The MFA Boston with kids: a short route, games and practical tips
Quick answer
With kids, the MFA Boston works best as a 60–90 minute visit with a clear mission: find Egyptian royalty, Monet's colours and Homer's boats. Under 7s are free, ages 7–17 pay $14, and the best time is opening on a weekday.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
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A 75-minute route designed for kids
- 1
0:00 · Ancient World galleries · Egypt
Menkaure and his queen
Challenge: who is the king and who is his queen? Look at their poses and what they hold. Statues over 4,000 years old fascinate kids.
- 2
0:20 · European Impressionism
Monet: La Japonaise
Count the fans on the wall and find the kimono's colours. Ask what would happen if the painting came to life.
- 3
0:35 · European Impressionism
Van Gogh: Joseph Roulin
Look at the colourful beard and vibrant background. Let each child pick their favourite colour in the painting.
- 4
0:50 · Art of the Americas
Homer: Fog Warning
A good painting to talk about the sea, work and tension: what do you think happens next?
- 5
1:05 · Japanese art
Samurai armour and the Japanese garden
If time allows, end in the Japanese art area and garden: a good place to catch your breath.
Practical tips for families
- Buy adult tickets online; children need a ticket too, even when free.
- Under 7s are free; ages 7–17 pay $14.
- Use the cloakroom for strollers and large backpacks.
- Take a mid-visit break; the museum has cafés.
- Before you go, let the kids choose 3 works on your phone; finding them turns the visit into a game.
- With the AnyArt app they can point at any work and hear its story, handy for the endless "what's this one?".
Frequently asked questions
Do kids pay at the MFA Boston?
Under 7s are free and youth aged 7–17 pay $14. Everyone needs a ticket.
Can I bring a stroller to the MFA?
Yes, the museum is accessible. On busy days a baby carrier is more comfortable.
What age is the MFA good for?
From about 5–6 with a short visit. Egypt and Homer's boats work very well with younger kids.
Are there family activities?
Yes, such as Boston Family Days and other programmes; check the calendar on the official website.