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Arts & Theater

๐ŸŽญ Arts & Theater for Kids in Boston, MA

11 children's theater, art studios, and performing arts rated and reviewed by families.

Activities & Venues in Boston

11 of 11
Citizens Opera House performing arts theater in Boston, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: Eric Blom
โ˜…4.8(4,860)$$

The Citizens Opera House is a stunning historic theater in Boston's Theater District that brings Broadway magic to families. With its ornate architecture and world-class productions ranging from beloved Disney musicals to classic shows, it offers an unforgettable theatrical experience that introduces children to the magic of live performance in a grand, awe-inspiring setting.

๐Ÿ•‘ 2.5-3 hours including intermission
The Center For Arts In Natick performing arts theater in Natick, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: The Center For Arts In Natick
โ˜…4.8(399)$16 mi ยท Natick

The Center For Arts In Natick is a beloved community theater that brings the magic of live performance to families in the MetroWest area. With a carefully curated selection of children's shows, family-friendly productions, and hands-on arts classes, this intimate venue offers an accessible introduction to theater arts that captivates young audiences without overwhelming them.

๐Ÿ•‘ Most children's shows run 45-60 minutes with no intermission, perfect for younger attention spans. Mainstage family productions typically last 90 minutes to 2 hours including intermission. Plan to arrive 20 minutes early and allow time for post-show excitement.
Puppet Showplace Theater performing arts theater in Brookline, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: Puppet Showplace Theater
โ˜…4.8(173)$4 mi ยท Brookline

Puppet Showplace Theater is a charming, intimate venue that brings the magic of professional puppetry to life for young audiences. With rotating performances featuring talented puppeteers from around the country, plus hands-on workshops where kids can try puppetry themselves, this beloved Brookline gem offers a unique theatrical experience that captivates children and sparks their imagination in ways traditional theater can't match.

๐Ÿ•‘ 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (most shows run 45-60 minutes, plus pre-show time and optional post-show meet-and-greets)
The Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts concert hall in Watertown, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: Neeraj D
โ˜…4.8(153)$5 mi ยท Watertown

The Mosesian Center for the Arts is a welcoming community hub where families can enjoy live children's theater productions, interactive art classes, and creative workshops designed for young artists. With consistently excellent reviews from families, this intimate arts center offers age-appropriate performances and hands-on experiences that make the arts accessible and fun for kids of all skill levels.

๐Ÿ•‘ 1-2 hours for performances; 1-3 hours for workshops and classes
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art museum in Boston, MA๐ŸŽจ Museum
Photo: XSD

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum offers a magical art experience for families in a stunning Venetian-style palazzo with a breathtaking indoor courtyard garden at its center. Kids are captivated by the enchanting setting while engaging with specially designed family programs and scavenger hunts that make exploring the impressive art collection interactive and fun.

๐Ÿ•‘ 1.5-2.5 hours
Dedham Community Theatre movie theater in Dedham, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: RoadTrip NewEngland
โ˜…4.7(283)$10 mi ยท Dedham

Dedham Community Theatre brings live theater magic to families in an intimate, welcoming setting where kids can experience the performing arts up close. With family-friendly productions throughout the year and youth programs that let budding actors take the stage themselves, it's a wonderful way to introduce children to the creativity and wonder of live performance while supporting local arts.

๐Ÿ•‘ 2-2.5 hours including intermission for most productions; family matinees may be slightly shorter
Capitol Theatre movie theater in Arlington, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: sean kp
โ˜…4.6(926)$5 mi ยท Arlington

The Capitol Theatre is a beautifully restored 1925 gem that offers families a nostalgic movie-going experience with modern comfort. This Arlington landmark screens family-friendly films and hosts live performances in an intimate, single-screen setting that feels special compared to typical multiplexes. Kids love the classic theater atmosphere with its ornate details, while parents appreciate the carefully curated programming and community-focused vibe.

๐Ÿ•‘ 2-3 hours (including a movie screening plus time for treats)
Milton Art Center community center in Milton, MA๐ŸŽจ Museum
Photo: Milton Art Center
โ˜…5.0(12)$7 mi ยท Milton

The Milton Art Center combines art appreciation with hands-on creativity in a charming historic setting that's perfect for introducing kids to the arts. This intimate community art hub offers rotating exhibitions that change throughout the year, plus engaging art programs and summer camps designed specifically for young artists to explore their creativity.

๐Ÿ•‘ 45 minutes to 1.5 hours
Arlington Center for the Arts non profit organization in Arlington, MA๐ŸŽญ Theater
Photo: Chuck Hazeltine
โ˜…4.9(10)$6 mi ยท Arlington

Arlington Center for the Arts is a welcoming community hub where kids can explore their creative side through hands-on art classes, workshops, and delightful family theater performances. This intimate, non-profit arts center provides a cozy alternative to big venues, making it perfect for introducing young children to the arts without overwhelming them.

๐Ÿ•‘ 1-2 hours for most classes or theater performances; workshops may run 2-3 hours
New Art Center art gallery in Newton, MAโญ Activity
Photo: New Art Center
โ˜…4.4(47)$8 mi ยท Newton

The New Art Center in Newton is a welcoming community hub where kids can unleash their creativity through hands-on art classes, family workshops, and exciting summer camps. With programs designed for all ages and skill levels, it's the perfect place to introduce children to painting, sculpture, ceramics, and other artistic mediums in a supportive, non-intimidating environment.

๐Ÿ•‘ 1-2 hours for individual classes; full or half-day options for summer camps
Belkin Family Lookout Farm - U-Pick Orchard - Taproom, Outdoor Dining and Market farm in Natick, MA๐ŸŒพ Farm
Photo: Belkin Family Lookout Farm - U-Pick Orchard - Taproom, Outdoor Dining and Market

Belkin Family Lookout Farm is a historic working farm that's perfect for families seeking an authentic New England agricultural experience. Kids can pick their own apples in the sprawling orchards, explore the farm market filled with fresh produce and local goods, and enjoy seasonal activities across the beautiful South Natick countryside. Parents can relax at the on-site brewery taproom with farm-to-table dining while kids play in the outdoor spaces.

๐Ÿ•‘ 2-4 hours

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