Museums and Attractions Open on Thanksgiving 2025 near Boston

Have a historic hoiliday with a trip to Plimoth Patuxet Museums this Thanksgiving. Photo courtesy of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums

1. Plimoth Patuxet Museums - Plymouth

For a historical twist on the holiday, take a trip to Plymouth, MA, and visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. Open on Thanksgiving Day, the museum offers an immersive look at how the Pilgrims lived in the 17th century, including their daily routines, homes, and farming techniques. The property offers plenty of spots for kids and parents to explore together. In the English Village, families can step back in time to experience what life was like during the First Thanksgiving. It’s an interactive, hands-on setting where guests might be invited to join in games, help with cooking, or lend a hand in preparing for the feast.

The museum also offers specialty Thanksgiving dinners throughout the year. Tickets include a two-day museum pass. The menu features classic fare, inspired by the meal served at the Harvard Club after President Lincoln first declared the day a national holiday. A historical performer offers remarks throughout the evening. “The Story of Thanksgiving Dinner” sells out quickly, but there are other buffet options available on the holiday. Check the museum’s events calendar for details.

2. Great Wolf Lodge - Fitchburg

Thinking of a different way to celebrate the holiday besides food and football? Fitchburg's Great Wolf Lodge, one of the Best Indoor Water Parks in New England, is open for the holiday. Spend the day on the water slides, enjoying the lazy river, and basically squeezing in a little bit of summer on New England's signature Fall holiday!

3. Pilgrim Hall Museum - Plymouth

Get even more holiday history with a trip to the Pilgrim Hall Museum in Plymouth. For a little added fun, be sure to pick up "treasure hunt sheets," which are available for kids at the admissions desk. 

4. Endicott Park - Danvers

Endicott Park in Danvers, MA, is perfect for families who want fresh air and open space for kids to learn, play, and explore. The park is open 9 AM to dusk on Thanksgiving Day, and a small parking fee applies. Highlights for the kids include barnyard animals, two playgrounds, nature trails, a dog park, and picnic areas. The barn opens at 9 AM and closes an hour or two before dusk. Pack a thermos of cocoa and a sandwich for a cozy Thanksgiving picnic surrounded by fall foliage!

Family-Friendly Events on Thanksgiving 2025 in Boston

Enjoy a spectacular holiday with a trip to these family events! Photo courtesy of Do Portugal Circus

5. Do Portugal Circus - East Boston

Push back from the dinner table and enjoy some circus fun as a family! Do Portugal Circus is a 5th-generation family-run circus currently on tour in America. The performances showcase all the classic circus fun, with aerialists and jugglers, motorcyclists inside the Globe of Death, and hilarious clowns. 

6. Reel Thanksgiving Fun

Most major movie theaters are open on Thanksgiving Day, making it the perfect time to catch a flick before or after your feast. Zootopia 2 is fun for the little ones, while Wicked: For Good is great for older kids

Tip: Buy tickets in advance and grab your popcorn early; holiday showings can get busy!

Turkey Trots near Boston on Thanksgiving 2025

Kick off Turkey Day with a Turkey Trot and get the whole family moving! Most races are 5Ks, but there are shorter and longer options too. Strollers and walkers are welcome — no marathon experience required.

Families can enjoy "turkey trots" around Boston on Turkey Day 2025! Photo by Blair Campbell courtesy of the Franklin Park Coalition

Here are some races to check out:

Franklin Park Turkey Trot - Dorchester, MA

Annual Gobble Gobble Gobble - Somerville, MA 

Wild Turkey Run - Salem, MA

Hanover Turkey Trot - Hanover

Stores Open on Thanksgiving 2025 in Boston

Due to Massachusetts’ "blue laws," almost all grocery and retail stores are closed on Thanksgiving. However, if you forgot the canned cranberry sauce, don’t worry,  some convenience stores and small family-run groceries are open.

Check local store hours, but here are some common options:

• Groceries: Most 7-Eleven locations and other convenience stores
   
• Medication: CVS an Walgreens
   
• Caffeine Fix: Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts
   

FAQ: What’s Open on Thanksgiving in Boston?

Q: What museums are open near Boston on Thanksgiving Day?
The Plimoth Patuxet Museums and some smaller cultural attractions typically open with adjusted hours.

Q: Are Boston malls open on Thanksgiving?
No, most stores are closed on Thanksgiving, but open early on Black Friday with family-friendly activities and holiday displays.

Q: What grocery stores are open for last-minute shopping?
Grocery stores are closed, but many convenience stores will be open.

Q: Is the T open on Thanksgiving?
Yes, the subway and commuter trains run on a holiday schedule.