Cashless Fee Collection FAQ

Cashless Policy FAQ

Why did the park change to cashless operations?

Reducing cash collected in fee operations allows a park unit to be a better steward of our visitors’ dollars. It allows Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine to:

• Reduce the amount of time park staff spend managing cash (i.e. reduce our administrative burden)
• Improve accountability, reduces the chance of errors, and allows the park to maximize funding available for visitor services and critical projects
• Reduce transaction times
• Cashless fee collection helps us stay safe, secure, and effective and allows our rangers to spend more time with visitors.

When did the park start cashless operations?

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine switched to cashless operations upon reopening indoor fee stations in the summer of 2021.

What if I only have cash?

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine has entered into a third-party agreement with Evelyn Hill Inc. to sell entrance passes out of the park bookstore, located in the park visitor center. The park bookstore can collect cash for park entrance fees. 
**NOTE: The park bookstore sells park entrance passes ONLY. America the Beautiful Passes and Fort McHenry Annual Passes are NOT available in the bookstore.**

Can I use contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay or my pre-paid Wallet phone app)?

Yes, contactless payments, such as Apple Pay, work with all park fee stations.

Can I use a personal check or cashier’s check?

No. Only credit, debit, and other forms of electronic payment will be accepted at the park fee stations.

Can I purchase a pass before I get to the park?

Yes. Visitors can go to recreation.gov to purchase a Fort McHenry Annual Pass (valid for one year), or a Fort McHenry single entry pass (valid for 7 days). 

Can I show a digital copy of my pre-paid entrance pass at park entrance stations?

Yes.

Can I still use cash inside Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine?

Yes. While cash is not accepted a the park entrance fee desk, the park bookstore and vending machines (operated by the park bookstore) do accept cash.

What advantages does a cashless policy have for the park visitor?

Uniform cashless policies should decrease wait times and reduce errors around making change. Going cashless will create opportunities to purchase park passes online allowing visitors to avoid lines and have more time to enjoy the park. In addition, costs affiliated with proper handling of cash (armored car services, larger more secure safes, etc.) are greatly reduced, allowing fee dollars to be better allocated to facilities that will better serve the visitor.

What are entrances fees used for?

Entrance fees are an important source of revenue used to improve the visitor experience in national parks, including road and facility repairs and maintenance, trail improvements, accessibility improvements, visitor and resource protection services, and more.

How much does it cost to enter the Fort McHenry Historic Zone?

The cost for entrance into the Fort McHenry Historic Zone is $15 per person (good for 7 days). An annual pass, good for one year from the month of purchase, costs $45. More information on passes and fees can be found on the park’s website.

How are commercial tours affected?

Commercial tours and large groups are encouraged to purcase passes on recreation.gov ahead of time to avoid wait times upon arriving at the park. Commercial tours and large groups that do not purchase passes ahead of time should still plan on paying via electrionic payment.

How can I express concerns about the park's cashless policy?

Any concerns reguarding the park's cashless policy or fee program can be emailed directly to the park's fee manager. If at the park and wishing to express concerns, please ask a ranger for a visitor comment form that will be sent directly to the park's superintendent.