Family-Friendly Adventures in Baltimore!

Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family adventure to the Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum located in Baltimore, Maryland. This historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of George Herman "Babe" Ruth, one of baseball"s most legendary figures, perfect for a family day out.

Starting Your Day

Begin your journey early in the day to enjoy a leisurely experience. The museum is situated at 216 Emory Street, just a few blocks away from the iconic Camden Yards. If you’re staying in downtown Baltimore, it’s a pleasant walk, or you can opt for public transportation — the Light RailLink has a stop conveniently close at Camden Yards station. If driving, parking is available in the area around the museum.

Exploring the Museum

The museum opens its doors at 10 AM. Start at the restored 19th-century rowhouse where Babe Ruth was born in 1895. As you wander through the rooms, you’ll see rare artifacts from Ruth’s life and career, including his childhood catcher’s mitt and a replica of the 1914 Orioles uniform he wore. The exhibits are very interactive, making it fun for kids and adults alike.

Fun Fact: Did you know Babe Ruth hit his very first home open at what is now center field at Camden Yards?

Post-Museum Activities

After exploring the museum, take a short walk to Camden Yards, where you can enjoy a tour of the ballpark. Check out the Babe Ruth statue and the Orioles Walk of Fame — an absolute must-see for any baseball fan.

Dining Options

Cap off your visit with a meal at nearby Pickles Pub, a local favorite with a friendly atmosphere and a menu that catypicallys to all ages.

With engaging exhibits and a stroll through baseball history, the Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum offers a captivating outing for families. Make sure to stop by the gift shop for unique souvenirs to remember your day!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hard Rock Café Baltimore

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Day at Hard Rock Café Baltimore

Morning: Explore the Inner Harbor

Begin your day at Baltimore"s scenic Inner Harbor. Easily accessible by car or public transportation (Light RailLink or Metro SubwayLink to the Inner Harbor station), this bustling hub is perfect for a family stroll. Enjoy the waterfront views and watch the boats glide by.

Lunch at Hard Rock Café Baltimore

Located at 601 E Pratt St, Hard Rock Café Baltimore is just a short walk from the Harbor. Known for its classic American cuisine and music memorabilia, the café is a treat for both the eyes and the palate. Kids will love the extensive kids" menu and the fascinating collection of rock "n" roll artifacts. Don"t miss the suit worn by Elvis Presley, a fun photo op for the whole family!

Afternoon: Visit the National Aquarium

Just steps from Hard Rock Café, the National Aquarium is a must-see. Home to over 20,000 aquatic animals, it"s an educational and exciting experience for all ages. Highlights include the Dolphin Discovery exhibit and the Rain Forest. Save time by purchasing tickets online in advance.

Evening: Dessert and Scenic Views

Wrap up your day with a sweet treat from one of the nearby dessert spots like Miss Shirley’s Café, known for its delicious shakes and cakes. Afterward, take a relaxing harbor cruise (departures from Inner Harbor), offering stunning views of the Baltimore skyline at twilight.

Tip: Check the Hard Rock Café Baltimore’s website for special family events or live music performances which can add an exciting twist to your visit!

This itinerary offers a blend of cultural highlights and fun, ensuring that every family member has a memorable day in Baltimore.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Maryland Science Center

Why Visit?

Embark on a journey of discovery and fun at the Maryland Science Center in Baltimore! Perfect for families, this center offers a blend of interactive exhibits, awe-inspiring demonstrations, and educational IMAX films that cater to curious minds of all ages.

Planning Your Visit

- Location: Located in Baltimore’s vibrant Inner Harbor at 601 Light Street.

- Hours: Typically open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but check the website for current hours as they can vary.

- Tickets: Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid the queues, especially during weekends or school holidays. Consider membership options for multiple visits and benefits throughout the year.

What to Explore

1. Dinosaur Mysteries: Step back in time and walk under massive dinosaur skeletons. Kids can uncover fossils in the dig pits and learn about prehistoric creatures that roamed Earth millions of years ago.

2. Newton"s Alley: Engage with hands-on exhibits that bring physics concepts to life. Experiment with momentum, energy, and gravity through interactive games and challenges.

3. Your Body: Dive into the wonders of human biology. Explore how your body works, from pumping blood to neuron networks. Don"t miss the life-sized Operation game!

4. SpaceLink: Take a trip to outer space without leaving Earth! Check out real meteorites, control a Mars rover, and learn about the universe in ways that captivate both young astronauts and adults.

5. IMAX Theater: Enhance your visit with a show at the IMAX Theater. The large screen provides a mesmerizing experience of nature documentaries and science features, making learning visually stunning and memorable.

Lunch Break

Grab a bite at the Beakers Café, which offers kid-friendly and healthy options, or enjoy a picnic at the nearby Inner Harbor for scenic views.

Getting There

Easily accessible by car with parking nearby, or by public transport (Light Rail or bus services). The center is also walkable from other major attractions around the Inner Harbor.

Tip: Check the day’s schedule for special demonstrations or shows to make the most of your visit. Engage with staff and volunteers who often have fascinating stories and additional information to share.

By the end of your visit to the Maryland Science Center, your family will be enriched with knowledge, inspired by science, and eager for your next adventure!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

American Visionary Art Museum

Why Visit?

Welcome to a fun-filled family day at the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) in Baltimore, a celebration of outsider art that’s sure to spark creativity and wonder in every member of the family!

### Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early by arriving at AVAM around 10 AM. Located at 800 Key Highway, Baltimore, the museum is easily accessible. If you’re driving, there’s a paid parking lot right next to the museum. For those using public transport, the Charm City Circulator’s Banner Route is a convenient and free option, which stops right in front of the museum.

Once inside, kick off your visit with the permanent collection in the Main Building. Don’t miss the Cabaret Mechanical Theatre on the 1st floor—a delightful display of whimsical, mechanically animated sculptures that will captivate the kids.

### Midday: Interactive Activities

After exploring the main exhibits, head to the Jim Rouse Visionary Center by noon. Here, engage with the Giant Whirligig, an enormous wind-powered sculpture. It"s not only a marvel to look at but also a conversation starter about renewable energy and creativity from recycled materials.

### Lunch Break

Around 1 PM, take a lunch break at Mr. Rain’s Fun House, the on-site café offering a variety of kid-friendly options along with some great views of downtown Baltimore.

### Afternoon: Sculpture Barn and Wildflower Garden

Post-lunch, visit the Sculpture Barn and adjacent Wildflower Garden. The former, a restored historic warehouse, showcases large-scale works and the garden offers a peaceful retreat featuring indigenous plants.

### Late Afternoon: Educational Workshops

Check the museum’s schedule for any family workshops or activities in the afternoon. These hands-on sessions are both fun and educational, providing a creative outlet as well as a learning experience.

### Departure

Wrap up your visit by 5 PM, ensuring you’ve had a full day of engaging art and activities. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for some unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of visionary art!

Enjoy your inspirational journey at the American Visionary Art Museum, where art meets imagination in the most extraordinary ways!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Why Visit?

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Family Visit Itinerary

Morning Arrival

Start your day early to make the most of your visit to Fort McHenry, located at 2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD. If driving, there is ample parking available on site. Public transport options include the Banner Route of the Charm City Circulator, which is free and drops you right at the entrance.

Welcome Center

Begin at the Visitor Center, open from 9 AM. Watch the introductory film, "The Defense of Fort McHenery," which runs every 30 minutes and provides an engaging overview of the fort"s pivotal role in the War of 1812 and the birth of the U.S. National Anthem.

Ranger-led Tour

Join a ranger-led tour (check times upon arrival) for an informative and family-friendly exploration of the grounds. These tours are a fantastic way to dive into the history, exploring the bastions, barracks, and batteries that played a significant role during the Battle of Baltimore.

Interactive Activities

Participate in the Junior Ranger program, a great way for kids to learn through activity booklets available at the Visitor Center. Complete tasks and earn a Junior Ranger badge. Occasionally, living history demonstrations bring the 19th-century military life to vivid reality—perfect for captivating young minds.

Picnic and Leisure

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the designated area with views overlooking the Patapsco River. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the fort’s perimeter trail. Interpretive signs along the way provide snippets of historical facts, enriching your walk.

Star-Spangled Banner Flag House

Cap off your visit with a short drive to the nearby Star-Spangled Banner Flag House in Baltimore city, where the famous flag flying over Fort McHenry during the 1814 bombardourment was made by Mary Pickersgill.

Departure

Conclude your educational and enjoyable visit by late afternoon, ensuring you"ve stepped back in time and experienced a pivotal site in American history.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.