The National Aquarium, Baltimore, MD

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Published on Monday, February 27, 2012 00:00

Written by Susan Whetzel

Aquariums are made for kids. They're always on our family vacation itinerary and the National Aquarium is one of our favorites.  Make a nice weekend of it – the Inner Harbor of Baltimore has plenty of wonderful restaurants, shops, and sights to see, as well as fantastic nearly hotels that will allow you to pretty much park once and walk the rest of the weekend.

My son Seven has been to a couple of aquariums already in his short life, including the small one on the Outer Banks, as well as the large Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach.  But nothing quite like the National Aquarium, located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.

Until our recent visit, it had been years since I had been, and seeing it this time through the eyes of my little guy was a true experience.  Housing over 10,000 fish, this is one giant playground.  Coral Reefs and Sting Rays, Moray Eels – all things I truly enjoy and love to be able to introduce my son to.  There was something new around every corner…from sharks to giant sea turtles, to catfish and jellyfish…even a Rainforest.  One of our favorite areas of the aquarium was the Jellyfish exhibit.  Not only are they amazing to look at, but Seven is a sucker for things to peek into, or computerized screens, or buttons to push that make sounds.  Lucky for him – all of that was available in the Jellyfish area.  He even managed to find a matching game!

My sister and her family joined us on this journey – three young boys, ages 3, 7, and 8, and all found something different to love. The true highlight for everyone in the group (especially the kids) was the Dolphin Show.  Heads up…don’t sit down low, or you’ll get soaked!  We were smart enough to sit a bit higher up, so no towels needed.  Seven got a kick out of hearing the dolphins talk (as did I, I just love those little voices!) as well as seeing them dance.  They really are fascinating creatures, and so friendly and intelligent.  My only complaint was wishing it lasted longer!  If you are interested in going, get tickets in advance, as the Dolphin Experience fills up fast, especially on weekends.

For more information on the National Aquarium, please visit their website.  They also have a Twitter account (and are very friendly there!), as well as a Fan Page on Facebook you should join for news and events.