Conference Excursion:
Night at the Ballpark
Friday Sept 18th, 4 p.m.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Orioles Park, Camden Yards (Includes a ticket to the baseball game and an all-you-can-eat meal ticket for the first 275 student, staff, and sponsor registrants). Others may be eligible for a ticket and a $20 meal voucher (based on availability).
PRE & POST CONFERENCE EXCURSIONS: PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE TWO EVENTS REQUIRE ADDITIONAL TICKETS ADD-ON PURCHASED VIA EVENTBRITE OR INVOICE PROCESS
Tour of Baltimore & The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum
Wednesday Sept 16th, 11 a.m.
As part of the 34th Annual UMBC McNair &Undergraduate Research National Conference, the Pre-Conference Cultural Excursion offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Baltimore City. This immersive experience includes a guided tour through historic neighborhoods, a visit to the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum—one of the nation’s most compelling institutions dedicated to African American history—and a stop at the iconic Lexington Market, where attendees can enjoy lunch from a variety of local vendors. Open to students, faculty, staff, and selected sponsors (sponsor will receive complimentary ticket), this excursion provides a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and historical contexts that shape our communities. It also fosters connection, reflection, and dialogue—elements that are essential to both academic and personal growth. Transportation, museum admission, and the tour guide are included in the price, making this a meaningful and accessible addition to the conference experience.
Maryland Crab Experience Excursion
Wednesday Sept 16th, 5 – 9 p.m.
Location: Lord Baltimore Hotel, departing via shuttle from the outside main entrance at 5:00 PM prompt (arrive by 4:45 PM).
Event Highlights: All-you-can-eat steamed Maryland blue crabs, a short talk on Chesapeake Bay history, a crab-picking demo, and trivia.
Important Details: The event features a fixed menu, requires casual, messy-friendly clothing, and shuttle transportation is included in the ticket.
{Only open to Students/Faculty and Staff, and Sponsors. Sponsor’s ticket is included in the registration fee.}
This Maryland Crab Experience Excursion is more than a meal—it’s a cultural immersion rooted in Baltimore tradition. Led by our program director, a proud Baltimore native, the event offers first-generation and low-income students a chance to engage with Maryland’s rich maritime history, explore environmental and cultural connections to the Chesapeake Bay, and experience the region’s most iconic culinary ritual. From learning how to crack blue crabs to discovering the stories of Black watermen and the origins of Old Bay seasoning, this event blends education, community, and celebration. Transportation is included, and while open to students, faculty, staff, and sponsors, space is limited. (Note: Sponsor tickets are included in conference registration.)
Click here for more details on how this excursion connects with the mission of McNair Scholars Programs.
MENU: Maryland Steamed Blue Crab, Steamed Shrimp, Steamed Mussels, Chicken Wings, Potato Salad, Pasta Salad, Watermelon, Cupcakes, and Cookies
NOTE: This event centers on a traditional Maryland blue crab feast, and the menu is fixed to reflect the cultural experience. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate seafood allergies, vegetarian/vegan diets, or other dietary restrictions at this event. We understand this may not be suitable for all participants, and we appreciate your understanding as we aim to preserve the authenticity of this culinary tradition.
Magic Show @ Poe’s Theatre
Saturday Sept 19th, 8:30 p.m.
As part of the 34th Annual UMBC McNair & Undergraduate Research National Conference, attendees are invited to experience a special evening at Poe’s Theatre, located inside the conference host hotel, the Lord Baltimore Hotel, on Saturday, September 18th. This ticketed event features an exclusive private magic show inspired by the mystery and legacy of Edgar Allan Poe, beginning at 8:30 PM (doors open at 8:00 PM), with light refreshments including popcorn and soft drinks provided. With limited seating in an intimate theatre setting, this experience offers a unique opportunity to engage with Baltimore’s cultural landscape while connecting with fellow scholars—without ever leaving the conference venue. While tickets will be available for purchase, a limited number of attendees may also have the opportunity to win complimentary tickets during the conference.