Baltimore National Aquarium

The Basics

There's much to do at the award-winning aquarium. Stop by the sensory 4-D immersion theater to experience high-definition 3-D film alongside special effects such as mist and wind; visit the Australian exhibit with crocodiles and kookaburras; and check out Shark Alley where the predators circle visitors inside a 225,000-gallon (852,000-liter) ring-shaped tank. Take advantage of animal-specific and behind-the-scenes tours, including a guest scuba diving experience and a sleepover with the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Allow at least 3.5 hours to explore Baltimore’s National Aquarium.

• Wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis.

• The aquarium hosts two Deaf Awareness Day events every year with sign language interpreters who narrate presentations, exhibit dives, and animal encounters.

• There are two cafes inside the aquarium. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside, but there are picnic tables and benches outside.

How to Get There

The National Aquarium is on the north bank of the Inner Harbor in central Baltimore. It is accessible by subway, light rail, and train. The aquarium is also located on the orange line of the Charm City Circulator, Baltimore's free public bus. By car, take take Exit 53 off Interstate 95; parking facilities are available nearby.

When to Get There

Throughout the year, events and activities are offered, including talks, special animal encounters, and more; check the aquarium website for up-to-date information or download the app. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or before 11am or after 3 pm on weekends and holidays. In summer and over spring break and holidays, the aquarium may sell out. Skip the line and get guaranteed entry by buying tickets in advance.

Maryland Science Center

Another fun, educational activity, the Maryland Science Center features three floors of exhibits, hands-on activities, and demonstrations. In addition to its IMAX theater and planetarium, the center boasts several full-size dinosaurs, a journey through the human body, and an exhibit on the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. The center is also located at the Inner Harbor.

Do you need advance tickets for the National Aquarium in Baltimore?

No, you do need advance tickets for Baltimore's National Aquarium, but it's highly recommended that you purchase them online in advance. Admission to the aquarium is timed, and the aquarium is popular. It's possible that your preferred date and time may sell out if you wait until the day-of.

How long does it take to walk through the National Aquarium in Baltimore?

It typically takes between 1.5 and three hours to walk through Baltimore's National Aquarium and experience all of the exhibits. There is a lot to see, and those who have a deep interest in marine life could probably spend a full day there.

Is the Baltimore National Aquarium all indoors?

Yes, the National Aquarium is all indoors, which makes it a great place to visit for Baltimore's oppressively hot and humid summer. Inside, you’ll find thousands of species in diverse habitats, from sharks swimming around a colorful reef to crocodiles prowling around a recreation of an Australian river gorge.

Can I bring food into the Baltimore National Aquarium?

No, you are not allowed to bring outside food into the National Aquarium. However, there are picnic tables and benches available just outside the building where you can eat your own food. Otherwise, you can dine at the aquarium's café, canteen, or snack bar.

Do you have to pay to park at the Baltimore National Aquarium?

Yes, you have to pay to park at the National Aquarium. Harbor Park Garage, LAZ Inner Harbor Garage, and Parkway Lockwood Place Garage offer discounted parking rates for visitors to the National Aquarium—you must validate your parking ticket inside the aquarium to receive the discount. Street parking is also available.

Can I bring a backpack to the Baltimore National Aquarium?

Yes, small backpacks can be brought into the exhibits at the National Aquarium, but they are subject to search. Anything larger can be stored, for a small fee, in the guest lockers, which are located inside the main entrance on the ground level of Blue Wonder.

Ways to explore

The National Aquarium is considered one of the best in the US, and its thousands of marine animals and fish draw crowds of visitors. Book tickets in advance to avoid a long wait, especially on weekends or school holidays. In addition to general admission that includes a self-guided visit and daily educational talks and feeding demonstrations, you can opt for animal-specific and behind-the-scenes tours and experiences, including a scuba diving program and a sleepover with the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. An aquarium visit is easy to pair with a guided sightseeing tour or a scavenger hunt covering Baltimore’s history and highlights.

Accessibility

The aquarium is fully accessible to visitors in wheelchairs; wheelchairs are available for rent.

Age limits

This family-friendly museum offers daily educational programs for children, as well as kid-focused tours and experiences.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Strollers, outside food and drink

Amenities

Water bottle filling stations, restrooms, dining options, gift shop

Address 

The National Aquarium is on the north bank of the Inner Harbor in central Baltimore. It’s accessible by subway, light rail, and bus, with parking nearby if you drive.

Driving

By car, take Exit 53 off I-95 and head north toward the Inner Harbor and downtown Baltimore. Park at Harbor Park Garage, LAZ Inner Harbor Garage, or Parkway Lockwood Place Garage for discounted rates.

Public transportation

Take the subway to the Shot Tower/Market Place station, or the light rail and MARC trains to the Camden Yards stop. CityLink buses (Yellow, Navy, and Brown) and LocalLink 54 and 65 buses also stop nearby. Alternatively, hop on the orange line of the Charm City Circulator, Baltimore's free public bus, and get off at the Maritime Park stop.

Best times to visit

This popular attraction is most crowded at midday, so book timed entry for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the throngs of visitors.

Best days to visit

Weekends are packed at the National Aquarium, as well as school holidays. The quietest days to visit are Mondays to Thursdays.

Best months to visit

Most of the aquarium is indoors, making for an ideal destination all year round. The outdoor Harbor Wetland is best visited from late spring through early fall.

Special events

The aquarium holds daily presentations and feedings that are included in general admission, plus guided tours and themed activities that must be booked separately. Check the official website for schedules.