Baltimore in 3 Days for Families - National Aquarium — large windows, touch tanks, family restrooms
A paced, stroller- and kid-friendly 3-day plan for families visiting Baltimore in May (spring). Includes hands-on museums, parks, short transfers, allergy-aware dining, and built-in breaks and nap buffers. Recommended ages noted where relevant.
Highlights
- National Aquarium — large windows, touch tanks, family restrooms
- Port Discovery Children's Museum — interactive play for younger kids
- Maryland Science Center — hands-on exhibits and planetarium
- Maryland Zoo in Baltimore — stroller-friendly animal paths
- Parks and gentle neighborhood strolls (Inner Harbor, Federal Hill, Patterson Park)
Itinerary
Day 1
Gentle orientation to the Inner Harbor area with two major kid-focused attractions and a relaxed waterfront evening.
Inner Harbor promenade: easy morning stroll and views
Start with a paved, stroller-friendly walk along Baltimore's Inner Harbor to get bearings and let kids run a little before museum time.
Tips from local experts:
- Best for a stroller-friendly surface — choose the wider sections near Harborplace for easier passing and shade.
- Public restrooms and family changing rooms are located in Harborplace/shops if you need to change or nurse before attractions.
- Keep a light jacket — mornings by the water can be breezy in May; sit on a bench near the water if a child needs a quiet moment.
National Aquarium — explore touch tanks and 4D habitats
Timed-entry visit to the National Aquarium. Prioritize the Tropical Rainforest, Atlantic Coral Reef, and the touch pool for hands-on kid engagement.
Tips from local experts:
- Recommended ages: 2–12 — exhibits are interactive and stroller-friendly; bring a lightweight stroller for moving between levels.
- Buy timed-entry tickets in advance to reduce wait; morning slots are usually calmer for young children.
- The Aquarium has family restrooms and a nursing room near the main entrance — use them before longer galleries to avoid mid-visit disruptions.
Lunch at Miss Shirley's Cafe (Harbor area) — kid-friendly Southern comfort
Casual, family-friendly lunch with kids' menu options and high chairs. Good allergy-aware kitchen staff if you note restrictions when ordering.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table near the wall or booth for stroller parking and a slightly quieter spot during lunch rush.
- Miss Shirley's staff are used to families — ask for modifications for common allergens; they are generally accommodating.
- If you expect a nap after lunch, ask for an inside table to reduce bright sun and help kids rest in their stroller.
Short quiet break / stroller nap near Harborplace
30-minute buffer for stroller naps, diaper changes, or a calm snack before the afternoon museum visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the family restrooms in Harborplace to change diapers and refresh — they're centrally located and clean.
- Find a shaded bench along the promenade for a calmer nap environment away from main pedestrian flow.
- If your child is sensitive to noise, bring a light blanket to cover the stroller for a darker nap space.
Maryland Science Center — hands-on discovery and planetarium (select exhibits)
Interactive exhibits for younger visitors and a small planetarium show. Focus on KidZone and the Life Science exhibits for family engagement.
Tips from local experts:
- Recommended ages: 3–12 — KidZone is designed for preschoolers, while older kids enjoy physics and engineering exhibits.
- Planetarium shows have limited space — check session times on arrival and choose a shorter show if you have a nap-sensitive child.
- The Science Center provides family restrooms and quiet rooms; head there if a child needs a low-stimulation break.
Early dinner at Phillips Seafood (Inner Harbor) — kid meal options and waterfront seating
A relaxed early dinner with water views and menu flexibility for picky eaters; plan for an earlier seating to avoid evening crowds.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a table away from the railing if you have toddlers who are still wobbly — staff will usually accommodate families.
- Phillips offers simple, familiar options (grilled items, fries) for younger kids and can modify dishes for allergies — mention restrictions up front.
- Plan for a 5–10 minute stroller-to-table transition; there is space to park strollers near many harbor restaurants but confirm with staff.
Federal Hill Park — sunset skyline view and runaround time
Short walk up to Federal Hill Park for a family-friendly viewpoint of the Inner Harbor at sunset — kids can stretch legs on the grass.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths are mostly stroller-accessible but some steeper sections have steps — choose the paved walkways up the park.
- Bring a small blanket for a quick picnic or snack while watching the sunset; park benches provide shaded seating.
- Public restrooms are limited in the park — plan restroom stops earlier at Harborplace or nearby cafés.
Day 2
A day focused on hands-on play at Port Discovery plus a family-friendly museum and a historic neighborhood stroll.
Port Discovery Children's Museum — morning of active, sensory play
Interactive play zones for toddlers and young children with climbing, water play (seasonal/schedule permitting), and imaginative exhibits.
Tips from local experts:
- Recommended ages: 1–8 — exhibits are designed with young kids in mind; toddlers and preschoolers get the most from the day.
- Arrive close to opening to avoid midday crowds; Port Discovery often has timed-entry or ticketed sessions for busier days.
- Stroller parking is limited inside — bring a lightweight stroller you can fold at exhibit edges; family restrooms and changing tables are available.
Lunch nearby and calm time — easy, allergy-aware options
A relaxed lunch near the museum at a family-friendly cafe with quick service and kids' menu items to minimize wait times before an afternoon nap.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a mid-day table close to the entrance for quick exits if a nap is needed right after lunch.
- Ask staff for kids' portions or to split an entrée to reduce waste — many Harbor restaurants adapt for children.
- If a child is food-sensitive, request ingredient details up front; the city’s popular family spots are usually allergy-aware in May.
Quiet afternoon buffer — stroller nap or resting at Inner Harbor benches
30–45 minute rest to recharge before heading to the B&O Railroad Museum; gives kids time for a stroller nap or quiet downtime.
Tips from local experts:
- Find a sheltered bench near the water to avoid stronger afternoon sun and provide a darker nap environment.
- Use this time for a quick diaper change and to refill water bottles — public water fountains are available around the harbor.
- Carry a small lightweight sun shield or stroller fan for children sensitive to heat on brighter May afternoons.
B&O Railroad Museum — trains and hands-on exhibits
Explore historic locomotives, climb aboard certain train cars, and visit interactive displays that thrill young train fans.
Tips from local experts:
- Recommended ages: 3–12 — children love the cab experiences; supervise little ones around steps and platforms.
- The museum has ramps and some accessible routes, but several vintage cars require steps — a baby carrier can be helpful for toddlers.
- Check daily schedule for any short demonstration rides or special family programs and time your visit to catch them.
Fells Point stroll — cobblestones and ice cream stop
Walk the historic Fells Point waterfront; enjoy a relaxed stroll, cobblestone streets (watch strollers), and a casual dinner in a family-friendly spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Cobblestones are charming but bumpy — use stroller wheels carefully or bring a stroller with larger wheels for this area.
- Plan an ice-cream or sweet treat stop to reward little walkers — many shops in Fells Point offer kid-friendly portions.
- Choose an early dinner table on the quieter side streets to avoid busier waterfront terraces and loud crowds.
Dinner at Thames Street Oyster House — family-friendly seafood options
A relaxed dinner with simple seafood and non-seafood options appropriate for kids; request a quieter table when booking.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a high chair and a spot away from the main noise level if you have a toddler who sleeps early.
- If kids are picky, the menu has simple grilled and pasta options — staff can often prepare milder versions for children.
- Reserve or arrive early on weekend evenings in May to minimize wait time with hungry children.
Day 3
A nature-focused day with the Maryland Zoo and neighborhood parks for free play, ending with a relaxed local dinner.
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore — morning animal walk
Stroller-friendly paths through habitats; feed and keeper schedules vary so check the board on arrival. Lots of shady spots and picnic areas.
Tips from local experts:
- Recommended ages: 2–10 — wide paths make this ideal for strollers; the Zoo provides family restrooms and changing stations near the visitor center.
- Check the daily events board for short keeper talks or feedings (timed events are great for curious kids).
- Bring sunscreen and a refillable water bottle — much of the zoo is shaded but May sun can still be strong during midday.
Picnic lunch and short rest in Druid Hill Park
Grab a simple picnic or use nearby food options; shaded lawns and benches make this a good low-key stop after the zoo visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Druid Hill Park has picnic tables and shade; choose a spot near the lake for calmer surroundings and ducks to watch.
- There are restrooms near main park areas and water fountains to refill bottles — helpful after a morning walking the zoo.
- Pack a small blanket and a few quiet toys to keep younger children occupied while others rest or nap.
Midday break / quiet hotel rest (short transfer)
A scheduled hour for quiet time, nap, or a slow unpack and refresh. Useful buffer before afternoon park play.
Tips from local experts:
- A hotel room or nearby quiet spot is ideal for a longer stroller nap; if your family is staying downtown, this will be a short drive.
- Use this time to change into play clothes and reapply sunscreen for the afternoon park session.
- If your child is sensitive to transitions, keep the break consistent: snack, story, then nap/quiet time in the stroller or room.
Patterson Park — playgrounds, duck pond, and open play
Large playground and open green space for running, playground equipment for a range of ages, and calm water areas for quiet observation.
Tips from local experts:
- The playground area is great for ages 2–10; there are shaded benches for caregivers and family restrooms nearby.
- Patterson Park’s paths are stroller friendly on main walkways — avoid the narrower dirt trails with smaller-wheel strollers.
- Bring a small ball or bubbles for unstructured play; the park is a local favorite in May and a great place for kids to make energy after museums.
Early family dinner at The Food Market — casual, kids welcomed
Finish with a neighborhood restaurant offering flexible plates for kids and a comfortable atmosphere for families.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve an earlier table to avoid the dinner rush and get a quieter seating for families with small children.
- The menu typically includes grilled and simple options suitable for picky eaters; ask staff to adapt for allergies or sensitivities.
- Request a booth or corner table to keep a stroller close and provide a little extra space for messy (but happy) kids.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 3 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 6 |
| Total Activities | 18 |
| Total Places | 18 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Attraction, Restaurant, Break, Outdoor, Meal |
