The city of Baltimore has plenty of kid-friendly things to do! From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, the city offers an array of family-friendly experiences to explore. Kids will be delighted by hands-on learning opportunities, and the whole family is sure to create lasting memories. Get into the heart of the city and find all of the fun things to do with kids in Baltimore.
5 Family-Friendly Activities in Baltimore
- Visit Port Discovery Children’s Museum for interactive STEM exhibits and creative activities.
- Explore the Maryland Science Center for engaging STEM displays and family-friendly workshops.
- Immerse in marine life at the National Aquarium with interactive exhibits and conservation programs.
- Enjoy outdoor fun at Cylburn Arboretum with diverse plant species and family events.
- Experience a pirate-themed cruise on Urban Pirates with interactive activities on Inner Harbor waters.
Visit a Museum
Baltimore’s children’s museums offer hands-on learning and creative play for kids of all ages. These museums provide interactive exhibits that inspire kids to learn fun facts about Baltimore.
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
At Port Discovery Children’s Museum, young visitors can engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. The museum offers a stimulating environment where kids can explore and learn through various STEM-focused programs. With an emphasis on creativity and imagination, Port Discovery encourages children to play and discover.
The children’s museum features rotating exhibits that cover areas like art, culture, and more. Through its interactive experiences, the museum aims to provide a fun and educational space where kids of all ages can immerse themselves in a world of exploration and discovery.
Art Museums That Kids Will Love
The Baltimore Museum of Art and The Walters Art Museum offer free admission and drop-in art activities for kids. At the American Visionary Art Museum, colorful and unique exhibits captivate children’s imagination. Children can explore artifacts from around the world at the Walters Art Museum.
Additionally, the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum showcases influential African Americans through engaging exhibits, promoting art and history education in an interactive manner. These art museums cater to young visitors, fostering a love for art and culture through hands-on and engaging exhibits.
Maryland Science Center
The Maryland Science Center engages visitors of all ages with interactive STEM exhibits and hands-on learning. Families can explore the planetarium, observatory, and interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, and math. The center lets kids participate in science demonstrations, experiments, and workshops to spark their curiosity and passion for science.
With a focus on providing educational and engaging activities, the Maryland Science Center attracts a large number of annual visitors seeking to combine fun and learning seamlessly. From interactive exhibits to planetarium shows, the center offers a range of family activities that cater to different interests.
National Aquarium
The National Aquarium in the Inner Harbor neighborhood is one of the country’s premier aquatic education and conservation institutions. Opened in 1981, it houses over 20,000 animals across 800 species, including dolphins, sharks, jellyfish, and exotic reptiles.
The aquarium is renowned for its immersive exhibits, such as the Blacktip Reef and the Amazon River Forest, which provide visitors with a glimpse into diverse aquatic ecosystems. As a leader in marine conservation, the National Aquarium also engages in various research and rescue operations, aiming to protect and preserve ocean life.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Many of the best things to do in Baltimore revolve around the outdoors. The city offers a range of outdoor activities for families with kids. From exploring the peaceful gardens and trails at Cylburn Arboretum to enjoying unique play spaces in urban parks, there are plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun.
Cylburn Arboretum
The Cylburn Arboretum spans 200 acres and showcases a variety of plant species, including azaleas, magnolias, and rhododendrons. It provides educational programs for children, such as gardening workshops and outdoor activities where kids can engage in learning about environmental conservation and biodiversity.
The historic mansion within the arboretum serves as a visitor center, where families can gather information about the site and upcoming events. Cylburn Arboretum hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year. With its blend of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and engaging events, Cylburn Arboretum is the perfect family-friendly destination.
Urban Parks
The parks in Baltimore offer families a range of outdoor activities to enjoy together:
- Patterson Park – playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas for a fun day out in the sun
- Druid Hill Park –features a zoo, hiking trails, and a lake for paddle boating and picnics amidst nature
- Cylburn Arboretum – serene gardens, trails, and educational programs focused on plants and nature
- Rawlings Conservatory and Botanical Gardens – a colorful plant experience perfect for family outings
- Rash Field Park – newly renovated playground with splash pads and climbing structures by the waterfront
Urban Pirates Cruise
Urban Pirates offers a family cruise with interactive activities, storytelling, and water cannon battles on the waters of the Inner Harbor. Kids can dress up as pirates, learn about maritime history, and enjoy the scenic views of Baltimore’s waterfront. This family-friendly outdoor adventure is a popular choice for those seeking a memorable experience in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
Orioles Game
Oriole Park at Camden Yards offers the Kids Cheer Free program, allowing children under 9 to attend baseball games for free on select dates. Kids can run the bases at Camden Yards on Sundays after select games, providing a fun and interactive experience for young sports fans. This initiative not only encourages family outings but also allows kids to experience the city pride felt on game day in one of Baltimore’s best neighborhoods.
Maryland Zoo
The Maryland Zoo is home to over 1,500 animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. It offers interactive exhibits and educational programs focused on wildlife conservation. Children can engage in up-close encounters with animals and foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife. The zoo’s habitats include the African Journey, Polar Bear Watch, and Penguin Coast.
With approximately 400,000 annual visitors, the Maryland Zoo is a popular choice for families seeking outdoor fun. Through animal feedings and interactive displays, visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the world of wildlife conservation. Located in Druid Hill Park, the Maryland Zoo is easily accessible using public transit in Baltimore.
Explore History
History comes alive for families exploring Baltimore’s past. From the historic ships showcasing 19th-century maritime life to Fort McHenry, where The Star-Spangled Banner was born, there are hands-on activities and educational experiences awaiting young minds.
Historic Ships
Explore the 19th-century sea life and maritime history showcased at Historic Ships in Baltimore through their well-preserved vessels, including a submarine, a Coast Guard cutter, and a sloop. Among these vessels is the USS Constellation, the final all-sail warship constructed by the US Navy. The museum lets visitors step on board these historic ships, transporting them back to the era of 19th-century seafaring.
Fort McHenry
Known as the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” Fort McHenry is a prominent landmark in American history. Located near the Locust Point neighborhood, this National Monument and Historic Shrine provides a glimpse into the War of 1812 and the defense of Baltimore, showcasing a pivotal moment in American history. Kids can explore the historic fort, Visitor Center, museum, and gift shop. Fort McHenry serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to safeguard the country’s freedom.
Plan the Perfect Family Outing in Baltimore!
Baltimore is full of activities that are perfect for families with kids. Whether it’s exploring museums, enjoying the great outdoors, or delving into the city’s rich history, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Moving to Baltimore is a great choice for anyone looking for an exciting place for kids to live!