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National Aquarium

501 East Pratt St Baltimore, MD 21202

Monday-Thursday: 9:00-4:00; Friday: 9:00-8:00; Saturday-Sunday: 9:00-5:00

$$$$

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The National Aquarium in Baltimore

Though Baltimore is full of hidden gems of tourism, it’s crowned jewel is undoubtedly the National Aquarium.  The Baltimore aquarium has been continuously operating as a non-profit since 1981 and sits at the Eastern edge of the city’s beloved Inner Harbor area.  The Baltimore skyline wouldn’t be complete without its triangle shaped profile.

It’s Maryland's largest paid tourist attraction, with more than 20,000 fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and marine mammals housed beneath those triangles (which also serve as greenhouse enclosures for the tropical exhibits).  Throughout the years the Aquarium has not only welcomed visitors to take in its magical underwater world, but it has also served as a vital part of Maryland’s conservation strategy. They’re responsible for rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing hundreds of marine mammals and endangered sea turtles throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

Once inside you’ll be able to tour its many exhibits including Australia, Blacktip Reef, Dolphin Discovery, Jellies Invasion, Living Seashore, Tropical Rainforest, Amazon River Forest and everyone’s favorite… Shark Alley!  There are touch tanks with staff providing information on some of the local species and infographics throughout providing facts about each specimen and its habitat.

The hours of operation vary depending on what time of year you’re planning to visit so make sure to check the website for current days and times. (Many people don’t realize that the aquarium sometimes opens at 9:00 AM. If your children will cooperate enough to make the 9:00 opening time, you’ll be treated to a quieter aquarium experience.) Note that if you go later in the day, tickets often include a timed entry. If you arrive at a particularly busy time, you may be issued a ticket for a later in the day. You can avoid this by reserving your ticket online. (If you do need to wait awhile, you can let the kids explore the nearby Pierce's Park or grab a bite to eat at Miss Shirley's!)

There are parking garages and lots throughout the Inner Harbor area and some metered street parking.  Parkway Lockwood Place Garage on 124 Market Place and LAZ Inner Harbor Garage on 100 South Gay Street are partnered garages who accept validated tickets, just provide your parking ticket as you exit the Aquarium.  You can also take the Water Taxi from several spots throughout the different areas along the Harbor like Canton, Fells Point and Federal Hill.  

Pro Tip:  Admission prices are cut in half on Fridays after 5 pm.  You can also take advantage of smaller crowds by visiting on rainy days or when the temperatures start to drop as much of the Aquarium’s business is dependent upon tourist activity in the Inner Harbor.

Food and drinks are not allowed outside of the Aquarium's designated dining areas.  The Aquarium's largest cafe, Harbor Market Kitchen serves up daily specials as well as soups, salads, sandwiches, and pizza by the slice.  Food and beverages obtained outside the Aquarium are not allowed inside Aquarium buildings; however, there are picnic tables and benches outside the Aquarium if you choose to bring your own food.

Because of the escalators and moving walkways inside the National Aquarium strollers aren’t allowed. If you do bring a stroller, Aquarium staff will store it for you and provide a backpack or frontpack child-carrier. The higher vantage point will also provide your children with a better view of many exhibits.

All Photos Courtesy: The National Aquarium

Features

Restrooms Good for All Ages Aquarium
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