Visit The Star Fort Historic Zone

A living historian greets visitors at the entrance of the historic zone.

NPS/Tim Ervin

Visitors can step back in time and enter the original star fort structure. The star fort is surrounded by an outer battery with original Rodman cannons dating back to the 1860's. Some passage ways lead down into powder magazines as well. Inside the star fort structure are original buildings that feature exhibit and museum spaces. Visitors are encouraged to go from exhibit to exhibit to learn the story of the battle that inspired the writing of the "Star-Spangled Banner," Fort McHenry's role as a prison in the Civil War, and General Hospital No. 2 from World War I. Park staff and volunteers staff the fort daily and are available to answer any questions the visitors have. 

This is a fee area. The fee to enter the historic zone is $15 per adult (16 and older). Fees can be paid at the park visitor center or online at recreation.gov.

Historic zone hours are 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM in the Spring, Fall, and Winter. Summer hours are 9:00 AM - 5:45 PM.

Details

Duration

45 Minutes

Activity

Museum Exhibits

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

Yes

It is $15 per adult (16 and older) to enter the Star Fort Historic Zone. Passes can be purchased either in the park visitor center or online at recreation.gov.

Location

Star Fort

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Historic Zone Hours:
Fall, Winter, and Spring: 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM
Summer: 9:00 AM - 5:45PM

Accessibility Information

It is accessible to reach the historic zone by a paved path leading from the park visitor center. inside the historic zone are accessible brick and gravel paths to explore the fort. Most buildings have accessible doors and ramps to enter. Some buildings and pathways are only accessible by stairs however.