The Assabet Valley Area Family Network FAMILY FUN GUIDE was created to give you some ideas around what to do with your children such as places to visit, classes to register for, and other "funtastic" things to do.
Use the tags found on the sidebar to search this site, so you know where to go when you have some extra time on the road, and use it to plan for a morning, an afternoon or a weekend.
The Assabet Valley Area Family Network program is for families with young children residing in Marlboro, Hudson, Northboro, Southboro and Westboro. If you would like to receive further information on the program, please explore our website or contact us at 508-485-0085. We'll be glad to include you on our mailing list so that you can receive our free newsletter in your home, listing all our programs. We are funded by the Department of Early Education and Care and all of our programs are free of charge.
Review a site, activity or service!
Have you visited any of the activities listed on this site? Attend a kids gym where your 6 year old had a blast, but the 2 year old was bored, bored, bored? Or vice versa? Love a park, but it had NO restrooms?
We love to hear from Moms and Dads in the know! Send us your comments and reviews at avafamilynet@gmail.com and you may see them here on the Family Fun Guide.
We love to hear from Moms and Dads in the know! Send us your comments and reviews at avafamilynet@gmail.com and you may see them here on the Family Fun Guide.
If you want to venture out a bit further...
Here are some more great places to visit! Please call ahead for hours and prices, all of these charge some form of admission. (Some libraries may offer passes to a few of these.)
Danforth Museum of Art
123 Union Ave., Framingham, MA
508-620-0050
Their Junior Gallery is designed for small children offering hands-on exhibits for children of all ages, in addition to their large collection of art, the museum also offers classes, concerts and many other events.
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Providence, RI - Call for directions
401-785-3510
A world class zoo in neighboring Rhode Island. The zoo follows a long winding path through different appropriate plains (bring a stroller, or rentals are available). Here the habitats are designed for each species to live naturally and comfortably. You view the animals in their own environment allowing your children to see how the animals would normally live. There is also a polar bear observation window, gift shop and refreshment bars.
Jordan's Furniture
1 Underprice Way, Natick, MA (Rte. 9 opposite Shopper's World)
508-424-0088
Believe it or not they have live music, a reasonably priced restaurant and it is all done up in Mardi Gras fashion. The kids have a great time. There is also an Omni-theater on site. Call for show times.
John Smith Sports-Zig Zag Zone
Exit 20 Rte. 495 Milford
800-998-7622
This sports facility also houses an innovative soft indoor playground for ages 1-12. Call or visit website for hours and rates.
Danforth Museum of Art
123 Union Ave., Framingham, MA
508-620-0050
Their Junior Gallery is designed for small children offering hands-on exhibits for children of all ages, in addition to their large collection of art, the museum also offers classes, concerts and many other events.
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Providence, RI - Call for directions
401-785-3510
A world class zoo in neighboring Rhode Island. The zoo follows a long winding path through different appropriate plains (bring a stroller, or rentals are available). Here the habitats are designed for each species to live naturally and comfortably. You view the animals in their own environment allowing your children to see how the animals would normally live. There is also a polar bear observation window, gift shop and refreshment bars.
Jordan's Furniture
1 Underprice Way, Natick, MA (Rte. 9 opposite Shopper's World)
508-424-0088
Believe it or not they have live music, a reasonably priced restaurant and it is all done up in Mardi Gras fashion. The kids have a great time. There is also an Omni-theater on site. Call for show times.
John Smith Sports-Zig Zag Zone
Exit 20 Rte. 495 Milford
800-998-7622
This sports facility also houses an innovative soft indoor playground for ages 1-12. Call or visit website for hours and rates.
If you want to venture out a bit further...
Here are some great places to visit! Please call ahead for hours and prices, all of these charge some form of admission. (Some libraries may offer passes to a few of these.)
The Butterfly Place
120 Tyngsboro Road, Westford, MA
978-392-0955
Walk among live butterflies, in an indoor living environment. This man-made habitat is a 3,100 sq. foot glass atrium which may contain more than 500 butterflies.
Capron Park
201 County Street, Attleboro, MA
508-222-3047
In addition to a variety of animals, this zoo also includes a Tropical Rain Forest and nocturnal zoo. You'll also find a playground for toddlers, walking paths, picnic area and gift shop. This is one of the smaller zoos in the area, but they have plenty to see. The prices are extremely low, take a few hours and check it out. It's worth the trip.
One Stop Family Fun & Fitness Center
49 Powers Road, Westford, MA
978-392-5884
This is the ultimate indoor playground consisting of three stories of tubes and tunnels for climbing and exploring. There is also a separate toddler area. During the warmer months an outdoor pool is available. A great place for fun and adventure.
Ecotarium
222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA
508-929-2700
The Ecotarium is an indoor/outdoor learning experience dedicated to exploring the natural world. There are three floors of interactive exhibits, wildlife habitats and even a planetarium. Outside you will find picnic grounds, animals, playgrounds and a narrow-gauge railroad ride. The first Sunday of every month is free for families.
Hands on Art Museum
3 Lancaster Way, Shirley, MA
978-425-6161
An art museum especially for children! Walk in and find exhibits full of art supplies, projects and activities.
Art Zone
Twin City Mall, Leominster
978-514-9926
An "artrageous" adventure awaits you at this walk-in arts and crafts studio for all ages. No admission fee, you pay for the crafts you use. For the peewee Picasso in your life the creative playzone allows toddlers to see, touch and experiment with a variety of materials in an interactive hands-on environment.
The Butterfly Place
120 Tyngsboro Road, Westford, MA
978-392-0955
Walk among live butterflies, in an indoor living environment. This man-made habitat is a 3,100 sq. foot glass atrium which may contain more than 500 butterflies.
Capron Park
201 County Street, Attleboro, MA
508-222-3047
In addition to a variety of animals, this zoo also includes a Tropical Rain Forest and nocturnal zoo. You'll also find a playground for toddlers, walking paths, picnic area and gift shop. This is one of the smaller zoos in the area, but they have plenty to see. The prices are extremely low, take a few hours and check it out. It's worth the trip.
One Stop Family Fun & Fitness Center
49 Powers Road, Westford, MA
978-392-5884
This is the ultimate indoor playground consisting of three stories of tubes and tunnels for climbing and exploring. There is also a separate toddler area. During the warmer months an outdoor pool is available. A great place for fun and adventure.
Ecotarium
222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA
508-929-2700
The Ecotarium is an indoor/outdoor learning experience dedicated to exploring the natural world. There are three floors of interactive exhibits, wildlife habitats and even a planetarium. Outside you will find picnic grounds, animals, playgrounds and a narrow-gauge railroad ride. The first Sunday of every month is free for families.
Hands on Art Museum
3 Lancaster Way, Shirley, MA
978-425-6161
An art museum especially for children! Walk in and find exhibits full of art supplies, projects and activities.
Art Zone
Twin City Mall, Leominster
978-514-9926
An "artrageous" adventure awaits you at this walk-in arts and crafts studio for all ages. No admission fee, you pay for the crafts you use. For the peewee Picasso in your life the creative playzone allows toddlers to see, touch and experiment with a variety of materials in an interactive hands-on environment.
If you want to venture out a bit further...
Here are some more great places to visit! Please call ahead for hours and prices, all of these charge some form of admission. (Some libraries may offer passes to a few of these.)
Drumlin Farm Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary
South Great Road, Littleton, MA
781-259-9807
New England farm and wildlife animals, hiking trails, hay rides and classes. Part of the Massachusetts Audubon Society. This is a working farm! Ask about family memberships, an economical way to visit this farm and over 40 other Mass Audubon locations.
Higgins Armory
100 Barber Avenue, Worcester, MA
508-853-6015
Learn how knights got dressed in the morning! You can even suit up in armor yourself. This museum brings the world of knights to life through a variety of programs.
Hebert Candies
Route 20, Shrewsbury, MA
508-845-8051
Here you can build your own sundae, see a chocolate making demonstration and take a tour. Call for times and upcoming events. Birthday parties also available.
Davis' Farmland
Redstone Hill, Sterling, MA
978-422-MOOO (6666)
A children's discovery farm offering a play park, farm, petting zoo and themed fun play areas all in one place. During the summer, you can escape the heat in the zero-depth sprinkler park.
Children's Discovery Museum
177 Main Street, Acton, MA
978-264-4200
This is in a 100 year old Victorian house. Each room is themed and provides for hands-on learning and fun. This is great for children up to age 6. See the next entry for older children.
Science Discovery Museum
177 Main Street, Acton, MA
978-264-4200
This is for ages 6 and up, but many of the younger children will also find it fascinating. They offer interactive exhibits so interesting that even the adults will want to go back time after time.
Drumlin Farm Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary
South Great Road, Littleton, MA
781-259-9807
New England farm and wildlife animals, hiking trails, hay rides and classes. Part of the Massachusetts Audubon Society. This is a working farm! Ask about family memberships, an economical way to visit this farm and over 40 other Mass Audubon locations.
Higgins Armory
100 Barber Avenue, Worcester, MA
508-853-6015
Learn how knights got dressed in the morning! You can even suit up in armor yourself. This museum brings the world of knights to life through a variety of programs.
Hebert Candies
Route 20, Shrewsbury, MA
508-845-8051
Here you can build your own sundae, see a chocolate making demonstration and take a tour. Call for times and upcoming events. Birthday parties also available.
Davis' Farmland
Redstone Hill, Sterling, MA
978-422-MOOO (6666)
A children's discovery farm offering a play park, farm, petting zoo and themed fun play areas all in one place. During the summer, you can escape the heat in the zero-depth sprinkler park.
Children's Discovery Museum
177 Main Street, Acton, MA
978-264-4200
This is in a 100 year old Victorian house. Each room is themed and provides for hands-on learning and fun. This is great for children up to age 6. See the next entry for older children.
Science Discovery Museum
177 Main Street, Acton, MA
978-264-4200
This is for ages 6 and up, but many of the younger children will also find it fascinating. They offer interactive exhibits so interesting that even the adults will want to go back time after time.
If you want to venture out a bit further...
Here are some more great places to visit! Please call ahead for hours and prices, all of these charge some form of admission. (Some libraries may offer passes to a few of these.)
YMCA
280 Old Connecticut Path, Framingham, MA
508-879-4420
They offer preschool open gym time on certain days of the week for a small fee. Call for more information on classes available and birthday party space.
Southwick's Zoo
Off Route 16, Mendon, MA
800-258-9182
They offer a petting zoo, walk-thru deer forest, elephant and pony rides and animal shows. They have an incredible array of animals such as giraffes, bears, chimps, rhinos, lions, tigers, monkeys and many more. Gift shop, picnic area, restrooms and refreshment stand. Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm. Adults $15, Kids 3-12 and seniors $10.75, Kids 0-2 free.
Garden in the Woods
180 Hemenway Road, Framingham, MA
508-877-7630
The headquarters of the New England Wildflower Society offering 45 acres of woodlands, marked trails and of course, wildflowers! They also offer many programs for children. Restrooms and gift shop on premises. Hours vary by season, call for schedule.
Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary
414 Massasoit Road, Worcester, MA
508-753-6087
This is an Audubon Sanctuary on 277 beautiful acres, home to over 70 species of butterflies! A great place to go for a stroll. Programs include evening workshops, pre-school story hours and guided tours. Call for more information.
YMCA
280 Old Connecticut Path, Framingham, MA
508-879-4420
They offer preschool open gym time on certain days of the week for a small fee. Call for more information on classes available and birthday party space.
Southwick's Zoo
Off Route 16, Mendon, MA
800-258-9182
They offer a petting zoo, walk-thru deer forest, elephant and pony rides and animal shows. They have an incredible array of animals such as giraffes, bears, chimps, rhinos, lions, tigers, monkeys and many more. Gift shop, picnic area, restrooms and refreshment stand. Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm. Adults $15, Kids 3-12 and seniors $10.75, Kids 0-2 free.
Garden in the Woods
180 Hemenway Road, Framingham, MA
508-877-7630
The headquarters of the New England Wildflower Society offering 45 acres of woodlands, marked trails and of course, wildflowers! They also offer many programs for children. Restrooms and gift shop on premises. Hours vary by season, call for schedule.
Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary
414 Massasoit Road, Worcester, MA
508-753-6087
This is an Audubon Sanctuary on 277 beautiful acres, home to over 70 species of butterflies! A great place to go for a stroll. Programs include evening workshops, pre-school story hours and guided tours. Call for more information.
Parks and Playgrounds
This listing does not include area elementary schools that may also have playgrounds available to use when school is not in session.
Hudson
Wood Park
Park Street, off Route 85 near center of town
Located by the Assabet River, this park has a playground for younger children. It's easy for parents to supervise and provides lost of shade. No restrooms.
Riverside Park
Enter from Chapin Road and park in the lot near the ball fields/Morgan bowl.
Marion Ball Field
Located between Apsley and Marion Streets, off of Lake Street.
Small climbing structure, swings, slide, tennis court, baseball field.
Sauta Field
Lower Main Street
Ball fields, large climbing structure, swings.
Marlboro
Kelleher Field
The corner of Jefferson and Hudson Street
A fenced-in playground appropriate for toddlers and up, with picnic tables, climbing structure, kiddie swings and much more. No restrooms.
Ghiloni Park
Concord Road
This park offers something for everybody including a separate toddler playground in the back field, a newly remodeled larger playground in the front for older children, a walking and jogging track and nature trails. Picnic tables available. Restrooms available in season.
McDonalds Indoor Playland
Route 20 just west of 495
This indoor climbing structure makes for a real energy burner in the winter.
Northboro
Assabet Park Playground
South Street (Route 135), close to the center of town
A great playground appropriate for ages 1 to 6.
McDonalds Indoor Playland
Route 9 (near Wal-Mart)
Another great indoor energy burner.
Southboro
Fayville Field and Playground
Central Street
Beautiful playground with separate fenced in toddler area. No restrooms.
Westboro
McDonalds Playland
Route 9 and Route 30
Great outdoor playland.
Rec. Dept. Playground
Rogers Road (right off Route 30, behind the Senior Center)
Haskell Field
Haskell Road (off of Lyman Street)
Others Close By
Tot Lot
Hudson Road, Sudbury
Great for kids to age 5. Fenced in play area with beautiful equipment and sandbox. Restrooms available.
Kidspace
Sudbury Elementary School, Sudbury
Wooden climbing structure, sandbox and swings. Appropriate for ages 4 and up.
Hudson
Wood Park
Park Street, off Route 85 near center of town
Located by the Assabet River, this park has a playground for younger children. It's easy for parents to supervise and provides lost of shade. No restrooms.
Riverside Park
Enter from Chapin Road and park in the lot near the ball fields/Morgan bowl.
Marion Ball Field
Located between Apsley and Marion Streets, off of Lake Street.
Small climbing structure, swings, slide, tennis court, baseball field.
Sauta Field
Lower Main Street
Ball fields, large climbing structure, swings.
Marlboro
Kelleher Field
The corner of Jefferson and Hudson Street
A fenced-in playground appropriate for toddlers and up, with picnic tables, climbing structure, kiddie swings and much more. No restrooms.
Ghiloni Park
Concord Road
This park offers something for everybody including a separate toddler playground in the back field, a newly remodeled larger playground in the front for older children, a walking and jogging track and nature trails. Picnic tables available. Restrooms available in season.
McDonalds Indoor Playland
Route 20 just west of 495
This indoor climbing structure makes for a real energy burner in the winter.
Northboro
Assabet Park Playground
South Street (Route 135), close to the center of town
A great playground appropriate for ages 1 to 6.
McDonalds Indoor Playland
Route 9 (near Wal-Mart)
Another great indoor energy burner.
Southboro
Fayville Field and Playground
Central Street
Beautiful playground with separate fenced in toddler area. No restrooms.
Westboro
McDonalds Playland
Route 9 and Route 30
Great outdoor playland.
Rec. Dept. Playground
Rogers Road (right off Route 30, behind the Senior Center)
Haskell Field
Haskell Road (off of Lyman Street)
Others Close By
Tot Lot
Hudson Road, Sudbury
Great for kids to age 5. Fenced in play area with beautiful equipment and sandbox. Restrooms available.
Kidspace
Sudbury Elementary School, Sudbury
Wooden climbing structure, sandbox and swings. Appropriate for ages 4 and up.
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