One of America’s historic and longstanding zoos, The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore houses a rich collection of around 1,500 animal species including exotic to domestic and native wildlife species. This zoological park has been a premium destination for wildlife enthusiasts since 1876 and hosts thousands of visitors every year. Supporting the significant wildlife protection programs and conservation efforts, the zoo offers exclusive opportunities to have a safe and educational encounter with various animals and learn about their habitats and nutritional needs. For a detailed guideline about the admission tickets, amenities, and attractive exhibits of The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, stay with us in this article and plan your next escape to this interactive place with your folks.
Admission Tickets Information
- Zoo members get additional perks of enjoying a visit there with family or friends. For example, those with membership enrollments will enter the zoo free of cost and enjoy unlimited zoo visits within one year of membership.
- For non-members, The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore tickets will cost around $33 and you can book them online or purchase them on gate. Click the link here to reserve tickets.
- The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore tickets and membership includes the following benefits, making it among the best places to visit in Baltimore:
- Unlimited railway rides
- Goat Grooming
- Penguin Feeding Experience
- Nature Exhibit and Story Time
- Non-stop Carousel Rides and many more
Furthermore, the zoo’s opening hours are scheduled as:
From March to December – 10 AM to 4 PM daily
From January to February – 10 AM to 4 PM (Friday to Monday)
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore Amenities
Food and Drinks
Service Systems Association manages the food and refreshment at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore Safari Place Baltimore MD. Moreover, visitors can choose to buy food and dine at many food points throughout the zoo, adding more fun to the overall visit. However, guests are allowed to bring along their own food and drinks to have a delightful picnic day. To boot, some famous and delicious food points at the zoo include:
- Bait Shack
- Whistle Stop Grille
- Roost Food Truck
- Sidetrack
- Dippin’ Dots
- Oasis Café
These food courts offer different savory menus, from traditional Maryland food to burgers, fries, pizza, snacks, and other food items. You can check the details of all these eateries here.
Parking
Another attractive amenity at the zoo is the free parking availability. However, the accessibility is limited and offered on a first-come first-served basis.
Other Amenities
- Restrooms
- Gift Shop
- Outdoor Event Venues
- Shuttle Services
- Rental Pavilions
- Banquet Halls and Facilities
Top Exhibits and Zoo Experience
1- African Journey
The Zoo has five main exploration areas and African Journey is the largest one with a wide selection of African wildlife species. Furthermore, the most exciting highlights and zoo experience in this area, featuring most iconic species from Africa include:
- African Watering Hole
- African Aviary
- African Overlook – Giraffe and lion exhibits area
- African Elephants
- Chimpanzee Forest
- Giraffe Crossing
Visitors can enjoy a playful interaction and expansive animal exhibits in this area, making it one of the most adventurous and delightful experiences.
2- Polar Bear Watch
Another immersive exhibit at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore Safari Place Baltimore MD, Polar Bear Watch engages little explorers and adults with Arctic-themed environment. Additionally, the close up of polar bears and their behavior in natural habitats will allow you to learn through informational signs and interactive displays.
3- Maryland Wilderness
Showcasing the native species of Maryland and local habitats, Maryland Wilderness exhibits underscore the regional biodiversity. In addition, the most interacting features of this area include:
- The Stream – A submerges archway, offering underway observation of aquatic creatures
- The Bog – Featuring aquatic plants and significance of bog habitats
- Giant Tree and Slide – A tree housing native reptiles and amphibians and a playful learning experience for kids
- The Farmland – Exhibiting various domestic animals along with a Goat Carrol
- The Cave – A life-size cave, featuring various cave-dwelling animals
- Meadow – Large bubble-like windows and tunnels in a meadow environment, offering insight into different animals habitats
- March Aviary and Lily Pads – A man-made stream that is a home to different birds with wetland ambiance
4- Penguin Coast
Housing diverse species of African Penguins, Penguin Coast is one of the most beloved and attractive exhibits and exploration areas at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. The exciting features of this exhibits are:
- Penguin Feeding Demonstrations
- A Close-up of Different Penguin Species and Interaction with them
- Guided Tours
5- Schaefer Plaza and Zoo Center
Offering an exclusive visit to the expansive zoo grounds, Schaefer Plaza is the main entrance area and central hub of the zoo and provides many exciting experiences, such as:
- Historic Lion Statue
- Gift Shop
- Recreational Playground
- Black-Tailed Prairie Dog Exhibit
Interactive Experience and Educational Endeavors
1- Keeper Chats – daily educational sessions and different programs with zookeepers. It allows visitors to learn about different animals and conservation efforts to protect the ecosystem.
2- Goat Carroll – zoo petting area, especially designed for kids, allowing them to interact and groom friendly goats.
3- Giraffe Feeding – another engaging and beloved activity at the zoo where kids and adults can feed and encounter the giant Giraffes.
4- John Falls Zephyr train ride – provides a scenic tour and ride of the zoo, covering different exhibits and offering a fun experience.
5- Events and Conservational and educational programs are held at the zoo, where the zoo management join hands with different globally known organizations and offer programs and sessions for kids and families. Moreover, events like Brew at the Zoo, Spring Illuminations, and many more offers a fun escape and vibrant community gathering. Find the complete event guide and details here.
Looking for a trip to an exciting place outside Maryland, read the complete guide about the best places to visit in Richmond, Virginia here.