Built in 1854, the Civil War-era U.S.S. Constellation is now berthed permanently in Baltimore's Inner Harbor.

Discover Baltimore's Charms

See trip details for Baltimore, Maryland, one of 30 suggested family trips from National Geographic.

May 24, 2010
2 min read

Maryland Guide

More Family Trips

“Whether you have history buffs, sports fans, jazz aficionados, or budding scientists in your family, they will find something to interest them [in Baltimore],” writes Shermakaye Bass for Traveler. Kick off your visit at the Inner Harbor, Baltimore’s main attraction, starting with the National Aquarium. To explore the harbor via water, take a ride on a water taxi, which stops at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Viewing the bombardment of the fort in 1814, Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the tune that would become the National Anthem. Sports fans will want to head to Camden Yards to catch a game during baseball season and pay a visit to the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum. If you want to stay on the waterfront, check into the Admiral Fell Inn. The Holiday Inn Inner Harbor, near Camden Yards, is another good option.

Port Discovery, also located at the Inner Harbor, is a hands-on children’s museum, where you can get wet in the Wonders of Water exhibit, become a detective at Miss Perception’s Mystery House, or play soccer at the indoor field. The Maryland Science Center with its IMAX Theater and planetarium, also is a big hit. Phillips Seafood Restaurant at Harborplace serves award-winning crabcakes. For something different, though, head to Sabatino’s in Little Italy, where they serve huge portions of pasta and other dishes.

The Maryland Science Center’s observatory is open to the public every Friday at 7:30 p.m. You can see the moon, planets, and stars through the observatory’s computer-controlled telescope.

Information for the Orioles and Camden Yards: baltimore.orioles.mlb.com.

Based on articles from National Geographic Traveler and compiled by Stephanie Robichaux

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Get a FREE tote featuring 1 of 7 ICONIC PLACES OF THE WORLD

Go Further