10 Fun And Free Activities For Kids In Baltimore

Are you looking for a way to keep your kids entertained in Baltimore without breaking the bank? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 fun and free activities for kids in Baltimore that are sure to bring a smile to your little ones' faces. From exploring nature preserves to visiting museums, there's something for every age and interest. So pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a day of adventure in Charm City!

Visit the Maryland Science Center

As parents, we often struggle to keep our kids entertained, especially during summers and long holidays. Fortunately, Baltimore is home to a plethora of free activities and attractions perfect for kids of all ages. One such destination is the Maryland Science Center, which offers endless opportunities to explore, engage, and learn. Here’s what to expect when you visit the center with your kids.

Explore the Exhibits

The Maryland Science Center features a vast collection of interactive exhibits that focus on various STEM-related topics, including space, robotics, physics, and biology. Your kids can learn about the human body, dinosaurs, and the natural world. The exhibits incorporate hands-on activities, making them engaging and informative. Your children can try on astronaut suits, crawl through tunnels, and explore veins and arteries to learn how the circulatory system works.

Catch a Planetarium Show

If your kids are into space exploration, the Davis Planetarium at the Maryland Science Center is a must-visit. The planetarium offers a range of shows that explore space and astronomy concepts, including the formation of stars and exploration of other planets. The shows use vivid visuals, sound, and lighting effects to create an immersive experience.

Take Part in a Science Demonstration

Every day, staff members at the Maryland Science Center organize live demonstrations to engage visitors with fun, scientific concepts. These demonstrations range from chemistry experiments to physics experiments and are designed to entertain and educate kids at the same time.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

The Maryland Science Center offers a variety of outdoor activities to explore nature and get some fresh air. The landscaped grounds feature a solar-powered dino sculpture, butterfly garden, and an interactive water play area for the little ones. You can also bring a picnic and enjoy a family lunch on the beautiful green lawns.

Check Out the Special Events and Programs

Throughout the year, the Maryland Science Center organizes special events, ranging from robotics competitions to meteorite exhibits and everything in between. The center also offers programs geared towards kids of all ages, including preschoolers. These programs are usually free with admission and are designed to complement and enhance children’s educational experience.

In conclusion, the Maryland Science Center is an excellent destination that offers plenty of free things to do with kids in Baltimore. It’s an engaging and fun-filled learning experience that caters to all ages and interests. If you’re looking for an educational day trip that your kids will enjoy, head to the Maryland Science Center!

Explore the Baltimore Museum of Art

Baltimore is known for its rich and diverse culture, and one of the best places to experience it with your kids is at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA). The BMA is a great choice for families because entry to the museum is entirely free. Here are a few things you and your kids should know before planning your visit to the BMA:

The BMA is home to an immense variety of artwork. The museum boasts 90,000 works of art, with several collections that range from contemporary art to ancient art across different civilizations. As you explore the museum, you and your kids will find everything from modern sculptures to ancient mosaics.

The BMA also offers kid-friendly programming and events. There's always something going on at the BMA that caters to children, such as art scavenger hunts, interactive art-making stations, and family tours. Be sure to check the museum's calendar to see when kid-friendly events are taking place.

Don't forget to visit the BMA's sculpture garden. The outdoor sculpture garden, located on BMA's grounds, is a perfect place for kids to run around and explore the artwork. The garden features more than 3 acres of sculptures made by various artists, including Alexander Calder, Louise Nevelson, and Auguste Rodin.

There's always something new to see at the BMA. The museum regularly rotates its exhibits, so you and your children can visit again and again and always find something new. The museum's ever-changing exhibits ensure that your child will be continuously engaged and come away with new insights and appreciation for art.

In conclusion, the BMA is an entirely free and excellent place to visit with your kids in Baltimore. The museum's vast collection of artwork, children's programming, outdoor sculpture garden, and ever-changing exhibits are precisely what make it a must-see attraction. With all these features, the BMA will leave you and your kids inspired and entertained.

Spend time at the National Aquarium

When it comes to finding free activities to do with kids in Baltimore, visiting the National Aquarium is a must-do. This popular Baltimore landmark is located in the bustling Inner Harbor and offers visitors the chance to explore the aquatic world without spending a dime. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider visiting the National Aquarium as a great way to spend time with your kids:

• Educational Opportunities: The National Aquarium provides a wide range of educational opportunities that allow kids to learn more about marine life and the environment. From interactive exhibits to daily presentations, there’s something for kids of all ages to enjoy and learn about.
• Up-Close Encounters: The aquarium features a wide range of exhibits that allow for up-close encounters with a variety of aquatic life. From sharks to rays, turtles to jellyfish, there is always something new and exciting to see and learn about.
• Interactive Exhibits: The National Aquarium offers a variety of interactive exhibits that allow kids to get hands-on with marine life. For example, the Touch Pool allows kids to touch and feel different sea creatures, while the Shark Alley Tunnel offers a unique opportunity to walk through an underwater tunnel while observing a variety of different sharks swimming above.
• Outdoor Viewing: The aquarium isn’t just limited to an indoor experience. Visitors can explore the outdoor exhibits and even watch sea lions at play. The outdoor exhibits are also an excellent place to take a break and enjoy the beauty of the Inner Harbor.
• Year-Round Fun: The National Aquarium is open year-round, which makes it an excellent destination no matter what the season. Whether you are looking for a way to escape the summer heat or want to enjoy a winter day indoors, the aquarium is the perfect destination for families.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in Baltimore, the National Aquarium is definitely worth a visit. With so much to see and explore, your kids are sure to have a blast while also learning something new about the world around them. Best of all, it won’t cost you a dime, making it a great budget-friendly option as well.

Enjoy the outdoors at Patterson Park

Baltimore, a thriving city on the east coast, is a great place to explore with kids. With so many free activities to choose from, parents can keep their little ones entertained while on a budget. One of the best places to enjoy outdoor activities is Patterson Park. Read on to discover all the fun and games this park has to offer.

Patterson Park is a massive green space located in the southeast corner of Baltimore city. With its 155-acre size, it is almost like having a mini Central Park right in the heart of the city. The park is perfect for families who want to enjoy a little bit of everything. From open fields to playgrounds, tennis, basketball and handball courts, a pool, a boat lake, a pavilion, and even a farmer's market on Sundays,

The park's fields are perfect for picnics or tossing a frisbee or kicking a soccer ball around with the kids. Younger children will love the fully-equipped playgrounds including one with a medieval castle, swings, slides, and lots of jungle gym-type structures to climb. Kids might also enjoy a game of checkers or chess on one of the huge concrete blocks with the oversize boards painted on top.

If you happen to visit Patterson Park during summer, you can cool off in the city pool for free. There's also a splash pad which is suitable for infants as well as teenagers. For older kids or competitive parents, the park has tennis, basketball, and handball courts, which offer plenty of opportunities for pick-up games.

A great way to unwind and soak in some nature is to explore the lake. Guests are free to bring their non-motorized boats or opt to rent one. The park's pavilion also offers an excellent view of the lake, so don't forget to snag a photo from it with your family.

If you are here on a Sunday in the summer, plan to stroll over to the farmer's market. It provides a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and other goods. Here, you don't only get to try what Baltimore has to offer. You can also interact with the people who call this city home.

Finally, the park offers one of Baltimore's most stunning vistas from its Highpoint, located at 200 South Patterson Park Avenue. Take a stroll up the hill and enjoy the panoramic view of the city skyline.

Overall, it is hard to get bored at Patterson Park. With lots of open areas, playgrounds, recreational facilities, and even opportunities to spot birds or just relax and enjoy the trees or the cool breeze, this is the perfect escape for families living in or just visiting Baltimore. Stop by and start making memories today!

Take a stroll through the Inner Harbor

Baltimore is a fun and vibrant city that offers plenty of free things to do with kids. One great activity to enjoy is taking a stroll through the Inner Harbor. The Inner Harbor is a beautiful waterfront area that offers stunning views of the city, along with plenty of kid-friendly activities and attractions.

One of the best things about the Inner Harbor is the abundance of public art and sculptures. Kids will love exploring the different pieces and learning about the artists who created them. Some notable sculptures to check out include the "Museum Man" sculpture outside of the Maryland Science Center and the "Wind and Water" fountain near the harbor's entrance.

Another fun activity to try in the Inner Harbor is taking a ride on the water taxi. The water taxi runs from several stops along the harbor and offers a great way to see the area from a unique perspective. Kids will love riding on the boat and seeing the city skyline up close.

If you're looking for something a bit more educational, there are several museums in the Inner Harbor that offer free admission. The Maryland Science Center is a great option, as it offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. The historic ships located in the harbor, like the USS Constellation and the USCGC Taney, are also free to explore.

Finally, don't forget about the many parks and green spaces located throughout the Inner Harbor. Federal Hill Park is a great spot for a picnic or to play catch, and there are several playgrounds for kids to enjoy. The waterfront promenade is also a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sights and sounds of the harbor.

In conclusion, taking a stroll through the Inner Harbor is a wonderful way to enjoy Baltimore with kids. With public art, museums, parks, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with so many free activities to choose from, it's a great way to have a fun and budget-friendly day out with the family.

Check out the Walters Art Museum

If you're looking for a free and educational experience to share with your children in Baltimore, look no further than the Walters Art Museum. Located in the Mount Vernon district, the museum boasts a vast collection of art spanning thousands of years and multiple cultures.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Walters Art Museum is its collection of ancient artifacts. Kids will love exploring the galleries filled with mummies, sarcophagi, and other relics from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Additionally, the museum has one of the largest collections of medieval European art in the United States, featuring intricately crafted metalwork, tapestries, and illuminated manuscripts.

But it's not just ancient art that is on display at the Walters. The museum also features works by master artists such as Monet, Manet, and others, as well as a large collection of Asian art and artifacts. With so many different cultures and time periods represented, there is something to appeal to every child's interests and curiosities.

In addition to the exhibitions, the museum also offers a variety of family-friendly programs and events. From art-making workshops to scavenger hunts, the Walters has plenty of activities to keep kids engaged and entertained. They also offer guided tours specifically designed for families, which are a great way to explore the museum and learn more about its collections.

Overall, the Walters Art Museum is a fantastic destination for families in Baltimore. Whether you're looking for a fun and educational day out or just a quiet place to explore, this museum has something to offer everyone. And best of all, it's completely free! So pack up your kids and head over to the Walters for a day of art and adventure.

Experience the Charm City Circulator

Baltimore, also known as Charm City, is a vibrant and exciting place to visit with your family. Fortunately, you don't have to break the bank to have a great time with your kids, as there are plenty of free things to do in Baltimore. One of the best ways to experience the city for free is by hopping on the Charm City Circulator.

The Charm City Circulator is a free shuttle bus service that takes you to various neighborhoods in Baltimore, including the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, and Canton. The service operates seven days a week and has four different routes that run from early morning until late at night.

One of the most popular routes is the Purple Route, which passes by some of Baltimore's top attractions, including the Maryland Science Center, the National Aquarium, and the Harborplace shopping center. Your kids will love gazing at the aquatic creatures at the National Aquarium and learning about the wonders of science at the Maryland Science Center.

Along the way, the Circulator also passes by several parks and green spaces, such as the West Shore Park and Rash Field, where you can take a break and enjoy some fresh air. These parks often host free concerts, movies, and other events throughout the year. Be sure to check their schedules and plan accordingly.

Aside from the Purple Route, the Circulator also has a Green Route, Orange Route, and Banner Route. The Green Route takes you to popular spots like Johns Hopkins University and the Peabody Institute, while the Orange Route covers the heart of downtown Baltimore. The Banner Route, on the other hand, connects the Inner Harbor to Fort McHenry, where your kids can learn about the famous battle that inspired the Star-Spangled Banner.

Taking the Charm City Circulator is a fun and convenient way to explore Baltimore without spending a dime. It's a great way to show your kids all the different facets of Charm City, from its rich history to its bustling modern life. With the Circulator, you'll feel like a local as you ride to different parts of Baltimore and soak up all the city has to offer.

Take a hike at Loch Raven Reservoir

If you're looking for a fun and free activity to do with your kids in Baltimore, consider taking a hike at Loch Raven Reservoir. This beautiful natural area encompasses over 3,000 acres of wooded hills and valleys, as well as a 2,400-acre lake. There are numerous trails and paths to explore, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks that will take you through some of the most scenic areas in the region.

One of the best hiking trails at Loch Raven Reservoir is the Merryman Trail. This 10-mile loop starts and ends at the Warren Road parking lot and offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forest. Along the way, you'll encounter streams and waterfalls, rocky outcroppings, and scenic overlooks. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and there are plenty of benches and picnic areas where you can stop and rest or enjoy a snack.

Another great option for families with younger kids is the Hike and Seek Trail. This one-mile loop is located near the visitor center and features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed to help kids learn about the natural history of the area. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of birds.

If you're looking for a longer hike, consider the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail, which runs for 20 miles along the former Northern Central Railway line. The trail offers scenic views of the reservoir and the surrounding countryside, as well as access to historic sites like the Phoenix Shot Tower and the ruins of the McAllister Mill. Along the way, you'll also find restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables.

Before you head out on your hike, be sure to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for changes in temperature and weather. It's also a good idea to bring a map or GPS device, as some of the trails can be a bit tricky to navigate.

Overall, a visit to Loch Raven Reservoir is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy some of the natural beauty that Baltimore has to offer. Whether you're looking for a quick hike or a full-day adventure, there's something for everyone here. So pack up the family, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Maryland.

Attend a free music concert at Artscape

If you're looking for ways to keep the little ones entertained in Baltimore without breaking the bank, Artscape just might be your answer. This annual free arts festival, held in the heart of the city, offers plenty of family fun – including free concerts that are sure to get everyone moving and grooving. Here's what you need to know about attending a free music concert at Artscape with your kids.

Artscape is America's largest free arts festival, held annually in Baltimore. The festival features live music, visual arts, performances, food and drink vendors, and more. While Artscape can get crowded, it's a festive and fun environment that the whole family can enjoy. The festival is typically held in late July or early August and runs for three days.

Artscape features a diverse lineup of musical acts, ranging from local bands and DJs to national headliners. But beyond the big-name performers, Artscape also offers a range of family-friendly concerts that are perfect for kids. In previous years, Artscape has featured kid-centric acts like Milkshake (a local kids' band), interactive drum circles, and more. There are also plenty of opportunities to dance and move to the music on one of the many festival stages.

Artscape can get busy, so you'll want to plan ahead to make sure you and your family have the best experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Consider bringing ear protection for young children, especially if you'll be close to the stage.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone hydrated and fueled up.
• Dress in comfortable clothes and shoes that can withstand walking and standing for long periods of time.
• Check the festival schedule ahead of time to find out when the family-friendly concerts are happening.
• Keep an eye on your kids in the crowds and make sure they know where to find you if they get separated.

With its free concerts, colorful atmosphere, and varied lineup of activities, Artscape is a great option for families looking for low-cost fun in Baltimore. Be sure to mark your calendars to catch the next Artscape festival and to catch some memorable performances with your family!

Relax at the beautiful Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens

If you're looking for an enjoyable and free way to spend some quality time with your kids in Baltimore, look no further than the beautiful Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens. This urban oasis, located in Druid Hill Park, features stunning plants and flowers from around the world. Here are just a few reasons why Rawlings is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out with your children:

• Get up close and personal with nature. With multiple rooms dedicated to different climates and habitats, Rawlings gives kids the opportunity to explore a wide array of plant life. From tropical foliage to succulent cacti, there's something for every curious eye to discover.
• Take advantage of free educational programming. Rawlings offers a variety of classes and workshops for both kids and adults, all of which are free of charge. These include gardening and cooking classes, storytime sessions for young children, and even yoga for all ages.
• Enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, year-round. While outdoor parks and playgrounds can be chilly and bleak during the winter months, Rawlings is a vibrant and colorful respite from the cold. Inside the conservatory, temperatures are always warm and cozy, so you can come here any time of year to enjoy the sights and smells of nature.
• Let your kids run wild (sort of). While there are a few rules to follow at Rawlings (no climbing on plants, for instance), there's a lot of room for little ones to explore on their own. The park offers plenty of open spaces for kids to run and play while staying safe and supervised.
• Take some stunning family photos. With its bright colors, varied textures, and lush greenery, Rawlings is the perfect backdrop for a family photo shoot. Take advantage of the natural lighting and bring your camera or smartphone to capture some beautiful memories with your kids.

Overall, Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens is an ideal spot for families looking to connect with nature and spend some quality time together. Whether you're an avid gardener or just looking for a fun afternoon activity, bring your kids down to Rawlings and let them explore the wondrous world of plants!

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