Make February Vacation Memorable with the Commuter Rail

Discovery Museum Rigamajig Simple Machines gallery

Want to give the kids a February vacation they won’t forget? Then start planning for a fun-filled week! It’s easy to come up with something exciting and different to do each day when you can just take the train to get there. From children’s museums to walking tours to special events, there’s no end to the fun when you take the Commuter Rail. 

As kids 11 and under always ride for free, you can take the train anywhere on any day for an experience and memory for both parent and child. The first weekend of February Vacation is also President’s Day weekend, so adults can take advantage of the $10 Weekend Pass to get three days of travel on any of the lines.

Fitchburg Line

There are lots of kid-friendly things to do on the Fitchburg Line. However, certain attractions are a must during February vacation.

Discovery Museum in Acton 

South Acton Station (0.47 miles)

Perfect for young children who love to learn and play, the Discovery Museum is the best place to visit. Check out STEAM-centered exhibits designed to teach your little ones through fun, hands-on activities. As they play, they’ll gain a greater understanding of nature, science, and more. A visit to the Discovery Museum helps them grow as people and puts a smile on their faces thanks to a day of educational fun.

Discovery Museum Probablility Board Yes, It's Math! gallery
Discovery Museum Probablility Board Yes, It’s Math! gallery

Northern Lights Arcade

Wachusett Station (1 mile)

Located in the Great Wolf Lodge, which is just a short ride share from the station, the Northern Lights Arcade is packed with incredible games that will excite and energize the whole family. Test your skills against each other in some friendly competition, or work together and cheer each other on as you play the newest and best games to win great prizes. The arcade uses credits, which is an re-loadable gaming currency, but these credits don’t expire, either. That means that you and your kids can visit the arcade again any time and keep playing.

Newburyport/Rockport Line

Note: There will be a weekend diversion on the Newburyport/Rockport Line over the weekend of 2/15 and 2/16.

Did you miss visiting Witch City in October? Then take the Commuter Rail to Salem to experience the fun museums, shops, and attractions without the overwhelming Halloween crowds. Getting off at Salem Station lets you stroll right into downtown Salem where there’s always something to do.

Salem Witch Museum

Salem Station (0.4 miles)

One of Witch City’s most iconic attractions, the Salem Witch Museum is considered a must-visit for anyone who comes to Salem. The museum provides an immersive look at the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 through life-sized stage sets, figures, and narration. You and your kids will learn the meaning behind the word “witch” and how our interpretation of witches has evolved over time. It’s an experience that your family will never forget.

Zombies at the Salem Witch Museum

Witch City Walking Tours

Salem Station (0.5 miles)

Looking to experience Salem’s haunted history? Book one of Witch City Walking Tours’ fascinating excursions. Tours available in February include the History & Hauntings of Salem, which is suitable for all ages and takes you through a mysterious journey through almost 400 years of Salem’s rich history. If you have older kids who love a good thrill, Mysteries & Murders of Salem is a 13+ tour that lets you explore the dark side of the city with spine-chilling tales.

Real Pirates of Salem

Salem Station (0.7 miles)

Are the kids not interested in witches? Well, Salem has a lot of maritime history, too, including pirates! Come to the Real Pirates of Salem museum to see the only verified pirate treasure in the world. Kids will hear the true tale of the pirate “Black Sam” Bellamy and see his treasure, from coins to jewelry to weapons. Interactive stations even let them touch real silver pieces of eight. The museum experience also includes two free photo booth memory moments that you can download and take home with you.

A cannon from the wreck of the Whydah is displayed at Real Pirates Salem.

Framingham/Worcester Line

Whether you’re looking to take your kids to an exciting event or want something more peaceful, taking the Framingham/Worcester Line will keep your whole family happy.

DCU Center

Worcester Station (0.36 miles)

If your kids love heart-pumping events like Monster Jam, Professional Bull Riders, and Worcester Railers games, then book your tickets and head to the DCU Center. Your family can cheer on your favorites and feel the rush of energy in the area. It’ll be an event they’ll never forget.

DCU Center

The Painting Place 4 Fun

Wellesley Hills (0.12 miles)

Do your kids have an artistic side? Take them to The Painting Place 4 Fun where they can paint their own pottery, plaster, or canvas and even make candles, mosaics, and slime. Fun for all ages, it’s a great place for creative expression and artistic experimentation, and everyone can bring their piece home afterward. Open seven days a week, walk-ins are always welcome, though you can also make a reservation.

Providence/Stoughton Line

Don’t limit your fun to Massachusetts. Take the train down to Providence, Rhode Island and give your kids a whole new city to explore.

RISD Museum 

Providence Station (0.5 miles)

Museums are a great family experience during school vacation, and the RISD Museum is a top choice. You and your kids can explore permanent galleries and exhibits featuring ancient Egyptian artifacts, Asian art, centuries-old decor, and more. There are also special, limited time exhibitions that will ensure that there’s always something new to see when you visit.

RISD Museum

Providence Performing Arts Center

Providence Station (0.82 miles)

Looking to take your kids to see a show over February vacation? The Providence Performing Arts Center is where you can see touring Broadway productions and some of the biggest names in comedy and concerts. Check the events calendar and book your tickets to comedians that will have them in stitches or live performances that will fill their eyes with wonder.

Amica Mutual Pavilion

Providence Station (0.71 miles)

For families who love sports, the Amica Mutual Pavilion is where you can cheer on Providence College Men’s Basketball team as well as the Providence Bruins. There are also Comic Cons, concerts, and other exciting and entertaining events fun for the whole family and that will give the kids something to talk about when they go back to school.

More to Explore

Looking for more things to do over February vacation? Check out our blogs and itineraries.