How to Get Discount Tickets to the Baltimore Aquarium

The National Aquarium in Baltimore contains exotic exhibits such as the Wild Extremes of Northern Australia, where you can see how the platypus survives in a hostile environment. The museum also shows you what lives underneath the waves of Maryland's own rich waters. The aquarium offers an array of discounts so you don't have to pay full price for a journey under the sea.

Purchase entry to the aquarium after 5 p.m. on a Friday and receive half off admission. Be prompt to take full advantage; the aquarium usually closes at 8 p.m. Blackout dates may apply, so check the aquarium's website to see if your Friday night is discounted.

Once a year the National Aquarium runs an early morning discount. The monthlong Maryland Monday promotion gets locals $10 off if you purchase tickets before noon, Sunday through Friday. A valid in-state ID is required for the discount, such as a Maryland drivers license.

For two select days in December, the National Aquarium reduces admission to $1. Check the National Aquarium's website and look for the "Dollar Days" promotion to find out the specific dates each year.

The National Aquarium is a nonprofit organization that strives to raise funds for local oceanic conservation of the Chesapeake Bay. For one day in January, you can enjoy the aquarium for a donation of any amount with all proceeds benefiting the conservation efforts. Check the aquarium's website in January to find the exact day.

Get free tickets to the aquarium when you book a two-night Hotel Monaco package through the aquarium's website. The room is for two adults, with children staying free. Continental breakfast is included.

Show an active military ID to receive $3 off admission at the National Aquarium's ticket window. All members of the military, including active duty, reserves and retired members, can purchase discounted tickets at a local military base through the National Aquarium's consignment ticket program.

Participating American Automobile Association offices located in the mid-Atlantic region sell consignment National Aquarium tickets to AAA members at a discount. Mid-Atlantic states include Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Virginia.

Memberships to the aquarium are available to individuals, couples, families and groups of friends. The cost of membership is usually much higher than the cost of individual admission, but membership allows you to visit the aquarium free whenever you want for a full year. Memberships start saving you money on your third visit, and the more you visit, the more you save. You also receive a discounted price for any immersion tour.

Receive a bulk discount booking a group of 15 or more. The group escort or chaperone gets in free, as well. Receive an extra $5 off per ticket if you book a package that includes a meal at nearby Uno Chicago Grill. Call 410-576-3833 three weeks in advance to book a group package deal. A $75 deposit is required.

Baltimore's aquarium is accessible through public transportation. On the Metro, get off at the Shot Tower/Market Place station. Exit the light rail at either the Convention Center or Camden Yards, where the MARC also stops. Take a cab or walk the mile to the aquarium from Amtrak and MARC's Penn Station stop. Bus numbers 1, 7, 8, 10, 19, 61, 62 and 64 stop at the aquarium. The Charm City Circulator's Orange Line will drop you right at the front steps.

Driving to the aquarium is also easy. Park at the Lockwood Place Garage and show your ticket for $3 off parking.