National Parks / Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
National Monument and Historic Shrine — MD
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.
Current Alerts
- InformationWe cannot mail out at this time
We do not mail Junior Ranger books; please download from site. Completed books may be submitted digitally. Junior Ranger badges may be mailed once per person per calendar year after completion. We do not mail completed books back.
More info → - InformationPreservation Work Along Trails
Starting March 18, preservationists restoring the bronze state plaques along the entrance road, and the War of 1812 commemorative markers in the Orpheus Grove. Some of these areas may be temporarily closed while work is in progress.
- InformationBaltimore Area Traffic Advisory
Traffic in the Baltimore area has increased considerably in recent months due to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge which connected the Baltimore beltway. Please check the latest traffic conditions to plan your travel accordingly.
- InformationMotorized Recreational Scooters Not Permitted in Park
For the safety and protection of visitors and park resources, motorized scooters are not permitted within the park. Any vehicles (scooters, bicycles, etc.) that are part of a ride-share program may not be left behind for pick up inside the park
Source: National Park Service.
Upcoming Events
- Flag TalkSun Aug 23 2026Meet behind the Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center.
- Evening Flag ChangeSun Aug 23 2026Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort
- Morning Flag ChangeSun Aug 23 2026Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort
- Battle of BaltimoreSun Aug 23 2026
- American AnthemSun Aug 23 2026
- War in the ChesapeakeSun Aug 23 2026Meet at Chesapeake Map behind Visitor Center.
- Evening Flag ChangeMon Aug 24 2026Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort
- Lazaretto Lighthouse Walk and Talk (America in Motion Monday)Mon Aug 24 2026
- Defenders' Day ParadeFri Sep 11 2026The parade starts at the north end of Hull Street (Key Highway and Hull Street intersection) and marches south until turning on to Fort Avenue and continuing east to the gates of the park.
- Defenders' DaySat Sep 12 2026