The Baltimore Aquarium, opened in 1981, is world famous and is Baltimore’s top tourist attraction. Built in the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium is housed within a triangular glass building that is a Baltimore landmark. The aquarium offers cultural, recreational and educational experiences that meet the needs of various communities. The aquarium is an important factor in the economic reactivation of the region; it has created jobs and demonstrated a viable business profitability model. The Aquarium combines naturalistic exhibits with the most modern interpretive techniques, captivating visitors by highlighting the beauty of the aquatic world and soliciting an emotional response from visitors, and the awareness that we all have a responsibility to the environment.
The exhibits create a natural-looking environment for all varieties of species. The specimens are carefully selected and explain biological concepts in an interesting and precise way. The collections have a representation of diverse world habitats. Exhibits begin with displays of marine life from local waters, followed by views of sharks, dolphins, rays, manta rays, sea turtles, bullfrogs, phytoplankton, iguanas, puffins, poison dart frogs and other tropical fish among the more than 10,500 creatures. at naturalistic exhibits, including a simulated rainforest ecosystem and regularly scheduled dolphin shows. The entrance fee is a bit steep and there is often a long wait to get in, but the visit is well worth it. Even people with disabilities can visit the aquarium through a separate entrance.
Of all the aquariums in the country, the Baltimore Aquarium is ranked No. 2 with the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California at No. 1. The Zagat score rates the Baltimore Aquarium at 26, the Camden Yards at 25; the Maryland Science Center is at 24; the Baltimore Zoo is at 23 and the American Visionary Art Museum is at 22. The Baltimore Aquarium is also available for rent; it is an ideal place for corporate events, banquets and special celebrations. Whatever the reason for your visit, the Baltimore Aquarium is sure to win everyone’s hearts.