This is a remarkable visit for anyone who loves history and America. Make sure you watch the video in the museum first before heading up to the fort. There are also exhibits inside the fort and a lot to explore. There are many forts up and down the east coast that are similar, but this one is unique for its history and position. The gift shop is not run by the NPS but is still well stocked with interesting offerings. I look forward to returning.

This was a great experience. We decided to go on a whim and are very glad we made the stop. The weather was super hot but it was worth it. There were reenactments and the displays were very informative and entertaining. The video at the main entrance is awesome. The displays are well thought of and there are several interactive areas. The cost is $15 per adult, with several discounts available (military, student, senior, etc.) This place is a must if you are like history. If you have kids, I think they would enjoy it more if they are 10 or older.

Wonderful place! Very well preserved! One of the most historical places in the United States! A guided tour is absolutely the way to go and is so much easier than any other historical place I've been to! The access to the different rooms and areas is fantastic! The views are fantastic! It's amazing to think what it would've been like from a historical sense but even today it is so picturesque. Even if you didn't go as a tourist to the fort, the grounds serve as a nice walking/running path. During the time I was there, I saw numerous people who were clearly not tourists, walking around the area. What a great thing! Would highly recommend making it a point to stop and see the birthplace of the National Anthem!

It was a beautiful fall day and we got to walk along the river to the fort. It starts in the tourist center where there is a multimedia presentation that tells how the fort was the inspiration for the Star Spangled Banner. But there is much more to this fort than that. You will see artifacts, learn about the War of 1812 and how that was a pivotal moment in the history of the US (hint: we weren't always a super power). Layer on top of that the recruiting center for two world wars, an 1100 bed hospital that pioneered plastic surgery for the returning soldiers, statues, and expert guides and you are in for a wonderful experience. There are some really big cannons there too, and examples of different types of shells designed to be effective against people, rigging, or infrastructure. Now if all you are interested in is people you have a great variety of those too. I could identify at least 12 different languages being spoken from all different parts of the world. The curators are very knowledgeable and it runs deep. Don't hesitate to ask lots of questions to gain some great insights into how things truly were (not exactly like I was taught in third grade).

We had a great time visiting the fort with family. The staff was very helpful and pleasant. There are great views of the scenery on top of the fort too. I highly recommend stopping by if you are in the area. This is also a national park stamping point.

I wish I could give this 10 stars. The old fort is well preserved and the slice of history here is reflective of a major turning point in the American story. The presentation of the writing of our National Anthem is stirring, emotional and visually unforgettable. Walk the grounds, it's hilly and shade is at a premium, but the experience should not be missed, at all, if you've any interest in American History. My pride as an American is stoked to a flame here. Yours might be too.

I loved visiting this place! They have a nice introduction to what the Fort was used for inside and a short film to watch. On the outside there’s a beautiful view of the harbor with a nice path to walk around the Fort and see what it looks like! They have some activities throughout the day like a flag folding ceremony and it’s definitely a great place to have a picnic!

Wow! While it may seem like it doesn’t have much to offer. If you understand the meaning of our national anthem, you might want to learn about the place that inspired it. A beautiful area that offers a nice peaceful walk around the fort. Very interactive self-guided tour that really takes you back in time. The shrine has a video show that will take your breath away. Loved it!

This is one of the best spots in Baltimore with a lot of history and some fantastic views! Start at the visitors centre where there's a small gift shop and displays and a movie to watch. It's free to visit the centre and surrounding grounds but there is a charge to go into the fort itself and you get a wristband ($15 for a 7 day pass). You then walk up to the fort (this is where they'll check your wrist band). One of the best things is the flag changing ceremony at the start and end of the day (do check for the times) as it's very interactive and really an experience to help raise it (especially if it's a calm enough day to put the big one up!). The fort itself has a variety of areas that you can go in- the open ones will have an Open sign even if the doors shut. The displays are really interesting and well worth looking at. Then you can head up the steps to the ramparts or head to the perimeter of the fort and see the cannons!

This was an unknown story to us before this trip to the area. Check out the display in the visitor's center and be sure to watch the movie before walking to the old fort. It was too windy for the full size flash to be flown the day we were there. The displays inside the buildings added a lot to the story of the battle as well as living in that period as a soldier. We had seen the Fort McHenry flag the previous day at the Museum of American history in DC. Visiting both places was well worth it.

A living preserved artifact of the past, For McHenry is an awesome national monument! The Fort itself is befit by a nice visitor center and park like Path befit by plaques and small dedications to the surrounding area! The Fort section is just as great! From the outside and going in there are TONS of things to see, with personal highlights for me being the inner center were the buildings are and inner artillery around the walls! Everything is incredibly well preserved and looks just as they did during the days they were first put to use! The staff were great too, being incredibly friendly, talkative and interactive, case in point being when the flag was lowered by them and some tourists in the area! My only gripe is I wish I had gotten a better Souvenir but the pamphlet I got was really nice on its own! Other than that? The small admission fee without any paid parking is a small price to pay for visiting such a cool place! Highly recommended, go there if you're in the area! Pictures and videos are of the whole monument as a whole and the pamphlet I mentioned!

Being British, I was slightly apprehensive of what I might find here - the US approach to flag and anthem has always been a little bewildering to Europeans. However, the National Parks Service do their usual excellent job, and while this is of course a celebration of the events of September 1814, it is all put within an excellent discussion of the context of the War of 1812. The museum gives plenty of information about the history of both flag and anthem until the present day, and acknowledges that they have not always been seen as symbols of freedom and liberty by all. There was an excellent ranger talk on the Battle of Baltimore, while the displays in the fort itself trace some of the subsequent history. We spent some three hours enjoying the site of a pivotal moment in US history and consciousness, and it is definitely worth visiting.

I had a great time here with my family today. We all thoroughly enjoyed exploring this historical site. Inexpensive. Accessible to all. Wheelchair friendly. Car parking available. Toilets at the monument. Very helpful and informative staff. A great gift shop with a wide and varied range, from keyrings to a $4000 sword! Oh and Instagram opportunities everywhere! Certainly worth the trip from the UK

Very beautiful historical site. I loved going into the fort barracks and seeing all of the artifacts that they have unearthed on the grounds. We also had the chance to see someone have their own personal flag hoisted up the poll and the rangers on site following the old traditions of flying it.

The history here is amazing and I highly recommend anyone nearby pop in for a visit. You can enter and roam the perimeter of the park for free, or if you want a closer look into the buildings and such, it's $15 per person without discounts. The receipt is also good for 7 days, so you can go back again if you'd like. I was a little disappointed that most of the bunkers, magazines, and buildings were locked up, some appate tlt being repaired, others just never open. I asked a Ra get why and he said "For our safety". Yeah yeah. Highly recommend going for the 5pm changing of the flag. It's a pretty cool ceremony and park visitors can participate. Also being at the end of the peninsula, there are some beautiful views of the harbor.

A lot of people overlook this national monument. It gives a comprehensive view of the British invasion of 1812 and what led to the writing of the star spangled banner. The physical fort has been kept up and is in good shape. You can walk on the walls of the fort and look down the Chesapeake Bay. The fort itself is in an industrial part of Baltimore called locust point but is easy to get to. If in the area I would definitely recommend visiting the star fort.

We went on a day and at a time where we were able to participate in the flag changing ceremony - taking down and rolling the huge star spangled banner in exchange for the raising of the US flag. Really neat experience. The ranger gave an inspiring speech before hand (though could've been shorter to the same effect). The fort is fun to explore & to look out over the bay at the ships. A short video tells the story of the national anthem.

This review is solely about the trails in this area as we did not go into the visitor center or the paid fort area itself. Right when we got there, four military helicopters flew overhead and then it happened again shortly after. The fort is located beautifully on the shore of the Patapsco River. The lawn and paths are beautifully kept and were a joy to walk around on a fall day. The fort is famous because Francis Scott Key wrote the Star Spangled Banner here during the War of 1812. While walking around we discussed alternative national anthem's and decided that "Party in the USA" would be a better one. We believe that other countries would let us win more gold medals because the podium experience would be a party every time.

Always serene and a beautiful place, such history and it is explained so very well through videos, displays and pictures. Th most are inspiring moment is after you watch the video in the visitors center and then the curtains rise. No matter where you are from the moment takes your breath away. Stop by the Gift Shop and take some history home.

As an amateur history buff, I really enjoyed seeing the fort! The site isn't very big, so you can walk through pretty much everything in an hour, but that's if you don't take the time to view and read all the plaques or stop to talk to the park rangers. There is a drum line show, guided tours, a gift shop, and a 10-min movie in the main building that is a definite must-see! I got so caught up with being immersed in the history, I forgot to take many pics.

How beautiful this National Park is. Spend the day outdoors. Bring a picnic lunch, chair, and a good book. Sit by the water and enjoy the views. It does cost to walk inside of the Fort and explore, but it does not cost to walk the beautiful trail in the surrounding area. This is mainly a self guided tour and all outdoors. Bring a hat and plenty of sunscreen if you're planning to visit during summer. In the fall/winter dress appropriately. Sweatshirt for the cooler Temps of fall since u are right on the water. Be sure to stop and watch the quick video about the battle and the Star -Spangled Banner. On your way out, don't forget the gift shop. There are some great gifts you can purchase. My favs are always the National Park patches and medallions for my walking stick. If you're a National Park Pass holder, it is free for two people. You can stamp your passport book at the front counter as you check in.

I lOVE U.S. history! The fort that won the battle that produced the Star Spangle Banner - AWESOME!!!! You need to watch the movie in the visitor center - all the way to the end. Very nice. Read the signs inside the fort - so much to learn about the fort, during the war of 1812 and beyond,

This was a great trip with the kids. The park rangers were super friendly. There was definitely a lot to learn and much more to the fort than I would have imagined.

This fort is a great piece of American history. Everyone should be able to get a chance to visit it at least once in their lifetime. It’s easy to get to, actually there’s a free bus that stops in front of the Royal Sonesta hotel that will take you directly to the fort for no charge. Nice. The gift shop and visitor center was closed when I arrived. It’s a pretty big place,plan on doing some decent walking. Lots of cannons surround the fort and there’s replica buildings as well. Some original historic artifacts are located in some of these buildings too. The national park did a great job on this place. Come see where history was made.

Had a great time learning about the fort and its meaning. Great interactive self guided tour, if possible the flag raising and lowering is a neat experience that happens 2 times per day. Very informative and the staff there is nice.

Really nice historic site. Starting at the visitor's center there is a nice display of artifacts from the battle at the fort. The video about the battle is very well done. It is both entertaining and informative. After the visitor's center you take a walk to the fort. The views of the harbor are some of the best in Baltimore. Many locals use this area for walking, simply because it so nice. I was lucky enough to watch the flag changing ceremony. You can then go through the fort. Nearly every piece of the fort is well explained. Rangers are willing to help. You will see a gigantic statue of Orpheus (God of Music) near the front of the park. This was created to honor the Star Spangled Banner which was written here. You will also see a statue for George Armistead the commander of the fort during the battle. If in Baltimore, it is definitely worth seeing.

I has been here since grade school, trust me that wasn't yesterday 🤣😂 I had a wonderful walk, enjoying the cool breeze & learning a little more history.

Very nice historical site that takes care to tell the stories of its significance across the early years of the country up through its use as a hospital during WW1. The gounds are well kept and open with easy to navigate walkways that take you into the heart of the fort. Once there you can go inside the buildings that are there and see what life was like in the fort previous times. There is an good display of an officer's mess explaining how they would gather to discuss and teach teach tactics to the junior officers. One building is set aside to the significance of the battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. Outside you can walk the defense line amongst some the cannons and take in the great view of Baltimore's harbor.

This was a very interesting historical site. The Visitor Center had many exhibits on display including a great film about the battle. The buildings at the Fort have many exhibits describing its long history, as well.

Super fun! I’d recommend getting there at 9:40am so you have time to see the movie and then see the flag raising ceremony. 🇺🇸 The movie is pretty short and explains how the flag and song came to be the USA’s pride and joy. You also get a nice view of the modern harbor.

Historic place! Do you want to touch history? Visit the fort! A place where you can also enjoy walking, fresh air and a view of the river👏👍

One of my favorite places to visit. Nice visitor center with a gift shop and clean bathrooms. There is knowledgeable Park Ranger staff available for questions and various events are held within the Fort to give historic accounts as to what happened while the Fort saw action. Definitely recommend!

A replica of the 1814 full-size 15-star and 15-striped flag still flies high over Fort McHenry. It’s a great place to take your family. While there, you will learn how the 1814 battle with the British at this fort shaped America and gain a new appreciation for the American flag and the lyric to our national anthem. This site is operated by the National Parks System. So, if you own an “America the Beautiful” national parks pass don’t forget your annual pass. Otherwise, military, seniors. and students receive a discount on admission. So, if you’re in the Baltimore area and have a couple extra hours, I highly recommend a stop to explore this national location so rich in American history

Awesome outing with family to visit the Fort in our home town. Wheelchair accessible however the cobble stones can be a bit brutal. The 1 mile water walk is beautiful with views of the Francis Scot Key bridge memorial bridge. If you want to view the rooms on the fort there is a fee. You can purchase your ticket in the visitor center or in the fort area.

Fantastic history and preservation. Great to explore and see first hand this important location. Visitor center has excellent exhibits and explanations. The National Park Service is an excellent excellent professional organization for which we should be thankful.

Very interesting monument. I wish the actual American flag the flew was there but it's in a Smithsonian in DC. We did the audio self guided tour. We only had an hour to spend befor our flight but it was well worth it.

Beautiful views and a patriotic atmosphere in this wonderfully preserved historical site! Would recommend visiting during the morning or evening flag ceremony that guests are invited to assist with.

We're visiting from Las Vegas and looked for things to do in Baltimore when this popped up. We did the audio tour. That along with the volunteers was very interesting and informative. We spent 3 hours there. I recommend this place.

This was a beautiful place. I’m a NPS nerd and this was nice surprise. We couldn’t have asked for more beautiful weather. This is definitely worth the trip!!!

If your a history fanatic this place is for you if your visiting Baltimore. It takes you back in time over 200 years. The views are amazing of the harbor and Bay Area. The visitors center was nice with a gift shop. Some outside benches. Parking is free.

GREAT NATIONAL TREASURE. Spend a great morning visiting the site. Most highly recommended.

History was made here. It's where the USA was saved from an occupying force - the British. Despite the many losses of the War of 1812 (including the sacking and burning of our national capitol), it took this win of Fort McHenry defending Baltimore in 1814 for England to give up their effort to reclaim the Americas. And, of course, what would become the national anthem was penned by Francis Scott Key, was witnessed and inspired by this battle. If you enjoy living history, then come and learn more. Great for all ages.

Very cool spot in Baltimore to take in some interesting history, specifically relating to the national anthem. I paid $15 to enter, but no one really checked my tickets upon entering the fort. It doesn't take too long to explore, about 90 minutes. Great grounds to walk around, wonderful harbor views. 15 is a bit steep my opinion

I think this place has great potential. However, a large portion of the fort was either closed or empty. They urgently need more items to display instead of informative billboards all around the venue. I think they can drastically improve this site as it has excellent scene too.

Don’t leaved Baltimore with out stop by here. Just take a walk around the point area. No cost. Only you wanna make it to the top and inside. $20 fee. From there you can see Key Bridge. Dog friendly with leash.

Really cool place to visit! We were exploring Baltimore and looking for something new to check out and we were glad we stopped here. You enter through the main building which has a short video and displays detailing the history of the Star Spangled Banner. There is also a nice gift shop and clean bathrooms. Continuing on, there is a really nice park, well maintained and would be a nice picnic spot. There is an option to circle the grounds or walk directly up to the fort. The fort is well maintained and preserved/reconstructed. Many interesting displays and another set of bathrooms which is nice. Really awesome bit of history! Would recommend for all ages, light/medium amount of walking and some areas require stairs to access.

I was born in Baltimore and grew up in MD and I have never been here. The visitor center is very nice and presents the aspects of history that the Fort was a part of. The fort itself is well preserved and maintained. The tour was excellent and as a military vet it was very patriotic. You must go to really be a true American.

Fantastic historical site that inspired our nation's National Anthem. Only a $15 entrance fee to the fort which can be purchased on the NPS site or app and it is self-guided. Make sure you take a moment to see the video presentation in the visitor center... especially if the big flag is flying!

Great place to visit and learn the history of our new county at the time. This battle at the fort and how the star spangled banner was conceived makes for great history.

First time visitor, but will be back. Beautiful water views from this historic park. Go visit the place that inspired "The Star Spangled Banner", just do it. You won't regret seeing how the defense of Maryland was and the living quarters of those important men.