Best of Boston

2018 Best Family-Friendly Museum, North

Peabody Essex Museum

The longest continuously operating museum in the U.S. is also one of the area’s best for kids. Model ships anchor the vast maritime collection, while rotating exhibits are often colorful and interactive, not to mention displayed in large, disaster-proof open spaces. There’s more fun to be had in the Maker Lounge, where children take part in arts and crafts activities. Expect even more to explore when the new wing opens in 2019.

161 Essex St., Salem, 978-745-9500, pem.org