Baltimore City's violent crime rate of 446.8 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023 is the sharpest concern for visitors to Fort McHenry — well above national averages and the clearest risk the data flags. The monument sits within city limits, meaning the surrounding urban environment shapes your safety picture more than the park's own grounds do. Thunderstorm wind events (5 recorded) and two tornado incidents add a secondary weather layer worth watching.
Park in the designated monument lots rather than street parking in adjacent neighborhoods, and plan your visit during daylight hours when the site is fully staffed and foot traffic is steady. If a thunderstorm moves in from the harbor, the open waterfront offers little shelter, so download a radar app before you arrive and retreat to your vehicle at the first sign of lightning. Keep valuables locked out of sight whenever you step away from your car.
Top recorded hazards in Baltimore city
County dataFrom NOAA Storm Events (2024). Counts of recorded incidents — not all occurred at this park.
- Thunderstorm Wind 5
- Tornado 2
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About Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
by the dawn's early light, a large red, white and blue banner? Whose broad stripes and bright stars... were so gallantly streaming...over Fort McHenry! The valiant defense of the fort during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814 inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words that became the U.S. national anthem. The fort's history holds many other stories too, from the Civil War to WWII.
Weather
Temperatures and weather in the spring and fall months tend to be mild. Ice, snow, and freezing temperatures can occur during winter. Extreme heat can occur during the summer months. Inclement weather may impact park hours of operation year round. Refer to the park alerts or call ahead to confirm operating hours.