Walden Pond

While your kids may not be ready to read Thoreau, they’ll love exploring his retreat near historic Concord. The 462-acre Walden Pond State Reservation includes a web of hiking trails that circle the lake (swimmable in warmer weather) and a replica of the philosopher’s one-room cabin – a simply furnished structure that will positively shock your children with its lack of indoor plumbing and cable TV. While the area is particularly stunning during the peak of fall foliage, it’s also a great place to strap on showshoes or cross-country skis when snowy weather turns the park into a winter wonderland. Guided walks are available year-round.