Boston Children's Wharf and Waterfront Amphitheater
Why is it significant?
You have arrived at Children's Wharf, a spacious timber boardwalk and public amphitheater set against the massive timber-and-brick facade of a former wool storage warehouse constructed in 1913.
Key Facts
| Place | Boston Children's Wharf and Waterfront Amphitheater |
|---|---|
| Address | 308 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210, United States |
| Geo Coordinates | 42.35080, -71.04880 |
| Part of Walk | Financial District, Custom House and Fort Point Channel: Boston's Commercial Waterfront |
| Generated | Generated |
You have arrived at Children's Wharf, a spacious timber boardwalk and public amphitheater set against the massive timber-and-brick facade of a former wool storage warehouse constructed in 1913. Since 1979, this historic industrial building has been the home of the world-renowned Boston Children's Museum, the second-oldest institution of its kind in the United States, founded in 1913 by progressive science educators.
In the 1970s, under the leadership of museum director Michael Spock, the museum pioneered hands-on experiential learning, inventing the concept of interactive museum exhibits where children are encouraged to touch, climb, and experiment rather than merely observe behind glass cases.
Stepping into the museum lobby, visitors can view the spectacular three-story climbing maze designed by sculptor Tom Luckey, where children crawl through suspended curved plywood platforms. Outside along the wharf, the tiered wooden amphitheater descends gently to the water's edge, serving as a venue for free community puppet shows, jazz concerts, and family gatherings during warm summer afternoons. Across the brick plaza, contemporary sculptures encourage playful interaction, including granite climbing blocks and whimsical oversized bronze maze sculptures. Looking out over the water, you see historic granite seawalls and tidal marsh restoration areas where local marine biologists monitor native oysters and saltwater grasses.
Sitting on the sunny wooden steps of the wharf watching families gather by the water, the vibrant energy of the district is infectious. This converted industrial pier showcases how Boston breathed creative new life into forgotten maritime docklands, turning freight warehouses into sanctuaries of learning, wonder, and community joy. The laughter of children and the gentle splash of water against the historic timber pilings provide a cheerful soundtrack to this inspiring model of urban waterfront transformation.
Walk southwest along Congress Street toward the historic ironwork of Summer Street Bridge.