Maryland Science Center

The Maryland Science Center is a hands-on wonderland where kids can touch, explore, and experiment their way through science. With three floors of interactive exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium, an IMAX theater with a five-story screen, and real dinosaur fossils, this Inner Harbor gem keeps children engaged and learning without even realizing it.

• ✓Dinosaur Mysteries exhibit featuring a juvenile T-rex fossil and hands-on paleontology activities
• ✓Newton's Alley with giant building blocks, water play, and physics experiments perfect for burning energy
• ✓Davis Planetarium shows that transport kids through the solar system and beyond
• ✓Live blue crab touch tanks and other Chesapeake Bay marine life encounters
• ✓IMAX theater with immersive nature and science films on a massive five-story screen

1. 1.Arrive right at opening (10 AM) to beat school groups and have the exhibits practically to yourselves, especially during weekdays.
2. 2.Purchase combo tickets online in advance for the museum plus planetarium or IMAX,you'll save money and skip the ticket line.
3. 3.Don't miss the live science demonstrations scheduled throughout the day; check the daily schedule at the entrance to plan your visit around these engaging shows.
4. 4.Pack snacks and use the picnic tables outside by the harbor when weather permits,the on-site café options are limited and pricey.
5. 5.Parking in the Science Center garage is convenient but fills up fast on weekends; consider taking the Light Rail to Hamburg Street station for a stress-free arrival.

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) during the school year to avoid large field trip groups, which typically arrive after 10:30 AM. Weekends get crowded, especially Saturday afternoons. Summer weekday mornings offer a nice balance of energy without overwhelming crowds.

General admission is around $25 for adults and $20 for children (3-12), with additional fees for planetarium and IMAX shows. The garage parking costs about $10-12. The museum has a small café with pizza, sandwiches, and snacks, though options are limited for picky eaters.

The museum is closed Mondays year-round. Summer brings special camps and extended weekend hours. During winter holidays, expect special themed planetarium shows and higher crowds. The outdoor harbor area is especially pleasant in spring and fall for pre- or post-visit exploration.

Walk to Rusty Scupper (5 minutes away) for kid-friendly seafood with stunning harbor views and a children's menu, or head to Nick's Fish House for casual outdoor waterfront dining with crab cakes, burgers, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families.