National Aquarium in Baltimore
All Things To Do
Key Info
Price & Hours
Details
Overview of the National Aquarium in Baltimore
One of the most well-known attractions in Baltimore, the National Aquarium houses more than 20,000 animals. The aquarium revolves around a bottom-level, open pool, which is filled with stingrays and fish. Continue upstairs and you'll discover a wide variety of marine animals, before you encounter the humidity of the rainforest replica at the top of the building. Visitors can return to the first floor down a spiraling path, which is enclosed by a giant shark tank.
Popular Exhibits at the National Aquarium
Blacktip Reef
A very popular attraction at the aquarium is the "Blacktip Reef" exhibit, a $12.5 million space designed to model the elaborate Indo-Pacific reef system. This exhibit showcases 20 blacktip reef sharks along with 60 distinct species of fish, including zebra sharks, clown triggerfish, and a 500-pound green sea turtle named Calypso.
Dolphin Discovery
"Dolphin Discovery" – the aquarium's largest exhibit – is another highlight thanks to the seven resident dolphins that provide a glimpse into how these animals play and interact.
Visitor Tips and Timing
Brace yourself for thick crowds, especially if you're here on a weekend. For a little more breathing room, consider stopping by on a weekday or before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Though recent visitors raved about the aquarium's accessibility and up-close encounters with underwater creatures, many caution that it's best to plan ahead to get the most out of your trip. Still, most reviewers called the attraction a must-do in Baltimore.
Location and Admission
The aquarium is conveniently located on the Inner Harbor, and is easily accessible with the free Charm City Circulator. Parking is also available at nearby garages. Adult admission costs $39.95; admission for children is $24.95; and entry for seniors is $34.95. Museum visiting hours vary, but generally, the aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 or 8 p.m. Consult the National Aquarium's official website for current hours and exhibit openings.
