Embark on an Aquatic Journey at Baltimore's National Aquarium

There's so much to see and do here in Baltimore — stroll along the Inner Harbor, view masterpieces at the Baltimore Museum of Art, catch a baseball game at Camden Yards, step back in  time at Fort McHenry... and the list goes on. But it's the National Aquarium that is the most frequently visited attraction in Charm City, drawing about 1.5 million visitors every year. Home to more than 20,000 aquatic animals, the National Aquarium consistently ranks as one of the nation's top three aquariums, making it a must-see destination for our guests at Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast. Be ready to be mesmerized by the wonders of aquatic life through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences at this world-class attraction in the heart of Baltimore. When booking a stay online, you can add a National Aquarium ticket to your reservation that will save you 20%.

Opened in 1981, the National Aquarium is Maryland's largest paid tourist attraction. Its mission is to inspire conservation of the world's aquatic treasures and features thousands of fishes, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals living in award-winning habitats. As you come to the main entrance, you're welcomed by the iconic glass pavilion and 35-foot waterfall that's part of the Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit, which also includes freshwater crocodiles, turtles, free-flying birds, snakes and lizards. The majority of the aquarium's exhibits are housed in the Pier 3 Pavilion, like the Atlantic Coral Reef with hundreds of tropical fish and the popular Shark Alley that brings you face to face with these underwater predators.

In total, there are five levels of fascinating creatures in the Pier 3 Pavilion. The first level contains the breathtaking Blacktip Reef exhibit, a bustling Indo-Pacific coral reef ecosystem that introduces you to the dance of colorful fish, rays and blacktip reef sharks. As the sunlight filters through the water, the vibrant coral formations create a kaleidoscope of hues, transporting visitors to the heart of the ocean.

The second level showcases animals native to Maryland in an exhibit titled, "Maryland: Mountains to the Sea." From an Allegheny stream to a tidal marsh to a coastal beach, and finally, out to the Atlantic Ocean’s continental shelf, you'll discover the animals that call these varied habitats home, including bullfrogs, diamondback terrapins and striped bass. The third level features exhibits that show how creatures in the aquatic world adapt to survive in their habitats, as well as two tidal touch pools where you can graze your hand over a clearnose skate, a moon jelly and a horseshoe crab.

Venturing deeper into the aquarium, the Amazon River forest and South American tropical rainforest exhibits on the fourth and fifth floors offer some of the most biodiverse habitats on earth. From poison dart frogs and two-toed sloth to emerald tree boa and white-blotched river stingray, these slices of the Amazon provide a unique opportunity to witness the interconnected beauty of terrestrial and aquatic life.

The National Aquarium's Pier 4 Pavilion was added in 1990 and houses the Dolphin Discovery — the aquarium's largest exhibit. Taking center stage in the massive amphitheater, six resident bottlenose dolphins show off their agility and intelligence, providing the audience with a glimpse into how these animals play and interact. Pier 4 is also where you'll find the mesmerizing Jellyfish Invasion exhibit. Illuminated by ethereal lighting, nine species of jellyfish gracefully dance through the water, showcasing their otherworldly beauty.

The National Aquarium transcends the role of a mere tourist attraction, emerging as a beacon of education, conservation and awe-inspiring beauty. Definitely consider taking this journey through the depths of our planet's oceans and waterways during your next Baltimore getaway and visit to our historic inn. It will provide you with a new appreciation for the wonders beneath the waves that will resonate long after your visit concludes.