Nature & natural history museums in Maryland

The National Aquarium in Baltimore is a popular destination, attracting 1.6 million visitors each year. It houses an impressive collection of 10,500 specimens from 560 different species. This diversity of marine life offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the world's oceans and their inhabitants. From colorful tropical fish to majestic sharks, the aquarium provides a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world.

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, previously known as the Baltimore Zoo until 2004, is a zoological garden located in the city of Baltimore, in the state of Maryland, USA. This zoo is a significant part of the city's attractions, offering visitors a chance to engage with a variety of animal species in a well-maintained environment.

The Maryland Science Center, situated in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, was established in 1976. This was part of a larger initiative to revitalize downtown Baltimore. The center has since grown to become a significant part of the city's cultural and educational landscape, offering a variety of exhibits and programs to engage visitors of all ages.

Fort Frederick State Park is a significant historic and recreational area located on the Potomac River. It surrounds the restored Fort Frederick, a fortification that played a crucial role in the French and Indian War from 1754 to 1763, and the American Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1783. This park offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of American history while enjoying the natural beauty of the Potomac River.

Brookside Gardens, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, is a sprawling 54-acre space that combines an arboretum, botanical garden, and Japanese garden. This expansive garden offers a diverse range of plant life and garden styles, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike.

Adkins Arboretum is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans 162 hectares (400 acres) and is located in Ridgely, Maryland. It is a member of the BGCI and works towards the International Agenda for Conservation in Botanical Gardens. The arboretum is situated on the Delmarva Peninsula within Tuckahoe State Park.

Piscataway Park is a protected area under the National Park Service. It is situated approximately 20 miles southwest of downtown Washington, D.C., in and around the area of Accokeek, Maryland. This location makes it a convenient destination for those visiting the capital city and looking for a natural retreat.

Point Lookout State Park is a public recreation area and historic preserve located at the southernmost tip of a peninsula formed by the confluence of Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River in St. Mary's County, Maryland. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House, previously known as the Flag House & Star-Spangled Banner Museum, is situated in the Jonestown/Old Town neighborhoods, adjacent to Little Italy in eastern downtown Baltimore, Maryland, United States. This historic site offers a unique insight into the history of the United States, particularly the War of 1812 and the Battle of Baltimore.

The Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens of Baltimore, also known as the Baltimore City Conservatory, is a historic conservatory and botanical garden situated in Druid Hill Park at 3100 Swann Drive, in the northwest area of Baltimore, Maryland. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a variety of plant species in a historic setting.

The Plumpton Park Zoo is situated in Rising Sun, Maryland, United States. It is conveniently located along Maryland Route 273, which is part of the scenic Mason and Dixon Byway. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors traveling by road.

Smallwood State Park is a public recreation and historic preservation area situated on Mattawoman Creek near Marbury, Charles County, Maryland. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an ideal destination for those interested in both outdoor activities and history.

The Salisbury Zoological Park, often referred to as the Salisbury Zoo, is a 12-acre zoo situated in the city park of Salisbury, Maryland. This zoo is home to a variety of species, primarily from North and South America, and Australia. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about different animals in a naturalistic setting.

The Irvine Nature Center, located in Owings Mills, Maryland, is a sprawling nature reserve spread across 210 acres of land in the Caves Valley Historic District. This vast expanse of land offers a diverse array of habitats, including open wetlands, upland forest, meadow, forested wetlands, and farmland. It also includes the headwaters of the Jones Falls and Gwynns Falls watersheds.

Canal Place, a 58.1-acre heritage area, is situated in Cumberland, Maryland at the western end of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. This location is rich in history and offers a unique insight into the past. It's a great place for tourists who are interested in history and nature.

The Smithsonian Gardens, a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is in charge of the landscapes, interiorscapes, and horticulture-related collections and exhibits. These serve as an outdoor extension of the Smithsonian's museums and learning spaces in Washington, D.C. Established in 1972, the gardens have become a significant part of the Smithsonian's educational and research efforts.

Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Cove Farm is a significant national historic district that houses a living farm museum. Operated by the National Park Service, it is situated in Oxon Hill, Prince George's County, Maryland. The park and farm have been recognized for their historical importance and were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

The Salisbury University Arboretum, formerly known as the Salisbury State University Arboretum, is a sprawling 125-acre arboretum and botanical garden. It is managed by Salisbury University and is located in Salisbury, Maryland, United States. This vast green space is home to a diverse range of plant species and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore.

The Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is a large zoo and wildlife preserve located in Thurmont, Maryland, United States. Spanning 100 acres, it offers a vast space for various species of animals to thrive. It's a great place for visitors who are interested in wildlife and nature.

Eden Mill Nature Center is a nature center located in Pylesville, Maryland, United States. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the natural environment in a serene setting.

This place is a part of the Baltimore Museum of Art and offers a nice outdoor exhibit of various sculptures and other objects.