Calvert Marine Museum will open its doors exclusively for individuals with disabilities and their families, friends and caregivers on Friday, May 15, for the 15th anniversary of Night at the Museum for Friends with Disabilities.
The special evening, held in partnership with Calvert County Parks & Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation Services, runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Solomons museum and grounds. The event continues a long-standing tradition of creating a welcoming, accessible space where everyone can explore maritime history, fossils and marine life without the crowds of a regular day.
Guests will enjoy a variety of interactive experiences and anniversary activities. Highlights include a Horse Experience and photo opportunity with horses and handlers from Still Waters Refuge and the Greenwell Foundation. Children and adults can build their own toy boats, meet comfort dog Dougall and purchase refreshments from the S’Cool Beans coffee and snack cart.
Additional activities include operating remote-control boats, meeting Bubbles the Otter mascot, exploring fossils, fish, skates, rays and the museum’s extensive maritime history exhibits, and shopping in the Museum Store.
A special feature this year is 30-minute cruises aboard the historic Wm. B. Tennison, one of the oldest working vessels on the Chesapeake Bay. Cruises depart at 5 p.m., 5:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Capacity is limited to 39 passengers per trip, and pre-registration is required.
Attendees can also enter raffles for prizes and special passes. Registration for general museum access is available online at www.CalvertCounty.PerfectMind.com using Activity #26-470773. To reserve a cruise time, call 410-535-1600, ext. 8203, 8204 or 8205.
The Night at the Museum for Friends with Disabilities has grown steadily over 15 years into a beloved Calvert County tradition. The event removes typical barriers so families who might find a regular museum visit challenging can enjoy a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Solomons, a historic maritime village at the mouth of the Patuxent River, is home to the museum, which draws thousands of visitors each year to learn about the Chesapeake Bay’s natural and cultural heritage.
The museum’s commitment to accessibility reflects broader efforts across Calvert County to make public spaces welcoming for all residents. Calvert County Parks & Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation Services have worked with the museum to ensure the evening meets a wide range of needs.
For many families in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, this night provides a rare opportunity to experience the museum together in a calm, inclusive setting. The combination of live animals, hands-on activities and historic boat rides creates memorable experiences that celebrate both the Chesapeake Bay’s rich history and the strength of the local community.
The 15th anniversary celebration underscores the museum’s ongoing role as a community gathering place that values every visitor. Organizers encourage early registration to secure cruise spots and plan for a full evening of discovery.
