Let's Explore!
Things to Do and See in Baltimore
Perhaps you’re already a fan of Baltimore and would like to stay an extra day or two in the Charm City. Or perhaps you have family members who joined you and are looking for exciting things to do during the day while you attend the conference. Whatever the reason, if you find yourself with some time to spare, make sure to check out some of the things Baltimore has to offer.
NATIONAL AQUARIUM IN BALTIMORE
501 E. Pratt Street; 410-576-3800
Three pavilions of exciting attractions and a living collection of more than 16,000 animals. Daily dolphin shows, a tropical rain forest, and an eerie shark walk are among the many highlights. Ticket prices for adults: $24.95–$29.95 ($19.95–$24.95 for children). Discounts and Promotions can be found at: www.aqua.org/discounts.html
PIER 6 PAVILION
731 Eastern Avenue, 410-783-4189
An outside venue for concerts. Call or check website for upcoming events.
RAMS HEAD LIVE
20 Market Place; 410-244-1131
Call or check website for upcoming events.
FORT McHENRY
2400 East Fort Avenue; 410-962-4290
Best known for the War of 1812 when it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British navy. It was this bombardment that inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Entrance fee for adults: $7 (children 15 and younger: Free)
THE AMERICAN VISIONARY ART MUSEUM
800 Key Highway; 410-244-1900
Closed Mondays. The New York Review of Books is hosting a Friday evening reception here.
Art produced by self-taught individuals, usually without formal training, visionary art begins by listening to the inner voices of the soul, and often may not even be thought of as “art” by its creator. Amazing gift shop. Special exhibit: What Makes Us Smile (an exploration of humor). Ticket prices for adults: $15.95 ($13.95 for seniors; $9.95 for children; children 6 and under: Free)
BABE RUTH BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM
216 Emory Street (3 blocks west of Oriole Park at Camden Yards); 410-727-1539
Tuesday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
The rowhouse where Babe Ruth was born, officially became a museum in 1974 and features six main exhibits, including exhibits and the bedroom where he was born. Ticket prices for adults: $6 ($4 for seniors; $3 for children 3–12)
BALTIMORE & OHIO RAILROAD MUSEUM
901 West Pratt Street; 410-752-2490
Monday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
The B&O Railroad Museum brings alive the magic and adventure of railroading every day! This historic national landmark allows you to see, touch, hear, and explore the most important railroad collection in America. Ticket prices for adults: $14 ($12 for seniors; $8 for children 2–12); Train rides are an additional $2 for adults; $1 for children
THE BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART
10 Art Museum Drive; 443-573-1700
Closed Mondays & Tuesdays.
An internationally renowned collection of 19th-century, modern, and contemporary art. Founded in 1914 with a single painting, the BMA now has 90,000—including the largest holding of works by Henri Matisse in the world. Free
BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF INDUSTRY
1415 Key Highway; 410-727-4808
Tuesday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
From food canning to broadcasting, visitors can interact with the technologies that brought us to the 21st century. Step into vividly recreated workshops on machining, printing, garment-making and metalworking. Ticket prices for adults: $10 ($8 for seniors; $6 for children over 6)
BALTIMORE STREETCAR MUSEUM
1901 Falls Road; 410-547-0264
Saturdays and Sundays: noon–5:00 p.m.
Dedicated to preserving Baltimore's public transportation history, especially the streetcar era, the museum houses collections of the Baltimore Streetcar Museum and National Railway Historical Society. Ticket prices for adults: $7 ($5 for seniors and children 4–11; children under 4: Free)
EDGAR ALLAN POE HOUSE AND MUSEUM
203 North Amity Street; 410-396-7932
Thursday through Saturday: noon–3:30 p.m.
Displays include a lock of Poe's hair, original china once belonging to John Allan (Poe's guardian), and a large reproduction of the portrait of Virginia Clemm painted after her death as well as many other Poe-related images. Per website: “There is a small charge for admission.”
EVERGREEN MUSEUM & LIBRARY
4545 N. Charles Street; 410-516-0341
Tuesday through Friday: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: noon–4:00 p.m.
Italianate country residence of Baltimore’s philanthropic Garrett family is celebrated for its holdings of Asian arts, European paintings, American art glass, and the John Work Garrett Library of rare books and manuscripts. Ticket prices for adults: $8 ($7 for seniors; $5 for students w/ ID and children 6–17; children under 5: Free)
GEPPI’S ENTERTAINMENT MUSEUM
301 W. Camden Street; 410-625-7060
Tuesday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
History of pop culture from the 17th century to today as made popular in newspapers, magazines, comic books, movies, television, radio, and video games. It features a large collection of pop culture memorabilia. Ticket prices for adults: $10 ($9 for seniors; $7 for students; children under 4: Free)
HOMEWOOD MUSEUM
3400 N. Charles Street (on the campus of JHU); 410-516-5589
Tuesday through Friday: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: noon–4:00 p.m.
The museum's collections consist of fine and decorative arts objects representative of the furnishings during the Carroll family’s occupancy (1775–1825). Ticket prices for adults: $8 ($7 for seniors; $5 for students w/ ID and children 6–17; children under 5: Free)
JEWISH MUSEUM OF MARYLAND
15 Lloyd Street; 410-732-6400
Sunday, Tuesday through Thursday: noon–4:00 p.m.
The Museum interprets the Jewish experience in America, with special attention to Jewish life in the state of Maryland. Visitors can uncover the roots of Jewish history in two landmark historic sites. Special exhibit: Loring Cornish: In Each Other’s Shoes (exploring the intersection of Jewish and African American culture in the area). Ticket prices for adults: $8 ($4 for students; $3 for children under 12)
NATIONAL GREAT BLACKS IN WAX MUSEUM
1601-03 East North Avenue; 410-563-3404
Tuesday through Saturday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sunday: noon–6:00 p.m.
Among the nation’s most dynamic cultural and educational institutions. It is the first wax museum in the United States committed solely to the study and preservation of African American history. Ticket prices for adults: $12 ($11 for seniors and students; $10 for children 3–11; children under 3: Free)
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF DENTISTRY
31 South Greene Street; 410-706-0600
Wednesday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Sunday: 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
See amazing teeth feats, marvel at George Washington’s choppers (they’re not made of wood, after all!), sing along to vintage toothpaste commercials, and discover fascinating exhibitions that encourage good oral health. Ticket prices for adults: $7 ($5 for seniors and students w/ ID; $3 for children 3–12; children under 3: Free)
PORT DISCOVERY CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
35 Market Place; 410-727-8120
Tuesday throughFriday: 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sunday: noon–5:00 p.m.
An oasis designed for children ages 2–10. Dominated by KidsWorks, a three-level climbing structure. The museum's other exhibits all surround the giant jungle gym. Port Discovery is where kids can play and learn. Ticket prices for ages 2 and up: $12.95 (children under 2: Free)
REGINALD F. LEWIS MUSEUM OF MARYLAND AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE
830 E. Pratt Street; 443-263-1800
Wednesday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sunday: noon–5:00 p.m.
The 82,000-square-foot museum is dedicated to preserving history and retelling the stories of Maryland's African American community. Images, music, and oral history bring to life the museum's exhibits and collection. Special exhibit: Material Girls: Contemporary Black Women Artists. See website for discount promotions. Ticket prices for adults: $8 ($6 for seniors and youth 7–17; children under 7: Free)
SPORTS LEGENDS MUSEUM AT CAMDEN YARDS
301 W. Camden Street; 410-727-1539
Tuesday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
A 17-exhibit shrine to Baltimore and Maryland sports, the 22,000-square-foot museum is adjacent to the main gate of Oriole Park at Camden Yards and has artifacts and interactive exhibits. Ticket prices for adults: $8 ($6 for seniors; $4 for children 3–12)
THE WALTERS ART MUSEUM
600 North Charles Street; 410-547-9000
Closed Mondays & Tuesdays.
World art from pre-dynastic Egypt to 20th-century Europe including Greek sculpture, Roman sarcophagi, Old Master paintings, Art Deco jewelry, and 19th-century European and American masterpieces. Free
MARYLAND SCIENCE CENTER
601 Light Street; 410-685-2370
Monday through Friday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Hands-on exhibits and spectacular displays in the wonderful world of science and technology. You'll find three floors of demonstrations to exercise your imagination and challenge your mind. Ticket prices for adults: $14.95–$18.95 ($13.95–$17.95 for seniors; $11.95–$15.95 for children 3–12)
ORIOLE PARK AT CAMDEN YARDS
888-848-BIRD
Steel—rather than concrete—trusses, an arched brick facade, a sun roof over the gentle slope of the upper deck, an asymmetrical playing field, and natural grass turf are just some of Oriole Park’s features.
6/3 & 6/4: Orioles vs. Toronto Blue Jays @ 7:05 p.m.
6/5: Orioles vs. Toronto Blue Jays @ 1:35 p.m.
BALTIMORE SYMPHONY
1-877-BSO-1444
Pianist Emanuel Ax joins Marin Alsop and the BSO in a program that features Britten’s A Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1., and a commissioned new work by Osvaldo Golijov.
6/3 & 6/4: 8:00 p.m.
6/5: 3:00 p.m.
AUDREY HERMAN SPOTLIGHTERS THEATRE
817 St. Paul Street; 410-752-1225
Part of the Baltimore theater community since 1962, the Spotlighters seek to provide a variety of quality performances and opportunities for new, local artists to develop and refine their skills. John Patrick Shanley’s Tony-winning Doubt: A Parable will be performed May 13–June 12.
CENTERSTAGE
700 N. Calvert Street; 410-332-0033
No shows during AAUP.
EVERYMAN THEATRE
1727 N. Charles Street; 410-752-2208
With a professional repertory company of artists from the Baltimore/Washington area, this mid-size Equity theater is dedicated to presenting quality theater that is accessible and affordable to everyone. George Bernard Shaw’s classic Pygmalion will be running May 18–June 19.
FELLS POINT CORNER THEATRE
251 S. Ann Street; 410-466-8341
This intimate community theater features an off-Broadway menu of avant-garde and classic plays, including Baltimore playwrights' original productions. The Seafarer, a Tony-nominated drama set in Dublin, will be onstage May 6–June 5.
FRANCE-MERRICK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
12 N. Eutaw Street; 410-837-7400
This full-scale performing arts complex, also known as the Hippodrome, is the centerpiece not only of world-class stage performances, but of a totally revitalized West Side of Baltimore. The Hippodrome hosts some of today's most high-tech theatrical performances, including Broadway shows.
SINGLE CARROT THEATRE
120 W. North Avenue; 443-844-9253
Single Carrot Theatre ensemble touts itself as a driving force for theatrical innovation in Baltimore, championing new, diverse, and socially significant works. Andrew Irons’ Linus and Alora, a groundbreaking multi-media experience, will be performed June 8–10.
THE VAGABOND PLAYERS
806 S. Broadway; 410-563-9135
Now in their 95th season, the Vagabond Players are widely considered America’s oldest continuous little theater. Starting on June 3, the company will be performing the comedy Abducting Diana, an adaptation of Il Ratto della Francesca by Dario Fo.
AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL TOURS
410-727-0755
Customized local, national and international African American history tours, featuring the Underground Railroad. Step-on tour guides are provided, and individual and group reservations are accepted year-round.
BALTIMORE FISHING ADVENTURES
410-342-2004
For Chesapeake Bay sport fishing, this is the only charter fishing boat that departs from Fell’s Point. Licensed for six passengers, all tackle and licenses provided. Families and kids welcome. Private harbor tours available.
BALTIMORE GHOST TOURS
410-522-7400
Award-winning haunted walking tours of Fell's Point and Mount Vernon. Evening and day tours, Haunted Pub Walks, and Ghost Talk where we come to you. Group tours available.
BALTIMORE RIOT TRAIL
888-248-4597
Experience the Civil War at sites that reveal the deeply divided loyalties of Maryland and the nation. Discover places that served as prisons, hospitals, and training camps. View the panorama from Federal Hill.
THE BASILICA OF THE ASSUMPTION TOUR
410-727-3565
Stunning restoration of the Basilica of the Assumption, the oldest Catholic cathedral in America. The Cathedral is open to the public daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Guided tours are available.
CHARM CITY FOOD TOURS
410-929-5730
Offers walking tours that highlight the architecture, history, culture, and the cuisine of Baltimore area neighborhoods.
FELL'S POINT: THE PRESERVATION SOCIETY’S AUTHENTIC GHOSTWALK
1-877-BALTIMORE
Walk with the spirits—if you dare—to discover the real haunted history of Fell’s Point on this tour departing from the Fell’s Point Visitor Center. Fridays and Saturdays.
FELL'S POINT: THE PRESERVATION SOCIETY’S IMMIGRATION TOUR
1-877-BALTIMORE
As a port of immigration, Baltimore was second only to Ellis Island. Explore immigration sites and hear stories of exodus and assimilation into a new culture and country. Saturdays: Noon
FELL'S POINT: THE PRESERVATION SOCIETY’S SECRETS OF THE SEAPORT TOUR
1-877-BALTIMORE
Learn about the homes, businesses and lives of sea captains, ship builders, seamen, and immigrants in this 18th-century maritime community. Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m.
FELL'S POINT: FREDRICK DOUGLASS PATH TO FREEDOM WALKING TOUR
410-783-5469.
Walk in the footsteps of the great abolitionist and orator, visiting the 18th-century buildings where he lived as a slave, worked, worshiped, and escaped via the Underground Railroad. By appointment only.
INNER HARBOR: HERITAGE WALK
443-984-2369
This tour guides participants through four centuries of history around the Inner Harbor, Little Italy, and historic Jonestown. Weekdays at 10:00 and weekends at 10:00 and 1:00. Group tours can be arranged.
LITERARY MOUNT VERNON WALKING TOUR
Starts at: 25 W. Saratoga Street; 410-685-2886
Take a self-guided tour of the homes of Mount Vernon’s famous literati. Stops include the homes of Emily Post, H. L. Mencken, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Edgar Allan Poe. Visit the website for an interactive map.
MOUNT VERNON CULTURAL WALK
443-984-2369
Explore the city's leading role in developing America's culture. You will also see marvelous examples of 19th- and 20th-century architecture. Group tours can be arranged. Daily 1:00 p.m. Free.
PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE HERITAGE TRAIL: AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE TOUR
443-984-2369
Experience the nation’s rich African American heritage on the Pennsylvania Avenue Heritage Trail. Explore the Avenue Market and monuments to the Royal Theatre and Billie Holiday. Sundays. Free.
SEADOG CRUISE
866-845-7245
This 50-minute tour combines a fun and educational narrative of Baltimore’s historic sights with an exciting speedboat ride. The tour departs from Baltimore's Inner Harbor.
SEGWAY TOURS IN BALTIMORE
Enjoy a one- or two-hour guided Segway Safari tour that takes you over various terrains while showing you sites of interest and some of the key attractions of the Fell's Point historic Inner City area.
THOMAS POINT SHOAL LIGHTHOUSE TOUR
410-295-0104 (Tours are limited and reservations are required.)
Sunday, June 6: 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
Tour includes a 30-minute boat ride to the lighthouse, an on-board docent-led tour, and a 30-minute return boat ride. Allow three hours for the excursion. Some physical exertion required. $70 per person
URBAN PIRATES
410-327-8378
Ahoy matey! Book early for either the Family Adventure Cruise or the adult B.Y.O.G. (Bring Your Own Grog) Cruise. Face painting, tattoos, and dress-up offered 30 minutes before the hour-long tour on the high sea. Ticket prices for the Family Adventure Cruise: $20 for those 3 and up ($10 for children under 2); for the B.Y.O.G. Cruise, tickets are $25 (must be over 21).
MARYLAND ZOO
Druid Hill Park; 410-396-7102
The Zoo’s animal collection encompasses more than 1,500 birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles, representing nearly 200 species. Animals are displayed in natural settings replicating their native habitats. Ticket prices for adults: $14–$16 ($12–$13 for seniors; $10–$11 for children; children under 2: Free); Discounts if you purchase tickets online
