Get Curious About the Maryland Science Center
This engaging destination invites both kids and adults to learn through exploration.
The Maryland Science Center has something for visitors of all ages, from the tiniest tots to grown-ups. Head to the Inner Harbor to explore the three floors of interactive exhibits designed to feed your imagination and invite you to have fun. Learn about some of the can’t-miss stops at the Science Center and how to make the most of your visit.
Things to Do
Exhibits
Dig for Dinosaurs
You can’t miss the Dinosaur Mysteries exhibit on the ground floor. Grab a magnifying glass to examine fossils, measure a dinosaur’s footprint or marvel at the T-Rex and Astrodon skeletons that loom overhead.
Dinosaurs outside at The Maryland Science Center in Baltimore.
The Kids Room
Dedicated to the smallest scientists, the Kids Room emphasizes learning through play and features a water play area and a safe zone for babies under two. You’ll enjoy their wonder as they play with scarves in a wind tunnel, build Lego towers and learn about gravity with ramps.
Get mesmerized by science in Newton’s Alley.
Newton’s Alley
One of the most popular exhibits at the Maryland Science Center is Newton’s Alley, a people-powered exhibit designed to encourage exploration of energy, force and motion. Here you can see sound, touch a cloud and even race bubbles.
The Shed
Part workshop, part laboratory, the Shed is a place for older children to try their hand at making furniture, designing jewelry and much more. With a different DIY activity each day, this is a space where art and science combine to create tons of fun.
The SciLab
Visitors from third grade on up can don lab coats and goggles as they practice real science at various experimentation stations. Don’t forget to check out Terra Link—part media center, part discovery center—presenting the latest and greatest in Earth system science.
You – The Inside Story
Fans of the board game Operation will love this 12,000 square-foot exhibit, which consists of 35 interactive kiosks and play spaces designed to teach us more about how our bodies perceive and interact with the world around us. You’ll be put through tests that reveal how your body is calibrated and encouraged to ponder the body’s capabilities, limitations and possibilities.
IMAX Shows
Sit back and be prepared to be awed by a stellar IMAX film on the museum’s five-story screen—the largest indoor screen in Maryland. The program changes daily, but features a mix of travelogues, Hollywood features and 3D nature documentaries.
Davis Planetarium
Learn about space exploration, examine the night sky or learn how to identify stars and constellations at the Davis Planetarium. In “One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure,” you can take an imaginary trip to the moon with friends from Sesame Street. Other presentations like “To Space and Back,” will teach you about what’s beyond Earth. During the 21+ “Music Under the Dome” events, in-house curated visuals are paired with a musician’s discography to create an immersive experience. Featured artists have included Taylor Swift, Daft Punk and David Bowie.
Crosby Ramsey Memorial Observatory
The Science Center’s rooftop urban observatory has a computer controlled telescope that lets you view planets and stars, along with other astronomical events.
Every Friday, explore the night sky with a free stargazing session at the Observatory, weather permitting.
Programs
Super Science Sleepovers
If you’ve ever wanted to have your own “Night at the Museum” experience, you’ll love the family-friendly Super Science Sleepovers. Experience the museum’s exhibits in a new way, and enjoy special programming around designated themes like Star Wars and Minecraft. Say goodnight to the dinosaurs at 10:15 p.m. and wake up to a complimentary light breakfast at 6:30 a.m.
Grown Up Field Trips
The MSC believes science is for everyone, and their Grown Up Field Trips are just as educational as they are entertaining. Games and activities are based on the night’s theme, which is often nostalgic (think Nickelodeon and Jurassic Park), and local drink and food vendors are on site to keep the vibes high.
Halloween Baltimore
The Maryland Science Center hosts one of Baltimore’s hottest Halloween parties. Spend the night hopping between the venue’s multiple stages, which feature performances by drag performers, cover bands, bluegrass artists and DJs.
Tickets
General admission includes access to the exhibit halls, planetarium, and the demonstration stage. You may exit and re-enter the building during your visit, as long as you’re wearing your wristband. Strollers are allowed and there’s also a café if your crew gets hungry. Parking is validated at three nearby garages. Check the website for locations. Purchase tickets here.
