Inspire your students through immersive African American history exhibits, living museums and maritime curiosities in Baltimore’s historic Inner Harbor
History is vivified throughout Baltimore and its scenic Inner Harbor. Dating back to 1729, the region has been utilized for its fertile soils to grow tobacco and other crops. Enslaved Africans were brought over to Maryland and put to work on farms, helped shape the shipbuilding trade after the Revolutionary War and were vital in the construction of the Baltimore railroad.
Today, Baltimore is a thriving port city proudly showcasing its rich history and soulful African American roots through living museums and field trip-worthy destinations. Students of all grade levels can immerse in history unlike anywhere else promoting a lifelong love of STEM activities and African American heritage.
STEM
Get lost in the discovery of Earth’s greatest wonders at the Maryland Science Center. Take space exploration to new heights at the Davis Planetarium where classmates can take an imaginary trip to the moon with the gang from Sesame Street. Or identify stars and constellations like our ancestors did when trekking across the globe.
Third graders can visit The SciLab for hands-on practice at multiple experimentation stations. Head out to The Shed for a hybrid workshop/laboratory experience where children can make furniture, get creative designing jewelry and much more.
The National Aquarium located in the historic Inner Harbor will spark the curiosity of all young marine biologists. The museum boasts over 20,000 species showcased in award-winning exhibits. Classmates can explore the stunning underwater landscape of an Indo-Pacific reef or pet a stingray at the aquarium’s Living Seashore exhibit.
Experience one-of-a-kind history lessons aboard the Historic Ships in Baltimore’s floating museums. Docked along the Inner Harbor are vessels dating back to 1854 including the U.S.S. Constellation, the only surviving Civil War ship in existence.
Bring the kiddos to the Port Discovery Children’s Museum considered the best in the nation also located in the Inner Harbor. This playful educational venue offers exploratory play and even a life-sized cargo ship for spectacular make-believe!
History 101
African Americans have a storied history that runs long and deep in Baltimore. Peers can learn about the proud heritage and social injustices faced by enslaved Africans brought to America at an array of cultural sites.
Historical African American figures like Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and President Barack Obama are frozen in time at The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, the only one of its kind. This unique venue highlights over 150 revered black figures from American history capturing life-like features in a memorable learning experience. They offer group rates with reservations and children three and under are free. Virtual tours are available through their website to enhance in-class learning.
Inspire young students in a fun, interactive way at The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture. Celebrate African Americans throughout 82,000 square feet of exhibits, a two-story theater, classrooms and more. Glimpse the soul of Africa through cultural art and more than 400 years of pivotal moments from black history in America.
Baltimore offers myriad destinations for field trip excursions that will inspire students, teachers and chaperones alike. For more information about group excursions and family-friendly field trip destinations, visit their website and start planning today.
Main photo: B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore. Photo by Ken Stanek
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