With only a short day to spend in Baltimore, in a quick getaway from Washington DC, there were decisions to be made. After all, Washington DC hosts some of the world’s best museums, so what can possibly Baltimore do to compete in that area? Well, turns out Baltimore fights back with their National Aquarium, said to be one of the world’s biggest and finest, and don’t we all like biggest? don’t we all like finest?
Haven’t been to the one in Washington DC but I could see some of the reasons why any quick search will argue there’s no comparing the two, Baltimore’s feat is indeed impressive.
(some of my favorite little creatures on that tour)
Wikitravel comments enthusiastically :
National Aquarium, 501 E Pratt Street, ☎ +1 410 576 3800. Daily 9AM-5PM, seasonal hours vary. One of the best aquariums in the nation, the Baltimore Aquarium is famous for its tropical rain forest exhibit, its efforts to saving marine mammals, and its large shark tanks. Well worth the price of admission, it’s a draw for marine scientists and civilians alike. Due to its popularity, expect to be in long lines to purchase tickets and then have to wait to enter several hours later, especially during weekends or vacation times; to avoid this, plan ahead and purchase tickets early or online. General admission $25-$30, discounts for seniors and children available
So what’s so impressive? it’s really laid out nicely in a way where you can see what’s going on from all perspectives, above water, underwater, in the water, and there are continuous "shows" with the diving staff that give it that extra twist to make you feel like humans and underwater life may -perhaps – someday – when we stop being such assholes – learn to co-exist and enjoy each other’s company.
This is the main hall…
Where you can catch the local staff working with the animals…
Or feeding them by hand…
You got your usual suspects…
As well as your typical (somewhat depressing) dolphin shows…
But, somehow, my favorite part in most museums is rediscovering familiar nature. My earlier life experiences at the Tel-Aviv beaches have taught me that jelly-fish are nasty, dangerous, ugly and unforgiving creatures whose sole purpose in life is to hurt little kids when they go swimming in the sea with their families on weekends.
Yet, as the National Aquarium’s special jellyfish section clearly shows – these things are actually some of the most beautiful and elegant creatures…
There’s just so much beauty down there we’re not aware of, isn’t there?
If you’re wondering about the outside and Baltimore city, then I only have the inner harbour part to share with you… and it’s a lovely little area.
A bit small, nothing too memorable, but still quiet pleasant.
A bit more on Baltimore’s National Aquarium: