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A large American flag waved over the brick sallyport of an old fort.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

warningInformation4 warnings calendar_monthApr–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule1 dayplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic ShrineYour own route Plan a trip here →
Information Preservation Work Along Trails

Starting March 18, preservationists restoring the bronze state plaques along the entrance road, and the War of 1812 commemorative markers in the Orpheus Grove. Some of these areas may be temporarily closed while work is in progress.

Information Baltimore Area Traffic Advisory

Traffic in the Baltimore area has increased considerably in recent months due to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge which connected the Baltimore beltway. Please check the latest traffic conditions to plan your travel accordingly.

Information Motorized Recreational Scooters Not Permitted in Park

For the safety and protection of visitors and park resources, motorized scooters are not permitted within the park. Any vehicles (scooters, bicycles, etc.) that are part of a ride-share program may not be left behind for pick up inside the park

Information We cannot mail out at this time

We do not mail Junior Ranger books; please download from site. Completed books may be submitted digitally. Junior Ranger badges may be mailed once per person per calendar year after completion. We do not mail completed books back. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a significant site in American history, known for its role in the War of 1812. It is here that Francis Scott Key penned 'The Star-Spangled Banner' after witnessing the fort withstand a British bombardment.

Read more

Visitors come to reflect on the fort's historical importance and to explore its well-preserved structures and grounds. The site offers educational programs and reenactments, providing insights into early American military history and the fight for independence.

In pictures

Men in War of 1812 era uniforms pull a cannon over grass outside of a brick fort.
Men in War of 1812 era uniforms pull a cannon over grass outside of a brick fort.

Things to do

Fort McHenry's Defenders
45-60 Minutes · Summer

On this program we'll explore the generations of defenders of Fort McHenry, from those who protected Baltimore...

Flag Change Programs
10-15 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Join the park for its morning or evening flag change programs!

War in the Chesapeake
30-45 Minutes · Spring/Summer

This free 45-minute ranger program focuses on the Chesapeake Campaign of the War of 1812. Follow a dramatic st...

American Anthem: 250 Years at the Home of the Brave
45 Minutes · Summer

Join a ranger for a 45-minute walking program exploring Fort McHenry’s history of service, community, and defe...

Ranger's Choice Programs
25-45 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Daily programs being offered at Fort McHenry NM&HS!

Fort McHenry Movie
12-12 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Fort McHenry's introductory film is one of the most popular activities at the park.

Fife and Drum Music Demonstration
10-15 Minutes · Summer

Music played an important role in the daily lives of soldiers garrisoned at Fort McHenry. A soldier's entire d...

Battle of Baltimore
45-60 Minutes · Spring/Summer

This 45–60-minute, ranger-led walk guides visitors from the Chesapeake Map to the Historic Star Fort. Along th...

Weapons Demonstration
10-15 Minutes · Summer

Learn about the weapons of the War of 1812 from the park's living historians! *Please note that these programs...

Fort McHenry Park Gift Shop
Winter/Spring

An overview of the Fort McHenry park gift shop.

Living History at Fort McHenry
Summer/Fall

Learn about how to experience living history at Fort McHenry.

Flag Talk
20-30 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Join rangers in a program about the American flag.

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1798
Open
Daily 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Price
Per Person $15, Non-commercial Groups $15, Commercial Entrance - Per Pe $15
Accessibility
wheelchair accessible
Address
2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230
Opening hours
Daily 9:00AM - 5:00PM
Phone
4109624290
Price
~$15
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect queues during weekends and holidays.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Plan to spend at least two hours to explore the fort and museum.
Dress for the weather, as much of the visit is outdoors.

Photo: NPS/ Tim Ervin