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National Aquarium

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National Aquarium - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Baltimore Is Home to the Country's National Aquarium — and 'Walk With T+L' Is Giving You a Look Inside

Explore the Baltimore landmark with a behind-the-scenes tour.

No matter your age or area of interest, the National Aquarium is the place to visit on a trip to Baltimore. From sea dwellers like sharks and turtles to land critters like sloths and puffins, this aquatic destination is home to a wealth of wildlife that helps visitors learn a little more about the planet they live on.

In this episode of Walk With T+L , the aquarium's experts take viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour to showcase the animals and explain how each of their unique habitats thrive. To find out more about the exhibits and future plans, we caught up with Lindsey Rowell, the aquarium's public relations specialist. Here's what she had to say.

Travel + Leisure: What would you say is the most popular exhibit at the aquarium? Which one tends to be the fan-favorite?

Lindsey: A consistent fan favorite is Shark Alley. As guests descend the winding pathway, they come nose-to-nose with several species of sharks and learn that there is much more to admire about these misunderstood predators than there is to fear.

In addition, Jellies Invasion , which features nine species of translucent and brainless invertebrates, brings guests from near and far. From the graceful Pacific sea nettle to the short and stout blue blubber, this exhibit highlights the stunning diversity of jelly populations.

Finally, the Upland Tropical Rain Forest rounds out the Aquarium's top three most popular exhibits, transporting guests to the heart of a South American rain forest. Beautiful tropical birds, hanging sloths, and scampering golden lion tamarin monkeys live among hundreds of rain forest plants to recreate one of the most biologically diverse — and rapidly disappearing — habitats on Earth.

Beyond looking at the amazing animals in the aquarium, what do you hope guests (or viewers of your episode) get out of visiting?

Lindsey: The National Aquarium works to change the way humanity cares for our ocean planet. The Aquarium hopes that with each visit, guests will learn something that motivates them to protect wildlife species and habitats in their own communities.

In addition, outside of the Aquarium, through science-based education programs and hands-on field initiatives, the National Aquarium is creating a new community of hopeful conservationists, driven by its mission to inspire conservation of the world's aquatic treasures.

We know the aquarium is planning on constructing a new dolphin reserve. Can you tell us a little bit about that?

Lindsey: The National Aquarium plans to build a seaside sanctuary for its Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, the first of its kind in North America. The site will give aquarium staff the ability to provide lifetime customized care for each dolphin in a larger outdoor location with natural sea water, tropical or subtropical climate, and natural stimulus such as fish and aquatic plants.

What's next for the aquarium? Are there any future plans you can talk about?

Lindsey: The aquarium plans to install a network of floating wetlands between Piers 3 and 4 [in Baltimore's Inner Harbor], creating a habitat for native species, gradually improving the harbor's water quality, and reconnecting residents and visitors with the natural world right at the water's edge. Currently, a floating wetland prototype is in place.

National Aquarium in Baltimore: Tips, Tours, and Deals

The Centerpiece of Baltimore's Inner Harbor

The National Aquarium in Baltimore is the city's most popular tourist attraction and one of the biggest aquariums in the United States. The centerpiece of Baltimore's immensely popular Inner Harbor , needless to say, it can get a bit crowded (and expensive). Negotiating the aquarium can be challenging, but less so if you consult these tips on visiting the aquarium, taking a tour, or best yet - getting a great deal.

• The best advice is this: if possible, visit the aquarium on a weekday. Weekends are much more crowded. If you can't, try and get the aquarium early (before 11 am) or late (after 3 pm).
• No strollers are permitted inside the National Aquarium. Check your stroller at the entrance, and the aquarium will provide a carrier. Once inside the main building, it's obvious why strollers aren't permitted. Crowds, escalators and people movers would make it very difficult to navigate.
• When you purchase admission tickets, you must also decide whether you want tickets to the 4D Immersion Theater. You will be given specific show times for each.
• Plan your parking strategy in advance.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes before your dolphin show time.
• Lockers are provided near the entrance. Keep in mind, however, that if you follow the natural path through the aquarium, your visit will end a block away from this building.
• If you want to leave the aquarium and return later, attendants at the information booth near the entry or at the exit in the Marine Mammal Pavilion will stamp your hand for re-entry.
• While there are several options for dining inside the aquarium, all of them are cafes and snack shops with (expensive) fast food. The Inner Harbor's (and Harbor East) dining options or the restaurants of nearby Little Italy are much better and more diverse. Just be sure to get a re-entry stamp.
• While it makes sense to buy souvenirs at the end of a visit, the first gift shop you encounter (near the Australia exhibit) is the best by far. So either lug your treasures along or make plans to come back.
• Small children will frequently need a boost to see some of the exhibits.
• The aquarium is open on most holidays (except Christmas and Thanksgiving). Keep in mind, however, that these usually are very crowded days.

National Aquarium Discounts

• Several area hotels offer package deals that include aquarium tickets, VIP passes, and discounts, especially the Hotel Monaco Baltimore.
• Active duty, reserves and retired members of the United States military are eligible to receive the best rates on Aquarium tickets at local MWR or ITT offices. Please check with your local base for details.
• Half-Price Friday Nights. Friday is your night! Get access to our award-winning exhibits for half the price of general admission on Friday evenings after 5 pm.
• Become a member. Depending on the level, a membership usually pays for itself in two visits.

Guests With Special Needs

A variety of services are available for individuals with disabilities. There's a drop-off circle in front of the aquarium on Pratt Street, an accessible entrance just past the main entrance, and elevators throughout. Visitors with special needs and their parties may purchase tickets at the Members Entrance and gain immediate entry.

Guests may obtain free wheelchairs with the deposit of a driver's license at the stroller check. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Strollers for children with disabilities are the only strollers allowed in the buildings. An aquarium tag, picked up from the stroller check, must be displayed while touring.

An Accessibility Guide maps out a wheelchair/stroller route that avoids the escalators. Pick it up at the Accessibility/Members Entrance, the stroller check, and information desks. Reserved seating for the dolphin show is available.

Visitors with special needs and their guests may enter the aquarium 30 minutes prior to opening during the First Saturdays and First Sundays program.

With advance notice, blind or deaf visitors may use audio tours or scripts of public presentations. Service animals are permitted in all public areas of the aquarium. Contact the special customer liaison at 410-659-4291 or leave a message on the TTY at 410-727-3022.

Aquarium Tours

If you'd like to get a closer look at what goes on behind the scenes at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, these tours are the way to go. They offer everything from a plunge into the tanks to an in-depth walking tour.

Insider's Tour

• Families with children over age 8, Teens, Adults, Scouts
• $50 ($40 for Members)
• Starting at 8:30 a.m. before the official aquarium's opening time, this is a 2-hour tour. Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Aquarium? Here’s your chance to step into our stories and see the Aquarium in a brand new way. In this incredible experience, an expert will lead you through our exhibits.

Daily Behind the Scenes Tour

• All participants must be at least 8 years of age to participate.
• 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• $20 ($15 for Members)
• Join us for a quick and exciting look behind the scenes! Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn about some of your favorite animals and exhibits around the Aquarium. With different tours offered throughout the year, be sure to come back and experience them all!

Dolphin Encounter

• Ages 8 and up; children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
• $190 ($150 for Members)
• Touch a dolphin during this 2-hour meeting with the mammals (starts at 9 a.m.). The encounter begins with an interactive orientation session. Then the sit back and enjoy the  dolphin show , following which you'll go up on deck for the real fun—playtime with the dolphins. Participants may not be pregnant.

Sharks! Behind-the-Scenes Tour

• Ages 8 and up
• $45 ($35 for Members)
• 1.5 hours, starting at 1:30 p.m.
• Explore behind-the-scenes shark areas with an expert guide and discover the truth about these incredible ocean predators. Dare to walk the catwalk, where sharks swim silently just inches beneath you. Learn how aquarium staff cares for a variety of sharks and rays. Visit our food-prep area to learn how diets are carefully planned and monitored.

Aquarium Guest Diver Program

• 18+; Guest must be PADI Open Water Diver certified or equivalent
• 1 hour orientation/prep; 30-45 minute dive
• Experience a once-in-a-lifetime dive that takes you to an exotic coral reef full of incredible animals, right here in Maryland.

Animal Care and Rescue Center Tour

• Ages 8 and up; children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult
• 1.5 to 2 hours; offered on weekends
• $45 ($35 for members)
• Explore the aquarium's state of the art Animal Care and Rescue Center as you feed the animals, talk to staff and perform water quality activities.

Wild Extremes Tour

• Have up close and personal interactions with reptiles and have a hands-on encounter as you go behind the scenes of the "Australia: Wild Extremes" exhibit.

Aquarium Sleepover

• Overnight: 6:30 p.m. to 9 a.m.
• $125 ($95 for Members, $105 for groups)
• Spend the night at the aquarium and explore behind-the-scenes areas, have animal encounters, watch a dolphin presentation, enjoy a show and more. Be sure to bring a sleeping bag, closed-toe shoes, sleepwear, and toiletries.

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Maryland Field Trip Guide

Field Trip Ideas , Mid-Atlantic

Museums in Maryland and other educational attractions make this state a fun and memorable place for student field trips

Defined by its abundant waterways and coastlines on the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, Maryland provides many numerous opportunities to explore the Atlantic Coast and Chesapeake Bay while learning about America’s seafaring past (to say nothing of enjoying its local blue crabs). Educational harbor cruises are available in Baltimore, Annapolis and elsewhere.  A common field trip idea is to schedule at least one meal at a seafood restaurant, as Maryland is famous for crabs, clams, oysters and other fruits of the sea. Because the state borders Washington, D.C., many field trip groups combine a few days in Maryland with a visit to Our Nation’s Capital.

A Few Maryland Field Trip Ideas:

• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
• National Museum of Civil War Medicine
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center
• Maryland Science Center
• Baltimore’s National Aquarium
• Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
• Reginald F. Lewis Museum
• Baltimore Museum of Art

Maryland History & Heritage Field Trip Ideas

Maryland, one of the 13 original colonies, is the perfect place for field trips delving into American history. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore Harbor , attacked by the British in the War of 1812, is where Francis Scott Key penned his poem “The Star-Spangled Banner” after witnessing the bombardment. The poem was later set to music and became our national anthem in 1931.

Students learn about the Civil War’s bloodiest one-day battle at Antietam National Battlefield , near Sharpsburg. Frederick is home to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine , which is another great field trip idea for students.

The Colonial Annapolis Historic District offers an impressive concentration of 18th century buildings for students to experience, including homes of the four Maryland signers of the Declaration of Independence. A field trip to Annapolis, the capital of Maryland , is not complete without a visit to the U.S. Naval Academy Museum .

Historic St. Mary’s City , an 800-acre museum of archaeology and living history, is another amazing field trip idea that features costumed guides who interpret life in Maryland’s first capital, founded in 1634. On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, an important chapter in African American history comes alive at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center , which opened in March 2017 in Church Creek. Students learn about Tubman’s daring missions to lead some 70 friends and family members to freedom on the Underground Railroad, a secret network of places and people.

Performing Arts Locations to Visit

Chances for field trips to experience performing arts or school groups to perform in Baltimore include the Inner Harbor Amphitheater, National Aquarium, Maryland Zoo, Fort McHenry, B&O Railroad Museum and Hard Rock Cafe’s outdoor pier . Among Annapolis venues are Annapolis Town Centre, Annapolis City Dock, Westfield Annapolis Mall and U.S. Naval Academy Museum .

In Ocean City, the Boardwalk and Convention Center Performing Arts Center spotlight student talent. Columbia showcases student groups at Toby’s Dinner Theatre, The Mall in Columbia, Horowitz Performing Arts Center and the Gazebo at Lake Kittamaqundi in Columbia Town Centre.

In Montgomery County, northwest of Washington, D.C., places to perform include the Music Center at Strathmore , Clarksburg Premium Outlets and Westfield Montgomery Mall . East of D.C., school choirs and bands have opportunities to perform, mostly around Christmastime, at Six Flags America , a theme park in Largo, Prince George’s County. Other sites in the county include National Harbor, Bowie State University’s Fine and Performing Arts Center and Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland.

Maryland Arts & Culture Destinations for Students

Recognized as one of the world’s most important orchestras, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra has attracted a devoted national and international following while maintaining deep bonds throughout Maryland via innovative education and community outreach initiatives. Offerings include free midweek concerts, open rehearsals for students and mentoring opportunities.

America’s official national museum and education center for intuitive, self-taught artistry, Baltimore’s American Visionary Art Museum offers both guided and self-guided tours as well as lesson plans and educational resources. Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum is the authentic voice of Maryland African American art, history and culture.

Available for pre-K through high school students, tours of the Baltimore Museum of Art ’s collections and exhibitions combine close looking with interactive discussion. Tour themes for younger students include nature, feelings, stories in art, portraits and play, while middle and high-school students explore identity, power, and care and community.

Located in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon Cultural District, the Walters Art Museum offers in-person and virtual tours for pre-K school group with opportunities for both docent-led and self-guided experiences. Its extensive collections include art from pre-dynastic Egypt to 20 th -century Europe. The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company unlocks the magic of the Bard’s words with specially priced student matinees.

Educational Field Trips through STEM

Opportunities for educational field trips via STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) abound at two entertaining cultural institutions fronting Baltimore’s Inner Harbor . Three floors at the Maryland Science Center are filled with hands-on exhibits that cover subjects as diverse as physics, earth science, and health and the human body. Groups can watch educational films in the IMAX theater and learn about outer space in the Davis Planetarium. For school field trips, the museum can arrange classroom-style Enrichment Experiences for small groups (30 maximum) that focus on subjects like biology, chemistry and engineering design.

Baltimore’s National Aquarium is home to sharks, dolphins, turtles and other marine animals. For school field trips, its education programs offer hands-on discovery, structured lab activities and live animals encounters; all programs support Next Generation Science Standards.

Six Flags America theme park in Largo, between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., offers STEM Days programming for several days each spring, as students explore the physics behind the roller coasters. Nothing like a healthy mix of fun and learning while on a field trip. Maryland STEM activities also are available in fall and December.

Marine & Aquatic Field Trips for Student Groups

Located in Solomons, the Calvert Marine Museum combines pre-history, natural history and maritime heritage to tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. Step back in time with a visit to Baltimore’s Project Liberty Ship S.S. John W. Brown , one of only two surviving fully operational Liberty Ships that participated in World War II, which operates now as a historic museum.

Main photo: Antietam cannons

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Baltimore-Metro Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource of field trips in Baltimore, Maryland for elementary school students thru high school students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about Baltimore’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more, CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for further field trip information. For those unable to travel to these locations, check out our  Virtual Field Trips  section or  Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.    

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Adventure Park at Sandy Spring

The Adventure Park is more than just a fun activity! Building self-confidence, leadership skills, and introducing a hands-on approach to problem solving, The Adventure Park will support your class like no other field trip can!

ClimbZone Laurel

Children of all ages will be mesmerized by our 28ft tall artistically themed climbing walls,  arcades and soft play zone. Our field trip/camp options are tailored to different age groups and budgets…. guaranteeing smiling faces for all!

Hyper Kidz Baltimore

Hyper Kidz is the ultimate, indoor playground with four play zones—the Big Kid Zone, Kid Zone, Mini Zone, and Expansion for mixed ages!

Hyper Kidz Columbia

National Aquarium

Since 1981, the National Aquarium has brought a world of aquatic wonder to life for guests of all ages. Visit us at aqua.org for more information.

Pinstripes Bethesda

Dine, Play, Celebrate! The best field trips happen at Pinstripes, an esteemed dining and entertainment destination that offers a kids-friendly Italian-American menu and a modern spin on bocce and bowling.

Pride of Baltimore

Pride of Baltimore II was commissioned in 1988 as a sailing memorial to her immediate predecessor. Both ships were reproductions of 1812-era topsail schooners, the type of vessels, that helped America win the War of 1812.

Rawlings Conservatory

The historical Rawlings Conservatory features five distinct greenhouse rooms, one 1/2-acre garden with many flower beds and a kaleidoscope of colors all year round.

Skate Zone is Crofton’s #1 skating rink, offering skating lessons, STEM field trips, and more. School and camp groups welcome! Visit Skate Zone—where fun meets fitness!

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is internationally recognized as having achieved a preeminent place among the world’s most important orchestras. Offers school time and family friendly performances.

Tree Trekkers Frederick Outdoor Aerial Adventure and Zipline Park

Located on 30 acres of protected forest, Tree Trekkers offers 16 different high ropes trails with 8 difficulty levels so there is something fun for everyone.  Encourages communication, problem solving skills, outdoor exercise, and teamwork.

American Visionary Art Museum

The American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) is America’s official national museum and education center for intuitive, self-taught artistry, usually without formal training.

FieldTripDirectory.com offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in Baltimore—for early childhood through college. Search for class trips in Baltimore by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

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Overnight field trips & retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

4 Fun Field Trips in Baltimore & Annapolis

Social studies, STEM, and just for fun!

Destination Education℠ by Watermark® immerses students in unique experiences. Our field trips support the social studies curriculum of Maryland and surrounding states. Many of our programs offer indoor and outdoor hands-on activities that meet STEM and environmental-literacy standards. Read on to learn about four of our fun field trips in Baltimore and Annapolis.

1. Aquatic Adventures

First, we have Aquatic Adventures offered in partnership with the National Aquarium . Our strong network of partners allows us to provide fully coordinated itineraries. This makes for exceptional field trips in Baltimore! Students explore an underwater world at the aquarium and then get out on the water for a 45-minute Baltimore Harbor Cruise. The narration shares the important history of the waterfront and its role today as a working port. Students may eat lunch on the boat while cruising past Federal Hill, Fell’s Point, Fort McHenry, and much more.

Baltimore | A fully-coordinated 3-to 4-hour itinerary | $30.95/Student (Minimum of 20 students.)

2. The Best of Annapolis

A popular choice for fourth-grade classes, this field trip shares the best that this charming city has to offer. Students begin their journey with a 90-minute Colonial Stroll led by a period-attired guide. They walk past historic mansions and learn about life in the 18th century. Our guides share stories of important figures that helped make Annapolis and Maryland what we see today. The tour includes the restored Maryland State House, where George Washington resigned as Commander-in-Chief.

The field trip continues on with a 45-minute walking tour of the United States Naval Academy. This unique institution is home to more than 4,000 midshipmen. Students experience the Academy’s sights, sounds, and history as they stroll.

Finally, the field trip ends with a 40-minute Annapolis Harbor & USNA Cruise. The cruise narration touches on history, navigation,   architecture, and ecology.

Annapolis | 3.5 hours | $16.50 Student/$23 Adult  

3. Chesapeake 101

Chesapeake 101 is a hands-on cruise that meets STEM and Environmental Literacy standards. First, students engage in problem solving and team building while they explore Chesapeake Bay ecology. Activities include oyster tonging, exploring oyster reef critters, oyster dissection, watershed pollution activity, seining for life in the creek, and crabbing.

Then, after a morning of ecological exploration, students climb aboard Harbor Queen for a 40-minute narrated Annapolis Harbor & USNA Cruise. Students are welcome to enjoy lunch during the cruise.

Annapolis | 3 hours | $17.50 Student/$22.50 Adult  

4. Pizza Party Cruise

On this entertaining field trip, students climb aboard to enjoy a DJ, pizza, and, above all, lots of fun. This event is customizable for your occasion. For example, 8th-grade graduations or the end of the year are wonderful reasons to celebrate. Our Youth Group Manager will help you tailor the party to your needs. Available as a field trip in Baltimore and Annapolis, this is a cruise for memories! Your students will certainly have a blast.

Annapolis & Baltimore | Call for pricing and availability.  

Maryland has a lot to offer for both the social studies and STEM subjects. Contact our Youth Group Manager to plan your next field trip in Baltimore and Annapolis.

Student group at the USNA: Department of Defense photo by Angel A. Clemons/Released.

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Baltimore Field Trips

A field trip to Baltimore with Colonial Capital Tours begins when Capt. John Smith sailed into Baltimore's unexplored harbor to how the city evolved over the years. Baltimore's story is America's Story.

The highlight of Baltimore is the Baltimore Inner Harbor. Many of the famous historical attractions are situated in close proximity to the Inner Harbor such as Shot Tower, Fell's Point, Mount Vernon Place, Federal Hill and Basilica of the National Shrine. We will also visit Fort McHenry National Monument where Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled Banner as the Fort was under attack by British forces during the Battle of Baltimore.

Your Baltimore field trip may also include visits to the Baltimore Aquarium and the Maryland Science Center featuring its IMAX and 3D theaters. For baseball fans, a behind the scenes tour is available at Orioles Park at Camden Yards. Harbor cruises depart from the Inner Harbor for a relaxing, narrated sail of Baltimore Harbor with all its history. There is even a water taxi that transfers you to different points in the Inner Harbor.

A field trip to Baltimore would not be complete without a visit to some of Baltimore's other well known attractions such as the Edgar Allan Poe House, Baltimore Maritime Museum, Baltimore Museum of Art and the B&O Railroad Museum.

Your Baltimore field trip could only be enhanced by a visit to the capital of Maryland, Annapolis, located on the scenic Chesapeake Bay. Tour the Annapolis Naval Academy along with the Academy Museum and Memorial Chapel. Your field trip to Baltimore will also include a stroll through the charming historic town of Annapolis, a tour of the Maryland State House and a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum.

When ready for a field trip to Baltimore, think Colonial Capital Tours!

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Subscriber only, summer camp liberty village visits the national aquarium as part of field trip fridays.

Barbara Haddock Taylor/Baltimore Sun

Students from the Liberty Village Project enjoy a visit to the National Aquarium through the Field Trip Friday program, a summer offering by the Baltimore City government and local nonprofit organizations. July 28, 2023

Alecia Taylor

Ms. Tiffany West and her class marvel at an exhibit in the National Aquarium.

Summer school students from the Liberty Village Project were able to escape Baltimore’s heat waves and dive into the National Aquarium as a part of Field Trip Fridays.

Around 30 summer school students and their teachers visited the National Aquarium Friday as part of a grant-funded program that takes nonprofit organizations on field trips around the city. At the beginning of the summer, Baltimore City nonprofit youth organizations were invited to request tickets to extend their summer programs an extra day to explore some of Baltimore’s cultural institutions.

When the students were asked how many of them had visited the aquarium before, a majority of their hands shot up, but some shouted they had never been.

“A lot of our inner city youth have never left their neighborhoods. This gives them an opportunity to meet other folks, other folks and seeing and being exposed to, not only just the fish, but a different lifestyles,” said Simon Edwards, a junior NBA coach at Liberty Village. Edwards has been working with the project for almost a year teaching fundamentals of basketballs and life skills.

A majority of the students come from the West Baltimore area. Edwards was excited to expose his student-athletes to different parts of the city and its offerings. As their coach, Edwards said he tries to talk to them about looking for careers outside of just sports. “We try to encourage other careers. This is nice [being able to] expose them to […] something great and give them ideas to live their dream.”

Before the start of the visit, the students gathered around the aquarium entrance, some talking with one another, others talking with the aquarium staff and Councilman Zeke Cohen about the aquatic animals they were excited to see.

Joseph Lee, 16, is a summer school camper at Liberty Village, who has been to the aquarium before. He found himself touching one of the Atlantic horseshoe crabs, but this time a different part of the animal than last time.

Taliah Johnson, 12, is in Timothy Banks’ and Tiffany West’s group working within the school’s greenhouse. As the group made their way through the rainforest part of the aquarium, Taliah was able to recognize the organisms growing on the plants in the exhibit.

“At first it was a little weird!” she said. “But then I saw stuff that I’ve seen before. I’m definitely coming back!”

Her teacher, Mr. Banks, and class aide Ms. West worry the students may not remember the lessons they go over from their greenhouse campus, but the field trip allowed some like Taliah to see the plant cycle in different stages in a more natural habitat.

“It was nice seeing things through their eyes,” said Mr. Banks.

At the greenhouse where Mr. Banks and Ms. West teach, campers learn how to grow plants and the plant life cycle. Ten out of 18 of their students attended the field trip.

“This is a great idea doing this,” said Ms. West. “A lot of kids don’t get a chance to experience stuff like this. This kind of opens their eyes to new things, see new things and learn new things. I can even learn new things.”

Since 2021, the city has operated summer programs four days a week, Monday through Thursday, to prevent teacher burnout. With the youth curfew and a shorter summer school week, local residents questioned where Baltimore City’s youth could turn to for safe and engaging environments.

In May, the program “Field Trip Fridays” was implemented as a compromise for the shorter school week by Councilman Zeke Cohen. Although Cohen credits the program as a partnership between the city and the school district, the school system emphasized that the program was his initiative in a tweet .

In a collective effort with Baltimore’s Promise and the Fund for Educational Excellence, Field Trip Fridays was able to come to fruition, servicing 700 students in summer school programs. It is funded by grants, some of which came from the Baltimore nonprofit Open Society, and were split into microgrants of $1,500 to pay for lunches and busing, according to Cohen.

Tickets to these trips were donated directly by the 11 community institutions such as The National Aquarium, which has donated 250 tickets.

Another institution, Port Discovery Children’s museum, donated 500 tickets to the initiative to disperse among the students and their families.

“We’re a resource for children and families in Baltimore, Baltimore City, but also the surrounding counties, and we sort of like to make sure that our space is accessible and welcome for everyone,” said Carter Arnot Polakoff the president & CEO of Port Discovery.

“It’s just been this really beautiful thing, seeing cultural institutions come together to support our kids,” Cohen said to The Baltimore Sun. He pointed out that Baltimore’s P romise, a nonprofit organization that coordinates youth summer collaboratives, has been the backbone to this summer’s weeklong engagements. “We’ve just been really excited because I think it represents a spirit of collaboration that sometimes our city struggles with, but to see people really embrace this culture of collaboration has been very heartening.”

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'field trip fridays' will offer experiences for city students all summer long.

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Some Baltimore City students will enjoy field trips outside the normal school year. "Field Trip Fridays" will allow students to visit city attractions for free.

"Let's make this not only a safe, but joyful and enriching summer for our kids, especially on Fridays," said city Councilman Zeke Cohen.

The announcement came during a press conference at Port Discovery, one of the destinations committed to hosting student groups this summer.

The goal is to complete 100 field trips on Fridays to places like the Maryland Science Center, National Aquarium, Maryland Zoo and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture.

"What we really focus on is making sure kids in Baltimore have the right set of resources and opportunities to be who they want to be. Summer is an incredibly important time for young people when you think about accessing those opportunities," said Julia Baez, CEO of Baltimore's Promise.

Education-based grants will be used in part to help pay for meals and transportation.

"This was really a swell of parents and young people saying, 'What are we going to do on Fridays?' Part of my role as an executive director is to leverage my resources and relationships," said Alexandria Warrick of Elev8 Baltimore.

"Everyone has a role to play. Our kids deserve a safe, stable summer filled with learning and enrichment," Cohen said.

At Port Discovery, it didn't take long for word to spread to parents about the new "Field Trip Fridays."

"It's very important. It's critical for kids during the summertime, especially when there are limited resources and limited opportunities for kids to have fun during the summertime," said parent Donald Knight.

Organizers do not consider this a one-and-done program. They are looking for ways to make this a year-round experience.

Watch CBS News

'Dundalk Boys' bring community together through music following Key Bridge collapse

By Stephon Dingle

Updated on: April 10, 2024 / 10:51 PM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- As people continue to mourn the loss of six construction workers who died in the Key Bridge collapse, a rap group called the "Dundalk Boys" is using their music to help people heal.

Through their music, they're also raising money to support the families of those victims.

For many in Dundalk, the Key Bridge was more than just a passage across the Patapsco River.

Memories for many that marked a safe return home from trips to Ocean City - or simply the greatest view of the harbor from afar.

"The view of the city from the Key Bridge was beautiful, you know. And it would be cool to kind of see, oh that's the aquarium where we went for the field trip in school, and it's a shame that that angle is not there anymore," Finch Flores, of the Dundalk Boys, said.

As crews still work to retrieve the last three construction workers stuck in the wreckage - the Dundalk Boys wrote the song "It's a Dundalk Thing" - which has more than 300,000 views online.  The song proudly shows the blue-collar spirit of this community to unite and help each other grieve.

"We were like let's do a song and connect the community, and bring solace to those that might need it right now...and on top of it let's bring Dundalk together and raise some money for the families, because Dundalk can do this, it's right in our backyard, we want to do everything we can to help out too." Flores said.

The Dundalk Boys are doing so through song and these t-shirts that show the gateway to their community with the words Dundalk Strong. 

31 local businesses chipped in to help them sell these t-shirts for $25 each to raise nearly $40,000 for the victim's families - just a small token of the blue-collar spirit of southeast Baltimore.

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1 Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110

HOURS OF OPERATION

Mon.–Fri.: 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Weekends: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Field Trip Guide

You’ll need to make many decisions as you set up your Aquarium field trip. Use this step-by-step field trip planning guide to make sure that you have covered everything, from reservations to check-in and parking to planning your choice of activities, lunch, and more. We also have  a printable Field Trip Checklist (PDF).

Make a Case for Your Field Trip

We understand it isn’t always easy to make a case for field trips, even valuable ones. Here are some  educational resources and activities we hope will help.

Pick a Date and Time

Make your reservations  at least two weeks in advance to receive the group discount rate. Book your field trip or program with our Reservations Team at 617-973-5206,  [email protected], or by completing a group inquiry form .

Other tips and considerations: 

• The Aquarium is at its busiest at the end of the week from 9 a.m.–12 p.m, April through June.
• Have a first and second choice of dates when booking.
• We recommend at least two and a half hours to make the most of the Aquarium experience. Consider time for visiting the exhibits , seeing a film at Simons Theatre , eating at the Harbor View Café , and exploring the Gift Shop .

Decide on an Itinerary

In addition to exploring the Aquarium, you may add a range of programs to your visit, including classes, films, guided tours behind the scenes, or an excursion on a New England Aquarium Whale Watch. 

Add a Simons Theatre film to your field trip

See what’s playing at Simons Theatre, New England’s biggest movie screen. Super-sized films will take your students to some of the world’s most remarkable places—from the bottom of the sea to outer space and almost everywhere in between. The films provide students of all ages with larger-than-life experiences, perfect for capturing the imagination and interest of young minds. Concession packs and teacher guides for films are also available.  Teachers and groups visiting the Aquarium may: 

• Arrange to see a movie. Please reserve your screening while setting up your field trip or making your group reservation.
• Ask about showing a film from our library 

Add a Whale Watch Cruise

Do your students want to see where we keep the really big animals? Join us for a  Whale Watch cruise ! If booked, plan to have your entire group assemble on the plaza near the Whale Watch check-in booth while the head chaperone checks in. Please make sure everyone in your group knows how to get ready for a whale watch, including proper clothing. 

Review Chaperones Requirements

The number of chaperones required is determined by the age and number of students.

• Preschool: one chaperone for every three students 
• Grades K–4: one chaperone for every five students 
• Grades 5–8: one chaperone for every seven students 
• Grades 9–12: one chaperone for every 10 students 
• Special needs groups: one chaperone for every student 

Other rules and considerations:

• Chaperones must stay with their group at all times. Please do not leave your group unchaperoned. 
• Please assign a group leader. This person is responsible for all communication between the Aquarium and your school. 
• Chaperones are admitted to the Aquarium free of charge. Additional adults pay the group rate. 

Plan for Lunch

Harbor view café voucher program.

• Group lunch vouchers are available ($12.00 + tax per person) for the Harbor View Café, located on level 2 of the Aquarium. 
• Please note that the Harbor View Café is only available for use if you are purchasing food or lunch vouchers. If you are bringing lunch, please arrange an outside location for your meal. 
• We are unable to store lunches at the New England Aquarium. 

Faneuil Hall Marketplace Food Voucher Program

Groups of all sizes can also enjoy a meal at any time from participating Quincy Market Colonnade Restaurants, about a five-minute walk from the Aquarium. Order your Faneuil Hall Marketplace Food Voucher and present vouchers when ordering.

Confirm Your Reservation

You will be emailed a confirmation packet. Please review this packet carefully, as it contains helpful information to ensure a successful visit. Make sure the date, time, and program match your records.

The email also contains a reservation confirmation number. Please refer to it when calling the Aquarium and when checking in for your group upon arrival.

Get the Most Out of Your Trip

Pre-visit videos.

Share this   shark and ray interaction videos with students and chaperones. 

Educational Resources and Activities

Explore educational activities for a more comprehensive look at an animal or topic. These activities can be easily adapted for home or the classroom. 

Chaperone Guides: Helpful Questions to Stimulate Discussion

Enhance your visit to the New England Aquarium and help chaperones feel confident about leading a group with these chaperone guides. Each is designed to build science skills and group discussion by providing guiding questions to explore during your visit. Select the grade span and topic that best supports your classroom curriculum or field trip goals. 

Grade level guides: 

• Pre-kindergarten–Grade 2
• Grades 9–12

Teacher Visit

If you booked a class to visit the New England Aquarium and want to make a trip to the Aquarium beforehand to plan your visit, you are welcome to do so. Teachers may present their field trip confirmation letter to gain free admission to the Aquarium.

Make Your Payment

• A 50% non-refundable deposit is due 30 days before your arrival date.
• Need to cancel or reschedule? Your deposit will be available for use 90 days from the date of your. cancellation/exchange/refund request. If the deposit isn’t applied to a trip within 90 days, the deposit will be forfeited.
• The final non-refundable payment and headcount are due one week prior to arrival.
• If you do not provide payment, your group will be refused entry to the Aquarium.

Make Sure You Have Everything You Need

• Do you have your Reservation Confirmation Letter with your confirmation number?
• Do you have directions to the Aquarium?
• Do you have a map of the Aquarium ?
• Do you have the bus drop-off/pick-up permit from your confirmation package to post on the dashboard of your bus? The New England Aquarium has no on-site bus parking. Please be sure you have directions to where you are parking your bus and the facility’s pricing. Review our parking information before your visit .
• Have you made your deposit? Final payment is due one week before arrival. If you do not have payment in full by the deadline, your group may be refused admission.

Reinforce Ocean Learning Back in the Classroom

Keep the ocean education flowing! Follow up your field trip with classroom activities and plan some ocean-related outdoor activities.