Family Fun Day: Exploring Baltimore’s Kid-Friendly Museums
Baltimore is a city with a rich history and culture, and it’s also a great place to raise a family. Baltimore has many kid-friendly museums, perfect for a day of learning and fun with the whole crew.
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Port Discovery Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families with young children. With three floors of interactive exhibits and play areas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can explore the world of science and technology in the Science Discovery Zone, build their creations in the Construction Zone, and pretend to be different careers in the Port. There’s also a particular area for toddlers and babies, with interactive exhibits designed for their developmental stage.
Maryland Science Center
The Maryland Science Center is another excellent option for families with kids of all ages. This interactive science museum has exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space exploration. Kids can experience the thrill of a roller coaster in the Physics Gallery, learn about the human body in the Body & Mind Gallery, and see a planetarium show in the Davis Planetarium. The Maryland Science Center also has an IMAX theater, where families can watch the latest blockbuster films in stunning detail.
Sankofa Children’s Museum of African Cultures
The Sankofa Children’s Museum of African Cultures is a unique museum that teaches kids about African culture and history. This museum has interactive exhibits on everything from African music and dance to African art and storytelling. Kids can also learn about African culture through hands-on activities like drumming, dancing, and making crafts.
Baltimore Museum of Art
The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) is a world-renowned art museum with a collection that spans over 3,000 years of art history. While the BMA may seem like an unlikely destination for families with kids, the museum offers a variety of kid-friendly programs and activities. The BMA provides family-friendly activities every weekend, such as art workshops, storytime, and scavenger hunts. The museum also has a dedicated family gallery with interactive exhibits perfect for kids of all ages.
B&O Railroad Museum
The B&O Railroad Museum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts of all ages. This museum has a collection of over 100 locomotives and railroad cars, and visitors can even climb aboard some of the trains and explore them. The B&O Railroad Museum also has a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a train simulator and a model railroad layout.
Planning Your Visit
When planning your visit to Baltimore’s kid-friendly museums, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check the museum’s website for hours of operation and admission fees. Some museums offer discounts for children and families.
- Be sure to dress comfortably, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
- Don’t forget to bring snacks and drinks, as food and beverage options may be limited in museums.
Here is a sample itinerary for a family fun day exploring Baltimore’s kid-friendly museums:
Morning: Start your day at Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Kids can explore the exhibits and play areas at their own pace. Be sure to check the museum’s website for special events and programs that may be happening during your visit.
Lunch: Grab a quick lunch at one of the many restaurants in the Inner Harbor. There are options for all budgets and dietary preferences.
Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Maryland Science Center. Kids can explore the exhibits, see a planetarium show, or watch a movie in the IMAX theater.
Evening: For dinner, head to one of the many family-friendly restaurants in Baltimore. After dinner, walk along the Inner Harbor or catch a show at the Baltimore Orioles stadium.
Tips for Visiting Baltimore’s Kid-Friendly Museums
- Take breaks. Museums can be overwhelming for children, so make sure to take several breaks during the day. Choose a peaceful place to sit and relax, or step outside for some air.
- Bring snacks and drinks. Food and beverage options may be limited inside the museums, so bring snacks and beverages for your family.
- Be flexible. Things sometimes go differently than planned when visiting museums with kids. Be flexible and go with the flow. If your kids are getting tired or cranky, leaving early is okay.
- Bring snacks and drinks. Food and beverage options may be limited inside the museums, so bring snacks and beverages for your family.
- Be flexible. Things sometimes go differently than planned when visiting museums with kids. Be flexible and go with the flow. If your kids are getting tired or cranky, leaving early is okay.
- Have fun! Museums are an excellent place for families to learn and explore together. Relax, have fun, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
