Fort McHenry National Monument
8.2Friend Score / 10#5 of 20 Attractions in Baltimore
Known forfort mchenrystar spangled bannerwar of 1812star fort
The star-shaped fort whose 1814 defense inspired 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' The grounds and waterfront seawall path are free; entering the historic fort costs $15 (under 16 free). Genuinely moving, not a tourist trap — the flag-raising and the harbor views alone justify the trip. Getting there without a car takes some planning.
Key facts
| Hours | Daily 09:00–16:45 |
|---|---|
| Price | $ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Limited — MTA bus toward Locust Point then a walk; most visitors drive (free parking lot) or take the seasonal water taxi |
| Time needed | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Best time to go | Morning for the flag ceremony and cooler seawall walks; September for Defenders Day events |
| Last verified | July 12, 2026 |
Friend Score
8.2/10- Value8.5
- iconic8.0
- Freshness9.2
- Crowd level7.5
- Authenticity8.5
- Accessibility6.0
Frequently asked questions
- What are Fort McHenry's hours?
- The fort, visitor center, and restrooms are open daily 9:00am to 4:45pm. The outer grounds and seawall path stay open later — locals jog the loop into the evening.
- Can I watch the flag ceremony at Fort McHenry?
- Yes — rangers raise and lower the flag daily and often invite visitors to help handle it, which is a surprisingly memorable thing to do. Arrive near opening or ask a ranger about the day's timing.
- Is Fort McHenry really where the national anthem was written?
- Yes — Francis Scott Key watched the British bombardment of this fort from a ship in the harbor in September 1814, and the flag still flying at dawn inspired the poem that became the anthem. The visitor center film ends with a genuinely goosebump-inducing flag reveal.
- Can I get to Fort McHenry without a car?
- It's doable but clunky — an MTA bus gets you to Locust Point with a walk to finish, and a seasonal water taxi sometimes serves the fort. Driving is easiest (the lot is free), or a rideshare from downtown runs about 10-15 minutes.
- Is there food at Fort McHenry?
- No restaurant on site — just vending and water. Locust Point and Fort Avenue, on your way in, have solid casual options; grab food before or plan a picnic on the grounds outside the fort.
- How much does Fort McHenry cost?
- The park grounds, seawall trail, and visitor center are free; entering the historic star fort itself is $15 for ages 16 and up, and kids 15 and under are free. America the Beautiful passes are honored.
- How long should I spend at Fort McHenry?
- Budget 1.5 to 2.5 hours: the orientation film, the fort and barracks exhibits, and a lap of the seawall with harbor views. History buffs during a ranger talk or living-history weekend could stretch it to half a day.
- Is Fort McHenry good for kids?
- Very — kids can roam the ramparts, climb on cannons' viewing areas, earn a Junior Ranger badge, and burn energy on the huge waterfront lawns. Under-16s get into the fort free, which helps.
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Where to stay near Fort McHenry National Monument
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