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Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Brooklyn, Maryland · Baltimore County

by the dawn's early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars... were so gallantly streaming...over Fort McHenry! The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814 inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anth…

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39.26395, -76.58044
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About Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

by the dawn's early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars... were so gallantly streaming...over Fort McHenry! The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814 inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anthem. The fort's history holds many other stories too, from the Civil War to WWII.

How to Get There

The 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. From I-95 northbound, take Exit 55 Key Highway and follow Fort McHenry signs.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Heading to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine?

No central reservation system listed for Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2695) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine?

The 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. From I-95 northbound, take Exit 55 Key Highway and follow Fort McHenry signs.

How do I contact Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine?

You can reach the park at phone: (410) 962-4290 or email: FOMC_Interpretation@nps.gov.