Fort McHenry National MonumentDescriptionFort McHenry is world famous as the birthplace of the United States' national anthem. During the War of 1812, this 18th-century star-shaped brick fort defended the Baltimore harbor and in 1814 stopped a British advance into the city. The heroic defense of the fort by 1,000 Americans inspired Francis Scott Key, an amateur poet, to compose the anthem, originally entitled the "Defence of Fort McHenry."
After the Battle of Baltimore, Fort McHenry never again came under attack. However, it remained an active military post for the next 100 years. Now it is a national monument and historic shrine.
Entrance FeeEntrance fee to the fort is $5 for 7 days for adults 16 and over. Children 15 and under are admitted free of charge.
Operating HoursSeptember-May daily 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
June-Labor Day 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, December 25 and January 1.
Getting ThereThe park is three miles southeast of the Baltimore Inner Harbor and just off I-95. Follow the brown Fort McHenry directional signs along all major routes to the park.
Public transportation: Maryland Transit Administration Bus #1 stops at the park main gate.
East Fort Avenue, Baltimore
Maryland 21230
Phone: (410) 962-4290
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