Nerdy Nights: Best Events For Geeks In Baltimore

In high school, nerds were typically neglected and alienated from the rest of the community. But in Baltimore, the community embraces all nerds and geeks with several night activities that tailor to science, math and other interests that are not commonly categorized as trendy. So grab both your suspenders and pocket protectors and check out these local activities where local nerds unite for fun nights.

Maryland Science Center
601 Light Street
Baltimore, Md. 21230
(410) 545-2999
www.mdsci.org

Price: $20.95 adults/ $17.95 children
Hours: Fridays, 5:30-9 p.m.

Every Friday, the Maryland Science Center hosts "Stargazing Fridays," where astronomy fanatics can embrace their love for the stars. Located on the rooftop of the Science Center, there is an observatory to study the moon, planets and stars through a computer-controlled telescope. Using the infamous Alvan Clark and Sons 8" retracting telescope, the Science Center will allow you to zoom in on the astronomical phenomena. Since the event is held outside, make sure you visit on a clear night so the weather doesn't ruin your view of the night stars.

Related: The Biggest Nerds In Pop Culture

Luckies Tavern
10 Market Place
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 564-6477
www.luckiestavern.com

Price: Free Admission
Hours: Wednesdays, 8-11 p.m.

For a night full of classic games such as skeeball, trivia and bingo, head downtown to Luckies Tavern. If you showcase your game skills and place first, you are eligible to win a trip for eight guests to the Miller Light Flight Deck at Camden Yards. But let's say your fame is not quite top notch and you place second, you win an all-inclusive Power Plant package. In addition to games and prizes, Luckies Tavern offers half-priced burgers and domestic beers. This fun-filled night nicknamed as "Game Night 3.0" only occurs on Wednesdays.

Related: Best Retro Bars With Games In Baltimore

National Aquarium
501 E. Pratt Street
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 576-3833
www.aqua.org

Price: $94.95 general admission
Hours: March 8, 6 p.m.- 9 a.m.

Calling all shark lovers! Instead of spending another lousy Friday night with your eyes glued to the Discovery Channel, experience real sharks up close and personal during the Baltimore National Aquarium's "Sleepover with the Sharks" night. This overnight adventure teaches aspiring marine biologists the best practices of caring and feeding for sharks. In addition to caring for them, there is also an opportunity to gather meticulous observations as the aquarium hosts a "swim with the sharks" event, allowing visitors to swim just inches away from the sharks. While the price to sleep with sharks may appear to be slightly costly, this event includes an all-access pass to visit the aquarium's dolphin amphitheater, experience the behind-the-scenes tour, witness the 4D Immersion film, and a breakfast and dinner combo with shark jeopardy.

Related: Best Fish And Aquarium Supply Stores In Baltimore

The Windup Space
12 W. North Avenue
Baltimore, Md. 21201
(410) 244-8855
www.thewindupspace.com

Price: Free Admission
Hours: March 26, 6-9 p.m.

Do you enjoy trivia and board games like chess and monopoly? If so, join many others at Brew and Board Game Happy Hour. At this casual games night, several board game lovers will unite to drink discounted brews and try their luck at older board games. There will be prizes offered to any winner. But if you're nervous that you won't be able to play your game of choice, you are welcome to bring some of your favorite board games.

The Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum
Lockheed Martin Auditorium
2323 Eastern Blvd.
Middle River, Md. 21220
(410) 682-6122
www.mdairmuseum.org

Price: $3 adults/ $1 children/ 5 & under free
Hours: March 4, 7 p.m.

Located in the Lockheed Martin Auditorium, the Maryland Aviation Museum is gathering aviation nerds for the annual "Talk with Aviation Experts." This year, Ron Ball, Maryland Air National Guard, will discuss his experience as a leader in aviation. Alongside Ball will be several astronauts, WWII pilots, authors connected to flight and aviation engineers. After the talks, visitors are free to browse through the Museum's collection of aircraft history including more than 200 photographs and artifacts from Maryland's aviation units. There will be a reception with light refreshments and snacks. If you'd like to study and ask experts about aviation, this is a great way to attend to your inquiries.

Cherise Lesesne covers issues in higher education. She is a recent graduate from Spelman College where she obtained a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in English Language and Literature. With an interest in public policy and cultural affairs, Cherise has written on several topics concerning higher education administration, internationalization and cultural affairs for publications Diverse: Issues in Higher Education as well as CBS Baltimore.