Animals

Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo Spot vipers, cobras, and rattlesnakes in the "Hot Stuff" venomous serpent exhibit; hop on the Global Wildlife Safari Ride through 25 acres to feed and photograph ostriches, zebras, bison, antelope, deer, llamas, and donkeys; catch a tell and touch demonstration. 13019 Catoctin Furnace Rd., Thurmont, MD; +1 301 271 3180. Fee.

Maryland Zoo in Baltimore Wave to polar bears and explore the Arctic aboard a Tundra Buggy. Take a bumpy ride on the back of a camel. Learn about the Maryland wilderness. Lounge in an oriole's nest. Leap along lily pads at the hands-on, award-winning Children's Zoo. Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD; +1 410 396 7102. Fee.

National Aquarium View more than 660 species and over 16,500 creatures, including dolphins, amphibians, and sharks; travel down under at Animal Planet Australia and glimpse crocodiles, pythons, death adders, lizards, turtles, and laughing kookaburras; stare wide-eyed as Bonnethead sharks coast by you; catch a dolphin show or a 4D experience in the Immersion Theater. 501 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD; +1 410 576 3800. Fee.