The best museums weave together a city’s history and culture, honor local heroes, and create a sense of collaboration within the community. The museums in Baltimore are no different, and are a fantastic starting point for understanding both local and state history. They’re a gateway to learning about how the past can influence the present and shape the future. Some of these museums are a stone’s throw away from the Inner Harbor while others are off the beaten path, and they’re all worth a visit. Let’s take a look at Baltimore’s must-hit museums.
1. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture
With over four centuries of history spread across its galleries and archives, the Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture focuses on the cultural depth and heritage of the city of Baltimore. It will inform and inspire you through its assortment of exhibits that cover a wide variety of topics such as African art and archival photography.
The Lewis G. and Shirley Hecht Jazz Archive Collection is one of the Lewis Museum’s permanent exhibits that you’ll especially enjoy. You can listen to recordings from Louis Armstrong and more iconic artists in jazz history. It’s a great opportunity to explore an often overlooked musical genre.
You’ll find The Lewis Museum at 830 E Pratt St and is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Thursday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.
2. Maryland Science Center
The Maryland Science Center is amongst the best museums in Baltimore for the combination of science and creativity. They create experiences that are immersive and educational so you’ll walk away feeling that your time there was well spent. You’d be missing out if you don’t make a visit to this staple institution—it’s one of the oldest science museums in the state.
Science on a Sphere is a highlight of this museum, showcasing science in a way you’ve never seen. Scientists project thousands of data points on a centrally located sphere which gives you the chance to observe the planets in an innovative way. After you’ve seen the sphere head over to the telescope to chat with astronomers about their recent discoveries.
You’ll find The Maryland Science Center at 601 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21230, and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
3. Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum
The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum is a tribute to one of baseball’s most prolific players and Maryland’s robust sports culture. It’s proof that the best museums can be an off-the-beaten path and a gateway to further understanding the local culture. Here you can also learn about the history of Maryland’s sports teams.
Be sure to stop by the 500 Home Run Club to learn more about Babe Ruth and the others that have earned over 500 home runs while playing baseball professionally. It’s a great way to further appreciate baseball.
You’ll find The Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum at 216 Emory Street near Oriole Park and is open 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
4. Port Discovery Children’s Museum
The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is the best museum to unleash your inner child and explore. They’ve found creative ways to educate people about the Port of Baltimore and Maryland history by allowing guests to become a part of the exhibits themselves.
You can move about their life size cargo ship and pretend to be a sailor, engineer, or anything else that your imagination allows. It’ll be a unique way for your group of friends to experience something new. You’ll have a great time playing and learning at this museum.
You’ll find The Port Discovery Children’s Museum at 35 Market Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202, and is open Wednesday, Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m.
5. Baltimore Museum of Industry
The Baltimore Museum of Industry is a testament to the impact of the Industrial Revolution on the community. Over a million artifacts are on display so you’ll undoubtedly walk away having learned something new.
The Machine Shop & Forge is a permanent exhibition that you’ll want to see. Experts hold demonstrations on printing presses to showcase how early inventions shaped technology today. You can also attend a blacksmithing workshop to learn more about building techniques used during the Industrial Revolution.
You’ll find The Baltimore Museum of Industry at 1415 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230 and is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
6. Walters Art Museum
The Walters Art Museum has a collection that spans centuries. There are tons of fascinating artifacts to explore like colonial teapots and statues from Greece. It highlights the variety that museums in Baltimore have to offer and will fascinate you to no end.
They even house an ancient sarcophagus in their Egyptian wing. Artifacts like jewelry and tools from the ancient world can be found here, too. The best museums, like The Walters, can offer a wide range of exhibits that will drive your curiosity.
The Walters Art Museum is located at 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD, 21201. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., and closed Monday and Tuesday.
7. American Visionary Art Museum
The American Visionary Art Museum is unlike any other museums you’ve visited. It’s a forward-thinking hub that’s more experimental than most. With a focus on thematic and larger-than-life installations, it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a unique experience.
Bling Universe is one of their most exciting exhibits. It features large sculptures adorned with reflective tiles that look like illusions at first sight. You won’t forget your experience when you visit.
The American Visionary Art Museum is located at 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Whether you live in Baltimore or are simply visiting, you’ll want to check out these museums in Baltimore. They offer immersive and fascinating perspectives on the history of this iconic port city that you can’t get anywhere else.