Patterson Park

Urban park with seasonal pool & ice rink

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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.

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.

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.

Covering 137 acres, Patterson Park isn’t quite the biggest park in Baltimore, but it’s often voted the best. Its sprawling landscape includes huge fields, a lake, walking/biking paths, playgrounds, athletic fields, a swimming pool, ice skating rink, and its most iconic feature: the Patterson Park Pagoda.

In the War of 1812, Patterson Park served as a key defensive position, especially in the elevated Northwest section known as Hampstead Hill. The park is named after Baltimore merchant William Patterson who donated its first 5 acres (and sold an additional 29).

The park’s most iconic feature is the 60-foot tall Patterson Park Pagoda, originally an observation tower built in 1891. It was designed by Charles H. Latrobe as a “people’s lookout tower” and has a distinctly Asian flare inspired by Latrobe’s fasciation with the Far East. It’s incredibly instagrammable, making it a popular spot among locals.

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