Family Things to Do in Baltimore

sobinnerharborBaltimore is a historic seaport with a wide variety of attractions. When visiting the Charm City on vacation, consider these top family friendly destinations.

Port Discovery is an award-winning attraction just a brief walk from the wonderful shops and eateries of the Inner Harbor. The facility is Baltimore’s top museum for children. Inside, you will find a three-story tree house and jungle gym as well as a wide variety of engaging exhibits. The museum provides a fascinating atmosphere where your children can explore their environment.

The National Aquarium is one of the finest facilities of its kind in the world. The 65,000-square-foot aquarium attracts more than one million visitors each year. Children can see a live dolphin show as well as exhibits that display sea creatures from various parts of the globe.

The Maryland Science Center is one of the jewels of the Inner Harbor. In addition to its three levels of interactive science exhibits, the award-winning museum is also home to a planetarium and IMAX theater. Children can learn about dinosaurs, the human body and outer space as well as blue crabs, an iconic symbol of Maryland.

The Maryland Zoo is located in Druid Hill Park. The 160-acre zoological park is home to more than 1,500 different animals. The enclosures are designed to mimic natural habitats. Children will enjoy the up-close views of polar bears, giraffes, elephants and other animals.

Museum of Industry is housed in an old cannery on the Patapsco River. Interactive exhibits re-create an early 20th century garment loft, machine shop and the pharmacy where Noxzema was invented. The museum is home to the coal-fired Baltimore. This National Historic Landmark is the oldest extant steam-powered tugboat.

Sandy Point State Park has beaches and picnic areas that provide marvelous views of the Chesapeake Bay. The 786-acre park provides numerous recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, boating and hiking. Children can take guided Junior Ranger nature hikes. Attractions include the 18thcentury farmhouse and historic Sandy Point Shoal Lighthouse.

Medieval Times is an entertaining dinner attraction. The show pays homage to the jousting tournaments in the 11th century. Your children will love cheering for their valiant knight riding on his powerful steed. The highlight for many kids is the four-course meal served without utensils.

A Seadog Speedboat Cruise is a wonderful way to explore Baltimore’s historic seaport. The tour sails by many popular waterfront attractions. One of the historic landmarks is Ft. McHenry, whose attack by British warships inspired Francis Scott Key to write the Star Spangled Banner. Children will be thrilled when the skipper opens the throttles for a high-speed jaunt down the Patapsco River.

The Top of the World is the observation deck located on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center. It provides a 360° view of the city, the Patapsco River and Chesapeake Bay. Binoculars and a photomap help visitors locate and learn about Baltimore’s neighborhoods and various attractions.

The Maritime Museum is a collection of historic ships. The museum ships include a Coast Guard cutter and World War II submarine as well as the historic Chesapeake Lightship and the frigate USS Constellation. Children will enjoy climbing aboard these ships for an authentic experience. You can hear the daily cannon firing.


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