Despite what you may have heard about Baltimore, Maryland, there are tons of reasons that make it a city-dwellers’ dream. Lovingly known as B-more or Charm City to its locals, the eclectic mix of culture, natural beauty and downright quirkiness is ever-present in this town. But what you might not know about Baltimore is that it is also uniquely family-friendly. While many once moved out to make way for the younger generations, these days, the downtown cobblestone streets, neighborhoods and parks are packed with strollers and toddling tots. From exploring the Inner Harbor to checking out popular attractions like the National Aquarium and Port Discovery Children’s Museum, here are the best 25 things to do in Baltimore with kids in tow.
1. A visit to the Maryland Science Center, located downtown at the Inner Harbor, is a must. As soon as you enter, you’ll be towered over by giant dinosaur exhibits. But there is so much fun to be had from the IMAX theater to planetarium and observatory.
2. On the city line sits one of Baltimore’s more scenic and educational parks—Lake Roland Nature Center and Park. There’s trials to hike, a children’s fairy garden, an amazing playground and indoor nature center. It’s one of the locals favorite jogging spots, but you can also take a kayak out on the water, sign up for a class, or come to seasonal events like the Donut Trail Running Series, family camp-outs and more. Members can bring furry friends to play in the dog park, too!
3. There’s nothing like taking your kid to a museum only to have to tell them over and over again, “don’t touch anything!” But at Port Discovery Children’s Museum, the whole place is made for kids. They can get wet in the water play area (complete with raincoats!), climb on the ropes from one end to the next, or see dozens of rotating featured exhibits that are all made uniquely for kids.
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4. If just being near the water isn’t enough family fun, you can hop aboard the Urban Pirates’ Fearless, Baltimore’s very own kid-friendly pirate ship. It’s an adventure from start to finish with tons of pirate lingo to learn. Kids can also dress like a pirate, shoot water cannons, and enjoy a fun and rowdy day at sea.
5. Hungry? Located one block from the Inner Harbor is Power Plant Live!, a jumbo dining and entertainment complex—it gets its name from the former power plant on Pratt Street. Eat at restaurants like Charm City Pizza and Luckie’s Tavern. From time to time, the spot hosts fun events for families so keep an eye on their calendar.
6. It’s easy to see why the Visionary Art Museum is fun for all ages. From the moment you walk up, you’ll notice its sparkly, eccentric vibe which makes it anything but a bore for little visitors. Kids can check out the exhibits or take classes which are available for all ages. Even better, ages six and under are free!
7. You may have checked into an aquarium before, but there are few more spectacular than the National Aquarium in Baltimore that sits right on the water in the center of the downtown area. From sharks and a magical rainforest to dolphins and more schools of fish than you can count, it’s a sea-lovers dream come true. The jellyfish are a big hit, but so are the giant (and majorly old) sea turtles, stingrays, and always changing exhibits.
© 2017 National Aquarium
8. Get a workout on the water in the Inner Harbor paddle boats because one of the best ways to move around the city is to float. That’s why Baltimore’s paddle boats have been in the water for decades! Hop in a traditional boat, or one shaped like “Chessie” the Chesapeake Bay sea monster, and stretch your legs.
9. Monkey around at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. The sprawling zoo has just about every animal you can name. From giraffes and elephants to lions, tigers and polar bears (oh my!), this town’s zoo has it all. Check out the adorable penguins, listen to a zoo-keeper chat (at set times), brush the goats, or take a ride on the merry-go-round. And for those 21 and older, we should probably mention, they have alcohol beverages to sip while you stroll.
10. One of the city’s most interesting spots is the Creative Alliance. There’s tons to do from seeing a stand-up comedy show and going to a poetry reading to seeing art by local artists of diverse backgrounds. But the best part for families is the free family drop-ins called “Kerplunk!,” which feature different opportunities for kids to make and learn about art.
11. Yes, all baseball games might be a blast, Oriole Park at Camden Yards is truly a beautiful sight to be seen. Set against the city backdrop, the gorgeous green field and sea of orange shirts is pretty spectacular. But for families, things get even better. There’s an amazing kid-zone play area and oh yeah, kids under nine get in free!
Visit Baltimore
12. Catch a flick at the famous Senator Theatre—it’s been a Baltimore landmark since its opening in 1939. While the Senator has been around for ages, it recently underwent a total renovation and is better than ever. Make sure to take a look at the dozens of famous handprints out front that you’ll surely recognize.
13. We love how much there is to do at the Irvine Nature Center, from hiking and camping opportunities to animal exploration. Check out the calendar of events for festivals and educational experiences, like Science Saturdays.
14. One of Baltimore’s most famous neighborhoods is Hampden, known best for its Miracle on 34th Street decorations that light up the city come Christmastime. The main drag is 36th Street, called the Avenue by locals, and its quirky and inventive shops and totally charming restaurants are a city-lovers dream come true.
15. There are few places more unique that the B&O Railroad Museum. It’s commonly referred to as the birthplace of the American railroad. Kids will love catching a ride on a train and might even enjoy learning a bit of history. There’s also a children’s zone, train carousel and special Thomas- and Polar Express-themed rides throughout the year.
B&O Railroad Museum
16. Northern Baltimore city is the home of Sherwood Gardens, one of the most gorgeous spots around where families, whether locals or out-of-towners, routinely picnic and play. Spring is the best time of year to visit and observe the more than 80,000 tulips that bloom each year, but the gardens remain a popular hangout just about anytime.
17. You can’t leave the city without visiting Fort McHenry’s National Monument and historic shrine, famous for its role in the war of 1812. The site, at the edge of downtown in the Locust Point neighborhood, won’t be a bore to kids either. It has a fun junior ranger program to encourage their interest in the history of the battleground.
18. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, or BSO, is one of the most well-rounded in the world making it a must-visit when coming to the city. There are tons of kid-friendly performances to observe (in fact, it’s a common field trip spot for local school kids!). Concerts have been known to include famous musicians, as well as music-themed shows like Star Wars, Harry Potter and more.
19. At the center of the Mount Vernon neighborhood in Baltimore (a true gem on its own) is the Washington Monument, the first dedicated to George Washington. The gallery and exhibits are free, so pop in, then roam the beautiful streets of one of the city’s most enchanting areas.
20. When hanging out in Charm City, a cruise on the famous water taxi is an absolute must. Whether you’re just getting from point A to B (and it’s a heck of a way to get to your destination!), enjoying a dinner cruise or even a private charter, you’ll see the city in a new light. There are tons of different routes to choose from and wherever you go, it’s one water view that simply can’t be beat.
Visit Baltimore
21. Not many towns have a drive-in movie theatre anymore, but B-more does! The famous Bengie’s Drive-in Theatre is in its 63rd year, so kick it old school and catch a flick right from the seat of your car. There are always family films to be seen, plus a playground if the kids get squirmy. Tasty treats are sold year-round, too!
22. Get nostalgic at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, a historic landmark that opened in 1970 (though its roots go back about 90 years thanks to the collection and storing of the old cars in various locations). Its creation was truly a labor of love and that appreciation remains intact today. The public can hitch a ride on a creaky, old streetcar, and check out the visitors center and store, the auditorium and the exhibits. There are also yearly events like rides with Santa!
23. Pick up some produce at Weber’s Cider Mill Farm, the oldest cider mill in continuous use in the state of Maryland. Fall is the ideal time of year to visit the family owned and operated farm. Don’t miss the barnyard play area for kids—you’ll find slides and hay rides, plus farm animals, like goats, to feed.. And year-round, there’s always yummy produce, apple cider, flowers and seasonal decorations.
24. Take a fairy walk at Cylburn Arboretum. With its historic mansion, wildlife, trails and natural beauty all around, there is so much to see and do on the 200-acre gardens and grounds. Take a workshop, go on a tour, or just relax and take in the scenic beauty.
25. See plants from around the world at Rawlings Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, located on the edge of Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park, is the beautiful botanical gardens. Families can explore all kinds of different plants in the greenhouses from places near and far. But mind the signs and don’t touch—especially the cacti!
