Explore the Historic Charm of Fort McHenry National Monument
Discover history at Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the national anthem, where scenic beauty meets educational experiences in Baltimore.
A brief summary to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
- 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, Fort McHenry, Maryland, 21230, US
- +1410-962-4290
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, located in Baltimore, Maryland, is a remarkable site that blends rich history with natural beauty. This historic landmark is famously known for its role in the War of 1812, where it successfully defended the city against British forces, inspiring Francis Scott Key to pen 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' As you approach the fort, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the harbor and lush green landscapes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The fort itself is a well-preserved structure where visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view period artifacts, and learn about the pivotal events that took place here. Reenactments often take place, bringing history to life with captivating performances. The fort's grounds are expansive, allowing for hiking and nature walks, providing an opportunity to connect with the outdoors while reflecting on the past. It's a great place for families, offering educational programs that engage children and adults alike. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a beautiful park to relax in, Fort McHenry is an essential stop in Baltimore. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a unique destination that appeals to a wide range of visitors. Don't forget to capture the breathtaking views of the fort and the city skyline as you explore this iconic landmark.
Local tips
- Visit during the morning for fewer crowds and to enjoy cooler weather.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds while taking in the views of the harbor.
- Check the schedule for reenactments and special events for an immersive experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are plenty of walking paths and areas to explore.
Getting There
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Public Transit (Bus)
From Towson, you can catch the MTA Maryland bus route 61 at the Towson Town Center, located at 825 Dulaney Valley Rd, Towson, MD 21204. Board the bus headed towards Baltimore. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes until you reach the 'Patterson Park & Eastern Ave' stop. Here, you will need to transfer to the MTA bus route 1. Board bus route 1 towards 'West Baltimore' and continue for another 15 minutes until you reach the 'Fort McHenry' stop. From this stop, it's a short walk to the entrance of Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, located at 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Towson to Fort McHenry, start at the Towson Town Center and head south on Dulaney Valley Rd. Continue straight and merge onto the Baltimore Towson Pkwy (I-695) via the ramp. Walk towards the Baltimore Harbor area. Once you reach the harbor, follow the signage to Fort McHenry, which is located at 2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230. Please note that this walking route is approximately 8 miles and may take over 2 hours.
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Bike
For a more scenic route, consider biking from Towson to Fort McHenry. Start at Towson Town Center and head south on Dulaney Valley Rd. Transition to the Baltimore Towson Pkwy (I-695) bike lane. Continue towards the harbor, where you can follow bike paths to Fort McHenry. The distance is roughly 8 miles, and it should take about 30-40 minutes depending on your speed. Once you arrive, you can park your bike at the designated bike racks near the entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
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Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
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Baltimore Museum of Industry
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Broadway Pier
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Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park
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Sagamore Spirit Distillery
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Robert Long House
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Fell's Point
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The Greatest Street in America
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Baltimore Ghost Tours
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Art Gallery of Fells Point
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Baltimore Inner Harbor
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Patterson Park
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American Visionary Art Museum
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President Street Station Museum
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Federal Hill Park
Landmarks nearby to Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
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Lazaretto Point Lighthouse
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Frederick Douglass Monument
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Billie Holiday street and Murals
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National Katyn Memorial Park
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Meditation Chapel
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Memorial to Armistead
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The Public Works Experience
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National Historic Seaport
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Federal Hill Main Street
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USCGC Taney WHEC-37
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USS Torsk
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Baltimore Heritage Walk
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USCG Lightship Chesapeake