4 Accessible Attractions for Families in Baltimore
Baltimore is widely regarded as one of the most accessible U.S. cities, voted the second-most accessible for travelers in 2026 by Wander. However, as many families with children with disabilities know, accessibility goes beyond simply being able to access a bathroom or enter a store with a wheelchair. It’s about truly experiencing something the way most other people would.
With that in mind, some Baltimore family attractions stand out more than others. If you live in or are traveling through the city, here are some of the best accessible attractions to consider visiting with your family:
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Described as Baltimore’s best children’s museum, the Port Discovery Children’s Museum is a wonderful option for children of all ages. Whether your child has a birth injury and is in a wheelchair or has other limitations, they’re well catered to with a variety of amenities.
Both strollers and wheelchairs are welcome, and every floor has family-friendly restrooms. Most of the museum is also barrier-free. What also sets Port Discovery Children’s Museum apart from many other attractions is its access, inclusion, and sensory-friendly programs. Every month, specific programs are designed for children and families with disabilities, on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorders. It’s certainly one of the best activities to do with your kids as a Baltimore visitor or local.
Maryland Science Center
A trip to the Maryland Science Center will see you quickly immersed in three floors of interactive exhibits and programs. Located at the Inner Harbor, the Science Center provides countless opportunities for children to learn about natural history. Best of all, every child has the opportunity to learn.
All exhibits comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including the theaters and interactive displays, which are wheelchair-friendly. All videos also have open captions for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing. The entire Science Center is wheelchair-accessible, and you can borrow accessibility aids, including braille guides, weighted lap covers, noise-reducing earmuffs, and tactile toys.
National Museum of Railroad History and Innovation
For train-loving kids, the B&O Railroad Museum, now known as the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation, is bound to be at the top of their must-visit list. The good news is that all children are welcome and catered to.
All pathways and buildings are ADA-compliant, and train cars are equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or have ground-level video monitors. For example, children in wheelchairs wishing to jump aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ train ride can receive priority boarding with a Bronze Car A ticket.
On set days, families with children with special needs enjoy sensory-friendly rides on the trains and tours. On other days, mobile sensory kits are available for checkout at the front desk to decrease sensory overload.
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore goes above and beyond to ensure all children can experience the fun and excitement of animals – from African Savanna elephants to Sandhill cranes, reticulated giraffes, and everything in between. Families with children with special needs can also rest assured that the zoo goes the extra mile to ensure their comfort throughout their entire visit.
The pathways are paved and relatively flat, and free accessible parking is available, along with ADA shuttle options. You can also rent manual and electric wheelchairs. The Zoo also has its KultureCity sensory certification and provides sensory bags.
Being a child in a wheelchair or with special needs doesn’t have to mean missing out on fun family activities. Whether you live in or are visiting Baltimore, you’ll be pleased to know that many of the most highly regarded attractions welcome children of all ages and abilities.