After defending Baltimore from King George III's attack in 1814, and the writing of the national anthem here, Fort McHenry has celebrated Defenders' Day ever-since 1815. This year, on the first day of several remembrance events, we made it back to watch National Park Service rangers and the fifes & drum corps of the Fort McHenry Guard salute our more recent 911. They formed a lively yet somber parade, gathering many of us to join-in, marching through Locust Point. In addition to re-enactors, I think some of the costumed-throng were Baltimore-locals :-) read more

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Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Location: 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230 Hours: daily 9AM - 5PM (summer schedule) Restrooms : inside the building Accessibility: strollers and wheelchairs accessible, limited path trails around the fort. Parking : parking lot free in front of the building No pets allowed within the historic site. Information: nps.gov Fort McHenry National Monument, an iconic fort located in Baltimore, MD, is the only Historic Shrine in the US, well known as the birthplace of US National Anthem. Fort McHenry is the first site to receive a presidential proclimation requiring that the site fly a flag 24/7, 365 days a year. Flag change programs occur daily. In the morning, the park raises a larger replica of a historic flag, and in the evening, it is replaced with an all-weather flag that flies overnight above the fort. Check the flag change schedule on nps.gov for more information. We were fortunate to be there during the flag retreat demonstration, and it was an amazing experience. A musical performance took place beforehand, adding to the ceremony's atmosphere. After the flag was lowered, visitors were invited to help fold the large flag into the traditional triangular shape. It was a memorable and meaningful way to take part in the park's daily tradition. *Flag changes are weather dependent. If there is precipitation, or of if the wind is below 5 mph/above 10 mph, the large garrison flag (30x42 feet) and storm flag (17x25 feet) cannot be flown.  To visit the park: it's free to explore the 42-acres of park areas from walking trails to have picnic or scenic walks. There's a fee to enter the fort area, tickets cost $15 for age 16 and up, and free for age 15 and younger. The ticket is valid for 7 consecutive days! Check out nps.gov for more information. It's a beautiful historic site and seeing everything in live version, it is an amazing in-person experience! #fortmchenry #fortmchenrynationalmonument #fortmchenryhistoricshrine #baltimoremd #preservefootprints read more

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We were in the area visiting nearby museums on a cold and rainy holiday weekend. Since we had time and a National Park pass we decided to stop by the fort. The pass saved us $15 each. We breezed through the visitor center and made our way across the grounds to the fort. Having been to many other similar forts of this vintage it was of modest interest. A few sections within the walls were closed for renovations. We also toured the exterior cannon displays and statues. Some interesting history but not a must see on my National Park list... read more

Such a fun experience! There is so much history here and the grounds has been preserved so well. It was even more exciting that we got to go into the fort, living quarters, and seeing how it was all formed. It's $15 a person, very huge area to walk and starts inside with a video. read more

Fort McHenry - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Lovely park with free trails and views. Love that the cherry blossoms are here too. There are a couple spots to park, but best believe they kick you out on time! The park rangers were on us to leave 8 mins before closing, and one of them not so nice. Think nicely shaded areas for a picnic and water views. There's a fee to see the historic area but otherwise the grounds are free to visit. Will like to go back to see the museum. read more

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What an amazing place. It was an inspiring to see the place where the American spirit birthed the "Star Spangled Banner"our national anthem. Walking the grounds and climbing the ramparts made the words of the song come alive. The park rangers were very helpful and shared some very good information. I would definitely recommend visiting this historic site. read more

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My family and I recently journeyed to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland--the very ground where Francis Scott Key found the inspiration to pen The Star-Spangled Banner. Walking through the fort's storied ramparts felt like stepping back into the early 19th century. As we explored the grounds, we traced the paths once trod by American defenders during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. We wandered past rows of cannons, peered into the quarters where soldiers lived, and stood upon the former sites of barracks and hospitals that once bustled with wartime urgency. There was something truly powerful about standing where American troops held their ground against the British Empire, safeguarding the young nation's freedom. The experience wasn't just educational--it was downright epic. read more

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This is a great place for a walk, a run, or even a bike ride, and it works well for a wide range of ages and activity levels. I'd especially recommend doing this on a nice weather day because that really makes the visit. It's not the kind of attraction that overwhelms you, and that's exactly why I liked it. Simple, historic, scenic, and easy. Fort McHenry was a really nice stop, especially if you want a break from indoor attractions and crowds. The best part is that the outer grounds are free, and parking is free too, which is getting harder and harder to find at worthwhile places. You do need a ticket if you want to go into the actual fort, but even without that, it's still worth visiting. You can walk around the grounds, check out the visitor center, and enjoy the waterfront setting without spending much or feeling like you missed the whole experience. read more

We had a great time touring Fort McHenry. Our son is a huge history buff and requested this convenient stop since we were flying out of nearby Baltimore airport. Parking was super easy, and the staff at the visitor center were very informative and friendly. Entrance was $16 per person (16+) and free for kids 15 and under, which is a great deal. Fort McHenry is most famous as the site of the War of 1812 battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner. Standing on those historic grounds really brings that moment in history to life. The exhibits and video presentation were excellent. I especially enjoyed how the film ends with a chorus singing our national anthem, and then the screen automatically rises to reveal a direct view of the fort's historic flagpole--it gave me chills. We also loved hearing the Park Rangers and reenactment volunteers explain musket shooting and cannon use, which added so much authenticity to the visit. Overall, this was a fantastic experience for our whole family--highly recommended if you're in the Baltimore area. read more

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Great experience, beautiful grounds and historic site! So glad we visited. There is an introductory "movie" in the visitor center and at the end the Star Spangled Banner plays and the screen rolls up to reveal the fort up on the hill, very impactful! The park rangers were very friendly and helpful, answering questions and offering to take photos. Reasonably priced at $15pp. Highly recommend. read more

Fort McHenry - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Fort McHenry national historic site is a must if you're in Baltimore. This was where our national anthem was born. Admission is $15 for adults and free for 16 and under. I recommend watching the short video and following the park ranger afterwards. You can learn so much more about American history by listening. read more

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The park ranger with the long blonde braid was rather inhospitable.however the atmosphere was a very interesting and made me feel like I was revolutionary war read more

Fort McHenry - Fort Mcheney - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Beautifully maintained Fort McHenry was a last stop on our recent trip to Baltimore. We went on national parks day so admission was free which made it a little extra busy on a Saturday but we easily found parking in one of their two big lots and went to stroll all around. It really is in a beautiful location looking out past Baltimore into the sea. A lot of people are currently there to photograph views of the Francis Key bridge collapse, so sad. You are able to walk all around and inside the fort in various areas. Lots of information to read and take in about its history. They have an indoor museum and shop as well. If you are in the area, it is definitely worth checking out. I am glad we did! read more

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Awesome to visit where the Star Spangled Banner was inspired. Rangers were very informative and helpful. Be sure to watch the movie (gave me chills) and get there early to be a part of the flag exchange @10am read more

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hit head going down bunker because there weren't any warning sign. Learned nothing on the field trip to here.

If you are in Baltimore and like history this is a great place to visit. They keep the fort and grounds very well kept and clean. Parking is free and you can walk around the fort for free. However, if you want to view the museum inside the building, you must pay. I personally would not waste your money viewing the museum. It is very, very small and just has screens that give you an oral history of the fort. Barely any artifacts and the ones they have are replicas. Note: that the star spangled banner is NOT kept here. It is in the American History Museum in DC. read more

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This place is amazing. I'm not a history buff, but this place truly helped me appreciate our nation more, especially those who fought hard for our freedom. The video is a MUST see! After the video, one of the museum guides spoke a little about Francis Scott Key & the Star-Spangled Banner, and he did an amazing job and articulated his knowledge well. This portion alone is worth the visit. It is moments like this in history that it makes me see God's grace, mercy, and sovereignty all the more. It seems like we should not have won at all, but in the end, we were triumphant. If you have a young child, you can also make them a Junior Ranger! They are also given a small booklet with fun questions/scavenger hunt so they can enjoy their visit more. Overall, this place is amazing and is a must if you're visiting Maryland! read more

Nice park for walking/ running/ walking with doggies /buddies. I came here buying the annual national parking pass when needed. The only minus point is that they close early on weekend make it hard to stop by for a walk. read more

Fort McHenry - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I had some family come in from out of town so I decided to show them a little bit of Baltimore history. I'd never been to Fort McHenry but had heard it had several cherry blossom trees so I wanted to check them out before the flowers were gone. The museum is small but the main attraction is the fort itself and the beautiful grounds surrounding it! The views of the Chesapeake were stunning. We showed up at the right time and got a free walking tour from one of the national park staff members which turned out to be very interesting and informative. Definitely check this place out on a sunny day with the family! read more

First time in Maryland, went to Fort McHenry and really enjoyed walking through the museum and surrounding Fort areas. Right on the edge of the water, it was cool to see how the United States military fought for our freedom from the British back in the 1800s. Lots of cannons and different sized cannon balls on display. read more

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Fort McHenry is one of my favorite places in Baltimore. Now it brings in photographers as it's a place to see the sad collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. It's most known as the place where the Star-Spangled banner was written by Francis Scott Key. I always recommend Fort McHenry to people who are history buffs - as this was also a battle site for the War of 1812. This is part of the National Park Service, so it's federally maintained. There is a great museum, with education videos. I've actually never paid to see the fort. I like coming here to walk along the seawall - it feels like you're so close to the open sea, when actually you're seeing the harbor. It's also one of my favorite places to see the cherry blossoms. It's not as crowded as DC, although it can get crowded on the weekends. Make sure you don't just see the ones by the front - there's a whole cluster further in. I love to bring a blanket and picnic and read when the weather is really nice. It's also quite nice when it's foggy and eerie. There's a giant statue of Orpheus. A must stop for cherry blossoms in late March/early April - bring a jacket as it also gets windy. read more

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Neat fort in the Baltimore area with lots of history on the war of 1812. You can tour the actual fort plus the exhibit. read more

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We had a great time visiting the Fort. We got there in time for the flag raising which was so cool. It was fun to walk around. The exhibits were well done and gave you a good sense of how it was. Do not miss the video in the welcome center! It was so well done with the flag flying at the fort at the end. Made me so proud. read more

Fort McHenry - Cannons - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

What an amazing historical landmark! We learned so much about the war of 1812 and Francis Scott Key/the star spangled banner. It is free to peruse the gift shop, museum (definitely watch the 10 min movie) and to walk the park with views of the water, Key Bridge, ships, and Canton. We didn't go into the fort (15$ entry fee) but still had a great time exploring. Check it out! Great for visitors to Baltimore. read more

Fort McHenry - Orpheus statue - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

The film was so cool. *spoiler* The screen rises at the end to show the Fort. So awesome. And, of course, on 2 SEP 2024, the weather turned toward autumn, making it a gorgeous day. read more

Fort McHenry - Fort McHenry Entrance Gate. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Of course my elementary school teacher went over Francis S. Key, the Star spangled banner and all that. But she never went over it like this! Wow. This national park stop has brought it all together for me. Napolean at war w/Britian. The British forcing American sailors into service in their navy and stealing private ships and goods. The 'War Hawks' and war of 1812. The burning of Washington. The poem that became our anthem. Suddenly, all the pieces fell into a cohesive puzzle. You should go. read more

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Fort McHenry is a well-preserved fort on the bay with beautiful views. Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled Banner after seeing a battle here. It also was the sight of a battle in 1814 (during the war that began in 1812). The grounds are lovely and enjoyable to visit. read more

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I loved visiting Fort McHenry while visiting Baltimore. It's always so interesting to learn about/see pieces of history. There was a short video inside near the entrance that I found really informative. I also really enjoyed going through the fort and walking up on the ramparts. We didn't have a ton of time here and we saw it all in about 45 mins but I could definitely see spending more time here reading everything. A great stop and a reasonable price! read more

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The last time I tried stopping in the interior was closed for pandemic reasons. This time, I could use my parks pass (though no one seemed that interested in checking it) to explore. The fort symbolizes a moment of inception in American history, and they heavily emphasize that the national anthem was written about it. The original Old Glory that flew here is now on display in the Smithsonian, but the fort remains an interesting visit. It's got more history than Fort Washington, and is in better shape than Fort Sumter, other comparable historic sites. There were several small indoor spaces open, and a variety of educational materials bringing out some historical points that I wasn't familiar with. The views from the surrounding peninsula are pretty good, though the breeze is brisk in colder weather. It's definitely a site where you can spend some time. read more

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(This visit was made during the times of Covidious in May. When things return to a look of normality - your experience likely will vary.) So, let's bring the reviews of Fort McHenry into the current pandemic format. If you're going to visit the star fort, note that as of May 22nd the fort itself is now open daily from 9-5:45pm. The grounds and entrance gates are open daily from 9-6pm. That is a biggie because as mentioned prior, there are entrance gates to the parking area which get locked at that time. I would assume if you're still crazy enough to be there past 6pm they'll run your plates and try to get contact information that way or they might just tow your ass to parts unknown. Either way, keep track of the time. The Visitors Center is still closed which is sad because the movie and the artifacts/exhibits are 1st rate. The only part of the building that is open are the restrooms. Enter the front door and turn hard left. As anyone who has been to FM knows, this is one of the NPS sites that charges an entrance fee. You don't need to pay to park on the grounds or even to walk part of the grounds, but the actual fort itself in premise can only be accessed by paying a fee. Now I say in premise because under the current format, the only way to pay the fee is to go to recreation.gov and pay for admission or an annual pass in advance then I assume show that to a ranger if they ask. We were there on opening day (May 22nd) and it was hot as hell and the 4 rangers we saw could have cared less about people paying anything. I paid and was ready, but all of them stayed huddled by the large flag inside the fort talking to each other the whole time we were there. Also note that the NPS still requires masks on the grounds of all their sites but once you got away from the rangers most people weren't doing it, us included, and nothing was mentioned. With all of that BS said, if you go note that not all of the buildings you could get into prior are currently open. Most are, but some like the officers bunk area is now roped off so that you can't wander inside like you could prior. The views of the Patapsco are still amazing and standing up on the corner by the Water Battery and feeling the passing breeze is heavenly on a sunny day. This is true living breathing history and should be a must visit far more than the brazen tourist trap crap of the Inner Harbor. Don't Ask. Just Go. www.nps.gov/fomc/planyourvisit/maps.htm (Also note that the CCC bus drops off fairly close to the entrance gates. If you're somewhere by the Inner Harbor and need a ride out here it is available and it is free.) read more

Fort McHenry - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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A must see if in Baltimore. The visitor center has a great film telling the history of the star spangled banner and displays that will likely tell you information you didn't know about the War of 1812 with Britain. The grounds are very pleasant and the fort itself exhibits cannons and artifacts from earlier times. Definitely do this. read more

Fort McHenry - Entrance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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This monument is a national treasure. It has free parking and is well maintained. The historic fort covers about 45 acres and is absolutely amazing. Many of the exhibits inside of the actual fort were closed due to COVID. The rangers there are very friendly and helpful. The fort has many placards around the grounds to explain its history and significance. The Fort was built in 1798 and is most known for defending Baltimore Harbor from a British attack during the War of 1812. The monument consists of an actual fort, open field with picnic tables, an old battery building, some statues and a gift shop with bathrooms. I went on a Saturday and it was free, however their website says that there is a $15 admission fee for people 15 and older to go into the historic zone (the fort). Pets are not allowed in the historic zone, but I still some there while I was there. You cannot go into the Fort, but you can go into the courtyard and look through the windows. The cannons are astonding and a marvel to look at. They were one of the best parts of my visit, minus the view. There is a wide open field right outside of the historic zone. And there is another field with benches and a bunch of picnic tables by the battery structure and the statue of Orpheus, the Greek mythological hero of music and poetry. I enjoyed my visit to the Fort. It was very educational and peaceful. It is located right off of the Patapasco River which is so calming. This is a great place to have a picnic on a beautiful day. This is a must visit and well worthy of planning a trip to. read more

Definitely one of the must see places if you are visiting Baltimore! If you are a history buff, this place plays a major role in American History. It truly is spectacular seeing the layout of the fort and the view overlooking Baltimore Harbor is fantastic. An added bonus, if you come during the spring, you can catch amazing views of the cherry blossoms in full bloom! Definitely put this down on your list of must visit locations! :) read more

Fort McHenry - Entrance to the visitor center - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Great place in our hometown to learn significant history of our country. Self guided tour with actors portraying people of the time period to explain the fort and the time period. Also Park Rangers to help and teach you. read more

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I had a doctor's appoint at Hopkins and we decided to make a day trip of it, pick up some lunch and do a picnic here on a nice, sunny (if hot) day. The park was way cooler than I expected. The visitor's center that you enter through has a pretty informative ~10-15 minute video that explains the story of Fort McHenry and the creation of the Star Spangled Banner in way that taught me a few things even though I grew up and Maryland and was some what indoctrinated with the story in elementary school. I'd never known (or forgotten) that Francis Scott Key was basically a diplomat and was being held prisoner on a ship in the harbor during the battle. On the weekday at lunchtime while we were there, the place wasn't too crowded and mask compliance was pretty good, so I was more comfortable than usual being indoors with unvaccinated kids. The actual grounds are spectacular to explore, especially on a nice day like we had. You get great views of the harbor and it's just a pretty place to be. Beyond that there are a bunch of small rooms around the fort set up to give you some history including seeing how soldiers lived in the barracks, how officers lived, and even the cross beam that supported the flag pole for the actual, original star spangled banner. There's also tons of cool cannons (mostly not from the revolutionary war or even replicas) that are fun to walk around and see--especially if you have kids. read more

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Awesome views of the city . Great outdoor space . The fort is awesome . Great picnic area. read more

I was never a big history fan while going through the school system, but now, I am thrilled to have been where hundreds of years ago we fought the British. To be on the same ground as did hundreds of soldiers and trying to visualize this incredible event in the history of the United States of America. If you were to stack all the men and women that helped preserve the coast from total devastation from the British, and to what end this gave the American people to help keep the British away from this part of the land we now call home, and very proudly. I was blessed that I could come here and see this, if it weren't for the people behind this event, call The Honor Flight, of which I am a retired Vietnam Veteran. This will be with me forever read more

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This fort right in Baltimore is a cool visit to see some War of 1812 history. The whole Francis Scott Key story is further explained in detail, in addition to how America was able to hold this fort against the British to protect Baltimore Harbor. There are staff who wear period costumes and many displays within the fort to tell personal stories of the officers who manned this fort. Overall, good place to visit with kids and there are plenty of walking trails outside the fort that are pet friendly. read more

The fort which is a Natural Park is located in the Locust Point neighborhood of Baltimore. This is the spot that inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star Spangled Banner. The guides were really friendly and informative. There's nice walking paths by the waterfront as well. A must see destination for history buffs. read more

Fort McHenry - Drummer corp - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Incredible national monument. The visitor center is quaint but really well kept and has some great information to read. My obvious favorite part was walking around the fort itself. I had no idea that it was used past the War of 1812 and was amazed to learn so much more history in regards to the Civil War and WWI. Never realized how critical the city of Baltimore has been in American history. The park rangers are all very helpful and friendly. Some great mini exhibits in the fort itself that do a great job of depicting what life was like in the fort in the midst of battle. It's also a beautiful location right on the water-a spectacular location to enjoy a nice sunny winter day. Pro tip: Bring your national park pass if you have one!! Will get you free entry. read more

Fort McHenry - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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