Fort McHenry Battlefield

The birthplace of the Star Spangled Banner, Fort McHenry still stands as it did when "the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there." Beautifully preserved, the fort is now protected by the National Park Service as the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of fortifications, buildings, and artillery ranging from the War of 1812 to World War One. Check in at the park's Visitor Center for information about demonstrations and Ranger talks.