Port Discovery and Maryland Science Center-- what ages?

[Anonymous]

We are trying to determine if our 3.5 yo is a good age for either of these. If you've been, please share your thoughts. Thank you in advance.

[Anonymous]

i think they would enjoy both, possibly port discovery more.
port discovery really is fantastic and has lots of "play" areas designed for learning.

the science center is probably ideal for slightly older kids, but younger ones would still find fun things to do and look at and touch too.

[Anonymous]

Port Discovery is best. You could spend the day there.

[Anonymous]

Port Discovery is for the younger kids. Science center is for the older. Definitely 3.5 years go to Port Discovery.

[Anonymous]

Ditto Port Discovery. Fabulous for that age.

[Anonymous]

I have to disagree, I think Port Discovery is lame compared to the Science Center. My son loves the dinosaurs, Newton's Alley, weather area, and the little kids room (whatever they call it). We can easily spend all day there AND I don't feel like pulling my hair out. Also a hit the last time (son is 5) was the human body exhibit.

Port Discovery has this huge play structure in the center of it that drives me crazy. Kids are supposed to stick to certain levels based on I guess height or age, but they don't and it is impossible to track where your kid is when it is busy there.

Really, I think Port Discovery is more like an indoor play place.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I have to disagree, I think Port Discovery is lame compared to the Science Center. My son loves the dinosaurs, Newton's Alley, weather area, and the little kids room (whatever they call it). We can easily spend all day there AND I don't feel like pulling my hair out. Also a hit the last time (son is 5) was the human body exhibit.

Port Discovery has this huge play structure in the center of it that drives me crazy. Kids are supposed to stick to certain levels based on I guess height or age, but they don't and it is impossible to track where your kid is when it is busy there.

Really, I think Port Discovery is more like an indoor play place.

Exactly. This is why it is more fun for your average 3 year old.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for your replies, everyone.

[Anonymous]

My 4 yo loved Port Discovery. But as a PP said the center area really is a giant play space, and you do have to keep a sharp eye on your kid. I had one of those heart-stopping moments where I turned my head for a nanosecond and DS was gone. Turned out he'd headed up a level to part of the structure so he could go down a slide. That led to a discussion about telling mommy before going anywhere. He also really liked a couple of the side rooms and activities. We'd definitely go back, but I think both parents would go next time to make sure we'd have better kid coverage.