Please note: April - June hours: Sat. – Thurs. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
APRIL
Immersion Tour
Shark Behind-the-Scenes
April 1, 2, 13, 20, 21, 22, 29, 30, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Ages: 8 and up
Don’t miss your chance to get uncomfortably close to the National Aquarium in Baltimore’s sharks! Explore behind-the-scenes shark areas with an expert guide and discover the truth about these incredible ocean predators. Dare to experience the shark catwalk, where sharks swim silently just inches beneath you. Discover how Aquarium staff care for the sharks and rays with a visit to the food-prep area. Includes a shark-themed souvenir. It's a tour you can really sink your teeth into! For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $35 for adults, $31 for seniors, $23 for children
Gallery Tour
April 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 29, 30, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
Ages: Ages 5 and up
This tour starts before the National Aquarium in Baltimore opens, providing a more intimate atmosphere. Join us on a journey to Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes, the Amazon River Forest, Open Ocean shark exhibit and the Atlantic Coral Reef. Help feed the 600 residents in the Atlantic Coral Reef and deliver the River Forest’s breakfast: the famous bug drop! Encounter some creepy crawlies, reptiles and marine creatures during a touch session. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $46 for adults, $43 for seniors, $38 for children
Immersion Tour
Dolphin Discovery
April 8, 10, 17, 21, 29, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 8 and up
Start with a visit to the marine mammal kitchen to see (and smell!) preparation of the dolphins’ food. Wind your way through the life support room, discover how Aquarium staff care for these amazing creatures and join a trainer on-deck to meet the dolphins up-close. Guests of Dolphin Discovery do not have physical contact with the dolphins. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $64 for adults, $60 for seniors, $53 for children
Travel to Costa Rica
Sea Turtle Conservation Project
April 15 through 22, 2006
In Costa Rica, endangered leatherback sea turtles come ashore to lay and bury their eggs before returning to the sea. You can join Aquarium experts on an exciting expedition to nesting beaches to watch these amazing creatures and to participate in hands-on conservation efforts to help save this spectacular but disappearing species
Last year, participants interacted with 23 nesting females and helped a local conservation group relocate nests, take measurements of female turtles as they lay eggs, and helped identify individual animals. They also assisted in installing satellite tags on two individuals so that scientists could further study their migration patterns in the Caribbean and beyond.
While in Costa Rica, you will also tour lush rainforests and marine environments, visit local communities, and share meals in a family atmosphere with local residents. You will have the chance to find out what a howler monkey really sounds like and see poison dart frogs in the wild. But the real highlight of this unforgettable adventure will be your encounter with the endangered leatherback sea turtle.
This adventure is limited to 12 people. For more information or to make reservations, please call Laura Bankey at 410-659-4207 or email lbankey at aqua dot org.
Cost: $1,995 per person plus airfare
Science Squirts
Barkers and Grunters
Saturday, April 15, 9 to 10 a.m.
Ages: 5 to 7
Do you know the difference between seals and sea lions? Discover which one is the barker and which is the grunter. This program explores the watery world of these delightful marine mammals, including fun activities and a craft. Admission is not included in the program fee. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $25
Early Bird Tours
Shark Theme
Sunday, April 16, 8:15 to 9:45 a.m.
Ages: 2 to 5 (with an adult)
Get a jump on the crowds, and join the education staff for a personalized tour of the Aquarium before it opens to the general public. Aquarium admission is included in this program. One adult and one child make up each team. You can add an additional child to the team for $6 (Members) or $20 (non-members) each. Limit of two children per adult, please. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $48 non-member team
Aquarium Sleepover: A Very Deep Sleep
Shark Theme
Friday, April 21, 7 p.m. to Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m.
Ages: 8 to Adult
Have you ever wondered what happens after our guests leave and the Aquarium doors are locked? Do the fish sleep? Are there nocturnal fish? See the Aquarium in a whole different light – at night. This program includes hands-on activities, crafts, and an after-hours tour. When the lights go out, the divers plunge into the water. Watch a special private presentation as they interpret the nocturnal behaviors of the residents in one of our largest exhibits: the Atlantic Coral Reef. The next morning starts with breakfast and an exclusive trip to the Upland Tropical Rain Forest -- in the early morning light when the animals are at their most active. Bring your sleeping gear and we’ll provide the snacks, breakfast, and activities. Reservations are limited to six people per reservation, unless all participants are from the same membership. Admission to the Aquarium is not included in the program fee. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $83
Aquarist Career Workshop
The Fish People
Saturday, April 22, 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Ages: 14 to 18
Observing the Aquarium’s fish collection, have you wondered who cares for them? These skilled staff members are called aquarists. Learn about this terrific career, including job requirements, college internship opportunities, and where to find jobs. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the back-up areas and exhibits and learn about animal health and the importance of water quality. This program does not include Aquarium admission. Wear comfortable clothing and non-skid shoes. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $30
Marjorie Lynn Bank Lecture Series
Pulitzer Prize Winning Author Edward O. Wilson
Thursday, April 27, 7 p.m.
Ages: 10 to Adult
Join the National Aquarium in Baltimore and Johns Hopkins University Press for a lecture celebrating the publication of Nature Revealed, a new collection of observations by the Pulitzer Prize winner Edward O. Wilson, one of the leading biologists and philosophical thinkers of our time. In his new collection of observations, Wilson explores topics as diverse as slavery in ants, the genetic basis of societal structure, the original formulation of the theory of island biology, and the conservation of life’s diversity. Many of the pieces in the book are considered landmarks in evolutionary biology, ecology, and behavioral biology. Wilson is an entomologist and biologist known for his pioneering work on evolution and sociobiology, and is often referred to as the father of sociobiology and modern biodiversity studies. He has authored many books, including Sociobiology: The New Synthesis (1975), On Human Nature (winner of a 1979 Pulitzer Prize), The Ants (winner of a 1991 Pulitzer Prize), and Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge (1998). He has received over 100 awards in science and letters, many of them international. He is the Pellegrino University Professor Emeritus at the Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University. Nature Revealed, Selected Writings (1949-2006) will be available for sale and signing. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $10
Immersion Tour
Shark Sleepover
Saturday, April 28, 5 p.m. to 9 a.m.
Ages: 4 to adult
The ultimate shark lover's sleepover! Discover the truths surrounding these top ocean predators during this activity-filled overnight. With an expert guide, take a nocturnal prowl through the Aquarium’s behind-the-scenes areas—including a visit to the food-prep area to learn how we care for and feed the sharks and rays. Experience the shark catwalk, where sharks swim silently, inches below. Continue the evening’s excitement with hands-on activities in the Shark Discovery Lab and crafts station. Sleep in the underwater viewing area with the sharks sleeping close by. Breakfast included. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $79 per person
Kayak Trip
A Day on the Water
Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m.
Ages: 10 to Adult
Experience one of Delmarva’s natural wonders – from a kayak! Novice or experienced paddlers will find the Nassawango Creek a delight. The creek cuts through 7,000 acres of Nature Conservancy property and is the preferred waterway for birders. Join one of the area’s premier bird experts as your guide and see cypress bogs full of bright yellow warblers. Fun for the whole family! Directions will be provided upon registration. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $50
MAY
Immersion Tour
Dolphin Discovery
May 6, 27, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 8 and up
Start with a visit to the marine mammal kitchen to see (and smell!) preparation of the dolphins’ food. Wind your way through the life support room, discover how Aquarium staff care for these amazing creatures and join a trainer on-deck to meet the dolphins up-close. Guests of Dolphin Discovery do not have physical contact with the dolphins. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $64 for adults, $60 for seniors, $53 for children
Gallery Tour
May 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, 29, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
Ages: 5 and up
This tour starts before the National Aquarium in Baltimore opens, providing a more intimate atmosphere. Join us on a journey to Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes, the Amazon River Forest, Open Ocean shark exhibit and the Atlantic Coral Reef. Help feed the 600 residents in the Atlantic Coral Reef and deliver the River Forest’s breakfast: the famous bug drop! Encounter some creepy crawlies, reptiles and marine creatures during a touch session. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $46 for adults, $43 for seniors, $38 for children
Junior Scientists Program
No Bones About It
Saturday, May 6, 1 to 3 p.m.
Ages: 8 to 10
Beaks, blushing, pens, and ink – how much do you know about octopus and squid? Join us as we explore the mysterious world of cephalopods. Take a closer look at the inner workings of squid through dissection before going behind the scenes with our giant Pacific octopus. Admission is not included in the program fee. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $30
Immersion Tour
Shark Behind-the-Scenes
May 7, 13, 20, 21, 27, 29, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Ages: 10 and up
Don’t miss your chance to get uncomfortably close to the National Aquarium in Baltimore’s sharks! Explore behind-the-scenes shark areas with an expert guide and discover the truth about these incredible ocean predators. Dare to experience the shark catwalk, where sharks swim silently just inches beneath you. Discover how Aquarium staff care for the sharks and rays with a visit to the food-prep area. Includes a shark-themed souvenir. It's a tour you can really sink your teeth into! For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $35 for adults, $31 for seniors, $23 for children
Aquarium Sleepover: A Very Deep Sleep
Chesapeake Bay Theme
Friday, May 19, 7 p.m. to Saturday, May 20, 9 a.m.
Ages: 4 to Adult
Have you ever wondered what happens after our guests leave and the Aquarium doors are locked? Do the fish sleep? Are there nocturnal fish? See the Aquarium in a whole different light – at night. This program includes hands-on activities, crafts, and an after-hours tour. When the lights go out, the divers plunge into the water. Watch a special private presentation as they interpret the nocturnal behaviors of the residents in one of our largest exhibits: the Atlantic Coral Reef. The next morning starts with breakfast and an exclusive trip to the Upland Tropical Rain Forest -- in the early morning light when the animals are at their most active. Bring your sleeping gear and we’ll provide the snacks, breakfast, and activities. Reservations are limited to six people per reservation, unless all participants are from the same membership. Admission to the Aquarium is not included in the program fee. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $83
Early Bird Tours
Turtle Theme
Sunday, May 21, 8:15 to 9:45 a.m.
Ages: 2 to 5 (with an adult)
Get a jump on the crowds, and join the education staff for a personalized tour of the Aquarium before it opens to the general public. Aquarium admission is included in this program. One adult and one child make up each team. You can add an additional child to the team for $6 (Members) or $20 (non-members) each. Limit of two children per adult, please. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $48
Immersion Tour
Shark Sleepover
Saturday, May 26, 5 p.m. to 9 a.m.
Ages: 4 to adult
The ultimate shark lover's sleepover! Discover the truths surrounding these top ocean predators during this activity-filled overnight. With an expert guide, take a nocturnal prowl through the Aquarium’s behind-the-scenes areas—including a visit to the food-prep area to learn how we care for and feed the sharks and rays. Experience the shark catwalk, where sharks swim silently, inches below. Continue the evening’s excitement with hands-on activities in the Shark Discovery Lab and crafts station. Sleep in the underwater viewing area with the sharks sleeping close by. Breakfast included. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $79 per person
JUNE
Immersion Tour
Shark Behind-the-Scenes
June 3, 4, 10, 18, 25, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Ages: 8 and up
Don’t miss your chance to get uncomfortably close to the National Aquarium in Baltimore’s sharks! Explore behind-the-scenes shark areas with an expert guide and discover the truth about these incredible ocean predators. Dare to experience the shark catwalk, where sharks swim silently just inches beneath you. Discover how Aquarium staff care for the sharks and rays with a visit to the food-prep area. Includes a shark-themed souvenir. It's a tour you can really sink your teeth into! For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $35 for adults, $31 for seniors, $23 for children
Immersion Tour
Dolphin Discovery
June 3, 10, 17, 24, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Ages: 8 and up
Start with a visit to the marine mammal kitchen to see (and smell!) preparation of the dolphins’ food. Wind your way through the life support room, discover how Aquarium staff care for these amazing creatures and join a trainer on-deck to meet the dolphins up-close. Guests of Dolphin Discovery do not have physical contact with the dolphins. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $64 for adults, $60 for seniors, $53 for children
Gallery Tour
June 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 8:30 to 11 a.m.
Ages: 5 and up
This tour starts before the National Aquarium in Baltimore opens, providing a more intimate atmosphere. Join us on a journey to Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes, the Amazon River Forest, Open Ocean shark exhibit and the Atlantic Coral Reef. Help feed the 600 residents in the Atlantic Coral Reef and deliver the River Forest’s breakfast: the famous bug drop! Encounter some creepy crawlies, reptiles and marine creatures during a touch session. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $46 for adults, $43 for seniors, $38 for children
Biking By the Bay
Family Eco-Bike Trek
Saturday, June 3, 8 to 10 a.m. (Rain date: Sunday, June 4)
Ages: 10 to Adult
Explore the incredible ecodiversity of John H. Downs Memorial Park from the shores of the Chesapeake Bay to maritime forests on the 3.6 mile paved bike trail. This Aquarium staff-guided tour includes Chesapeake Bay ecology, a history of the park, and visits to the Raptor Aviary and Wildlife Area. Grab the family’s bikes and join us. No training wheels or tricycles, please. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $35
Aqua-Tots
Involving Insects
Sunday, June 4, 9 to 10 a.m.
Ages: 2 to 3 (with an adult)
Looking for something to do with your toddler? Join us for an exciting Aqua-tots program. Let’s get down to their level. See eye-to-eye with the important insects that crawl along the rainforest floor with a living insect interaction. Then make an insect craft to take home. One adult and one child make up each team. No additional children or adults, please. Admission to the Aquarium is included. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $53
Puffin's Flock
Aquatic Animal Homes
Sunday, June 11, 10 to 11 a.m.
Ages: 3 to 5 (with an adult)
Living animals, arts and crafts, and a story. What more could your pre-school child ask for? Listen to a tale about a hermit crab’s search for a home. Follow up with a living animal interaction and a craft that introduces little ones to animal homes. One adult and one child make up each team. No additional children or adults, please. Admission to the Aquarium is not included in the program fee. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $35
Aquarium Sleepover: A Very Deep Sleep
Rain Forest Theme
Friday, June 16, 7 p.m. to Saturday, June 17, 9 a.m.
Ages: 4 to Adult
Have you ever wondered what happens after our guests leave and the Aquarium doors are locked? Do the fish sleep? Are there nocturnal fish? See the Aquarium in a whole different light – at night. This program includes hands-on activities, crafts, and an after-hours tour. When the lights go out, the divers plunge into the water. Watch a special private presentation as they interpret the nocturnal behaviors of the residents in one of our largest exhibits: the Atlantic Coral Reef. The next morning starts with breakfast and an exclusive trip to the Upland Tropical Rain Forest -- in the early morning light when the animals are at their most active. Bring your sleeping gear and we’ll provide the snacks, breakfast, and activities. Reservations are limited to six people per reservation, unless all participants are from the same membership. Admission to the Aquarium is not included in the program fee. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $83
Assateague, Ahoy!
An Afternoon on the Water
Saturday, June 17, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Ages: 3 to Adult
Join the Aquarium’s education staff in Ocean City on this nature cruise. The pontoon boat, Assateague Adventure, has been reserved for a relaxing afternoon of learning about the natural history of the Ocean City Inlet, a commercial fishing harbor. View the famous Assateague wild ponies, a variety of waterfowl, blue crabs, and other local wildlife. Hands-on activities are also included, including a beach visit to explore for animals. Meet at the boat promptly at 11:30 a.m. and enjoy the 90-minute cruise. The time before and after is yours to explore the island. The boat includes life jackets, plenty of comfortable seating, and clean restrooms. The cruise includes lunch and all boat fees. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $55
Osprey Banding
Band Aid
Saturday, June 17, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Ages: 12 to Adult
The osprey, or fish hawk, is commonly seen on channel markers and platforms of the Chesapeake Bay. This was not always the case. In recent years the osprey has made a comeback. By placing metal bands on the ankles of young osprey, scientists compile long-term data about the osprey's life history. Join biologists from Patuxent River Parks as they survey the osprey population. Directions will be mailed with tickets. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $40
Science Squirts
What's in Your Water Bucket?
Saturday, June 17, 9 to 10 a.m.
Ages: 5 to 7
Scoop water from a backyard puddle and you may find some of the strangest and most extreme animals on Earth. Dip into the Great Salt Lake and discover sea monkeys. Explore what you'd encounter in the deepest oceans. Discover the strangest aquatic animals and more. Admission is not included in the program fee. Reservations are required/space is limited/call 410-727-3474 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Cost: $25
Immersion Tour
Shark Sleepover
Saturday, June 30, 5 p.m. to 9 a.m.
Ages: 4 to adult
The ultimate shark lover's sleepover! Discover the truths surrounding these top ocean predators during this activity-filled overnight. With an expert guide, take a nocturnal prowl through the Aquarium’s behind-the-scenes areas—including a visit to the food-prep area to learn how we care for and feed the sharks and rays. Experience the shark catwalk, where sharks swim silently, inches below. Continue the evening’s excitement with hands-on activities in the Shark Discovery Lab and crafts station. Sleep in the underwater viewing area with the sharks sleeping close by. Breakfast included. For more information call 410-576-3833 or visit aqua.org.
Cost: $79 per person
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