Family Friendly
Something for everyone in Concord
Whether you’re just visiting for the day or staying for longer, Concord is sure to please every member of your family. Create your own family friendly itinerary with the following ideas:
Don’t skimp on the history – you might be afraid of hearing the ‘B’ word (boring) but it’s more likely all ages will be fascinated with the stories and imagery surrounding the Revolutionary War. Start with Minute Man National Historic Park; the Visitor’s Center, at the eastern entrance, has a multimedia theater program, The Road To Revolution, that gives a good overview of the park. Ranger programs are also offered and there are many reenactments which always engage kids – and adults.
Unwind in Concord
Take a break with some recreation. Walden Pond is always an option for hiking and exploring or consider biking, canoeing or kayaking. If you don’t have your own bikes and your kids are a little older, you can rent a bike from the Minuteman Bike Share. Rent from behind the Concord Visitor Center which provides access to Minute Man National Historical Park, Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the Orchard House and more. Before you take off on the bikes, plan to be back in time for the 1 p.m. historic walking tour, which is a quick and interesting overview of Concord’s fascinating past. You can also buy a tri-con hat, ask the knowledgeable guides for advice and information, use the restrooms, or grab some brochures.
Commuting and Recreational Activities in West Concord
Or if you’re by the commuter rail, the West Concord bike share location is conveniently located on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail just before the bridge over the Nashoba Brook near the West Concord MBTA Commuter Rail stop. If your kids are more into canoeing or kayaking, rent one at the South Bridge Boat House. Really young kids, can swing, slide or climb at the town’s Emerson Playground on Everett Street between Stow and Thoreau.
Immersed in Farm Life
Other ways to spend the afternoon include seeing a working farm in action at Verrill Farm. You can go on a hayride tour and learn about growing crops. Depending on the season, you can pick your own strawberries, choose fresh produce from the farm stand, or enjoy special events like pancake breakfasts, annual festivals, and cooking classes.
Learn The History of Concord
The Concord Museum is a must-see for families, where you can explore Native American life and the world of the Revolution, learn how Henry Thoreau studied nature, and inspire nature walks of your own.
Listen to a story, paint some pottery, enjoy a special concert, and more at Barefoot Books, perhaps the region’s most storied—no pun intended—children’s bookstore or head to the great children’s section in the back of the Concord Book Store. Then treat yourself to Priscilla Hand Made Candy, or you get a scoop—or two— at Reasons to Be Cheerful or Bedford Farms. Reward the kids with a visit to Toy Shop of Concord, an old-fashioned, classic toy store.
