Best Things to Do in Baltimore

Explore Baltimore

Also Featured In

Photo courtesy of Visit Baltimore

Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine

Item: Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine
Author: Tamar Alexia Fleishman

Type: Family Friendly, Historic Sites, History Museums, Military, Museums, Sightseeing

10Best Says

Don't let the 3 seconds your history teacher spent on the War of 1812 color your decision about Ft. McHenry. The continued war against England was complicated and doesn't lend itself to an easy narrative. US Park Service rangers at Ft. McHenry breathe life into the battle and how Baltimore safeguarded the freedoms we all enjoy today.

Summer is an especially good time to visit the fort, with daily ranger talks and weekend living history. . . you may see just one reenactor during the off season. The Fort McHenry Guard performs drill, musket and artillery demonstrations. It's interesting to see people wearing the uniforms they did, acting as they did.

Fort McHenry was where the flag was still flying that inspired Francis Scott Key to write our national anthem, The Star Spangled Banner.

Address:

2400 E Fort Ave
Baltimore, MD 21230-5393

Phone:

410-962-4290

Website:

nps.gov

Hours:

Daily 8am-4:45pm
Hours May Vary Seasonally

Admissions:

7 Day Pass Adult (16+) $7; Child (15 and under) Free

EXPERT TIPS BY: Tamar Alexia Fleishman
Baltimore Local Expert

Things to Do with Kids: "Not only is Ft. McHenry historic and fascinating, but it's a beautiful piece of land, as well. Locals can be seen running, enjoying picnics right outside the fort."
Best Attractions & Activities: "Not only is Ft. McHenry historic and fascinating, but it's a beautiful piece of land as well. Locals can be seen jogging and enjoying picnics right outside the fort."

Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: The ultimate activity for kids is appreciable on many levels, provides learning and fun in a beautiful setting: the real setting.
Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: This is where it all began again. 1814's Battle of Baltimore allowed us to reclaim our nation.

EXPERT TIPS BY: Tom Rowe
Baltimore Local Expert

Free Things to Do: "Take the Charm City Circulator Banner Route from the Inner Harbor to the Fort. It's quick and free and you don't have to worry about moving your car."

Best for Free Things to Do Because: While there is a fee to tour the interior of Fort McHenry, it is free to explore the grounds and various monuments commemorating its history.