Baltimore’s Inner Harbor: Fort McHenry National Monument

Perched on the mouth of the Inner Harbor, this moat-encircled, pentagon-shaped fort is a fantastic place to brush up on early American history and infuse the family with a fresh dose of patriotism.

A British naval attack on Fort McHenry in 1814 prevented the capture of Baltimore and inspired Francis Scott Key, who watched his fort come under attack from the brig of a British naval vessel, to write the “Star Spangled Banner.

We started our tour in the Visitor Center, where I convinced my doubting husband and kids to wait for the next showing of the Fort’s 15-minute introductory movie. Good thing, too. The somewhat corny movie explored the fort’s role in that pivotal battle, but has a moving finale that’s sure to impress, especially if you love your National Anthem as much as I do. Sniff.

Though it was blazing hot, the kids loved exploring the bastions with their enormous cannons, the powder magazine, the jail, and the barracks where re-enactors in period dress chatted about the “impending” British attacks.

We left the park with our hands over our hearts and the American flag flying over our heads.

If you go: Fort McHenry, 2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230 | 410.962.4290. The entrance fee is $7 for adults age 16 and up. Open 8 am to 8 pm in summer.

Other Baltimore Inner Harbor Attractions:

• Maryland Science Center
• Port Discovery Children’s Museum
• Camden Yards Sports Legends Museum
• Top of the World Observation Level
• American Visionary Art Museum

Hint: Check out the Baltimore Harbor Pass for discounted admission to these attractions.

A Walking Tour of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor:

• Overview of our stay
• Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel
• National Aquarium
• Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine
• A Family-friendly Fogo de Chao