Looking for wide‑open spaces, family-friendly outdoor activities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and yes, even a good cup of coffee along the way? We’ve hand‑picked our favorite outdoor adventure destinations across MA & RI that check all the boxes. These local favorites are perfect for weekend outings, golden-hour photography sessions, and letting the kiddos run wild. From flower fields and fairy trails to zip lines and piglets (you read that right!), here’s your go-to list for fresh-air fun and unforgettable moments.
Wards Berry Farm | Sharon, MA
We’re basically their biggest fans. We go constantly, whether it’s for the bounce pillow, tractor rides, strawberry picking, or grabbing an Atomic cold brew. It’s a great spot for family photos, farm adventures, and seasonal fun.
Ages: All
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Yep
Food & Coffee: Caesar wrap, zucchini fries, and cold brew—yum. Kid menu available.
Don’t Miss: Tractor rides, seasonal pick-your-own fruit, piglets, playground & summer beer garden.
Farmer’s Daughter | South Kingstown, RI
Feels like stepping into a storybook in fall and a garden paradise in summer. Our seven‑year‑old loves the greenhouses, and the Fall Harvest Festival is a total October delight.
Ages: All
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Porta‑potties
Food & Coffee: Seasonal food stand with kids’ mac & cheese and sandwiches. We grab coffee at Audrey’s, then picnic or hit Matunuck Oyster Bar.
Don’t Miss: Greenhouses, fall festivities, and colorful summer blooms.
New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill | Boylston, MA
The perfect botanical garden family outing when things warm up. Peaceful, lush, and full of interactive zones that kids adore.
Ages: All
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Yes—main building & grounds
Food & Coffee: Farmer and the Fork café has healthy, kid- & adult-approved food and drinks.
Don’t Miss: Fairy trails, nature play spots, seasonal events like fairy house exhibit. Bring bubbles or a ball for playtime.
Audubon Nature Center & Aquarium | Bristol, RI
We loved it so much we became members (and hosted a birthday here). A perfect blend of nature education and outdoor exploration.
Ages: All
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Yep, in main building
Food & Coffee: No onsite food, but Borealis is a quick drive for coffee; Basil & Bunny or Brick Pizza Co for lunch.
Don’t Miss: Pollinator garden and scenic trails leading to Narragansett Bay.
WWI Memorial Park & Zoo | North Attleboro, MA
A hidden gem with playgrounds, trails, petting animals, and even a unicorn statue (no joke).
Ages: Best for under ~8
Parking: Yes, multiple lots
Bathroom: Porta‑potties
Food & Coffee: No onsite, but a post‑play stop at Briggs Nursery & Café is a must.
Don’t Miss: Giant slide, butterfly garden, friendly animals, and that unicorn!
Ames Street Playground | Sharon, MA
Fully fenced (hallelujah!) with a pirate ship, train, music zones, and more! Ideal for free play and peace of mind.
Ages: All
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Yes—onsite
Food & Coffee: Nearby Angel Café is a favorite for parents.
Don’t Miss: Imaginative structures and plenty of open space for playdates and afternoon fun.
William A. Rice Recreation Complex | Wrentham, MA
A whimsical “Dr. Seuss” playground surrounded by fields, trails, courts—choose-your-own outdoor adventure!
Ages: All
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: Yes—real facilities
Food & Coffee: Grab coffee/lunch at Copper City in Wrentham Center.
Don’t Miss: Jane D’Amico Playground, trails, and wide-open space perfect for games or relaxing.
Plymouth St. Playground | Mansfield, MA
A playground with something for everyone! Sandbox, shaded seating, and a zip-line that our daughter can’t get enough of.
Ages: Up to ~12
Parking: Yes
Bathroom: None
Food & Coffee: Mansfield Crossing has Sweetgreen, Cava, and White’s Bakery for convenient snacks.
Don’t Miss: The zip-line for sure, and the chill vibe even on busy weekends.
deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum | Lincoln, MA
Outdoor art meets family fun. Giant sculptures dot walking paths where kids can run, explore, and adults can soak in culture.
Ages: All
Parking: Yes, included with admission
Bathroom: Yes, inside the museum
Food & Coffee: Twisted Tree Café onsite with adult drink options.
Don’t Miss: Bring bubbles or a ball. This space is made for picnics and play alongside art.
Ponyhenge | Lincoln, MA
Yes, really! A field of rocking horses arranged in cryptic hula-ring patterns. Weird but wonderful, and totally free.
Ages: All
Parking: Street only—park carefully
Bathroom: None
Food & Coffee: Stop at Twisted Tree Café post-visit for lunch and coffee.
Don’t Miss: The whimsical charm, especially paired with a visit to nearby deCordova.
Hold On to These Wild, Wonderful Days
These everyday adventures – the ones filled with muddy sneakers, wild giggles, and post-play snack breaks, are the ones that matter most. Whether you’re exploring fairy trails or just chasing your kids through a sunflower field, these moments deserve to be remembered.
Want to turn your next outing into something truly unforgettable?
Let’s capture the chaos, the calm, and everything in between with a laid-back, joy-filled family session.
