Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

2400 East Fort Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21230-5393

Phone
Visitor Information
(410) 962-4290

Explore the Birthplace of the National Anthem

“O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,” a large red, white and blue banner? “Whose broad stripes and bright stars . . . were so gallantly streaming!” over the star-shaped Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore, September 13-14, 1814. The valiant defense of the fort by 1,000 dedicated Americans inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Directions:

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 or southbound, take Exit 55 Key Highway and follow Fort McHenry signs on Key Highway to Lawrence Street. Turn left on Lawrence Street and then left on Fort Avenue. Proceed one mile to the park.

From the Inner Harbor, take Light Street south to Key Highway. Turn left and follow the Fort McHenry signs to Lawrence Street. Turn right on Lawrence Street and then left on Fort Avenue to the park.

Visitor Center

Fort McHenry
Open - Daily, 8 A.M.-4:45 P.M.
Phone: 410/962-4290
Location: Near the park entrance.
Exhibits: Exhibits, model of the Star Fort and a movie theater featuring the film, "The Defense of Fort McHenry."

Museum

Star Fort
Open Daily, 8 A.M.-4:45 P.M.
Phone: 410/962-4290

Location: Within 200 yards of the Visitor Center.

Exhibits: Exhibits of historical and military memorabilia, electric battle map, restored barracks, restored flag pole. New exhibits include the Commander's Quarters, Guard House, Powder Magazine, the Enlisted Men's Quarters and "Witness to War."

Available Facilities: Restrooms are located in the Star Fort.

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