INNER HARBOR. Learn about Baltimore's fascinating maritime history at this intriguing museum, which is made up, not of buildings, but docked ships still afloat in the Chesapeake Bay. Start with the USS Torsk, nicknamed the "Galloping Ghost of the Japanese Coast" during WWII. Most experts say this submarine helped end the war by sinking Japan's last two warships. Then tour the Chesapeake, a floating lighthouse that is still fully functional. The last ship in the museum, the Taney, fought at Pearl Harbor and is the only ship from that battle that is still afloat. Ticket booth located next to Baltimore aquarium.

SOUTH BALTIMORE. Offering a glimpse of the past, the museum has displays that recreate various workshops from America's history, showcasing American industrial advances. Numerous fields are represented, including blacksmithing, sewing, factory work, printing and communications. The diversity of the information is remarkable, and there are hands-on activities for the young and the young at heart.

DOWNTOWN. Following the collapse of its roundhouse roof in a snowstorm, the B&O Museum may have remained closed forever. But through perseverance and hard work, not only did the museum reopen, but it got better. The beautiful roundhouse is thoroughly renovated and showcases an amazing variety of interactive exhibits, plus a number of historic engines and some fascinating railroad equipment. A must see for railroad buffs, the museum was not only the first of its kind admitted to the Smithsonian Affiliates program, it was the first in Maryland to do so as well. Souvenirs, videos, books and clothing are available at the gift shop, and there is a café as well.

MT VERNON. Founded over 150 years ago, this museum hosts the world's largest 19th-century American silver collection in addition to thousands of portraits, maps, prints and decorative arts items. One of the biggest draws is the original copy of the Star-Spangled Banner by Francis Scott Key, which was written in Baltimore during the War of 1812. With 6.2 million books on the premises, this is a great place to do research on any aspect of Maryland's history.