Phoenix Shot Tower
A towering 234-foot brick marvel from 1828, once the tallest in the US, now offering tours of its historic shot-production interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Phoenix Shot Tower
Best Time
More tour availability
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A towering 234-foot brick marvel from 1828, once the tallest in the US, now offering tours of its historic shot-production interior.
"An unusual and interesting landmark, great monument from the early years of the states."
🎯 Check Tour Times
Hours vary; confirm tour availability before your visit to avoid missing out.
🅿️ Parking Pointers
GPS can be tricky. Look for parking near the USPS facility; it's a short walk to the tower.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tower's Grandeur
Exterior
A towering 234-foot brick marvel, once the tallest structure in the US. Its sheer scale is impressive.
Inside the Historic Interior
Interior
Explore the preserved interior and learn about the innovative shot-making process from knowledgeable guides.
Architectural Ingenuity
Exterior
Built with 1.1 million bricks without scaffolding, showcasing incredible early American craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tours
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tour Times
Hours vary; confirm tour availability before your visit to avoid missing out.
🅿️ Parking Pointers
GPS can be tricky. Look for parking near the USPS facility; it's a short walk to the tower.
📜 Learn the History
Engage with the guide; their explanations bring the tower's past to life.
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the tower's impressive height and unique architecture from various angles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tour Times
Hours vary; confirm tour availability before your visit to avoid missing out.
🅿️ Parking Pointers
GPS can be tricky. Look for parking near the USPS facility; it's a short walk to the tower.
📜 Learn the History
Engage with the guide; their explanations bring the tower's past to life.
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the tower's impressive height and unique architecture from various angles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and impressive architecture of the Phoenix Shot Tower, with guides often praised for their knowledge. However, some find the surrounding area less appealing and are disappointed by the inability to climb to the very top due to ongoing restoration.
"I appreciate the gentleman who was there to explain the history of the tower. I wasn't sure where to park, Google maps took me to the wrong side but I ended driving right up to it and just parking off to the side... this felt "wrong" though.... worth going when it's open to check out the history inside. Wish you could climb up it but apparently they are doing some restoration... would have some amazing views."
Trypp Adams
"This 234-foot-tall tower built in 1828 is quite an interesting place to visit. You can't go up but they will let you look at the inside. The place around the Shot Tower is....baltimoresque, homeless people everywhere, billboards from corrupt pharmaceutical companies asking crack users to volunteer for compensated medical trials...Parking is cheap though and pretty safe, right next to some large USPS facility. From there it is about a mile to the harbor or to the Katyn Memorial or to Fells Point."
Rolf Shmidt
"An unusual and interesting landmark"
Hunter Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Phoenix Shot Tower is located in East Baltimore, Maryland. While GPS can sometimes be unreliable, it's generally accessible by car. Visitors recommend parking near the large USPS facility, which is a short walk away.
Information on direct public transport routes can be limited, but Baltimore has a bus and light rail system. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most convenient options to reach the Jonestown/Old Town area.
Several visitors have noted that Google Maps can direct you to the wrong side. A reliable option is to park near the large USPS facility adjacent to the tower.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tours are available and often require tickets. Some promotions, like those mentioned on Groupon, can offer reduced entry fees. It's best to check the official website or contact them for current ticketing information.
The operating hours for tours can vary, and the tower may be closed for restoration or private events. It's crucial to check the official schedule before planning your visit.
Unfortunately, visitors cannot climb to the very top of the tower. While tours allow you to see the interior, access to the uppermost levels is typically restricted due to preservation efforts.
There is typically an admission fee for tours of the Phoenix Shot Tower. Keep an eye out for potential discounts or special offers that might be available.
📸 📸 Photography
The tower is a striking landmark from all angles. Capture its full height from a distance, and don't miss opportunities to photograph the intricate brickwork and the surrounding historic neighborhood.
Photography is generally permitted inside the tower during tours, allowing you to document the historic interior and the unique construction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: While you can't climb to the top, the interior tour is still very informative. Consider bringing a small notebook for kids to sketch the tower or jot down interesting facts they learn. The nearby USPS facility can be a landmark for parking, making it easier to navigate with children.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss: Engaging with the tour guide is highly recommended, as they can provide detailed historical context and answer specific questions about the tower's past and its role in Baltimore's development. The preservation efforts also highlight the importance of maintaining historical structures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Monument to Innovation
The construction itself is a marvel, utilizing approximately 1.1 million bricks and notably, no scaffolding was used during its erection. This feat of engineering highlights the skill and dedication of the builders. Today, the tower is preserved as a historic landmark, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of manufacturing and architecture.
While visitors can't ascend to the very top, guided tours provide fascinating insights into the tower's history, its operational mechanics, and its significance in Baltimore's development. The surrounding area, though described by some as 'baltimoresque' with its mix of historic charm and urban realities, offers a context for the tower's enduring presence.
Preservation and Restoration Efforts
These ongoing efforts are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of this historic edifice. Recent projects, such as those documented by the Department of General Services (DGS), have included replacing deteriorated elements, like the Baltimore City flag at the very top, and working on the restored interior.
These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding this iconic piece of Baltimore's heritage. The community's appreciation for these efforts is evident, with many visitors expressing a desire to see the tower fully accessible and restored. 
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