Baltimore Cruise & Stay

The National Aquarium, located in the heart of Baltimore, is a marvel of marine biodiversity and a testament to the beauty of aquatic life. As you step through its doors, you are immediately greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors from the myriad of sea creatures that call this place home. The aquarium is a labyrinth of discovery, with each turn revealing a new exhibit more fascinating than the last.

From the vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, to the awe-inspiring shark tanks where these misunderstood predators glide silently, every corner of the National Aquarium is designed to captivate and educate. The aquarium is home to an astonishing array of aquatic species, ranging from the tiniest seahorses to the most majestic dolphins. Each exhibit is meticulously curated, replicating the natural habitats of these creatures to provide visitors with an immersive and authentic experience.

But the National Aquarium is more than just a spectacle of marine life. It’s a hub of education and conservation, dedicated to preserving the world’s oceans and the creatures that inhabit them. Interactive exhibits invite visitors to engage with the material, learning about the delicate ecosystems of our oceans and the threats they face. Educational programs offer deeper insights into marine biology and conservation, fostering a sense of stewardship and respect for our oceans.

The National Aquarium is not just a destination, but a journey - a journey that takes you deep under the surface of the sea, revealing the beauty, diversity, and fragility of marine life. It’s an experience that leaves you with a sense of wonder and a deeper understanding of the world beneath the waves. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, the National Aquarium in Baltimore is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable adventure. 

The Baltimore Museum of Art, located in Baltimore, Maryland, is a renowned institution that houses an extensive collection of art that spans continents and centuries. Its collection includes more than 95,000 works of art, including the largest public holding of works by Henri Matisse. The museum is known for its diverse collection that encompasses a wide range of art forms, from ancient mosaics to contemporary art installations.

The museum’s collection is divided into several departments, including the Arts of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Pacific Islands; Contemporary Art; European and American Painting, Sculpture, and Decorative Arts; Prints, Drawings, and Photographs; and Textiles. Each department offers a unique glimpse into different cultures and periods of art history.

The Baltimore Museum of Art is also home to the Cone Collection, one of the most significant collections of modern art in the world. This collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh.

In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, offering visitors the opportunity to experience new and innovative works of art.

The museum is set in a beautiful building that is a work of art in itself, with its neoclassical architecture providing a stunning backdrop for the art it houses. It also features a sculpture garden, where visitors can enjoy art in an outdoor setting.

Overall, the Baltimore Museum of Art is a cultural treasure that offers visitors a rich and diverse artistic experience. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this remarkable museum.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a cherished national park located in Baltimore, Maryland. It commemorates the historic defense of Baltimore Harbor during the War of 1812 and the inspiration for America’s national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The fort’s defense against British bombardment on September 13-14, 1814, was a pivotal moment in American history and a symbol of resilience and patriotism.

One of the main attractions of Fort McHenry is its well-preserved fortifications, which include ramparts, bastions, and cannon emplacements overlooking the Patapsco River and Baltimore Harbor. Visitors to the fort can explore its historic grounds, wander through its casemates and barracks, and learn about its role in defending Baltimore during the War of 1812.

In addition to its military history, Fort McHenry is also famous for its association with “The Star-Spangled Banner,” America’s national anthem. The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anthem. The fort’s history holds many other stories too, from the Civil War to WWII.

The park unit presently occupies approximately 43 acres in a high-density, industrial / residential setting on the eastern tip of Locust Point Peninsula at the confluence of the War of 1812. The fort has protected the city of Baltimore since the American Revolution and was built on the original site of the earthen star fort known as Fort Whetstone. Completed in 1803, Fort McHenry played a pivotal role during the War of 1812 Battle of Baltimore.

Overall, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a significant symbol of American history and a must-visit for those interested in the country’s past. It offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the events that shaped the nation.

The American Visionary Art Museum, often referred to as AVAM, is a unique art museum located in Baltimore, Maryland. It’s nestled in the Federal Hill neighborhood at 800 Key Highway. The museum is renowned for its focus on what is often called “outsider art,” “intuitive art,” “raw art,” or “art brut.”

AVAM is a place where the works of self-taught artists are celebrated. The artists featured here come from all walks of life - farmers, housewives, mechanics, the disabled, the homeless, and even neurosurgeons. These individuals, driven by their inner fire, transform everyday objects like toothbrushes, bottle caps, tattoos, and toothpicks into powerful works of art.

The museum is spread across three historic buildings that house a myriad of wonders. It boasts a permanent collection of approximately 4,000 pieces, including works by visionary artists like Ho Baron, Nek Chand, Howard Finster, Vanessa German, Mr. Imagination (aka Gregory Warmack), Leonard Knight, William Kurelek, Leo Sewell, Judith Scott, Ben Wilson, and more.

AVAM is not just a museum; it’s a vibrant campus that includes a Tall Sculpture Barn and Wildflower Garden, along with large exhibition and event spaces in the Jim Rouse Visionary Center. The museum organizes themed exhibitions that beautifully blend art, science, philosophy, humor, and social justice.

The museum was established on November 24, 1995, and has been designated by Congress as America’s national museum for visionary art. It welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually. Despite its impressive collection and popularity, AVAM prides itself on being “pretty un-museumy,” offering a unique and inspiring experience to all its visitors.