Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

This historic national monument is where the Star-Spangled Banner was inspired, and you can feel the patriotic vibes. The fort's stunning location on the Patapsco River offers beautiful views and waterfront walks. It is possible to learn a lot about the 1814 battle that inspired Francis Scott Key's iconic poem which in the 1930s became the USA National Anthem. The movie is totally worthy and the end is great (even on a not windy day). There is a trail available to walk for free of charge. If you want to explore the historic fortifications, barracks, and exhibits there is a fee per person (or use the Annual National Park Pass). There are days with flag-changing ceremonies(check the schedule), reenactments, and concerts. It was not crowded, but it was a winter day. Parking was great, but consider public transit or walking during the summer. Restrooms on site and a nice gift shop. As always, the park rangers are amazing, friendly, and knowledgeable.

Fort McHenry is truly a gem. If you’re ever in downtown Baltimore, it’s an absolute must-visit—not just for the scenery, but for the powerful history tied to the War of 1812 and the origins of our National Anthem, born from Francis Scott Key’s famous poem. Every time I go, I learn something new. It’s incredibly informative, and the park rangers are consistently outstanding. A special shout-out to Ranger Brannon—competent, sharp, and engaging. He explained to us not only the deeper historical context, but also why Fort McHenry became a historic shrine rather than simply a national park. It was a great piece of information that really added to the experience. Also, for military veterans and active-duty service members, don’t forget to get your Gold Star and Veteran Pass. It’s a lifetime membership that gives you free access to all national parks across the country. This is a must-see anytime you’re in Baltimore. A true treasure.

Historic US Park/monument located off interstate 95 in Baltimore MD. You can walk the grounds for free, but is $15 to get into the Fort (exhibits) itself. Free for all Military and Military retirees/veterans (with ID). You can easily walk around the trails and do the Fort exhibits under 2 hours. Not a difficult walk and is wheelchair accessible. A nice afternoon trip.

I met my sister and brother-in-law to tour the historic site. I knew that the Star Spangled Banner was written about the battle during the War of 1812. The movie in the visitor center is very well done. The artifacts and examples of the canon balls and rockets provide imagery and perspective as to what happened in 1814 there at the fort. We walked the fort and a volunteer (Dave from California) gave us a very interesting lesson on what happened and what the army suffered to hold the fort and protect Baltimore. It gave me a great appreciation, admiration, and love for those patriots! It will increase my feeling of patriotism each time I hear our grand national anthem!!! Long may it wave!!!

My family and I recently journeyed to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland--the very ground where Francis Scott Key found the inspiration to pen The Star-Spangled Banner. Walking through the fort's storied ramparts felt like stepping back into the early 19th century. As we explored the grounds, we traced the paths once trod by American defenders during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. We wandered past rows of cannons, peered into the quarters where soldiers lived, and stood upon the former sites of barracks and hospitals that once bustled with wartime urgency. There was something truly powerful about standing where American troops held their ground against the British Empire, safeguarding the young nation's freedom. The experience wasn't just educational--it was downright epic.

Short but informative video to start the tour. Rangers are very knowledgeable about the fort's history. I arrived in time for the flag changing ceremony, which they allow guests to help participate in. Lovely views of the harbor from the fort or walking trails.

This historic gem is NOT to be missed. When you arrive, wait for the short movie and be sure to watch. When the window coverings rise, the American flag appears and it is stunning. What a 10/10 presentation! The staff were very kind and helpful. For Patriotism, this is the place to indeed visit!

SO MUCH FUN! I went for a school field trip, and it did not disappoint. We walked the whole thing, and I loved the preservation of old rooms. My favorite was the one execution cell. The place has high educational value, but it's also a good exercise and it's very interesting. I would love to go again with my family. It was so pretty.

My family and I recently journeyed to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland--the very ground where Francis Scott Key found the inspiration to pen The Star-Spangled Banner. Walking through the fort's storied ramparts felt like stepping back into the early 19th century. As we explored the grounds, we traced the paths once trod by American defenders during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. We wandered past rows of cannons, peered into the quarters where soldiers lived, and stood upon the former sites of barracks and hospitals that once bustled with wartime urgency. There was something truly powerful about standing where American troops held their ground against the British Empire, safeguarding the young nation's freedom. The experience wasn't just educational--it was downright epic.

We had a great time touring Fort McHenry. Our son is a huge history buff and requested this convenient stop since we were flying out of nearby Baltimore airport. Parking was super easy, and the staff at the visitor center were very informative and friendly. Entrance was $16 per person (16+) and free for kids 15 and under, which is a great deal. Fort McHenry is most famous as the site of the War of 1812 battle that inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner. Standing on those historic grounds really brings that moment in history to life. The exhibits and video presentation were excellent. I especially enjoyed how the film ends with a chorus singing our national anthem, and then the screen automatically rises to reveal a direct view of the fort's historic flagpole--it gave me chills. We also loved hearing the Park Rangers and reenactment volunteers explain musket shooting and cannon use, which added so much authenticity to the visit. Overall, this was a fantastic experience for our whole family--highly recommended if you're in the Baltimore area.

Fort McHenry national historic site is a must if you're in Baltimore. This was where our national anthem was born. Admission is $15 for adults and free for 16 and under. I recommend watching the short video and following the park ranger afterwards. You can learn so much more about American history by listening.

First time in Maryland, went to Fort McHenry and really enjoyed walking through the museum and surrounding Fort areas. Right on the edge of the water, it was cool to see how the United States military fought for our freedom from the British back in the 1800s. Lots of cannons and different sized cannon balls on display.

Beautifully maintained Fort McHenry was a last stop on our recent trip to Baltimore. We went on national parks day so admission was free which made it a little extra busy on a Saturday but we easily found parking in one of their two big lots and went to stroll all around. It really is in a beautiful location looking out past Baltimore into the sea. A lot of people are currently there to photograph views of the Francis Key bridge collapse, so sad. You are able to walk all around and inside the fort in various areas. Lots of information to read and take in about its history. They have an indoor museum and shop as well. If you are in the area, it is definitely worth checking out. I am glad we did!

This place is amazing. I'm not a history buff, but this place truly helped me appreciate our nation more, especially those who fought hard for our freedom. The video is a MUST see! After the video, one of the museum guides spoke a little about Francis Scott Key & the Star-Spangled Banner, and he did an amazing job and articulated his knowledge well. This portion alone is worth the visit. It is moments like this in history that it makes me see God's grace, mercy, and sovereignty all the more. It seems like we should not have won at all, but in the end, we were triumphant. If you have a young child, you can also make them a Junior Ranger! They are also given a small booklet with fun questions/scavenger hunt so they can enjoy their visit more. Overall, this place is amazing and is a must if you're visiting Maryland!

I had some family come in from out of town so I decided to show them a little bit of Baltimore history. I'd never been to Fort McHenry but had heard it had several cherry blossom trees so I wanted to check them out before the flowers were gone. The museum is small but the main attraction is the fort itself and the beautiful grounds surrounding it! The views of the Chesapeake were stunning. We showed up at the right time and got a free walking tour from one of the national park staff members which turned out to be very interesting and informative. Definitely check this place out on a sunny day with the family!

Neat fort in the Baltimore area with lots of history on the war of 1812. You can tour the actual fort plus the exhibit.

If you are in Baltimore and like history this is a great place to visit. They keep the fort and grounds very well kept and clean. Parking is free and you can walk around the fort for free. However, if you want to view the museum inside the building, you must pay. I personally would not waste your money viewing the museum. It is very, very small and just has screens that give you an oral history of the fort. Barely any artifacts and the ones they have are replicas. Note: that the star spangled banner is NOT kept here. It is in the American History Museum in DC.

Nice park for walking/ running/ walking with doggies /buddies. I came here buying the annual national parking pass when needed. The only minus point is that they close early on weekend make it hard to stop by for a walk.

Fort McHenry is one of my favorite places in Baltimore. Now it brings in photographers as it's a place to see the sad collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. It's most known as the place where the Star-Spangled banner was written by Francis Scott Key. I always recommend Fort McHenry to people who are history buffs - as this was also a battle site for the War of 1812. This is part of the National Park Service, so it's federally maintained. There is a great museum, with education videos. I've actually never paid to see the fort. I like coming here to walk along the seawall - it feels like you're so close to the open sea, when actually you're seeing the harbor. It's also one of my favorite places to see the cherry blossoms. It's not as crowded as DC, although it can get crowded on the weekends. Make sure you don't just see the ones by the front - there's a whole cluster further in. I love to bring a blanket and picnic and read when the weather is really nice. It's also quite nice when it's foggy and eerie. There's a giant statue of Orpheus. A must stop for cherry blossoms in late March/early April - bring a jacket as it also gets windy.

I loved visiting Fort McHenry while visiting Baltimore. It's always so interesting to learn about/see pieces of history. There was a short video inside near the entrance that I found really informative. I also really enjoyed going through the fort and walking up on the ramparts. We didn't have a ton of time here and we saw it all in about 45 mins but I could definitely see spending more time here reading everything. A great stop and a reasonable price!

The film was so cool. *spoiler* The screen rises at the end to show the Fort. So awesome. And, of course, on 2 SEP 2024, the weather turned toward autumn, making it a gorgeous day.

We had a great time visiting the Fort. We got there in time for the flag raising which was so cool. It was fun to walk around. The exhibits were well done and gave you a good sense of how it was. Do not miss the video in the welcome center! It was so well done with the flag flying at the fort at the end. Made me so proud.

Great place in our hometown to learn significant history of our country. Self guided tour with actors portraying people of the time period to explain the fort and the time period. Also Park Rangers to help and teach you.

What an amazing historical landmark! We learned so much about the war of 1812 and Francis Scott Key/the star spangled banner. It is free to peruse the gift shop, museum (definitely watch the 10 min movie) and to walk the park with views of the water, Key Bridge, ships, and Canton. We didn't go into the fort (15$ entry fee) but still had a great time exploring. Check it out! Great for visitors to Baltimore.

Fort McHenry is a well-preserved fort on the bay with beautiful views. Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled Banner after seeing a battle here. It also was the sight of a battle in 1814 (during the war that began in 1812). The grounds are lovely and enjoyable to visit.

A must see if in Baltimore. The visitor center has a great film telling the history of the star spangled banner and displays that will likely tell you information you didn't know about the War of 1812 with Britain. The grounds are very pleasant and the fort itself exhibits cannons and artifacts from earlier times. Definitely do this.

Of course my elementary school teacher went over Francis S. Key, the Star spangled banner and all that. But she never went over it like this! Wow. This national park stop has brought it all together for me. Napolean at war w/Britian. The British forcing American sailors into service in their navy and stealing private ships and goods. The 'War Hawks' and war of 1812. The burning of Washington. The poem that became our anthem. Suddenly, all the pieces fell into a cohesive puzzle. You should go.

Definitely one of the must see places if you are visiting Baltimore! If you are a history buff, this place plays a major role in American History. It truly is spectacular seeing the layout of the fort and the view overlooking Baltimore Harbor is fantastic. An added bonus, if you come during the spring, you can catch amazing views of the cherry blossoms in full bloom! Definitely put this down on your list of must visit locations! :)

The last time I tried stopping in the interior was closed for pandemic reasons. This time, I could use my parks pass (though no one seemed that interested in checking it) to explore. The fort symbolizes a moment of inception in American history, and they heavily emphasize that the national anthem was written about it. The original Old Glory that flew here is now on display in the Smithsonian, but the fort remains an interesting visit. It's got more history than Fort Washington, and is in better shape than Fort Sumter, other comparable historic sites. There were several small indoor spaces open, and a variety of educational materials bringing out some historical points that I wasn't familiar with. The views from the surrounding peninsula are pretty good, though the breeze is brisk in colder weather. It's definitely a site where you can spend some time.

Awesome views of the city . Great outdoor space . The fort is awesome . Great picnic area.

This monument is a national treasure. It has free parking and is well maintained. The historic fort covers about 45 acres and is absolutely amazing. Many of the exhibits inside of the actual fort were closed due to COVID. The rangers there are very friendly and helpful. The fort has many placards around the grounds to explain its history and significance. The Fort was built in 1798 and is most known for defending Baltimore Harbor from a British attack during the War of 1812. The monument consists of an actual fort, open field with picnic tables, an old battery building, some statues and a gift shop with bathrooms. I went on a Saturday and it was free, however their website says that there is a $15 admission fee for people 15 and older to go into the historic zone (the fort). Pets are not allowed in the historic zone, but I still some there while I was there. You cannot go into the Fort, but you can go into the courtyard and look through the windows. The cannons are astonding and a marvel to look at. They were one of the best parts of my visit, minus the view. There is a wide open field right outside of the historic zone. And there is another field with benches and a bunch of picnic tables by the battery structure and the statue of Orpheus, the Greek mythological hero of music and poetry. I enjoyed my visit to the Fort. It was very educational and peaceful. It is located right off of the Patapasco River which is so calming. This is a great place to have a picnic on a beautiful day. This is a must visit and well worthy of planning a trip to.

I was in awe with this place So rich in history There is free parking available The indoor gift shop Must pay to get into fort The path around the fort is one way only because of COVID (April 2021)

I had a doctor's appoint at Hopkins and we decided to make a day trip of it, pick up some lunch and do a picnic here on a nice, sunny (if hot) day. The park was way cooler than I expected. The visitor's center that you enter through has a pretty informative ~10-15 minute video that explains the story of Fort McHenry and the creation of the Star Spangled Banner in way that taught me a few things even though I grew up and Maryland and was some what indoctrinated with the story in elementary school. I'd never known (or forgotten) that Francis Scott Key was basically a diplomat and was being held prisoner on a ship in the harbor during the battle. On the weekday at lunchtime while we were there, the place wasn't too crowded and mask compliance was pretty good, so I was more comfortable than usual being indoors with unvaccinated kids. The actual grounds are spectacular to explore, especially on a nice day like we had. You get great views of the harbor and it's just a pretty place to be. Beyond that there are a bunch of small rooms around the fort set up to give you some history including seeing how soldiers lived in the barracks, how officers lived, and even the cross beam that supported the flag pole for the actual, original star spangled banner. There's also tons of cool cannons (mostly not from the revolutionary war or even replicas) that are fun to walk around and see--especially if you have kids.

I was never a big history fan while going through the school system, but now, I am thrilled to have been where hundreds of years ago we fought the British. To be on the same ground as did hundreds of soldiers and trying to visualize this incredible event in the history of the United States of America. If you were to stack all the men and women that helped preserve the coast from total devastation from the British, and to what end this gave the American people to help keep the British away from this part of the land we now call home, and very proudly. I was blessed that I could come here and see this, if it weren't for the people behind this event, call The Honor Flight, of which I am a retired Vietnam Veteran. This will be with me forever

This fort right in Baltimore is a cool visit to see some War of 1812 history. The whole Francis Scott Key story is further explained in detail, in addition to how America was able to hold this fort against the British to protect Baltimore Harbor. There are staff who wear period costumes and many displays within the fort to tell personal stories of the officers who manned this fort. Overall, good place to visit with kids and there are plenty of walking trails outside the fort that are pet friendly.

The fort which is a Natural Park is located in the Locust Point neighborhood of Baltimore. This is the spot that inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star Spangled Banner. The guides were really friendly and informative. There's nice walking paths by the waterfront as well. A must see destination for history buffs.

(This visit was made during the times of Covidious in May. When things return to a look of normality - your experience likely will vary.) So, let's bring the reviews of Fort McHenry into the current pandemic format. If you're going to visit the star fort, note that as of May 22nd the fort itself is now open daily from 9-5:45pm. The grounds and entrance gates are open daily from 9-6pm. That is a biggie because as mentioned prior, there are entrance gates to the parking area which get locked at that time. I would assume if you're still crazy enough to be there past 6pm they'll run your plates and try to get contact information that way or they might just tow your ass to parts unknown. Either way, keep track of the time. The Visitors Center is still closed which is sad because the movie and the artifacts/exhibits are 1st rate. The only part of the building that is open are the restrooms. Enter the front door and turn hard left. As anyone who has been to FM knows, this is one of the NPS sites that charges an entrance fee. You don't need to pay to park on the grounds or even to walk part of the grounds, but the actual fort itself in premise can only be accessed by paying a fee. Now I say in premise because under the current format, the only way to pay the fee is to go to recreation.gov and pay for admission or an annual pass in advance then I assume show that to a ranger if they ask. We were there on opening day (May 22nd) and it was hot as hell and the 4 rangers we saw could have cared less about people paying anything. I paid and was ready, but all of them stayed huddled by the large flag inside the fort talking to each other the whole time we were there. Also note that the NPS still requires masks on the grounds of all their sites but once you got away from the rangers most people weren't doing it, us included, and nothing was mentioned. With all of that BS said, if you go note that not all of the buildings you could get into prior are currently open. Most are, but some like the officers bunk area is now roped off so that you can't wander inside like you could prior. The views of the Patapsco are still amazing and standing up on the corner by the Water Battery and feeling the passing breeze is heavenly on a sunny day. This is true living breathing history and should be a must visit far more than the brazen tourist trap crap of the Inner Harbor. Don't Ask. Just Go. www.nps.gov/fomc/planyourvisit/maps.htm (Also note that the CCC bus drops off fairly close to the entrance gates. If you're somewhere by the Inner Harbor and need a ride out here it is available and it is free.)

This National Park is so easy to access from Baltimore and definitely worth a visit. Parking is plentiful and the views of the Inner Harbor from the fort are photo-worthy. Take time to explore the exhibits in the museum and watch the ten-minute video for a better understanding of the historical significance of this Fort. It's more than the place where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write his poem which later became the lyrics for the Star Spangled Banner. Wander through the Fort and grounds and imagine what it was like as rockets and cannons bombarded the area for hours through the night. You might be inspired, too.

Fort McHenry is one of the most famous sites in Baltimore and one of the most visited attractions in the city. It is famous for its role in the War of 1812, when it defended the Baltimore harbor from an attack by the British Navy from the Chesapeake Bay in 1814. It was the flag flown over the fort that signaled American victory over the British inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem "Defence of Fort M'Henry" that later became the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." So, yes, you should the visit (it's a National Park Service property), tour the star-shaped fort, watch the movie on the history of the fort/War of 1812, and visit the small museum at the fort. It's definitely worth a visit. But why I do I LOVE Fort McHenry? It's simple. It's a great place to take a picnic, read a book, and walk. The grounds are wonderful, and it's become a place that locals go for a picnic or to enjoy wonderful weather. I've been with friends visiting from out of town twice recently. One friend is very interested in US history, and we walked around the fort, watched the movie, and explored the museum. My next friend to visit loves a picnic and reading her book with a view, so we bought some cheese, charcuterie, and fruit and took it, a blanket, and our books over close to the sea wall and enjoyed a lazy afternoon. It's quite industrial across the water from the fort, but you still get a wonderful breeze, the sound of water and waves, and views of boats (big and small) going by. It's a special spot in Baltimore for lots of reasons. So whether you want to go for the history or the picnics, check it out.

About 20 minute drive from Downtown Baltimore is this historical site and park. The site and museum costs $15 per person, paid via honor system (they don't check). It was amazing to learn about our countries wars and history. There's many people outside just enjoying the beautiful trees, vast fields, and water views and trails. Definitely worth a visit!

We didn't get chance to get into the fort because it's Sunday or Covid, but from plates along with the trail around it, I learned timportant part of US history.

You know that one song that is usually sung before an American sports game or other major event?... I think it's called an anthem or something like that? It goes something like "Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?..." Well, someone named Francis Scott Key was inspired and decided to write it and called it the Star-Spangled Banner... Fort McHenry is what the location that started it all. A significant piece of history is here at Fort McHenry and is definitely worth a visit if you are visiting Maryland! The entry fee is around $10 and includes access to the fort along video and display boards to educate patrons its significance. There are also great views of the Patapsco River! A nice touch is that they even have role play actors and actresses dressed in clothing from this period showing some of the traditions when the fort was active. Be sure to check out the video at the beginning of the tour to gain a good understanding of what happened that inspired Francis Scott Key to write our national anthem. Afterwards, why not head into Baltimore and grab some fresh crab to eat?

COVID: The park and monument is mostly out doors, the site stated that the visitors center was closed, so we weren't surprised by that. Signs still show masts are needed but mostly everyone was going without until they went in a building. The fort and park area have nearly no trashcan yet the entire place is spotless! Very well maintained both in the fort itself as well as the story telling displays that are scattered through the trails and buildings. If you're looking to learn some history and stand in the shadows of our ancestors who fought both in the War of 1812 and the Civil War, then this is a great stop. Again, kudos to the staff for keeping it spotless, there weren't many rangers or guides (possibly because eof covid?) But those that were there were super friendly when we passed by.

"Ooohh say can you seeee...". As a history buff it's hard not to give them 5 stars - mostly because of my great tour guide (without one, there's not as much to do). I spent about 2 hours here, although you can see everything in under half that. $10 visitor's fee, and parking is free (and easy). By monument standards, this place is actually kinda small; I guess after everything you've heard about it, the real thing pales to what you had in your imagination. But the original fort is still intact, and the visitors center has a small theater for movies and history area. The only thing that's missing is the original flag - which is at the National Smithsonian in DC. As with many national monuments, a visit is exponentially better with an NPS guide. Mine was dressed in period costume, and he talked about not only the fort (and its previous occupants), plus some background about Francis Scott Key and the song. Even without a guided tour you can still view the barracks, which has interactive show-and-tell features. Some fun facts: 1) Many of the defenders were...military contractors! They were actually called "Sea Fencibles"; citizens paid to defend the fort and man the cannon. But by today's standards, they were basically contractors. 2) The defenders got lucky. See, a British cannon hit the fort's gunpowder stocks - which stupidly was located IN THE LINE OF ENEMY FIRE. Normally, this would have caused a really big 'boom'. Fortunately the cannonball was either a dud or the fuse went out due to the weather. Literally, our national anthem could have been different if it wasn't raining so hard. 3) Fort McHenry is the only park allowed to fly a period-accurate US flag (with 15 stars). And the flag pole is on the same exact spot as the original was on, during the War of 1812.

Nice nps site. Historically significant site that is absolutely worth preserving. Very energetic rangers,. Evening flag rotation is very well done. This is a place to check out in Baltimore.

I love National Parks and National Monuments. Fort McHenry is beautifully restored and immediately kept. The views of the harbor are excellent. I movie about the Star Spangled Banner was informative.

What else can you say, the inspiration for the Star Spangled Banner (national anthem). This Fort played a key role in the United States defeating England in the War of 1812. As the battle roared on Francis Scott Key pens his poem which later becomes our National Anthem. The fort is maintained pretty well and the displays they have help tell the story although I wished they would have had a bit more to give a full explanation of what happened in this battle. They had a small group of volunteers who were dressed in time period clothing and gave a presentation to explain how the cannons played a role in the battle but I was hoping to have more. Unfortunately no one really spoke of Key's contribution. It would have been nice to have someone talk about this historical part. It is mostly a self directed tour you can take at your own pace. We enjoyed it and the grandkids had a blast reading the displays.

If you love American history then you need to visit Fort McHenry! The fort is preserved really well and re-enactments and lessons were informative and fun. Good for all ages! Parking is free and you can hang out along the bay after in the park.

Very pretty place to take a walk on the loop with or without your dog. Fort seems to be well maintained. Nice visitor's center.

I visited this historic treasure with a great friend and my mentor. My friend had visited Baltimore many times and I have visited at least five times. Neither one of us had been to Fort McHenry. I am glad that I finally visited this wonderful place. This is a DO NOT MISS attraction if you visit Baltimore. This historical site will help anyone appreciate this country all the more! It is well worth the $15 adult admission. Be sure to start at the visitors center where you will pay the admission and see the movie. The movie should not be missed, especially the unveiling of the flag at the end of the movie. The movie is well done. The staff and volunteers make history come alive.

I found Fort McHenry surprisingly enjoyable. Hearing about the battle that took place here, and the writing of the Star Spangled Banner stirred my American soul. I really enjoyed walking the extensive grounds, going into the buildings, and spending as little or as much time as I wanted here. The canons on the outer edge are massive, and the grounds are beautiful. Do yourself a favor when in Baltimore, DC area and make a point to come to Fort McHenry. 'Murica!

Pretty spot for a walk! Easy to get to and park. Amenities are nice and clean. Super interesting!

Go here! This was my favorite part of my brief trip to Baltimore, and I almost didn't make it. My husband and I decided to go check out Fort McHenry after we realized Charm City Cakes wasn't open on Mondays (lol). Our friend suggested checking it out if we had some time, and I wasn't that enthusiastic at first. I wondered how much there was to really say about the National Anthem. A lot! There is so much to say about the national anthem! There are timelines about the song's slow rise to our Anthem, different renditions you can listen to, a high quality production about the battle that inspired it (did Steven Spielberg intern at NPS??), and more. There's also a really nice path around the fort that looks out to the bay. Parking is free here, and I heard you can take a water taxi to downtown Maryland too (its right across the bay).

Great place! We enjoyed the walk along the water and then into the Fort. The views were amazing. The Fort is set up very well with exhibits in many of the buildings that were informative and well illustrated. The video about the Battle of Baltimore was really interesting and easy to follow. It explained the strategies of both sides and used technology to illustrate while explaining. It included the story of Francis Scott Key's vision of the flag and how it inspired him to write the Star Spangled Banner. Take the time to watch it when you go. Other exhibits included Ft McHenry's part in the Civil War and World War I. Beautiful grounds, friendly and helpful staff, nice gift shop too! Definitely a great place to visit! Cost was very reasonable- if I lived closer I would get a membership!

The Birthplace of the Star Spangled Banner and America's national anthem. Fort McHenry became the rallying point against the British Naval forces in the War of 1812. It was here that the United States of America defended Baltimore and the harbor from a British Invasion. It was one of the main items to do and see while in Baltimore, Maryland during my stay here for two days. Even TripAdvisor recommends you to come and visit Fort McHenry National monument, as it is a sacred place for all Americans. I made sure to put this place on my places to see and visit during my time here in Baltimore, Maryland. I arrived here around 2:30 PM on a partly cloudy day in mid November 2018. I had 2 hours to see just about everything before they closed the gates at 5:00 Pm for the night. I entered the main visitor center and took a look at all the exhibits an information they posted and provided for the man who wrote the Star Spangled Banner. It was interesting to here how they took apart Key's poem about the flag was still there amidst the continuous battle and shelling on Fort McHenry. I got to see a short film about the war and circumstances that lead Francis Scott Key to be inspired and motivated to pen the eventual words to the what we know as the National anthem as it exists today. For the most part though, it was truly an educational and productive visit that I have ever had the privilege of such an experience. Glad I made a stop here to visit and discover. After listening to the short film, I made my way outside to hear a National Park Service ranger give me a speech about how the events of the war and the battle against the British naval forces became a war rally cry for the United States during that time. The flag was very symbolic due to the fact that, like the anthem, the flag was there all along during the battle and we never surrendered. In the end, we survived that and America prevailed against the British naval attack. It was very amazing to hear the National Park ranger give that speech to the small group assembled there. After that, we walked up onto the Fort McHenry herself and took a look around. In the fort walls itself, there were 3 main buildings that housed the quarters for the military personnel. They had preserved some of the original pieces that were used back in the day when the fort was still active for military use. Nowadays, it's preserved for future generations via the federal government and the National Park Service. It was cool to see the cannons outside the Fort. I also got to see the changing of the flag at 4pm, which is pretty cool. I learned that they fly an extra large replica of the original flag during the day. Then change it out to a smaller all weather flag during the night. The overall experience here at Fort McHenry national monument was as epic and amazing as I can remember it out to be. It was an awesome experience to see the birthplace of our national anthem and to relive the battle here against the British naval forces in 1812. It reaffirms the fact that I am proud to be an American. Fort McHenry National monument is located at 2400 E Fort Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland. There is an entrance fee of $15, which was reasonable, given the historical significance of the Fort and what it represents. They accept major credit cards, which is always a plus. As far as parking goes, they have a small but limited parking area for everyone to come and park. Public transportation options are always good and readily available in the metro Baltimore area. If you prefer, you can use uber or Lyft, if that method suits you better. Best bet is to have your own wheels to come here for the optimum opportunity. For the most part though, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience here at Fort McHenry National monument and look forward to returning here soon. It's good that we can just walk up to the fort and not have to wait for a boat, like how it was at Fort Sumter in South Carolina. 5.0 stars for the overall experience. Getting to see the flag changing ceremony was cool and unexpected during my stay. Check it out during your stay in Baltimore. Support local! A+

Incredible national monument. The visitor center is quaint but really well kept and has some great information to read. My obvious favorite part was walking around the fort itself. I had no idea that it was used past the War of 1812 and was amazed to learn so much more history in regards to the Civil War and WWI. Never realized how critical the city of Baltimore has been in American history. The park rangers are all very helpful and friendly. Some great mini exhibits in the fort itself that do a great job of depicting what life was like in the fort in the midst of battle. It's also a beautiful location right on the water-a spectacular location to enjoy a nice sunny winter day. Pro tip: Bring your national park pass if you have one!! Will get you free entry.

I was not excited first because I don't like to see war pictures. But this place is great to study American history and has a good view and picnic sights. Also I happened to see the biggest dark brown snakes of my life by chance. It looks simple but takes about 2 hours check it out well. Price: $0-10 Free for Military. Visitor service: Pretty good. Parking lot: Free.