Frequently Asked Questions
Does my membership include both the Baltimore and the Washington, DC, locations?
YES! Your National Aquarium membership now provides you unlimited daily admission for one full year from the date of purchase at both the Baltimore and Washington, DC, locations.
Does the Aquarium have parking?
No, but discounts may be offered by independent garages. You can check the website for applicable discounts.
Can I visit if I do not have my membership card or photo ID?
Adults on the membership must have a valid photo ID to enter. Membership cards are requested to speed entry, but are not required.
How do I use my receipt for my Aquarium ticket purchase toward a membership?
You must mail in the original receipt with the application for membership. Only those on the receipt who are also eligible to be listed on the membership may be deducted. For online purchases, the per-ticket charges cannot be used towards a membership. Membership must be purchased within 30 days of the date on the receipt. Download the membership application form, fill it out, and send it in along with your ticket receipt.
Can I bring guests with me through the members' entrance?
Yes, you can pay for two guests per member entering at the door. An exclusive benefit of membership is the opportunity to purchase tickets in advance (please allow two weeks) for your guests to enjoy the Aquarium without waiting in the general admission line. These tickets will be mailed to your home and expire one year from date of purchase. Call 410-659-4230, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, to order or for more information.
Can I list my nieces, nephews, sister, brother, children's friends, or others on my membership?
No, you can list only immediate family members who are living in your household. Children must be your own children who are 21 and younger. There are no exceptions.
Can my baby-sitter bring my children to the Aquarium?
Yes, but only if neither adult on the membership is present. The sitter must have the membership card and a signed, dated note from the parent listing the sitter's name, your membership number, and signature. The sitter will be required to show photo ID and the children must be listed by name and birthdate on the membership. This applies only to memberships with named children. It does not apply to Grandparent memberships.
Can I change the second adult to another person?
Changes can be made at time of purchase or renewal. No changes can be made during the membership and the membership is not transferable to others.
Can I combine my children and grandchildren on a membership?
We offer separate memberships for family and grandparents. You cannot combine the two.
Can I exchange my paper guest tickets that came with my Donor-level membership for a new year if I don't use them?
Those tickets are valid for one full year only and cannot be exchanged for future dates.
Can my (older) child who is listed on the membership visit without one of the adults?
Yes, but your child must be at least 16 years old and show valid photo ID and the membership card to visit unaccompanied.
How do I get the lowest possible price for a membership?
By renewing your membership prior to the expiration date on the card, you are guaranteed the lowest possible price.
Who do I call for questions about my membership?
Please call 410-659-4230 for questions about membership. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
