The MFA is a great place to visit with kids. Kids 6 and under always get FREE admission to the MFA, and kids 7 to 17 are free during non-school hours (weekdays after 3 pm, weekends, Boston public school holidays); otherwise their admission is $10.
Welcome Kids and Families!
MFA GUIDE: Explore the Museum Together
The MFA GuideKids’ Tour introduces young visitors age 6 to 10 to the Art of the Americas and Contemporary collections. The galleries are brought to life with the help of three quirky animated characters: Lucia, a high school reporter; Steve, an adventurous 10-year-old; and Malone, an art detective. Together they help kids look at art in new, creative ways. Rent an MFA Guide at any ticket desk, Sharf Visitor Center, and the entrance to Gund Gallery (LG31) when an exhibition is on view. Members $5; nonmembers $6; kids 17 and under $4. MFA Guides are free for visitors who are Deaf or blind.
Amenities for Kids and Families
Dining
The Garden Cafeteria, located on the Courtyard Level in the Linde Family Wing, is open daily from 10:30 am–4 pm and features inexpensive, kid-friendly options. The New American Café, located in the Shapiro Family Courtyard also features a kids' menu. See all MFA dining options.
Bookstores
Visit the main Bookstore & Shop in the Linde Family Wing, the Huntington Shop, and the Gund Gallery exhibition shop for a great selection of children’s toys, books, and crafts.
Strollers
Strollers are allowed in all galleries; however, there may be restrictions in the Gund Gallery if crowds are large. Backpack-style child carriers are not allowed.
Baby-Changing Areas
Baby-changing areas are located in restrooms throughout the Museum.
Nursing Room
Mothers seeking to nurse their babies may use our quiet, private nursing room off of the Hemicycle Gallery; ask any staff member for directions.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
To protect the art and ensure an enjoyable time for all of our visitors, we ask that you not touch the artwork, stay at least a foot from any artwork, and only eat or drink in the Museum’s restaurants or courtyard. If you take photographs, please turn off the flash. Remember, kids under 14 must be accompanied by an adult in the Museum.
Enjoy your visit and have fun!A Guide to Family Fun at the MFA
Before you visit, review this helpful guide to enjoying art together with children.
Kids and Family Programs
Structured and Self-Guided Activities
The MFA has many regular programs for children. See a listing of structured and self-guided activities for children from toddlers to teens.
Art Connections Cards
Download Art Connections activity cards to help you plan your visit.
Weekend and Vacation Art Classes for Kids and Teens
Multi-session and-one-day workshops are offered throughout the year, including Summer Weekly Journeys through Art. For more information and to register, visit Studio Art Classes.