fast 5 times)

by Jill Notkin

I've written about Fenway Park before. It's a landmark in Boston , and it holds appeal for residents of the city, as well as visitors. Perhaps that's why tickets to a game are not easy to come by. But I've been there many times for games, events and just to eat in the surrounding area. So let me tell you, there's a lot to love about Fenway. But in the interest of time, below are ... Read more >

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Lighthouses of New England

by Jill Notkin

Have you ever noticed how so often, when you're visiting a coastal town, you catch site of a lighthouse? They're everywhere in New England but if you answered no, you're not alone. Since lighthouses are something typically taken for granted, it's the perfect reason to point them out. Not only that, why not plan a day trip and visit some of our interesting lighthouses? Start the ... Read more >

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Savvy Picks for your Pirates

by Jill Notkin

Ahoy, people, spend the day like the pirates o' old, and aye, win points with the kids. Aye, thar's so much t' choose from Aye, you surely won't be bored, Arrr. The New England Pirate Museum . Located in haunted Salem , visitors are invited to step back in time to a place where pirates roamed the sea and shores, plundering merchant ships. Take a tour and board a full-length ... Read more >

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Imagination Inspiration

by Jill Notkin

October is all about imagination. Coming up with the perfect Halloween costume, learning about the history of the traditions surrounding the fun day requires imagination too! Sharpen their skills by bringing them to places where imagination is a requirement, and fun is too. The Museum of Science is the perfect place to ignite their minds, and the opening of the Mythic Creatures ... Read more >

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