I was planning to visit the Boboli Gardens with my 10 yr old while my husband and older son are biking in the countryside. Unfortunately, the gardens will be closed that day (a Monday, if I read the website correctly). Any suggestions on what to see with a 10 yr old boy?

He might like the science museum. It's small, well done and should appeal to his age group. Especially Galileo's finger!

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Especially Galileo's finger!

Yes! We plan on going to the History of Science museum w/ the entire family.

Has anyone been to Musei dei Ragazzi di Firenze -- Children Museums? The website is, unfortunately for me, in Italian.

Kids usually love the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Vinci, where all his inventions are made life size. See if you can get yourself over there!

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Originally posted by JYH:
Any suggestions on what to see with a 10 yr old boy?

If you want to be outside, perhaps a walk up to Forte di Belvedere in Oltrarno. The DK Eyewitness guide lays out an interesting walk up to the church of San Miniato al Monte, with Forte Belvedere about half way through the walk. Stunning views over the city and Boboli Gardens, and the historic fort buildings are fascinating, too.

I just posted about this on another thread Children's Tour at Palazzo Vecchio but I think it would be good for you, too. This is a really fun thing for children and many people do not know about it. The link is to my blog entry about taking our 8 year old there. Just scroll down to that part.

If he likes animals you could also consider La Specola. The anatomical model section at the end may be too realistic for a 10 year old. You would need to backtrack to the entrance to avoid these last rooms.

All good suggestions. You might also consider going to Fiesole on the bus (a 15 min. ride). Great views of Florence and an especially cool forum, recently uncovered. Great place for a picnic lunch..........
ciao,
Cheryl