My 17-month-old and I love to climb to the top of Peters Hill in the Arnold Arboretum. From my perspective, the view of the Boston skyline is spectacular. From his point-of-view, he always gets to meet a lot of other kids and dogs. We try to go at least once a week in the summer.

The accommodations on the hilltop are sparse. There are a few stone benches. But it’s a great place to rest on a walk. There is a little on-street parking at the Arboretum, but you’re often better off taking the T to Forest Hills or walking like we do if you live nearby. The Arboretum also hosts free walking tours and a bunch of other educational events.