Maryland Science Center - Bucketlisted

Maryland Science Center

Interactive science museum with a planetarium, dinosaurs, and IMAX

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Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

Home to dinosaurs, deep space, and hands-on discovery, the Maryland Science Center is a must-visit for anyone with a thirst for knowledge and adventure. Located at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, this dynamic museum blends cutting-edge exhibits with a rich history, tracing its roots back to 1797 as the Maryland Academy of Sciences—one of the nation’s oldest scientific institutions.

Inside, visitors can journey through time in the Dinosaur Mysteries exhibit, step into the cosmos at the state-of-the-art planetarium, or witness the power of science in real-time through electrifying live demonstrations. The towering IMAX theater offers breathtaking cinematic experiences, while the rooftop observatory provides a window to the stars.

From its early days as a gathering place for scholars and visionaries—including members of the famed Peale family—to its present role as a hub for interactive learning, the Maryland Science Center continues to inspire minds of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the physics of flight, unraveling the mysteries of the human body, or watching a T. rex come to life, this immersive science haven makes every visit unforgettable.

USA > Maryland > Baltimore

Museums, Science Museums