Mr. Trash Wheel

Memories

Save visits & photos across your bucket list — sign in to start.

No memories yet. Add your first visit to start a timeline.

    Guide

    Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

    Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

    For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

    FAQ

    What’s new? Updated today
    • Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
    • Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
    • Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes
    What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

    Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

    How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

    Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

    Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

    Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

    Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

    Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

    Tips

    • Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
    • Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
    • Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.
    Add visit

    Meet Mr. Trash Wheel, the world-famous, solar-powered trash interceptor that’s cleaning up Baltimore’s waterways one floating bottle at a time. This quirky, googly-eyed contraption has captured global attention—not just for its massive environmental impact, but for its charm and personality, with a social media following to match.

    Installed in 2014 at the mouth of the Jones Falls River, Mr. Trash Wheel has removed millions of pounds of garbage from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, keeping plastic, debris, and runoff pollution from reaching the Chesapeake Bay. The wheel is powered by a combination of solar panels and water currents, using a conveyor belt to scoop up trash and deposit it into a floating dumpster.

    Mr. Trash Wheel has since inspired an entire trash-fighting fleet, including Professor Trash Wheel, Captain Trash Wheel, and Gwynnda the Good Wheel of the West—each tackling pollution at different points around the harbor.

    Seeing Mr. Trash Wheel in action is a must for visitors looking to experience Baltimore’s creative approach to conservation. Whether you catch a glimpse while walking along the waterfront or join the Trash Wheel Fan Club, this trash-eating, tweet-posting, googly-eyed icon is one of the most uniquely Baltimore attractions you’ll ever find.

    Facebook
    Twitter
    Email
    Pinterest