Fort McHenry – Where the Star-Spangled Banner Was Born 🇺🇸✨

Standing guard over Baltimore’s harbor, this star-shaped fortress is hallowed ground where America’s national anthem took flight during the fiery climax of the War of 1812. Here’s why history buffs and patriots alike flock here: 💥 The Battle That Inspired a Anthem September 1814: After burning Washington D.C., British forces attacked Baltimore by land and sea 🚢💣 "The Rocket’s Red Glare": For 25 hours, 1,800 British bombs rained on the fort (see actual bomb fragments in the museum!) Dawn’s Victory: On September 14, lawyer Francis Scott Key saw the 15-star flag still waving – and penned his legendary poem ✍️🌟 🏰 Must-See Features The Ramparts Walk the same walls where soldiers dodged explosions Golden Hour Perk: Sunset turns the fort gold (perfect for photos!) 📸 Flag Change Ceremony Daily at opening/closing (watch rangers raise a 30x42-foot replica flag) 🎖️ Living History Weekends Actors in 1814 uniforms fire muskets and demonstrate cannon drills 💥 🎟️ Visitor Tips Fee: $15 adults (free for kids under 16) Hidden Gem: The water battery offers killer harbor views ⚓ Pro Move: Download the NPS app for augmented reality battle scenes #AmericanHistory #PatrioticRoadtrip #BaltimoreLandmarks #WarOf1812