Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine • Maryland

Fort McHenry

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.

Blue Angels fly over Fort McHenry
Tim Ervin

Large group of visitors assisting with folding a large American flag

Plan Your Visit

What is open? Are there fees? What can I do there? Find answers to all of these questions and more!

A ranger giving a program inside historic star fort.

Ranger Programs

Find out what programs are happening throughout the year!

Students observing a fife and drum presentation

Plan a Field Trip

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

Fife and drum camp members posing on bastion.

Visiting During Sail 250

Plan your visit to the park during the Sail 250 Maryland events between June 24 and June 28, 2026.

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

History & Culture

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

Eastern box turtle standing on a dirt path.

Natural Resources

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

Last updated: June 15, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21230

Phone:

410 962-4290 x250

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