snowrooster

We (self, dh & two kids) will be in Baltimore for 2 days in June and had planned to spend one of them at the aquarium, however I heard it is under renovation and it may not be a good time.

Upon calling the aquarium I was told there is only on exhibit that is closed (Black Tip Reef) and the rest of the exhibits are open. Not being familiar w/the aquarium, I was wondering how significant this closed Black Tip Reef exhibit is and if it is still worth a visit? Our kids love aquariums but have never been to the one in Baltimore.

Any other suggestions for our second day in Baltimore? I heard the Science Museum is good. Kids are age 10 & 12.

Thanks!!

yestravel

The Baltimore Aquarium is great. I couldn't remember the Black Tip Reef so I googled and it looks like it's a new exhibit opening this summer.
http://www.aqua.org/explore/baltimor.../blacktip-reef
Given that I didn't see the Black Tip Reef exhibit, I say its definitely worth a visit and who knows maybe it will be open when you visit.

gardendiva

The aquarium is great but I do not think it will take a whole day. If you do have extra time I suggest going to the American Visionary Museum. It is across the harbor at the foot of Federal Hill. Just a 10 minute walk at most from the aquarium. It is not your typical art museum. Much more fun and interesting.

yestravel

Good idea on the Am Visionary art museum. I spent 4-5 hours at the Aquarium with kids

Amy

Another really great Baltimore museum is the Museum of Industry: http://www.thebmi.org/ It's huge and unique, with lots of interaction and an amazing collection of old tools and machinery from various crafts, from oyster canning to garment work to printing presses. Sounds a bit odd, perhaps, but it's a great place and kids seem to enjoy it a lot.

schlegal1

Baltimore aquarium is still my favorite. But I am biased since it is the aquarium I knew growing up. But I have been to a few others and still think it is one of the best. You and the kids will love it; I also wasn't familiar with Black Tip Reef so yestravel's explanation makes sense.

(ps - Nice to see you are still an active fodorite, Snowrooster, now that you don't visit the lounge, I didn't realize you were still around).

SAnParis2

The aquarium is nice & worth a stop - I also like the Fells Point area which you can either walk to from Inner Harbor or (it may be more fun for the kids) to proably take the ferry. You can also take in an Orioles game (they have an excellent ballpark) &/or visit Ft. McHenry (also reachable via the Ferry). Or water taxi, I don't remember what they call them... Haven't seen your name in a while, hope all is well...