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Aug 27, 2024 · 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.
- Plan Your Visit
Visiting Fort McHenry. Visitors to Fort McHenry National...
- History & Culture
Battle of Baltimore. Learn about Fort McHenry's role in one...
- News
Stay Connected with Fort McHenry News Releases. Stay up to...
- Fees & Passes
Fort McHenry NM&HS requires an entry fee of $15 per adult...
- Calendar
The park calendar of events offers a listing of special...
- Maps
Fort McHenry. National Monument and Historic Shrine Maryland...
- Ranger Programs
A ranger giving a flag change program. NPS. 2024 Late Summer...
- Fees & Reservations
Fort McHenry is a per person fee charging park. Academic Fee...
- Info
Effective June 1, 2018 the entrance fee to Fort McHenry will...
- Alerts
Fort McHenry. National Monument and Historic Shrine Maryland...
- Plan Your Visit
Fort McHenry is a historic fort in Baltimore, Maryland, that defended Baltimore Harbor from British attacks in the War of 1812. It inspired the national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner" and is a U.S. National Monument and Historic Shrine.
- Entrance Fees to Historic Zone and Star Fort
- Self-Guided and Virtual Tours
- Ranger Programs
Fee collection of $15 for visitors, ages 16 years and up, has resumed for entrance to the historic fort. Daily entrance tickets are good for 7 days and can be purchased prior to visiting online at recreation .gov or in the park visitor center. Onsite registers are open from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Other federal passes such as the Senior Pass, Annual ...
The fort is self-guided. There are several virtual and self-guided tour options that allow visitors to view all exhibit areas and have a guided experience via smart device.
Ranger talks and guided interpretive walks are offered at different times throughout the year. Check out the current Ranger Programsschedule!
Learn about the 1814 battle that inspired the "Star-Spangled Banner" and led to a peace agreement between the United States and Britain. Explore the historical context, facts, maps and resources of Fort McHenry.
- It’s the birthplace of our national anthem. The first fort commissioned by the U.S. government, Fort McHenry was tested during the War of 1812 when the British attempted to take over Baltimore.
- It’s a great place to stretch your legs. Fort McHenry is a National Park site and the grounds surrounding it are open to the public for free. There is a path for walking, running or biking that circles the fort and lines the water’s edge, making for some amazing views while you get your exercise.
- It’s a fun spot for events. Fort McHenry has a full calendar of events designed to bring history to life for visitors. Living history programs take place every weekend in the spring and summer months.
Learn about the history of Fort McHenry, a star fort that defended Baltimore Harbor from 1798 to 1945. Explore its role in the War of 1812, the Civil War, and the First World War, and its connection to the national anthem.
Visit the site of the Battle of Baltimore in 1814, where the Star-Spangled Banner was born. Learn about the history of Fort McHenry, the War of 1812, and the flag that inspired Francis Scott Key.
