National Aquarium

About

The National Aquarium in Baltimore's Inner Harbor is one of the country's premier aquatic attractions, home to more than 20,000 animals representing over 800 species. Spread across multiple levels, the facility takes visitors on a journey from the depths of the ocean to tropical rainforest canopies.

The experience begins at the ground level and winds upward through increasingly dramatic habitats. You'll encounter Atlantic coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, a recreated Australian river gorge with crocodiles, and a massive open ocean shark tank that stops visitors in their tracks. The Blacktip Reef exhibit, a stunning 260,000-gallon habitat, showcases blacktip reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish in a warm Indo-Pacific environment.

One of the aquarium's crown jewels is the Upland Tropical Rain Forest on the top floor. This multi-story glass pyramid houses free-flying birds, two-toed sloths, golden lion tamarins, and poison dart frogs among lush tropical plants. It's warm, humid, and genuinely transporting.

The 4D Immersion Theater adds another dimension to the visit with short films that combine 3D visuals with sensory effects like wind and mist. The Animal Care and Rescue Center, located across the street, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the aquarium's conservation and rehabilitation work.

For families, the aquarium offers daily presentations and animal feedings throughout the building. Staff and volunteers are stationed in exhibit areas and happy to answer questions or share details about the animals.

Plan for roughly two to three hours for a thorough visit. The aquarium sits right on the Inner Harbor waterfront, so you can easily combine it with a harbor walk or meal at one of many nearby restaurants. Advance tickets are recommended, especially on weekends and during summer months, as timed entry helps manage crowds and makes for a more comfortable experience.

Accessibility

The National Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, including all entrances, exhibits, theaters, restrooms, and elevators. Visitors who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters can access every level of the building. Notably, the aquarium's standard no-stroller policy does not apply to children or parents with disabilities who need wheeled mobility devices.

Wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the facility. An accessibility guide is available for download before your visit or in printed form at the information desk. This guide includes recommended touring routes and additional details for guests with limited mobility. Reserved seating is available at presentations and theater shows.

For parking, the Harbor Place Garage is a recommended option, particularly for wheelchair users. Public parking is on floors four and above, and the garage has an accessible elevator connecting all levels.

The aquarium recommends purchasing timed-entry tickets in advance, which helps reduce wait times and crowding, a benefit for visitors with sensory sensitivities or mobility considerations.

For details about specific accommodations such as sensory guides, assistive listening devices, service animal policies, or companion ticket pricing, contact the National Aquarium directly or check their accessibility page before your visit. Staff at the information desk can provide current details about any additional resources available on the day of your visit.

More accessible places in Maryland

• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine (Baltimore)
• Walters Art Museum (Baltimore)
• Port Discovery Children's Museum (Baltimore)
• Maryland Science Center (Baltimore)
• B&O Railroad Museum (Baltimore)
• The Maryland Zoo (Baltimore)