The American Visionary Art Museum is the nation's museum for self-taught, intuitive artistry. Three historic buildings house wonders created by farmers, housewives, mechanics, the disabled, the homeless, as well as the occasional neurosurgeon—all inspired by the fire within. From carved roots to embroidered rags, tattoos to toothpicks, ‘the visionary’ transforms dreams, loss, hopes, and ideals into powerful works of art. "one of the most fantastic museums anywhere in America" - CNN "Best Museum in Maryland" - USA Today "a temple of outsider art" - New York Times. Tickets: $9.95-15.95. Children 6 and under and museum members are free.See more..
4.5Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum(1.061 reviews) - Unique, educational and fun for adults and children! Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums
Established in 1965, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to preserving and exploring the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and making this resource available to all. Every aspect of fulfilling this mission is driven by CBMM’s values of relevancy, authenticity, and stewardship, along with a commitment to providing engaging guest experiences and transformative educational programming, all while serving as a vital community partner. Serving more than 75,000 guests each year, CBMM’s 18-acre campus includes a floating fleet of historic boats, 12 exhibition buildings, and changing special exhibitions, all set in a park-like waterfront setting along the beautiful Miles River and St. Michaels’ harbor.See more..
4.5B&O Railroad Museum(852 reviews) - Great place for kids and adults Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
The B&O Railroad Museum, a full affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and the birthplace of American Railroading, is home to the oldest, most comprehensive collection of railroad artifacts in the Western Hemisphere including an unparalleled roster of 19th and 20th century railroad equipment. You’ll enjoy exploring our expansive Museum campus, known as the Mount Clare Shops and Station and was the original railroading complex of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O). Founded in 1827, the B&O had a dramatic economic, social, and cultural impact on our society. Its nearly 200-year history is deeply intertwined with the story of America and helped shaped our nation through invention, innovation, and ingenuity. Experience two centuries of American railroading history throughout our campus of historic buildings, exhibitions, interactive displays, and our world-class collection of rolling stock —locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars, and maintenance vehicles. All Aboard!See more..
The National Museum of Civil War Medicine is the premier center for the study and research of medical innovation during the American Civil War. Exhibits, programs lecture and research facilities look at innovations in science, medical logistics, medical organization, nursing, civilian medical relief and much more.See more..
4.5Calvert Marine Museum and Drum Point Lighthouse(430 reviews) - Something for everyone, all ages. Very handicap accessible. Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Lighthouses
In the Exhibition Building, you can touch 20-million year old fossils taken from Calvert Cliffs; discover the ever changing world of the Chesapeake Bay; and learn how humans shaped and changed this region over time, working its waters for survival and profit. Visit the Drum Point and Cove Point Lighthouses; see our outstanding small boat collection, take a ride on the Wm. B. Tennison, a log-built bugeye, and experience the Lore Oyster House, a restored oyster processing plant. Touch a horseshoe crab or Diamond Back Terrapin, see skates, rays, and small sharks cavort, and watch otters, Bubbles and Squeak, at play. Stroll the marsh walk and spy water snakes, great blue heron, osprey, and hermit crabs in their natural environment. We are a community museum, established in 1970 by local residents determined to preserve the maritime heritage of Solomons Island. We are an educational museum, offering everything from the pre-school programs to Elderhostel. We are a research museum, renowned for documented discoveries in Miocene paleontology, and publications on local history based on original research. We are a relevant museum, staying in the forefront of environmental issues and offering a forum for public discourse on controversial topics. We are a partnering museum, actively pursuing opportunities such as the 1812 Grand Tactical that allows us to support and celebrate other institutions. Visit the Museum Store for jewelry, books, home decor, toys and all kinds of unique gifts for people of all ages!See more..
The city's native son, the Great Bambino, is celebrated in the house he was born in, now a museum stocked with memorabilia like the catcher's mitt he used while learning baseball, the bat from his famed 1927 season and exhibits honoring the Orioles.See more..
A museum dedicated to collecting and preserving the history of life saving on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.See more..
4.5Baltimore Museum of Industry(311 reviews) - You'll be amazed at what you learn Saturday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
The Baltimore Museum of Industry celebrates the innovators, entrepreneurs and workers who propelled this port city into the industrial age and beyond. From garment making to airplane manufacturing, food canning to video game design, visitors to the museum will discover how Baltimore's pioneering spirit built the region's manufacturing might and continues to shape Maryland today. Located in an 1860s oyster cannery on a five-acre waterfront campus, the BMI offers dynamic exhibitions, live demonstrations, engaging tours and hands-on activities for guests of all ages.See more..
4.5National Cryptologic Museum(242 reviews) - Very interesting Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
The National Cryptologic Museum houses thousands of artifacts that collectively tell the history of the cryptologic profession. Here visitors catch a glimpse of some of the most dramatic moments in the history of American code making and code breaking: the people who devoted their lives to cryptology and national defense, the machines and devices they developed, the techniques they used, and the places where they worked. The museum library maintains a collection of unclassified and declassified books and documents relating to every aspect of cryptology.See more..
4.5Glenstone Museum(219 reviews) - A lovely way to spend a day, weather permitting Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
Guided by the personal vision of its founders, Glenstone assembles post-World War II artworks of the highest quality that trace the greatest historical shifts in the way we experience and understand art of the 20th and 21st centuries. These works are presented in a series of refined indoor and outdoor spaces designed to facilitate meaningful encounters for our visitors. Admission is always free.See more..
The B&O Ellicott City Station Museum is the oldest surviving train station in America, also many would argue that it is also the first station in America in general. The station was originally established as Freight Station only with passengers loading and unloading from a platform attached to the second story of the hotel that once existed across the street from the platform. In the 1850's the B&O decided to transform the station for passenger use as well as freight. The station was also an important transportation hub during the civil war moving both supplies and troops for the Union. The station continued as a passenger station until December 31st 1949 and as Freight Station until the 1970's. The station was than converted to a museum and is listed under the National Register of Historic Places. The management of the Museum has changed throughout the years, with Howard County Recreation and Parks taking over management from the site in September of 2017See more..
This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to climb inside the tight space of a WWII era submarine. This attraction provides a detailed look into life aboard a sub. Take the time to read the information provided with each exhibit. It provides a wealth of additional information about daily life on the Torsk. For instance, they had a machining area on the ship. As parts wore out or were damaged there is no place out at sea to get new parts. They had to make their own replacement parts in the machining area. One note of warning, if you are claustrophobic this might not be the tour for you. Also, if you are taller than six foot you will have some difficulty maneuvering through the Torsk. The doorway openings from room to room are quite small.See more..
4.5Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art(147 reviews) - Virtual World Championship 2021 visit Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
I entered a couple decoys in the 2021 Ward World Championship Virtual competition and when I went to pick up my entries they told me I could visit the museum while I waited. They were very careful to make sure I was not transmitting Covid--they check Temperature and asked questions to make sure I had not been exposed. The carvings in the museum are incredible works of art and provide a historical perspective on this unique artform.See more..
4.5Roads and Rails Museum(126 reviews) - Roads and Rail Museum WOW! Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
Wow! Wow! Wow! This is one of the world’s largest model train layouts. In an area of 35 ft x 100 ft are rivers, mountain RANGES, towns, a castle and lots of trains artfully presented that kids and all ages will enjoy. I’ve seen lots of train layouts and this is by far the best!See more..
4.5College Park Aviation Museum(120 reviews) - Nice little museum Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
This is a nice little museum that tells the history of Aviation and the role College Park played. It's the worlds oldest airport and was the site of the first lessons to military officers of how to fly an airplane. On display are planes from different eras, as well as billboards explaining what model they are. There's also billboards on College Park's aviation history. There's an upper observation area to see the planes from above. The main room overlooks the runway. While I saw a few planes on the ground I only saw one land. Overall a great affordable Museum that won't take all day.See more..
No boat tours due to being short staffed. Visitor Center young lady in one of the warehouses was very knowledgeable. Good Jr. Ranger offerings. Good location to see the lift locks, turning basin, Lock House No. 44, aqueduct, railroad lift bridge, and towpath. Nice walking and biking area.See more..
4.0Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park(101 reviews) - Don’t let the size of the museum fool you. Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums
The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park is a waterfront museum located in the Eastport neighborhood of Annapolis. Enjoy the newly renovated 2,500 sq. ft. exhibit room, waterside art gallery, and outdoor exhibits. Pier access is free and open to the public.See more..
I didn’t know that Havre de Grace was the decoy capital of the USA. This museum is along the waterfront promenade and is only $4 for seniors. It was small but interesting. The top floor showcases have some statues of master decoy makers. There is also a gift shop here.See more..
The newly renovated Ripley's Believe It or Not! includes new exhibits, more interactive expereinces and two floors of fun with our odd and unusual collection.See more..
3.0Air Force One Experience(73 reviews) - Once in a lifetime experience Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
Welcome Aboard Air Force One! Step aboard the world's largest replica of this iconic aircraft - and symbol of the United States. This unique educational experience features a full-size Boeing 747 aircraft designed to inspire young and old alike. This self-guided tour allows you to stand in awe before this massive re-creation and to actually climb aboard. The aircraft features an exhibit on the history of presidential travel, and the forward cabin features a replica of the Air Force One conference room, presidential office, and sleeping quarters. The experience is curated by a free Audio Tour narrated by Chief Master Sergeant Howie Franklin - head flight attendant aboard Air Force One for five consecutive presidents. You'll hear insider stories and anecdotes of what it's really like to travel on the "Flying White House". Come learn the story behind the world's most famous airplane!See more..
We went as a homeschool group and we were able to have Mr. Scott be our guide and he was so good at handling a diverse group of preschoolers, lower and upper school students, and grown-ups. He gave us so much insight and informational tidbits that even some lifelong Carroll Countians in the group didn't know about. I highly recommend having a guide to give you a history when you visit the farm museum. Did you know that it wasn't originally used as farmland despite it being a farm museum? We were also able to enter the main house and there was also a guide inside to answer questions and spread some wisdom (Did you know that "trundle" is a verb?) Loved the experience and worth getting a tour guide to make the visit way more meaningful. P.S. We were also there for the Steam Show and it runs till Sunday so you can still catch them there if you make it this weekend!See more..
5.0Banneker-Douglass Museum(60 reviews) - Pieces of the African American Historical Puzzle Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums • History Museums
My husband planned a wonderful and memorable birthday celebration for me which included tours of African American sites in Annapolis. One tour was this incredible museum. What made the experience memorable was the private tour led by Mr. LeRonn Herbert, a member of the administrative team at the museum. His enthusiasm, knowledge, and expertise were impeccable. We learned so much about the important historical figures who are among the heroes and heroines of African American history and how their courage and tenacity made our liberation possible. Depending on your current knowledge of African American history, you may or may not need a guide. If you need a private guide, please request Mr. Herbert.See more..
4.5Allegany Museum(58 reviews) - Worth a stop and convenient location - downtown Cumberland Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
Nice little museum with lots of history. We loved the first floor. My kids who are 2 and 4 were able to touch some things and press buttons, and we spent about an hour there. I loved learning about the evolution of cars and road conditions. The second floor was a Smithsonian exhibit but, surprisingly, much less interesting and the kids couldn’t touch most things. So I would recommend going if your kids are older and know how to read. The two wife and husband volunteers were very welcoming and friendly. Both did a great job engaging with our girls.See more..
4.0The Havre de Grace Maritime Museum(56 reviews) - Life on the Chesapeake through the centuries Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
Since Havre de Grace is at the beginning of the Chesapeake Bay, it is only fitting that a Maritime Museum is located here. The staff member at the entrance provided valuable guidance and information. Exhibits take us from the archeological examinations of the Susquehannock tribes who inhabited the area, to incursions of the early Europeans, through the Civil War and the Underground Railroad. The displays include both artifacts as well as well researched narrative panels that are easy to read. Among displays on life and earning a living along the Bay, I was particularly struck by a display on the ice harvesting industry, which we may never see again due to global warming. It was fun to visit the turtle tank on the lower level as well as the art gallery, and boat workshop. The areas are spacious and easy to navigate with plenty of natural light. The visit was real value for the small entrance fee that along with donations maintains the museum.See more..
A turn-of-the-century railway museum featuring photos and other related memorabilia.See more..
5.0National Capital Radio and Television Museum(53 reviews) - Wonderful collection of early radios and televisions Saturday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
The National Capital Radio & Television Museum is the only museum devoted to broadcasting in the National Capital Region. Open to the public Friday 9-4 and Saturday/Sunday 12-4. Closed major holidays. The historic (1906) Harmel house serves as the Museum building. The first floor is accessible and there is a video about the exhibits on the second floor that can be played for those who cannot access the stairs.See more..
This was the absolute best collection of buggies and carriages that I have ever seen. The host was extremely knowledgeable. The collection was bought by the county after the original owner died for 3.2million. Admission is a $2 donation. You can take five minutes to walk through or spend hours.See more..
4.5Jerusalem Mill and Village(46 reviews) - Stop and smell the flowers. Saturday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
Once the heart of a bustling Quaker settlement in the 18th and 19th centuries, the 230-year old Jerusalem Mill is now a Museum and Visitor Center.See more..
Two floors of memories in the form of vehicles, boats, photos, etc. Relive some of the famous times in Oakland and Deep Creek Lake history. Fire engines, cars and trucks of vintage quality on display. Upper level (elevator equipped building) has the DCL and Wisp resort history with boat, snow mobiles, outboard engines and loads of historical photos. Admission is free, but donations to the upkeep of the museum are welcomed. All volunteer staff are friendly and knowledgeable of the museum contents Stop over at Englanders old fashioned soda fountain with the kids afterward, or stop for an adult beverage at the Sipside Lounge just down the street. Oh, and stop at the old time book store where reading still actually happens.See more..
4.5Fire Museum of Maryland(41 reviews) - Fire trucks and more! Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
Showcasing over 250 years of urban firefighting in America, the Fire Museum of Maryland is a nationally significant treasure. One of the largest fire Museums in the country you can see over 40 pieces of apparatus as well as a working fire alarm office, Baltimore Cities 1871 Engine 8 fire house, Discovery Room, and more! Come for a visit, tour, or let us host your next event/party. Come see the hottest museum in town!See more..
4.5Tilghman Watermans Museum(38 reviews) - We went twice! Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Speciality Museums
Wonderful to wander around! Time needed to really appreciate the history of the boating culture. Something for everyone in the family. We were lucky enough to view the photographic exhibit that remained during the Covid. Spacious grounds. See more..
4.0Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum(37 reviews) - Don’t miss this place! Saturday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
The Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum is dedicated to promoting a public understanding of railroad-related activities in Hagerstown, Maryland. This is accomplished through the efforts of restoration, preservation, entertainment, and education. The principal goals of the museum include: Preservation and restoration of the historic railway equipment, including steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars and other rolling stock. Preservation of the Hagerstown Roundhouse legacy, bringing awareness to its history, operations, landmark events, and employees. Public education as to the energy efficiency and ongoing value of rail transport. Public enjoyment of railroading through exhibits, trips, lectures and other media.See more..
4.5Hogshead(37 reviews) - A House Preserved for Visiting Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
This modest wood-frame structure with a gambrel roof is a rare surviving example of a building type that was common in 18th-century Annapolis. It was just this sort of inexpensive rental housing that the new state government pressed into service as barracks for military recruits during the Revolutionary War. Today, visitors learn what life was like for the “lower and middling sort” in early Maryland through an interactive experience with guides dressed in colonial attire and the opportunity to see and handle authentic and reproduction artifacts.See more..
This museum has a huge collection of artifacts to tell the story of this area. We enjoyed our visit. The museum talks about native Americans, early settlers, and industries (mining, lumbering, railroads, tourism, etc.) Good labels.See more..
4.5St. Michaels Museum(34 reviews) - 2nd Best Possible Experience Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
No trip to St. Michaels is complete without visiting the St. Michaels Museum at St. Mary's Square and booking one of its walking tours. The St. Michaels Museum is an integral part of the community of St. Michaels, a delightful walking village that is a joy to visit. Tourists and residents alike enjoy the Museum for its vivid interpretation of St. Michaels’ history and culture, represented by historic artifacts and oral histories of the people. There is a continuing calendar of dynamic programs and activities for adults as well as for children so that they also may learn to value and appreciate St. Michaels’ history.See more..
Really enjoyed walking through the museum and the property. Had always heard of Mr. Banneker, but did realize what an important historical figure he truly is. Nice waalk around the gardens, with paths that link up to other local trails to explore the area.See more..
4.5The Oakland B&O Railroad Museum(29 reviews) - This would fall into my "hidden gem" category! Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums • History Museums
We stopped in initially since we heard they had restrooms! A tour was underway by one of the volunteer docents and we were hooked! So much history is packed in this small space. You are walked through section, by section - the ladies waiting room, the ticket masters office, and the baggage storage area. So much railroad memorabilia! Some very interesting model railroad equipment. If you take the tour, or read the information sheet on the in the office you will learn why John Hopkins took women into medical school from the start! One of the highlights of the visit.See more..
Riverfront museum in an 1840s house focusing on the history of the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canals with a working model to show how canals and locks work. Open seasonally April to the end of October.See more..
This place looks small from the outside, but it has a lot inside. There are three floors. Lots of railroad memorabilia and information on the first 2 floors. The third floor is a large HO train layout. Very impressive. If you like model railroad, then this is a must see.See more..
4.5Steppingstone Museum(26 reviews) - Self-guided tour appropriate for Covid-19 period Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Speciality Museums
Signage from the main Route 155 to the Stepping Stone Museum is clear. It is located within Susquehanna State Park, meaning one could make a full day of sight seeing in the area. One is "welcomed" at the entrance of the property by old farm equipment. One drives slowly past the main house and outbuildings to the parking lot where one is again greeted by a coop of very large chickens. There are paved paths that make the walk around the well kept grounds easy. One can see outbuildings that aid in the smooth running of a late 19th Century farm like the blacksmith and woodwork shops. From the back of the main house one looks out into the forest and can even see the river. Don't forget to collect a brochure highlighting upcoming events near the door of the main office.See more..
Small museum with professional exhibits. Focuses on rail history of Bowie, MD and for kids, a primer on railroading in general. Museum has several parts; a caboose, small buildings and a now out of service interlocking tower. The caboose is primarily for children and has small toys and brief description of what cabooses were for. The small buildings have displays on railroad history of in Bowie (good selection of PRR printed material) and an small model railroad. The former interlocking tower is the best part; it is well preserved and includes various employee manuals and timetables and other printed material that would have been in use by the towermen. Tower has a great view of Amtrak's Northeast Corridor, so there are plenty of trains to see. Well worth a trip for folks interested in trains or with children so interested.See more..
The Chase-Lloyd home was built by Samuel Chase, signer of the Declaration of Independence. The interior is original and has a rare cantilever staircase in addition ot many other features. It is open to the public from 2-4 every day but Monday and costs $2 to visit. The hours are short because it's also a home for elderly ladies to "escape the vicissitudes of life." What many people don't know however is that behind the house and hidden to the public is a fabulous garden that encompasses about a third of an acre. If you hit it right (Mayish) you'll see the allee of tree peonies that lead to a wisteria pagoda sheltering a little pond. Lots of benches and lots of shade, so bring your sandiwich and make this your lunchtime visit!!!See more..
4.5St. Clement's Island Museum(18 reviews) - St. Clement's Island Museum Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
St. Clement’s Island Museum traces the history of English colonization and the landing on nearby St. Clement’s Island on March 25, 1634. The museum grounds is also home to a 19th century one-room schoolhouse, pier and docking facility. Water taxi service to St. Clement’s Island State Park is available most days June-October, weather permitting. Please call museum for water taxi availability.See more..
4.5Historical Society of Kent County(18 reviews) - I live here & LOVE this place Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums
The Historical Society of Kent County, Maryland, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the collection and preservation of artifacts, documents, and information that aid in the interpretation of all aspects of Kent County’s history. The Society shares this information through its research library, museum space, programs, publications and website in order to foster a knowledge and understanding of the shared heritage of the community. The Society supports and encourages the preservation of historic buildings and sites throughout Kent County.See more..
More than a museum! The layout of a 1800s to early 1900s in a village and specific focus areas is an excellent show of early americana and the way of life. Antique autos well displayed and explained as is early agricultural machinery and tools. The village is a nice informative show of early buildings and purposes of a typical community is not a static display and very informative. The staff of volunteer is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and informative. They clearly like what they do.See more..
5.0Julia A. Purnell Museum(17 reviews) - Fun, informative day trip from OC! Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
Wow. Great little gem of a place for $3!! Clean, attended, no crowd, interesting, inspiring for modern ideas from old concepts or new interpretations of historical details. Yes, you should go.See more..
This small museum is dedicated to Maryland's maritime heritage.See more..
4.5Train Room & Museum(17 reviews) - Fun time Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
We took our grandsons there for an afternoon. They did not want to leave. Enjoyed the display and had nice hands on items for them to enjoy.See more..
4.0The Oxford Museum(16 reviews) - The Oxford Museum exhibits artifacts and memorabilia that chronicles Oxford as one of the oldest towns in America. Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums
The Oxford Museum began in 1964 with the finding of 18th and 19th century bottles and pottery shards. From these first artifacts has evolved a rare mosaic depicting Oxford’s past. As such, the museum has become a valuable part of the under-standing of the more than 325 years of Oxford history. Its exhibits are exclusively devoted to its people, their way of life, and their contribution to our country since the 1600s. We are proud of our many treasures including old photographs, clothing, antique engines, boat building tools, models, paintings, furniture, documents, war items, Indian items, pottery, china and waterman tools. Popular local artists are also featured during exhibits which strive to highlight different aspects of life on the shore. Contact for inquires and special bookings.See more..
