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.

Guide to visitors for planning their visit to the site

Plan Your Visit

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

Guide to visitors for fees and passes

Fees & Passes

Find information about fees and passes to Fort McHenry

Coast Guard standing in formation at Fort McHenry's outer battery.

History & Culture

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

A ranger talking to a group of visitors behind the visitor center.

Ranger Programs

Find out what programs are happening throughout the year!

a group of Fife and Drum campers posing for a picture in Fort McHenry

War of 1812: Fife and Drum Camp

Learn about the Fife and Drum kids camp at Fort McHenry!

NPS App

NPS App

Let a park ranger be your guide! Its your mobile visitor center! The NPS App is the brand new official app for all 420+ national parks.

Kids & Youth

Kids & Youth

Kids can have a great time at Fort McHenry! Find information on field trips, activities, and materials for the classroom.

Last updated: February 12, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21230

Phone:

410 962-4290 x250

Contact Us