Best Children’s Museums & Activities in Baltimore, MD
Having lived in Baltimore for nearly my entire life, some of my fondest memories as a child were in the Baltimore area enjoying one of the museums or Children’s focused activities. The Children’s Museums in Baltimore, or the places that are actually geared towards adults but children would love, are all over the state of Maryland! This list offers diverse options for enriching and enjoyable experiences for the whole family, catering to different interests and age groups. Whether you’re a resident or visiting the area, there are numerous activities to consider, each with its own unique experience. Most locations are near great restaurants, dessert spots, and other activities, so it’s a perfect way to plan a few hours or an entire day.
The list includes options within Baltimore City. If you are a local, I suggest looking into the surrounding areas like Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, and Harford County for additional options! The area offers children a wide range of experiences and Children’s museums in Baltimore, from educational activities to fun outings. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best options available for families in the area, along with cost estimates, parking information, and nearby restaurant options.
Things To Do in Downtown Baltimore
1. Spend a day at the Maryland Science Center. Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center offers a variety of interactive exhibits and educational experiences for children of all ages. You will learn about outer space and the solar system, try to solve dinosaur mysteries, and understand more about the human body; try your hand at science experiments, and have a fantastic time in the kid’s room. admission prices range from $14.95 to $24.95, with discounts available for children and seniors. The center also offers an IMAX theater and planetarium shows for an additional fee. Nearby parking options include street parking and paid garages, varying rates depending on the day and time. As for dining options, the Inner Harbor area is home to numerous restaurants and eateries, offering everything from casual dining to upscale waterfront dining experiences.
2. Port Discovery Children’s Museum is a kid museum in downtown Baltimore, offering interactive exhibits and engaging activities for children. This museum is a great time for the entire family with hands-on exhibits, a sky climber and a jungle gym for older kids, innovative educational programs where your kids won’t even realize they are learning, and fun hidden rooms. Admission prices range from $17.95 to $19.95, with discounts available for military personnel and their families. The museum does not have its own parking lot, but there are several parking garages and street parking options nearby. Families visiting Port Discovery can enjoy a variety of dining options in the surrounding area, including family-friendly restaurants and quick bites for a convenient meal before or after their visit to the museum.
3. Visit the National Aquarium! The Baltimore Aquarium is a popular destination for families, featuring a wide array of marine life, live animals and interactive exhibits. Admission prices range from $24.95 to $39.95, with discounted rates for children and seniors. The aquarium does not have its own parking, but there are several nearby parking garages and street parking options available. Families can also find a variety of dining options in the Inner Harbor area, offering everything from casual dining to upscale seafood restaurants. Be warned- the gift shop always gets me here!
4. Fort McHenry is a National Monument and is famous for its role in the War of 1812. It is best known for successfully defending Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British Navy in September 1814, an event that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which later became the national anthem of the United States. Visitors to Fort McHenry can explore the historic fort, watch ranger talks and demonstrations, and enjoy the scenic waterfront views. The park offers various educational programs and events throughout the year, making it an engaging and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Fort McHenry provides on-site parking for visitors, and nearby parking options are available as well. It’s important to note that admission to Fort McHenry may require a fee, with discounted rates available for children and seniors. The cost of admission and any additional fees for programs or special events should be considered when planning a visit to the park.
5. Federal Hill Park is a historic park located in Baltimore, offering stunning panoramic views of the Inner Harbor and the city skyline. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, providing a perfect spot for picnics, relaxation, and outdoor recreational activities like a playground. The park’s elevated location showcases breathtaking vistas, making it an ideal place for photography and enjoying the beauty of Baltimore. Street parking is available around the perimeter, though may be limited.
6. The Baltimore Museum of Industry is a captivating museum that showcases the industrial and technological history of Baltimore and the Chesapeake Bay region. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s industrial past, featuring exhibits on garment manufacturing, food production, and various other industries. The museum also provides hands-on activities, like oyster shucking, engaging demonstrations, and educational programs that cater to visitors of all ages. With its emphasis on preserving and sharing the region’s industrial heritage, the Baltimore Museum of Industry provides an enriching and insightful experience for anyone interested in the history of American industry.
7. The American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore is a unique and fascinating museum that celebrates the work of self-taught artists. It showcases a diverse range of visionary art, including sculptures, paintings, and mixed-media pieces. The museum’s exhibits highlight unconventional and thought-provoking artwork, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts looking for something outside the traditional art museum experience. The AVAM also features a sculpture garden barn, a wildflower garden, and a museum store offering one-of-a-kind creations.The Museum in Baltimore offers admission for $15.95 for adults, $13.95 for seniors (60+), $9.95 for students and children aged 7-17, and free for children under 6. The museum also offers discounts for military personnel and veterans. Keep in mind that the museum may have special exhibitions or events that could have additional costs.
8. The Walters Art Museum is a world-renowned art museum known for its extensive collection that spans several millennia and encompasses diverse cultures and artistic styles. The museum’s collection includes ancient art, medieval European art, Asian art, and decorative arts, among others. Visitors can explore a wide range of exquisite artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects from different periods and regions.
The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and creativity of art from around the world. From ancient Egyptian mummies to medieval armor and Renaissance paintings, the Walters Art Museum provides a rich and immersive experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The best part about this museum- it’s free admission!
9. The B&O Railroad Museum is known as the birthplace of the American railroad and showcases a remarkable collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts, providing a comprehensive look at the impact of the railroad industry on the nation’s growth. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved historic train cars, experience interactive exhibits, and even take a ride on the Mile One Express, a train that offers a glimpse into the golden age of American rail travel. Admission prices for the B&O Railroad Museum typically range from $12 to $20, with discounted rates available for children, seniors, and military personnel. Additionally, the museum often offers special event days and promotional discounts, so it’s worth checking their website for any ongoing offers. The museum provides ample on-site parking for visitors, and there are also nearby parking options available. After immersing yourself in the railroad history, you can explore dining options in the surrounding area, with a variety of restaurants and eateries offering a diverse selection of cuisines to suit every palate.
10. The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) is a renowned cultural institution located in the city of Baltimore. It is known for its extensive collection of art spanning from ancient to contemporary works. The museum showcases an impressive array of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and textiles from around the world. Notable highlights include the Cone Collection, which features a significant number of works by Matisse and other modern artists, as well as the museum’s substantial holding of works by American contemporary artist, Andy Warhol. The BMA also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, making it a vibrant and enriching destination for art enthusiasts of all ages.
11. Baltimore Zoo aka The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore provides an exciting and educational experience for children who love animals. Admission prices range from $15 to $22, with discounted rates for children and seniors. The zoo offers free parking on-site, making it convenient for families to visit. Additionally, there are nearby dining options within the zoo and in the surrounding Druid Hill Park area, where families can enjoy a meal or a snack while exploring the zoo.
12. The Sankofa Children’s Museum is a unique and engaging museum located in Baltimore, Maryland. It offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and educational activities tailored specifically for children. The museum aims to promote a deeper understanding of African cultures and history through immersive experiences, storytelling, and hands-on museums. Visitors can expect to explore themes such as the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans to the nation’s history. With its focus on providing enriching and enlightening experiences, the Sankofa Children’s Museum is a must-visit destination for families seeking to delve into the cultural tapestry of Baltimore.
13. Visit Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the home stadium of the Baltimore Orioles. Known for its retro-classic design and beautiful red-brick exterior, Camden Yards has been influential in the design of many other baseball stadiums. The park offers a great view of the field from almost every seat, making for an enjoyable game-day experience. Additionally, the stadium is conveniently located near the Inner Harbor, providing easy access to dining and entertainment options before or after the game.
14. Watch a Ravens game, Hon! Ravens games are always a blast- even in the colder months. The stadium offers an exciting and vibrant atmosphere for sports fans and visitors alike. With a seating capacity of over 70,000, M&T Bank Stadium provides an excellent venue for hosting NFL games and other major events.
14. The Fire Museum of Maryland, located just outside of Baltimore in Lutherville, is a fascinating museum that showcases the rich history of firefighting in Maryland. It houses an extensive collection of fire engines, equipment, and artifacts that date back to the 1800s. Visitors can explore the evolution of firefighting techniques and technology, as well as learn about the heroic stories of firefighters who have served the community. The museum offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages, making it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history of firefighting and emergency services in Maryland.
15. While exploring the beautiful city of Baltimore, don’t miss the chance to tour the historic boats and ships that offer a fascinating glimpse into the maritime history of the area. Baltimore’s rich maritime heritage is best experienced through visiting a collection of well-preserved historic vessels. One must-see attraction is the USS Constellation, the last all-sail warship built by the United States Navy. Another historic vessel worth visiting is the USCGC Taney, the last surviving warship from the attack on Pearl Harbor. Now a museum ship, the USCGC Taney offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about its service history and the brave individuals who served on board. From its decks, visitors can appreciate breathtaking views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and gain a deeper understanding of the ship’s significance in American history.
Exploring these historic boats and ships in Baltimore is an enriching experience that allows visitors to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s maritime past. The details and stories shared during these tours provide a fascinating insight into the challenges and triumphs of the sailors who served on these extraordinary vessels. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in Baltimore’s maritime history by touring these unique and storied ships.
If you are in the area for more than a day, I highly recommend booking a boat tour of the area! Nothing beats the Baltimore skyline from the water.
Nearby Children’s Activities for A Day Trip
If you want to explore a bit outside of the Baltimore area, consider Annapolis, Maryland, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, and Pennsylvania. I’m not as familiar with all of the options in both but I know it would be the perfect spot for a day trip! I suggest looking into the Chesapeake Children’s Museum in Annapolis, National Children’s Museum in DC, and the College Park Aviation Museum on the way to DC.
Field Trips & Summer Camp Options
Many of the above museums and activities offer summer camps! If you are looking into options for your children, I highly recommend looking into Port Discovery, the Science Center, B&O Railroad, and the Aquarium.
When planning a day out with children in Baltimore, it’s important to consider the associated costs. Admission fees for various attractions and activities can vary widely, so it’s helpful to budget accordingly. Many of the attractions in the area offer different pricing for children based on their age, so it’s advisable to check the specific websites or contact the venues directly for accurate cost estimates.
In summary, Baltimore provides a wealth of children’s experiences, each with its own unique opportunities, inclusions, parking options, and nearby restaurant choices. By researching and planning, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable day out for your children, filled with exciting adventures and delightful discoveries.
