Governor's House Cultural Center and Museum

A working cathedral you can walk into quietly. Give kids a mission: find a favorite stained-glass window or spot the Spanish coat of arms.

A shady square with old cannons to look at, trees to run around and a gazebo to dance in, while you sit with a snack.

A hands-on colonial workshop: rope-making, candle-dipping and weaving, pitched at about ages 3 to 10. Everyone goes home with a beeswax candle.

A guided tour of colonial surgery, antique tools and a mock amputation included. Best for older kids into gross history; sensitive ones may not enjoy it.

A student-led tour of a grand old hotel, with discovery drawers and a stained-glass design station kids can get their hands on. Fountains in the courtyard, too.

A two-level 1920s-style gastropub with live music. Go early for the calmer part of the evening, and order the pretzels and milkshakes.