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.

Large group of visitors assisting with folding a large American flag
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!

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

Three Fort McHenry Guard members during a cannon demonstration
Fort McHenry Guard

Learn about opportunities to bring history to life with the Fort McHenry Guard!

Guide to visitors for fees and passes
Fees & 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.

Three rangers mapping a route outdoors
Star-Spangled Banner NHT

Discover the national historic trail that tells the story of the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake Bay region.

Last updated: October 11, 2024

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21230

Phone:

410 962-4290 x250

Contact Us