Exploratory Science and Technology Museum

The Maryland Science Center is one of the most popular destinations of those visiting Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The Science Center, originally the Maryland Academy of Sciences, was an amatuer society dedicated to the study of sciences that began in 1797. In June of 1976, the Academy Board of Trustees and Staff achieved their long time dream of creating a public institution that would help spread their love of science to visitors. They opened the Maryland Science Center right at the Harbor which included interactive exhibits and a planetarium. Since then, the Science Center has expanded and continued to be a Maryland institution.

In addition to public admission to the museum, the Science Center offers programs including their Educators program, a camp-in program, Camp MSC, and the Young Scientists and Young Engineers Award. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits and experiences including Science on a Sphere which shows various science films on a large ceiling sphere. One of their newer features is the Segway Experience. Those visiting the museum can "rent'' a Segway vehicle of a period of time in order to understand how they work and experience a ride.

Their observatory is one of the most popular destinations in downtown. Crosby Ramsey Memorial Observatory is a rooftop urban observatory that offers free admission on Friday nights. Imagine viewing the stars and planets up-close, right in the heart of downtown Baltimore! The Science Center's large variety of Imax films offer 3-D features that change regularly. There are also five planetarium feature films designed for different age groups. Children of all ages can learn about the galaxies through a planetarium experience that will leave them starstruck.

Parents who homeschool their children will be excited to learn the Science Center offers a variety of science enrichment programs during the month of September. There are also opportunities for homeschoolers to visit the Imax theatre, the planetarium, and the learning lab.

The Science Store offers books, DVDs, logo wear, science kits, instruments, and games for aspiring scientists. Those who find themselves hungry after a visit to the museum can enjoy the tasty treats offered at Beaker's Cafy. This is a full-service cafy with salads, sandwhiches, pizza, and macaroni and cheese.

The Science Center hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 - 5:00 pm. Saturdays from 10:00 - 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 11 - 5:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Ticket prices range from $14.95 - 20.95 for adults and $10 - 15.00 for children depending upon the exhibits they choose and whether they wish to have admission to Imax. There are group pricing discounts available for certain exhibits.

A visit to Baltimore's Inner Harbor would not be complete without some time spent at the Maryland Science Center. Featuring every science exhibit a child could imagine, the science center is a great place to spend an afternoon learning about science and how much fun it can be to study. When your visit has ended, head a few steps away to the Harbor for a bite to eat or a ride on the Harbor's Water Taxi. It is an experience you and your family will not forget.