A Wildlife Adventure Awaits at the Maryland Zoo

Zebras and elephants and penguins, oh my! Nestled within the lush Druid Hill Park in Baltimore, the Maryland Zoo is home to some of the globe's most incredible creatures. When you visit the zoo during your next stay at Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast, you’ll meet 130 different species of birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Established in 1876, the Maryland Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and serves as both a sanctuary for wildlife and a hub for conservation efforts. If you love animals, it's a must-see destination during any Charm City getaway.

At the Maryland Zoo, known as the Baltimore Zoo until 2004, there are four main areas spread across 135 acres for people to visit, all featuring naturalistic exhibits evocative of the animals’ native habitats. They are Penguin Coast, Northern Passage, Maryland Wilderness and African Journey. Begin your journey at the African Journey, where you can observe the majestic African elephants as they roam their expansive habitat. In 2019, the zoo completed a historic renovation and expansion of the lion, giraffe and elephant habitats in African Journey. The naturalistic setting allows for close encounters, providing an awe-inspiring opportunity to appreciate these magnificent creatures' size and grace.

For a more intimate experience, head to the Penguin Coast, which opened in 2015. This exhibit replicates a ruggedly beautiful coastal environment where African penguins dive and play. The zoo is home to more than 90 African penguins and maintains the largest and most successful African penguin breeding colony in North America. The underwater viewing area offers a captivating perspective of these charming birds in action. As you watch them dart and glide, you might find yourself mesmerized by their fluid movements and social interactions.

Continue your exploration to the Maryland Wilderness section, where you can delve into the local ecosystem. This area features native flora and fauna, offering a tranquil retreat that underscores the zoo’s commitment to regional conservation. The immersive exhibits allow you to reconnect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for Maryland’s rich biodiversity. Along the way, they pass through the bog, marsh, mountain stream, cave, woods and meadow before ending up in the Farmyard.

The Northern Passage features grizzly bears, a bald eagle and other animals found in the northern hemisphere. The exhibit includes a massive Tundra Buggy from which visitors can watch grizzlies Nova and Nita roam their habitat.

The Maryland Zoo is not just about observing animals; it’s also about engaging with them. Unique experiences such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters are available, offering a deeper understanding of the zoo's residents and the efforts to preserve their habitats. Feed a giraffe, play with the penguins, train a river otter, groom a goat and more! These intimate experiences are perfect for those who want to enrich their visit with personal connections with the wildlife.

One of the zoo's newest attractions was added just last year — the Wildlife Quest Virtual Reality. Opened in the summer of 2023, it's an immersive 360-degree virtual reality experience that includes video and motion. This simulation ride will take you on an incredible journey on The Great Migration to witness how millions of free-roaming animals make their way through the peaks and perils of Africa’s savanna terrain. With the use of VR headsets and seats with multidirectional movement, you'll come "face to face" with these amazing creatures.

The Maryland Zoo is open year-round, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary no matter when you book your stay at our historic Baltimore inn. From March to December, it's open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In January and February, its winter hours are Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A visit to the Maryland Zoo is an opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty of wildlife and support critical conservation efforts. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, a nature lover or simply looking for a tranquil escape, the Maryland Zoo offers a rewarding and enlightening experience that will leave you with lasting memories of your Baltimore getaway.