Nestled in the bustling harbor of Baltimore, lies the National Aquarium. In a city known mostly for its crime and violence à la HBO’s The Wire, this place is truly a pearl, showing visitors the other side of Baltimore.
National Aquarium
Originally opened in Baltimore in 1981, the aquarium now partners with the National Aquarium in Washington, D.C., allowing the two organizations to seamlessly work together to strengthen their research and collections and help with conservation of these wonderful creatures. With over 20,000 animals, the aquarium has recreated the ecosystems of a wide variety of underwater areas.
Some of our favorites included Australia, the Living Seashore touch exhibit (I pet a moon jelly fish!), and, of course, the shark tanks. There is also a dolphin enclosure which was closed during our visit. The dolphins will soon be brought to a dolphin sanctuary that they will construct in the Caribbean where they can live out their days in peace.
Our son, who is just over 1 year old, absolutely loved the aquarium. At first we weren’t sure how he would handle the people and heavy amount of stimulus, but he rocked it. He walked up and down the galleries saying hi to everyone, including the sea creatures. And he wasn’t the only child doing this! So feel free to bring along family members of all ages.
The Inner Harbor
The National Aquarium is located within the Inner Harbor. The Inner Harbor, located at the mouth of the Patapsco River, is the main tourist destination in Baltimore. This area was a major historic seaport that has been in operation since the 18th century. After the fall of industrialization in the beginning of the 20th century, the harbor fell into decline. Starting around the 1950s, the area slowly became revitalized. Today, this bustling area is beautiful, and it is full of restaurants, hotels, historic ships, shops, and museums.
Where is it located?
The National Aquarium is located at 501 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland, right within the Inner Harbor.