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Best Summer Vacation Activities In Baltimore

School is out, the days are long and hot and that means summer vacation time is finally here. The long-awaited arrival of "eternal" sunshine and warm weather puts everyone in the mood to be outside, celebrate with family and friends and, above all, stay cool. So before planning out your summer vacation this year, review this top activities list for everything a Baltimore vacationer needs from staying entertained to finding some relaxation.
six flags hurricane harbor
(Credit: www.baltimoresun.com)

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
13710 Central Ave.
Upper Marlboro, Md. 20721
(301) 249-1500
www.sixflags.com/america/index.aspx

Open daily this summer until Aug. 25, Hurricane Harbor is Maryland's most popular wet and wild waterpark, boasting a slew of slides, rides and activities for parents and kids alike. Choose to ride the waves in the Hurricane Bay pool, enjoy a relaxing float around the lazy river, fly down the Tornado, a high-speed funnel water slide, or free-fall down one of the new Bonzai Pipelines. The bottom line is you're going to beat the heat and get wet no matter what you do. Another perk of this park is visitors can also enjoy theme park admission for no additional cost.

pirate adventures
(Credit: www.capitalgazette.com)

Pirate Adventures on the Chesapeake
311 3rd St.
Annapolis, Md. 21403
(410) 263-0002
www.chesapeakepirates.com

One of the best sailing experiences for families on the bay, pirates young and old will get caught up in the excitement of searching for buried treasures on this cruise. From face painting to storytelling and even a water cannon battle, kids will have no shortage of entertainment and imagination time. The Sea Gypsy boat sails every day this summer up until Labor Day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with departures every 90 minutes. Located in the historic port town of Annapolis (less than 30 miles from Baltimore), parents can easily fit this excursion in between shopping, sailing or a suite of other by-the-water activities available nearby.

medieval times
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Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
7000 Arundel Mills Circle
Hanover, Md. 21076
(866) 543-9637
www.medievaltimes.com

No summer vacation meal can compete with the epic two-hour, live jousting tournament witnessed at Medieval Times. While dining on a four-course meal surrounded by the splendor and décor of 11th century Spain, guests are swept away watching epic battles between knights in steel taking place right in front of them. For animal lovers, the horsemanship and falconry displayed is breathtaking, and for the rest, the combination of historic weaponry and on-the-edge-of-your-seat entertainment will leave everyone talking about the experience for hours afterwards. This unique dinner is perfect for large groups and celebrating special occasions – be sure to check out upgrade packages on the website to customize your experience.

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(Credit: www.everytrail.com)

Patapsco Valley State Park
8020 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, Md. 21043
(410) 461-5005
www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/patapsco.asp

With eight recreational areas for picnicking and camping, 32 miles of river for fishing, swimming and canoeing and 170 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, Patapsco Valley State Park is the best destination this summer for the nature enthusiast. After all, nothing can quite compare to a blazing campfire and toasting marshmallows underneath a gorgeous starry night. Also, for city dwellers, it is the perfect backdoor escape to a quiet, lush forest that offers all the tranquility desired for a relaxing vacation. No matter whether you're seeking adrenalin-filled attractions or just an opportunity to relax and soak up the beautiful sunshine, camping at this park promises an unforgettable vacation time.

Related: Ask A Baltimore Guide: Tips For Your Next Campout

Studio 921
(Credit: www.salonbuilder.com)

Studio 921 Salon & Day Spa
921 E. Fort Ave., Suite 108
Baltimore, Md. 21230
(410) 783-7727
www.studio921spa.com

Everyone should look and feel their best on vacation, and Studio 921 provides numerous options for rejuvenation. This full-service hair salon also offers a full menu of day spa services including facials, massage therapies, body wraps, manicures, pedicures and more. Acquire beauty, harmony and well-being by taking advantage of one of its day spa packages, a combination of treatments that will make you feel refreshed and aglow. Studio 921 also offers a host of hair removal procedures like bikini and leg waxing, which can make this a great first-stop visit before hitting the beach.

Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her online at Examiner.com

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