Visit Fort McHenry
Fort McHenry offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. As you explore the 43-acre grounds, you’ll be walking through a site that played a pivotal role in American history. The fort’s historic significance comes to life as you stroll, run, or bike along the one-mile loop that traces the water’s edge. The site’s stunning views of Baltimore are perfect for a family picnic or a fun day out with the kids. Fort McHenry is not just a scenic spot; it’s a place where you can connect with the past while enjoying the present.
History of Fort McHenry
The beautiful grounds at Fort McHenry belie the significance of the fort’s history. After burning the Capitol in Washington, D.C., the British headed to Baltimore, the third-largest city in the U.S. at the time. The Battle of Baltimore that followed combined a naval and land assault against American forces around the city. American troops held their ground against the far stronger British forces and saved Baltimore from facing the same fate as Washington D.C.
The battle inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became “The Star-Spangled Banner,” today’s National Anthem.
The Fort McHenry grounds overlook the Baltimore Harbor and the Patapsco River. Within that space is the historic Star Fort, Visitor Center, Civil War-era ammunition magazine, and the Sea Wall Trail, which offers scenic views.
Walking through the restored fort, it’s not hard to imagine being stationed there in 1814 and watching bombs raining down on the fort and the surrounding area. Fortunately, the 1,000 defenders at the fort withstood the assault, and the British Navy was forced to retreat. The fort was used again during the Civil War and served as a hospital during World War I.
The most extensive collection of Civil War-era cannons lines the battery. The museum includes many flags, uniforms, photographs, weaponry, and other military memorabilia. Often, there are costumed re-enactors. Tours of the fort are self-guided.
Check the calendar for any daily or special programs.
Fort McHenry Visitor Details
Address: 2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230
Website: https://www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm
Hours: 9 AM – 4:45 PM
Extended Weekend Hours: May 31 – August 31, 2025. Fort McHenry will extend weekend hours from May 31 to August 31, 2025. On Saturdays and Sundays, the park will remain open until 6:00 p.m. Last entrance to the park is 15 minutes before close.
Parking: Available on site
Restrooms: Available on site
Pets: Pets are allowed on the park grounds except in the historic area
Admission: Fort McHenry NM&HS requires an entry fee of $15 per adult (ages 16 and older) to enter the Historic Zone (where the historic Star Fort structure is located). $45 for an annual pass.
The remaining park grounds, visitor center, and movie are free to visit. Free on November 11 in honor of Veterans Day
Entrance passes can be purchased at the park visitor center from 9 AM – 4 PM, or 9 AM – 5 PM in the summer. Park registers are cashless. Entrance passes are good for 7 days with a valid receipt.
Download the app before you leave home and use it as your virtual Visitors Center.
