The Maryland Science Center is a great place to start your family-friendly trip in Maryland. This interactive museum showcases multiple exhibits on different scientific fields, such as optics, physics, and biology. Your kids will love the planetarium and the life-size dinosaur skeletons. Don’t miss the view of the Baltimore Harbor from the observation deck.
Take a trip back in time by visiting the historic district of Annapolis. You can join a guided tour and explore the beautifully-preserved 18th-century houses, colonial gardens, and quaint shops. Be sure to visit the impressive United States Naval Academy and Museum while you’re there; it’s a great choice for history buffs and military enthusiasts.
Assateague Island National Seashore is a great place to go if you want to enjoy some outdoor activities with your family. The park boasts miles of pristine beaches, hiking trails, and a lighthouse. You can also observe the wild horses that roam free on the island. Don’t forget to bring a packed lunch, as there are few food options on the island.
The Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the most famous attractions in Maryland, and for a good reason. This family-friendly boardwalk is filled with amusement parks, souvenir shops, and dining options. You can also take a stroll on the picturesque beach and enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean.
The National Aquarium in Baltimore is a great option if you want to take a break from the heat and explore the marine world. This aquarium has over 20,000 animals and multiple exhibits that showcase different marine habitats, such as the Amazon Rainforest and the Pacific Coral Reef. Your kids will love the interactive touch tanks and the 4D immersion theater.
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a great destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. This park encompasses 184.5 miles of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which was used for transportation and trade in the 19th and early 20th centuries. You can join a guided tour, hike the trails, or go on a bike ride with your family.
Your Maryland family-friendly trip wouldn't be complete without spending some time at the Inner Harbor. This bustling waterfront district has something for everyone: dining options, shopping centers, and attractions, such as the Maryland Science Center and the National Aquarium. You can also take a sightseeing cruise or rent a paddleboat and explore the harbor from a different perspective.
It's a great idea to rent a car for your Maryland family-friendly trip, as you'll be visiting multiple destinations that are far from each other. Make sure to bring cash or your credit card, as some parking lots and toll roads only accept those payment methods. You can expect to pay around $50-$150 for gas, depending on your car's gas mileage and the route you'll take.
If you have more time, consider visiting other family-friendly destinations in Maryland, such as the Six Flags America amusement park, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, and the Antietam National Battlefield. If you have less time, you can skip some of the destinations on this itinerary or shorten your visit time. Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes, as you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
The main airport in Maryland is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). It's located 9 miles south of the Baltimore city center and offers multiple flight options from major airlines, such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.