The Maryland Science Center in Baltimore offers a variety of science-based exhibits, from dinosaurs to outer space, energy-efficient technology and an interactive inside-the-human-body experience. Children can learn about science through hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, a planetarium and science presentations. Try out a Segway, marvel at a giant, mechanical blue crab, learn about energy-efficient cars or play in the kids' room.
The Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg played an important role in U.S. history. After a 12-hour battle in 1862 that killed or maimed 23,000 soldiers, the Confederate army withdrew from Maryland, ending its first foray into the north. As a consequence of the Battle of Antietam, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, changing the face of the Civil War. Young visitors to the site can participate in the Junior Ranger program and learn about the park's history.
The National Aquarium Baltimore houses 16,500 animals. Children can explore the more than 650 species that call the aquarium home. Frogs, toads, salamanders, turtles, crabs, birds, octopuses, dolphins and, of course, lots of fish are on display. Exhibits include movies at the 4-D Immersion Theater, Animal Planet Australia, Our Ocean Planet Dolphin Show and Jellies Invasion. The aquarium also offers summer education programs for students and programs for scouts.
Budding sailors will enjoy the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Set on the shores of Back Creek, the museum offers views of Annapolis Harbor. Tour the Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, help round up baby terrapin turtles for release into the Chesapeake or explore the area's last working oyster packing plant. The museum offers six educational programs designed for children ages 3 to 14. Programs include day camps, interactive projects, boat rides, journaling and crafts.
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum, in Baltimore, was founded in the late 1800s and is known as the "birthplace of American railroading." Children can explore the museum's more than 200 railroad cars and engines, toy trains, scale railroads and thousands of artifacts from the 1830s to the present. The museum offers a weekly story time and regular events for children such as Day Out With Thomas and holiday train rides.
The Audubon Naturalist Society's Woodend Nature Sanctuary, in Chevy Chase, offers 40 acres to explore. Children can watch for birds along the preserve's miles of trails, enjoy the many colors in the wildflower meadow or look for fish and wildlife in the sanctuary's pond. The sanctuary offers educational programs for children. Classes are designed for specific ages groups and run for four to six weeks. Topics include marvelous mammal dens, sticky spiderwebs, winter wildlife, kitchen chemistry, animal signs, and wet and wild pond life.