The Fire Museum of Maryland in Timonium

The Fire Museum of Maryland is an absolute must for anyone with kids who adore fire fighters, or for anyone who simply loves to explore history through engaging stories and beautifully preserved artifacts.  ​

The museum, located in Timonium, has the third largest collection on display of any fire museum in the world. The museum highlights the history of firefighting and the fire service with exhibits that are sure to please kids and adults alike.

Among its collection are 45 antique fire apparatus, memorabilia, firefighting equipment, models, and photographs.  There’s a section devoted to the history of the Great Baltimore Fire of 1904 as well as an “alarm office” that displays how fire calls were made and received at the turn of the century until computers took over.  

We were greeted upon our arrival by perhaps one of the nicest people I’ve ever met and he seemed to thoroughly enjoy walking us through the museum, pointing out the detailed history of each item on display as we toured.  

If the kids start getting antsy, there’s a “Discovery Room” where little ones can dress up as firefighters and play on a converted fire truck that now serves as a play set.

If you’re looking for a holiday train garden done right, be sure to stop by in November and December for one of the best models around.  Check their website or give them a call to see when Santa will be making an appearance and make this your photo trip for the season.

The museum is available for birthday parties and other events.  You can even rent some of the antique engines for transporting wedding parties or to just take a ride in one around their parking lot.  The volunteers there are more than happy to help provide any information.

There are clean and spacious bathrooms available but no food service.  The exterior does have some picnic tables if you visit and want to pack a lunch to enjoy during nicer weather.  On site parking is available for free.

If you're in Baltimore and in search of a great indoor activity, The Fire Museum of Maryland is a must see!