Tot Trails brings the wonder of Maryland’s natural terrain indoors so even the tiniest tots can discover the region’s mountains, plains, forests and seashore. This 2,500 SF dedicated space provides a safe, quiet and tactile experience for children ages zero to three. A glass façade allows visibility from throughout the Museum.

Opened February 2011.

The stairs, inclines and low “bumps” in the Sand Dunes pathways create engaging walking opportunities for newly mobile tots. Durable touch walls have sand and ocean themes assembled from a variety of textures, with small object dioramas to be discovered throughout.

A seaside-themed baby area sprawls with custom floor mats, indigenous creature “pull-me-ups”, and inlaid state flower carpeting. Scenic shoe cubbies and custom seating for adults blend practicality with aesthetics to enhance the overall experience for caregivers with infants.

A reading nook with programmable lighting (that changes colors), a fish tank, and built-in benches conducive to cozying up and sharing a story (or just taking a break) are "hidden" among bushes.

Climb through a railroad tunnel or...

into a forest of tree canopies.

An imaginative play area equipped with an interactive projection pond and puppet tree theater encourages children to become part of the exhibit.

A rocky touch wall embedded with seashore-themed objects expands into a sand table.