Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and Aquarium Video
In May, I posted about a visit to the Baltimore Aquarium. Part of the fun of that trip was just being in Baltimore, and I have to say that the Inner Harbor made as much of an impression on me as the aquarium. We had parked several blocks away, and as we made our way to the aquarium, it felt like walking the sidewalks of any larger city. But when we reached the Inner Harbor, I was struck with a different feeling. And it was something closer to wonder.
To begin with, it was like stepping into a different world. We cut through some kind of mall to get to the harbor, and when we entered the building, we were leaving a city. The sky was hemmed in by tall buildings, everything was the dull color of grey cement, there was noise and traffic. But when we opened the doors to the other side, all was light and open and colorful. The sun was shining on our faces, we were met with an expanse of sky and water, and it was just…nice. It made me happy. The Inner Harbor is a tourist attraction, so there was a great deal of activity, a lot to look at. I think a big part of my happy reaction was based on that; it’s just exciting to be in a lively place when you’re already in the market to be pleased.
The next thing that caught my attention were the military ships docked in the harbor, and I was overwhelmed by a sense of the history they represent. There is a big military presence where I live, so much so that I don’t give it much thought anymore. Quantico Marine Base is just north of Fredericksburg, I pass by A. P. Hill (an Army fort) every day on my way to work, and it’s not at all unusual to encounter people in uniform. But seeing the ships here piqued my curiosity, and reminded me how rich in history my little area of the USA really is. I found out that The Inner Harbor houses four historic vessels (and a lighthouse) that were turned into museums, so you can tour all those ships. I’m thinking about going back to do that – but in cooler weather!
The U.S.S. Torsk! This submarine is docked just outside of the aquarium, and is nicknamed “Last Survivor of Pearl Harbor”. It served in the Navy for 24 years. I want to go in that sub!
If I get to tour the Torsk, I’ll let you know all about it! Whether you’re interested or not. In the meantime, here is a little video from our aquarium visit. Be warned that I am not a very good videographer! But if nothing else, at least you can enjoy the music by Enya.
.
♦
Items of Interest:
A visit to the Baltimore Aquarium
The Historic Ships of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
National Aquarium in Baltimore
.
steadily skipping stones 
I love aquariums and films about the ocean. It’s an entirely different world.
Yes it is, and so fascinating!
Nice visit! I compare it to the walking trip the wife and I did of old Charleston, SC. It is historically maintained. We also went to the aquarium, and toured the aircraft carrier Yorktown, and a submarine. Baltimore is a lot closer to us. Perhaps we could visit there some day. If we mention your name, do we get special treatment?
Sorry, I have no clout whatsoever! I’ve long wanted to go to Jamestown and also Colonial Williamsburg. Those would be even closer to you, I think. I’d like to do a tour of the colonial ships and tour the towns as they were in the past.