Looking for a fun and educational adventure with your kids? Maryland has plenty of opportunities for you to get up close and personal with some amazing animals. From the bustling city of Baltimore to the serene beauty of the Eastern Shore, there are countless wildlife wonders waiting to be explored.
At the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, you can see over 1,500 animals from all over the world. Your kids will love visiting exotic creatures like lemurs, polar bears, and giraffes. The zoo also offers interactive experiences like feeding a giraffe or meeting a penguin up close. Check this out about Outdoor escapades Exploring Marylands State Parks with Kids
And if your little ones need to burn off some energy, they can run wild in the zoo’s many playgrounds and play areas. So pack a picnic lunch, grab your camera, and make some memories at this favorite family destination!
Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
You gotta check out the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of animals including giraffes, penguins, and elephants.
The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals from all around the world. This makes it one of the best places in Maryland to experience wildlife wonders with your family.
One of the many reasons why this zoo is so special is because it’s not just a place for entertainment. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore also focuses on conservation efforts through their various programs and exhibits.
Their mission is to inspire people to save wildlife for future generations. So when you visit this zoo, not only will you have a fun time with your family but you’ll also be supporting an important cause.
National Aquarium in Baltimore
Located in Baltimore, the National Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves marine life. This aquarium has been a favorite of locals and tourists alike since it opened its doors in 1981.
With its impressive collection of aquatic animals, visitors can embark on underwater adventures while learning about marine conservation initiatives. The National Aquarium in Baltimore offers an array of exhibits that showcase different marine ecosystems from around the world.
From the Amazon River to the Pacific Ocean, visitors can explore these habitats and meet a variety of sea creatures such as sharks, dolphins, and jellyfish. The aquarium also features interactive exhibits where visitors can touch stingrays or watch penguins play in their natural habitat.
Additionally, the National Aquarium is committed to marine conservation initiatives through its efforts to protect endangered species and promote sustainable practices among its visitors.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is like a peaceful oasis in the midst of bustling cities, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature. This refuge, located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, is home to over 250 bird species and other wildlife.
Its diverse habitats include marshes, forests, and meadows that provide an ideal environment for these animals. One of the main attractions at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is its birdwatching opportunities. There are several trails throughout the refuge that offer visitors an up-close view of birds in their natural habitat.
You may spot bald eagles soaring through the sky or great blue herons wading through the water. Additionally, kayaking adventures are available on designated water trails where you can explore the various habitats while paddling along picturesque creeks and streams.
The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is truly a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and wants to experience it firsthand.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, head over to the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo. This zoo offers interactive exhibits and feeding experiences that will surely delight both children and adults alike.
With over 300 animals from all over the world, you can get up close and personal with some of your favorite creatures. One of the highlights of this zoo is their feeding experiences. You can hand-feed giraffes, goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas, and even camels! The zookeepers are knowledgeable and friendly, making sure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.
Additionally, they offer interactive exhibits where visitors can learn about various animals’ behaviors and habitats. It’s a great place to spend a day learning about wildlife while having fun at the same time.
Salisbury Zoo
You’ll definitely want to check out Salisbury Zoo, where you can get an up-close look at a variety of creatures while enjoying a relaxing day in the park.
This zoo is home to over 100 animals from all over the world, including jaguars, lemurs, and even North American river otters.
One of the highlights of Salisbury Zoo is their interactive exhibits, where visitors can learn about different animal species and their habitats.
In addition to their exhibits, Salisbury Zoo offers educational programs for people of all ages. They have a Junior Zookeeper program for kids aged 10-15 who are interested in learning more about animal care and conservation.
The zoo also hosts events throughout the year, such as Boo at the Zoo during Halloween and Breakfast with Santa during Christmas time.
Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or just want to spend some time outside with some furry friends, Salisbury Zoo has something for everyone.
Assateague Island National Seashore
To experience the beauty of Assateague Island National Seashore, grab your beach gear and head to the sandy shores where wild ponies roam free.
This 37-mile long barrier island is home to over 300 wild horses that are believed to have descended from Spanish shipwrecks in the 17th century. You can spot them grazing on marsh grasses or trotting along the shoreline while you soak up the sun or take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean.
Apart from pony watching, Assateague Island National Seashore offers visitors an opportunity for beach camping.
There are two campgrounds on the island – Oceanside and Bayside – that offer campsites with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. The campsites are located within walking distance of the beach, so you can fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves and wake up to a stunning sunrise over the water.
Just remember to pack insect repellent as mosquitoes can be quite pesky during summer months!
Brookside Gardens and Nature Center
Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Brookside Gardens and Nature Center. You can explore over 50 acres of breathtaking gardens, trails, and educational exhibits. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, there’s something for everyone at this picturesque destination located in Wheaton Regional Park.
Take a stroll along the many nature trails that wind through the gardens and discover an array of plant life from around the world. Marvel at the colorful flowers blooming in every season or watch as butterflies flutter by in the butterfly exhibit. With so much natural beauty to take in, it’s no wonder Brookside Gardens is one of Maryland’s top attractions for wildlife lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
Explore some of the Best Animal Encounters Maryland has to Offer
Congratulations, you’ve now explored some of the best animal encounters Maryland has to offer! From the majestic elephants at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore to the playful dolphins at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, you’ve seen it all. Check out here about The Chesapeake Bay’s Call Of The Wild: A Guide To Wildlife Watching In Maryland
You even got up close and personal with some of the local wildlife at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo. But don’t forget about Salisbury Zoo and Assateague Island National Seashore, where you can still see more amazing animals like tigers, bears, ponies, and wild horses.
And if you want to experience nature in a different way, check out Brookside Gardens and Nature Center for a peaceful stroll through beautiful gardens filled with wildlife.
Overall, Maryland offers a wide variety of exciting animal encounters that are perfect for kids of all ages (and adults too!). So why not plan your next adventure today? Who knows what kind of amazing creatures you’ll discover next!
