The Best Museums in Baltimore, Maryland

Historic Ships in Baltimore is a unique museum-going experience, and is one that fits with Maryland’s rich history. Visitors can visit four different ships that played important roles in history, including the US Sloop-of-War Constellation, US Submarine Torsk, US Coast Guard Cutter Taney, Lightship 116 ‘Chesapeake.’ This is a wonderful, hands-on way to learn a great deal about the world through the stories of what these ships have seen. There is an audio tour that makes the experience even more delightful as you don’t have to keep stopping to read. Be sure to check the event calendar for changes in hours and tour times.
Historic Ships in Baltimore, 301 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 539-1797

Located in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Baltimore, the American Visionary Art Museum is an unconventional museum space that is beloved not only by the art world, but by patrons who visit from wide-ranging backgrounds and interests. This is a museum that does well to take away the pretension that keeps many people away from art museums by specializing in ‘visionary art,’ or art that is created by individuals who are not formally trained in the subject. This museum is accessible and welcoming, as the artists themselves are fascinating visionaries, yet are relatable to the average patron. The work that is shown is quirky and critical at the same time, making viewers engage with and think about not only the art but also the world.
American Visionary Museum, 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230 (410) 244-1900

Well known for its 19th century, modern, and contemporary art, the Baltimore Museum of Art is a highly-acclaimed art museum that has an impressive permanent collection, including the largest collection of Henri Matisse in the world. One of the best things about visiting this museum is that it is free to the public, making it inviting to a wide array of visitors who may not be naturally inclined to the arts. While the galleries are extensive and interesting, you can also enjoy artwork in the outdoor area with the two sculpture gardens, where there is also a ‘Jazz in the Sculpture Garden’ series in the summer. A visit here is especially exciting now, since they recently renovated!
Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218 (443) 573-1700

Located in an old cannery, the Baltimore Museum of Industry features artifacts beginning in the early 20th century and documents the development of history over time through the technological advances made in industry and manufacturing. The museum recreates manufacturing spaces like a cannery, a garment factory, a print shop, and a pharmacy, and there are interactive portions of the exhibits where visitors can work with some of the featured equipment. This is a great way to learn about life in Baltimore and America in the 19th and 20th centuries, and about the evolution of industries like the food industry that are essential parts of life today.
Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230 (410) 727-4808