Blog: After Hours at the Aquarium

Recently I had the opportunity to travel with some friends and co-workers to the National Aquarium in Baltimore to enjoy a specially-designed program for individuals with disabilities.  This program, called Access Aquarium, brings the wonders of the Aquarium to its differently-abled visitors by providing after hours access, customized presentations, and special parking. 

When we arrived at the National Aquarium we met the Aquarium staff who gave us special access to the exhibits after the Aquarium closed.  We were able to pull our van up on the sidewalk to get closer to the building.  When the tour began, we saw lots of neat exhibits, such as stingrays, jellyfish, dolphins, turtles, and cockroaches, as well as alligator and crocodile skulls.  We saw divers in the tank who were writing messages to us, making it appear that the animals were talking to us.  At the end of the tour, we each received cups as parting gifts. 

This was a fun learning experience.  We now know much more about the animals and their natural habitat.  The Arc Carroll County Support Services staff and clients were invited to attend this event by Access Aquarium.  This program provides access to the Aquarium for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities after the Aquarium closes.  This makes it much easier to get around, because it is less crowded and we could see more of the exhibits.  The Maryland School for the Blind and many other organizations were in attendance, but this was the first time the Arc Carroll County has ever been invited to attend.  It was an enjoyable experience, and we look forward to visiting again in the future.