National Aquarium in Baltimore

In 2003, the aquarium in Baltimore joined up with its counterpart in nearby Washington D.C. to form the National Aquarium, located at the heart of the city’s Inner Harbour district. Over 16,000 animals from more than 660 species are housed across three pavilions here in one of Maryland’s most popular attractions, which is among the country’s largest aquariums.

Visitors get the opportunity to get up close to an array of exotic habitats such as a rocky river valley, a tropical rainforest and even the deepest ocean floor. All the animals live in conditions that closely resemble their natural environments except for the bottlenose dolphins who are kept in a large pool.

In the Glass Pavilion at the entrance to the main aquarium area is Animal Planet Australia. This artificial river gorge contains around 1,800 creatures native to “Down Under” such as freshwater crocodiles, pig-nose turtles, kookaburra birds and poisonous snakes. Inside the main building, you’ll find yourself immersed in a marine world as hundreds of ocean creatures swim in the tanks and pools that surround you – everything from sting rays and jellyfish to electric eels.

Further on is the hair-raising Shark Alley, where you’ll experience the unsettling feeling of being encircled by some of the world’s most fearsome predators. The roof of this sizeable building is a glass pyramid which houses the fascinating rainforest exhibit, the only habitat that is set above sea level. Keep an eye out for parrots, tarantulas and golden lion tamarins.

The National Aquarium makes a great attraction for the whole family, but be advised that tickets are pricey and that prams cannot access the exhibitions with baby carriers provided as an alternative. There is a one-way system in the exhibitions, so take your time strolling round and it’s best to book ahead for the popular weekday dolphin show.

There is a pay car park next door and the Charm City Circulator shuttle bus will take you there from the city centre for free.