Day 1 You'll See:
Enjoy this quick, but really educational outing with your group in Baltimore. Explore the USS Constellation, learn the history of Fort McHenry, and see the views from the Top of the World Observation Level!
1
Fort McHenry
Known for its legendary role in the War of 1812, and as the spark of creativity which inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner, Baltimore's Fort McHenry is an iconic and significant site of American history. Shaped like a beautiful star, the fort successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British navy in 1814, one of its many victories. The sight of the flag of victory flying over the fort, it is said, moved Francis Scott Key so much it inspired him to pen what would become one of our nation's most beloved songs.
USS Constellation
The last vessel from the Civil War era, the USS Constellation was built in 1854 and is the last all-sail that was made by the United States Navy. Some people say that the name USS Constellation represents the stars on the flag, your group can decide for themselves as they climb aboard and get a glimpse of the life of a sailor in days past. Your group can even participate in a gun drill, explore what's going on in the cook's galley, or have fun with the educational activities as they learn what life was like for the soldiers at sea. Step into the slice of historic life as you explore the goings-on inside the USS Constellation!
National Aquarium
When you visit the National Aquarium, you will see sea creatures and featured exhibits including Blacktip Reef. Here, you will encounter animals such as blacktip reef sharks, whiptail rays, a 500-pound green sea turtle, and zebra sharks. The Living Seashore exhibit allows visitors the opportunity to touch interesting animals. You can graze your hand over a moon jelly and an Atlantic stingray, learn about some of the beach’s treasures including horseshoe crabs, sand dollars, and egg cases, and you can also discover shore secrets through interactive digital touch-table games.
Top of the World Observation Level
This observation experience is located on the World Trade center's 27th floor, the World Trade Center being the world's tallest pentagonal building. On the 27th floor, you will be greeted by 360-degree views of the Inner Harbor, the surrounding city, and the Chesapeake Bay through the expansive viewing windows. The views of the Baltimore skyline and harbor beyond will leave you breathless! You will use stationed binoculars and photo-map guides during your viewing experience, the guides also allowing you to learn about local attractions, sites, and neighborhoods.