National Aquarium, Baltimore

Central Baltimore

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501 E. Pratt St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
410-576-3800

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National Aquarium, Baltimore Description

Don't worry about being able to find this aquarium — you can't miss the four-story glassed-in Australian river gorge ecosystem (complete with a 35-foot waterfall, massive rocks, 30 species of birds, crocodiles, and abundant other underwater life) that forms the front of the National Aquarium. It's your first sign that this is no ordinary aquarium, and the indoor exhibits are equally impressive -- make your way up the escalators and circular walkways to marvel at more than 16,500 animals, from Banggai Cardinalfish (smaller than a pea at birth) to the Giant Pacific Octopus (the largest on record reportedly weighed 400 pounds). Be sure to check out our other Baltimore vacation ideas.

Kid Tips

Babies: No strollers are allowed inside the aquarium, but visitors can check their strollers free of charge and are provided with complimentary front or backpack carriers. The Aquarium does have a special procedure for special cases and their team will help prearrange a visit that will help accommodate your family. For more information on this, contact visitor services at 410.659.4290.

Toddlers & Pre-K: Enjoy visiting the Children's Discovery Gallery located on the upper level of the Pier 4 Pavillion, open daily from 10am-4pm. Get up close and personal with Animal Encounters experiences - check the schedule for daily encounter times.

School-Age Kids: The 4-D Theater offers an unforgettable sensory experience, with flashing lights, vibrating seats, mist, back pokes, bubbles, and more that are timed to coincide with a 3-D film (such as an edited version of "Planet Earth" or "Polar Express" around the holidays). Children who startle easily and anyone with back problems should skip this attraction; (if they insist, the experience isn't quite as intense if kids remove their 3-D glasses and sit cross-legged).

Planning Notes

Immerse yourself. The aquarium offers a number of behind-the-scenes immersion tours , including dolphin encounters, Little Explorers (for kids 3 to 5), a shark tour, and a guest diver program.

Be prepared. Reading about the exhibits and shows in advance will help you decide how to spend your time at the aquarium. The interactive Online Trip Planner makes it simple, can save you money through combination packages, and will allow you to bypass the sometimes long lines at the ticket counter upon arrival. Email or print your list to have with you during your visit.

Extras cost extra. The dolphin show and shows in the 4-D Theater require a separate admission of $3.

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