Fort Mchenry National Monument

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is located in Baltimore, Maryland, and is famous for its role in defending Baltimore Harbor during the War of 1812.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The fort is also renowned for inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner."

There are several reasons to visit Fort McHenry National Monument. Firstly, it is a historic site that provides insight into the early years of the United States. Secondly, it offers a beautiful waterfront view of Baltimore and the Chesapeake Bay. Thirdly, it provides an opportunity to learn about the War of 1812 and its significance in American history.

The main points of interest to see in the fort include the ramparts, casemates, barracks, and bastions. Visitors can also explore the visitor center, which features exhibits and artifacts related to the War of 1812 and the fort's history.

Interesting facts about Fort McHenry National Monument include its construction in 1798 and that it was named after James McHenry, a signer of the U.S. Constitution and Secretary of War under President George Washington. Moreover, the fort played a pivotal role in repelling a British attack on Baltimore in 1814.

The best time of year to visit Fort McHenry National Monument is during the summer months, between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when the weather is pleasant and the park offers special programs and events. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the fort's beauty in any season.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks