Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Join rangers to explore the role of Fort McHenry in securing Maryland for the Union during the Civil War, and to examine how its role as a prison and center of martial rule in Baltimore help us to consider the delicate balance between ensuring national security and safeguarding civil liberties.

This 45–60-minute, ranger-led walk guides visitors from the Chesapeake Map to the Historic Star Fort. Along the way, visitors will hear about how the fort withstood a 25-hour storm of rockets and exploding shells, blocking the British fleet from entering Baltimore Harbor. This defiant stand, witnessed by lawyer Francis Scott Key, inspired the verses that became “The Star-Spangled Banner".

Information on how to become a Fort McHenry Junior Ranger!

Kids of all ages can participate in the Star-Spangled Banner Trail Junior Ranger program. The Junior Ranger booklet is full of activities that can be completed to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

Fort McHenry's water front makes for an ideal birding location. Learn how birders can come enjoy their hobby within the park!

Learn about how to explore more of the story of Fort McHenry and the creation of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by following the Star-Spangled National Historic Trail!

Music played an important role in the daily lives of soldiers garrisoned at Fort McHenry. A soldier's entire day would revolve around the sounds of fifes and drums. Join living historians in the famous "Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum Corps" as they play period music and give a history of music's role at Fort McHenry.

Join the park for its morning or evening flag change programs!

Join rangers in a program about the American flag.