Thanksgiving Activities For Your Out Of Town Relatives

By Sara Blumberg

The holidays are a time of family and much needed fun. Do you have relatives coming in for the Thanksgiving weekend and aren't sure what to do with them, especially in Baltimore? This guide will provide you with some relief and give you a detailed list of things to explore this holiday season. From family-oriented activities to pirate cruises, Baltimore has something for everyone.

Urban Pirate Cruises

912 S. Anne St.
Baltimore, Md.
410-327-8378
www.urbanpirates.com

Did you know Baltimore had its own pirate ship? Tucked away in the Fells Point community, this ship runs both adult and children friendly tours. For families, try the Family Adventure Cruise, which departs at different times on Saturday and Sunday. The price is $20 for each rider age three years and older. Once on board, sailors will participate in a variety of "pirate" activities while sailing around the Baltimore Harbor.

At night, the boat turns into a party boat, with tours running at selected evening times. The adult "BYOG (Bring Your Own Grog AKA Adult Beverage) Cruises" cost $25 per person and yes, you can bring your own alcohol. Tours don't last longer then two hours.

Make sure to reserve your spot at least two weeks early and remember the boat is limited to 49 people per trip.

Ft. McHenry Visitor Center and Historic Shrine

2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, Md. 21230
410-962-4290
Hours: 8 a.m. until 5 p.m, closed on Thanksgiving Day
http://www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm

Did you know that Baltimore is about to celebrate the Bicentennial on the War of 1812? Starting next June, the Maryland 1812 Bicentennial Commission will kick off the three-year celebration with a variety of activities. One of the most prominent areas that became a milestone for the war was Ft. McHenry. In addition to being the inspiration for the writing of the "Star-Spangled Banner," the facility was recently remodeled for visitors to learn more about history.

This place is perfect for family members who are history buffs or have children that need a historical place to run around. Cost to enter the park is only $7 per person. Once inside, you can do a variety of things, including looking at the exhibits, participating in flag demonstrations and for children, taking part in the Junior Ranger program.

North Point State Park

8700 North Point Road
Edgemere, Md. 21219
(410) 477-0757
Hours: open everyday until sunset
Reviews, Directions & More Info:

After a filling Thanksgiving meal, you might need to get some exercise. One great place to do this is North Point State Park. Located in Eastern Baltimore County, this park has more than 1,300 acres of pristine natural wildlife.

In addition to natural beauty, the park also has a variety of walking trails that are not too strenuous for the average hiker. One highlight for hikers is exploring the ruins of Old Bayshore, a once fully operating amusement park. In addition, visitors can enjoy the Bayshore pier and birdwatching among the wetland portions of the park.

Home Activities:

If you're cost conscious, some of the things my family enjoys during the weekend don't require us to leave my parents' home. Some fun at home activities I look forward to are:
● Family football game
● Making place settings
● Christmas caroling to get ready for the next holiday
● Game night
● Jumping into leaves