Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine • Maryland

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

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

Visitors hold the edges of a large American flag as it is raised on to a large flagpole

Two young visitors with their right hands in the air as they are sworn in as Junior Rangers

Man in brought yellow shirt with a blue bicycle standing in front of a Fort McHenry identifier sign.

O! Say can you see by the dawn's early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars... were so gallantly streaming...over Fort McHenry! The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814, inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anthem. The fort's history holds many other stories too, from the Civil War to WWII.

A star-spangled banner still gallantly streaming o'er the ramparts of Fort McHenry
NPS/ Tim Ervin

Attend a historic weapons demonstration by the Fort McHenry Guard.
NPS/ Tim Ervin

Visitors can help rangers change hoist the colors during a morning or evening flag change program.
NPS/ Tim Ervin

Kids of all ages can discover the history of Fort McHenry as they earn their Junior Ranger badges.
NPS/ Tim Ervin

Bike, walk, run, or relax along the park's one-mile-long Seawall Trail.
NPS/ M. de Manincor

Celebrate America’s stories during National Park Week, August 22-30, 2026!

Large group of visitors assisting with folding a large American flag

What time does the park open? Are there fees? What can I do there? Find answers to all of these questions and more!

A ranger giving a flag program inside historic star fort.

From flag changes to guided tours, find out what programs are happening throughout the year!

Students observing a fife and drum presentation

Find all the information you need to bring your students or group to the park.

Living History member motioning with cutlass in front of crowd.

Join us September 11th-13th for special Defenders’ Day events commemorating the successful defense of Baltimore in 1814!

Guide to visitors for fees and passes

Find information about fees and passes to Fort McHenry.

Statue of George Armistead looking out over Patapsco River

Links to both the historical and cultural significance of Fort McHenry throughout the years.

Eastern box turtle standing on a dirt path.

While better known for its historical significance, Fort McHenry is home to many different species of wildlife and plants.

Last updated: August 18, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21230

Phone:

410 962-4290 x250

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