Great Explorations Children's Museum

Since 1987 this popular non-profit organization has been wowing children 10 and under with a veritable treasure trove of activities and exhibits. Spread throughout its 24,000 feet of "learning space," are exhibits and programs encouraging kids to follow the museum mantra: "Make a discovery, make a mess and even make a new friend." But it's not just a museum. It's a fun learning experience with activities to keep them busy for hours. At "Publix supermarket," they learn how to shop and make healthy choices; the firehouse teaches them fire safety at home, while an interactive zone focusing on health and nutrition - created by Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital - allows them to "check in" patients, play a game of "Operation" and more. There's even a "pizza kitchen," where they can take orders and "make" food. The Critter Cave allows them to peek into the intriguing world of arachnids and reptiles.