Battle of North Point🏛 museum
Museum on the War of 1812 battlefield that preceded the bombardment of Fort McHenry.
🌐 dnr.maryland.gov🕒 08:00-Sunset
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Fort McHenry
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Historical site
Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, is a star-shaped coastal fortification best known for its pivotal role in the War of 1812. During the British naval attack on Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814, the fort's garrison successfully withstood a massive 25-hour bombardment. Francis Scott Key, who witnessed the assault from a nearby ship, was so moved by the sight of the large American flag still flying over the fort the following morning that he penned the poem 'Defence of Fort M'Henry.' This work later became the lyrics to 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' which was officially designated as the United States national anthem in 1931. Today, the site is preserved as a National Monument and Historic Shrine, showcasing late 18th-century military engineering. Visitors can explore the ramparts, barracks, and original cannon positions while learning about the successful defense that prevented a British occupation of Baltimore. The fort remained in military use through World War II, serving variously as a hospital and a prisoner-of-war camp.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Battle of North Point · Fort Carroll · Fort Armistead
- Nearby: Edgewater (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 1 | 5 | 11 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 25 | 21 | 14 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 72 | 87 | 93 | 100 | 118 | 118 | 114 | 111 | 109 | 82 | 98 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Fort McHenry is a national monument and can be visited both inside and outside. The visitor center, casemates, and grounds with the flag are open to the public.
Typical hours
The fort is typically open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours in summer. Holiday hours may be limited; checking online beforehand is recommended.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the fort, including indoors and on the grounds. Flash is not permitted in exhibit areas to protect delicate artifacts.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours if you explore the museum, grounds, and harbor view. For ranger programs, allow an extra 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with nearby Baltimore Inner Harbor, including the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center. The historic Fells Point neighborhood is also worth a walk.
Getting there
The fort is located at the tip of the Locust Point peninsula in Baltimore and is accessible by car via I-95. Parking is available on-site; MTA Maryland buses stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the fort in the late morning when the flag-raising ceremony typically occurs (usually around 10:30 a.m.). Bring binoculars for birdwatching at the harbor.
Geography
Facts
- The fort was constructed between 1798 and 1800 to protect the port of Baltimore.
- The British attack in September 1814 involved an estimated 1,500 to 1,800 shells and rockets.
- The famous garrison flag that inspired the national anthem measured 30 by 42 feet.
- Fort McHenry is the only place in the US designated as both a National Monument and Historic Shrine.
- During the American Civil War, the fort served as a prison for Confederate sympathizers.
- The star-shaped design allowed artillery to fire in multiple directions to repel naval attacks.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Fort McHenry (14)
Fort Armistead🛡️ fortress
Historic coastal defense fort near the entrance to Baltimore Harbor.
Battle Grove Park🌳 park
Park with a wooded grove, possibly a historic battlefield site.
🌐 baltimorecountymd.gov🕒 24/7
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Fort McHenry?
A historic coastal fort known for the defense of Baltimore in 1814.
Is the entry expensive?
Admission to the grounds and visitor center is moderate.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours for a visit.
Is the fort accessible?
Yes, the site is largely accessible and flat.
When is the best time?
Spring and summer are well-suited for visiting the coast.
Fort McHenry: where is it located?
Fort McHenry is located in United States.
Fort McHenry: what is there to see?
Highlights include Battle of North Point, Fort Carroll, Fort Armistead.
Fort McHenry: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Fort McHenry: why is it worth visiting?
Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, is a star-shaped coastal fortification best known for its pivotal role in the War of 1812.
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