My last visit to Indy found me having early morning coffee at this monument. The monument is beautifully done. Statuesque in a way that causes you to feel it's energy and vibration. It's a testament to life, death, freedom, and sacrifice. I sat quietly sipping my coffee and admiring the intricacy of it all. The monument sits on a circular roundabout in the center of downtown. The roundabout is expansive with surrounding buildings in the area. There is seating around the monument if you find the need to stay and take it in fully. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a reminder that freedom and liberty are hard fought and there are dire consequences to ensure their existence. read more

Historical and grand monument to honor Indiana veterans from the Revolutionary War during the Spanish American War. It only open during the weekends at winter time. And I think there's a fountain (not working now) and you can take elevator to the observatory deck. The sculpture around is amazing. Nice art form and great memorable piece for the soldiers and sailors. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This is one of the most important sites in downtown Indianapolis. It's only few minutes walk from the Canal st. The monument is a wonderful blend of art and history, surrounded by tall buildings. There are has several different statues in each side of it, and one main statue on top. There's an engraving on the monument's pedestal with numbers about civil war. As we walked around, we saw a blue section, which is probably the water fountain during summer time. There was a sign near the street side regarding Indiana Pride's origin. Also there were several cones around the monument, probably because steps were slippery due to snow and ice. read more

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This is a beautiful monument, right in the heart of downtown. It celebrates the people of Indianas military service from the Revolutionary War to the Spanish American War. There is a gift shop and observatory, but they are currently closed. It has a small elevator, but it does not take you all the way to the observatory, there are still some steps that have to be made. read more

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THE SOLDIERS & SAILORS MONUMENT IS INDIANA'S OFFICIAL MEMORIAL TO HOOSIERS THAT SERVED IN A FEW WARS ================================================ It is a huge monument that stands 284 1/2 feet high and is only 15 feet shorter than the statue of liberty. The monument was constructed in 1902. My husband I drove by it a couple times while visiting my son and daughter-in-law in Indianapolis, but we decided to walk around it on Monday, August 11, 2025. We parked north of the area near the Indiana War Memorial Museum which was closed. There was plenty of metered street parking on N. Pennsylvania Street. From there we walked towards the Sales Force Tower which is right next to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. I had no idea there is supposedly an Observatory at the top of the monument, but it was closed when we were there. It is supposed to be open Thursday through Sunday from 10:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. read more

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There is so much more than just the giant obelisk that so many people see on the Square. The Indiana War Memorial which is nearby was conceived as a memorial to the Great War (World War I.) and as a headquarters for the American Legion. Eventually, it has become a focal point to pay tribute to an honor to soldiers who have served and given their lives for many of the engagements that American Armed Forces have participated in. The Soldiers & Sailors Monument is the focal point of the entire complex on the square. At this site, you will find a large and interesting museum, containing hundreds of flags many from the American Civil War. other unique artifacts are present as well. There is a full scale reproduction of the radio room of the USS Indianapolis. And a large auditorium. The larger memorial is built from Ashlar Indiana Limestone, as are many buildings in this part of the State. It is neoclassical architecture, and the memorial design is based upon the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Drawing attention to all of this from different directions is of course the large central obelisk. This entire complex is the central point, I think, of the city of Indianapolis. There are many beautiful architectural wonders in this town worth seeing, but the Indiana war Memorial and in particular the Soldiers & Sailors Monument clearly stands out among them. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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4+ Really cool looking monument in a busy part of downtown Indianapolis. Something about it feels European or early colonial American. I heard that you are able to go inside and go to the top or something. Unfortunately, at the time of my visit early September 2025, it looks like they were doing renovations or construction around the area so everything was gated off. Still a sight to behold. read more

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Absolutely love coming down here to see the Christmas tree and all the holiday decor. Visiting yearly is a holiday tradition that I hold close to my heart. I remember coming down here as a young child. read more

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The Soldiers & Sailors Monument has become a must visit for me whenever I visit the city of Indianapolis to see family, or more recently for the Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon. I feel like my visits are never complete without visiting the monument because I always find hotel options within walking distance of it. During my latest visit to the city of Indianapolis, I was able to capture some quality pictures of the monument during the day and evening which both showcased it in different views. And being near it, I must say that it will make you question what city or country you are in because of the presence it adds to the area. Designed by German architect Bruno Schmitz and built over a thirteen-year period, between 1888 and 1901. The original purpose of the Soldiers & Sailors Monument was to honor Hoosiers who were veterans of the American Civil War; however, it is also a tribute to Indiana's soldiers who served during the American Revolutionary War, territorial conflicts that partially led to the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the Spanish-American War. It is also the first monument in the United States to be dedicated to the common soldier. Notable to the city of Indianapolis, like the Buckingham Fountain is notable to the city of Chicago Illinois. Or like the Spirit of Detroit being notable to the city of Detroit Michigan. If you are planning to visit downtown Indianapolis, I recommend including this iconic monument to your tour unless it catches your eye because it does stand 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty. ~ Good vibes coming your way ~ Thomas G read more

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One of the most iconic places to take photos in Indy. We came by here on our way to the Colts game at Lucas Oil. There is an "indy" sign now that faces near the Capitol building. Great views and usually pretty busy here. There was a bunch of Xmas decorations out for the holidays. read more

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It is a rather impressive monument. Tall, surrounded by steps and fountain pools, lanterns to match the style. There used to be a small museum in the basement as well as giftshop, however that has been closed. Anyway, there is still a giftshop, which is also where to can buy elevator tickets to go to the top of the monument for a spectacular 360 view of the city. I highly recommend checking it out. Be aware though, that even if you use the elevator rather than walk up the 333 steps to the observation deck (which is an available option) you will still have to walk up 31 additional steps. And it gets very tight in there and squeezing by other people seldom goes off without bodily contact. And it's often quite hot up there too. If you are claustrophobic, this may not be the adventure for you. Oh but once you are up there, enjoy the view... make sure you go all the way around and see the city from another perspective. Also if you are on neighboring streets, for example from Washington street, it looks like Victory (the statue atop of the monument) is walking over the rooftops. There are so many details to observe on this monument. So many statues, so many ornamental features, you can look for days if you try to take in every detail. Just look at the lights/lanterns, see if you can find the animals incorporated. In recent years the city has taken to have light shows projected onto various buildings around the circle at night. These come with music and narrations. The only downfall is that those are extremely loud. Hence 4 stars instead of 5. Also there are many special events held throughout the year. Think Strawberry social, Spark, Lighting of the Christmas Tree and so on. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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The first day of Gen Con, my husband and I went for a walk in downtown Indianapolis in the morning and we wandered upon the Soldiers and Sailors Monument located at Monument Circle. The memorial commemorates soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, the Frontier Wars, and the Spanish-American War. Unfortunately we didn't have much time to spend looking at the monument and there was construction obscuring part of it, but I still managed to get some photos. [Yelp collections: Louisville/Indianapolis 2023; Indianapolis, IN 2023; Monuments, Memorials, and Historical Markers] read more

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I've worked on "the circle" where the monument stands. I actually got engaged here. It's been a big part of my life. Definitely a great place to visit for the Christmas tree lighting. During the summer there's also yard games and a weekly farmers market! read more

A beautiful and iconic monument right in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Even though I wasn't able to go inside or up to the observation area due to what looked like construction or maintenance, it was still an amazing sight to admire. The architecture and detail are stunning, and it's one of those landmarks that looks impressive at any time of day -- especially around sunset when the light hits just right. Definitely a must-see if you're visiting downtown Indianapolis. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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This was actually a really interesting monument. I appreciated the design (even with there being construction going on). And you can go inside and to the top for a great view. Lots of aspects to see. I was pleasantly surprised at how good it all was. read more

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I finally got to check out the much talked about observation center! The observation center was closed for about 2 years (all through COVID) and it made sense why when we started climbing the stairs. There are a total of 372 stairs in a rather narrow pathway. Once you reach the observation center, you can see it can hold up-to 4 people and 2 kids which is exactly the size of the deck. While we got stellar views on a sunny day and enjoyed every bit of Indy, my advise would be to go as early as possible to avoid crowds while climbing up and taking the view in the observation deck. There's also an option of elevator with a fee of $2. Absolutely worth the hype and such a beautiful location! read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Soldiers & Sailors monument that sits in the center of a large turn about in downtown Indianapolis. I've noticed in several large cities I've visited that they have a soldiers and sailors Monument and they are always quite large, detailed and impressive. This public art piece is no different. Truly a beautiful site to take in. Overall a great piece of public art in a downtown area stocked full of great public art statues, monuments and murals. read more

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This area is also known as monument circle and the reason why Indianapolis is called The Circle City. There are ALOT of free events, or events in general, in this area. It's clean, cute and a lot of good restaurants and things to check out. Also easy parking! read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Picture from Indy 500 Parade at Monument Circle. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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This monument is in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and it's something I always manage to catch at least a glimpse of when I visit Indy! It's pretty cool and impressive and I massively enjoy that it turns this big intersection into a roundabout because I love roundabouts! I've always wanted to get closer to examine the monument and read up on what it is, but every time I've come here it's been blocked off or under construction. I also expected this roundabout area directly surrounding the monument to be more lively and have more shops and small businesses, but it's definitely more corporate and city buildings it seems and every time that I've come here in the evening or on weekends, this area will be pretty sparsely populated. It's odd, but it's beautiful to look at and have all to myself nonetheless! read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I really liked the architecture and craftsmanship that went into building this monument. It's also a beautiful place to sit on the steps, eat lunch, and just people watch. We went to the observation tower which is no joke. We didn't want to pay to take the elevator so we went up the stairs for free. We were being very cheap that day. There are 330 steps but it can get very narrow. If you decide to take the elevator it's about $3 for an adult. To get to the observation level, you still have to go up 49 steps even after taking an elevator. There is also a gift shop that is open on Sun-Thurs. The observation level is very small, so I would not recommend it for those that are wheelchair bound or if you're on the obese side. It's difficult to see from my pictures but the observation level is not open air, there are glass windows all around. read more

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The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a must see for any native or visitor to Indianapolis. It is the center of town and one of the older landmarks in n Indianapolis. This area is also known as monument circle and the reason why Indianapolis is called The Circle City! I have lived in Indianapolis 13 years and have visited many times, however this past weekend was my first experience going all the way to the top! Truthfully I did not even know that was an option. My Uncle was visiting and we were exploring downtown. On a whim we decided to go inside and there was somebody to greet us immediately and let us know we had the option to go to the top! The staff were very helpful as they explained that only a limited number of people would be able to go up at once. We got in the elevator which was probably not fit for more than two people. Once we reach the top we climbed a narrow stairway of about 50 steps. If you have a fear of heights or claustrophobic this probably wouldn't be the exhibit for you. I try to fight against these fears . I am glad I did because once we did reach the top the view were spectacular! We were able to see all sides of the city. The monument is in the center of a circle there are several beautiful statues and fountains that surround this monument. It is also beautifully decorated for Christmas. This is a must see any time of year and a great tourist destination or for those who want to explore their hometown. Oh and did I mention it was free? You don't have to spend a fortune when you visit this city! read more

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A grand monument to the fallen soldiers of Indiana during the Civil war, Revolutionary war and other conflicts. It was the first monument in the US dedicated to the common soldier. It is featured on a traffic circle in the center of the downtown. This Limestone monument stands 284 feet, 6 inches high, only 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty. Each side of the monument is flanked with statues depicting different wars. It is crowned with a statue of Victory, holding a sword in her right hand and a torch in her left. The monument is beautifully ornate and at its base is a fountain. Around the base are 4 huge statuary groups representing war, peace, the return home and the dying soldier. Besides the statues there are other intricate designs including the huge candelabra along the steps and the smaller versions perched above the drinking fountains, where the water spurts from bronze buffalo heads. Loved the lights on this aesthetic monument, It was spectacular! It becomes a Christmas "tree" with lovely multi color lights strung from top to bottom. The observatory was closed due to construction but it was still fun to walk around the base. A truly fitting remembrance to the fallen men it honors. read more

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Impressive landmark and memorial for Soldiers and Sailors that severed in the Revolutionary War through the Spanish American War. Built in 1888 and dedicated in 1902. The monument is located in downtown Indianapolis at Monument Circle. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Soldiers & Sailors Monument Indianapolis, Indiana - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I've lived in Indy almost ten years and have visited the monument multiple times. This was the first time I've gone up the elevator. It's a tight fit and there are still quite a few stairs once you go up. It's very narrow. The views are worth it! The website mentions a gift shop but I did not see one. A must do! read more

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The circle is the heart of downtown. Absolutely love the little shops around it. Big tourist attraction of Indy read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - View of the circle from command coffee - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

One of the staples of downtown Indianapolis and it's amazing. I had no idea you could actually go to the top of it. The outside is just as awesome to explore as well. A lot of cool things surrounding it. It's free to go up it if you take the 330 stairs (took about 10 minutes to top) or it's $3 to take the elevator. Definitely worth it for the 360 view of the city you get. Not a big area at the top. read more

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This outstanding monument is a 284 foot tall obselisk that was built between 1888 and 1901, then dedicated in 1902. It is one of the most iconic symbols of Indianapolis. Located in the Washington Street-Monument Circle Historic District. It is also the largest outdoor memorial and the largest of its kind in Indiana. Initially designed as a tribute to honor Indiana veterans of the Civil War, it is also a tribute to those who served during the American Revolutionary War, territorial conflicts that partially led to the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the Spanish-American War. The obelisk-shaped monument is built of oolitic limestone from Owen County, Indiana. It rests on a raised foundation surrounded by pools and fountains. Broad stone steps on its north and south sides lead to two terraces at its base. Stone tablets above the bronze entrance doors on the obelisk's north and south sides bear inscriptions commemorating Indiana's soldiers. An inscription above the tablets reads: "To Indiana's Silent Victors." There is an observation deck that is normally accessible by stairs or elevator but this is currently (July 2020) closed off during the pandemic. You can still visit the obelisk itself and throw a coin into the fountain. At the top, the 30-foot tall bronze statue of "Victory" is the crown. The overall obelisk is 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty. [Review 13548 overall, 867 of 2020.] read more

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If you're from Indianapolis you're familiar with this monument. It's the inspiration for the Circle City namesake. The structure is an architectural phenomenon from 1902. I could spend hours soaking up the intricate stone details. I recently visited for the Circle of Lights celebration. There were several vendors with food and drinks. Also live performances from multiple musical guests, including Kelly Clarkson via a webcast. The crowd was the largest since 2019 but the area was well organized. It did not seem to be as chaotic as prior years. It was easy to get in and out of the area both at the start and finish of the festivities. There was a large police presence which promoted a feeling of security. It is wonderful to be able to attend free events in my hometown. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Lit tree with fireworks in background - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

In the heart of downtown Indy, stands an ornate yet humble memorial dedicated to soldiers who fought in wars during the 1800s, including the Civil War and War with Spain. The center obelisk is surrounded by two large fountains and numerous statues of soldier heroes. Large neo classical lanterns frame the structure. There is a small museum and gift shop at the base of the monument and you can climb the monument for a fee when it is open. At Christmas time, volunteers decorate the structure with lights and they have a special ceremony to light the "tree". In the evenings, horse drawn carriages offer rides around the monument and downtown. On nice summer days, you can find an art show around the Monument Circle or various festivals and sit on the stone steps. The monument is a must visit on your visit to Volunteer veterans keep the grounds immaculate. read more

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You won't be able to miss it in downtown Indy.Made of limestone this monument is huge.There's a lot of detail.I came on the day the local church also does their strawberry shortcake fundraiser so there were quite a few people there. Sadly the inside was not open for viewing , but I could still walk the steps outside of the monument.I did pay for parking at a downtown lot and walked to the monument from it. read more

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I still remember the complete and utter disappointment of heading all the way to St. Louis for a vacation only to learn that the city's greatest landmark, The Arch, was not even close to wheelchair friendly. I know. I know. I should have researched in advance. I probably should have also assumed that such an oddly shaped structure might actually have issues with accessibility. Truthfully, I just assumed that while it might be difficult I could make it happen. Nope. I swore at that time I would never again give a public monument a 5-star rating if I could not fully access it. So, despite my love for Indy's Soldiers & Sailors Monument, I simply can't offer a 5-star rating to a landmark structure that excludes from full participation in its wonder a segment of the population. The Soldiers & Sailors Monument stands 284'6" high - a height that is a mere 15' lower than the Statue of Liberty. When built in 1902, it cost $598,302 to build. The Monument is Indiana's official memorial to Hoosiers who served in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, the Frontier Wars, and the Spanish-American War. It is constructed of Indiana made limestone and was designed by German architect Bruno Schmitz. The Monument houses a gift shop and observatory. From the Observatory, 231 feet above street level, you are provided panoramic views of the Indy skyline. You can climb the 330 steps at no charge or ride an elevator for a small fee - however, please note that even after the elevator ride you will have 49 steps to reach the Observation Level. Thus, inaccessible. The Monument is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; it is also closed on all holidays except for Veterans Day and Memorial Day. The elevator cost is $2 for adults, $1 for youth (6-17), and free for kids under 6, veterans, and active U.S. military. While I understand the lack of accessibility, I must admit that the clincher for me in docking the Monument a star comes simply because it doesn't come out and say it on the official state website. The closest it comes is "The Observation Tower experience is not recommended to those who suffer from claustrophobia or a fear of heights, or to those in poor general health." Strollers are permitted in the Gift Shop, but cannot be taken into the tower itself. (Again, no mention of wheelchairs). Minors must be accompanied by adults. There are no public restrooms. Service animals ARE allowed. The Soldiers & Sailors Monument contains a number of pieces of art that are described more fully on its website, while the Monument has undergone some major renovations as of late and is getting ready to experience some lighting changes to reflect its growing emphasis as a center of the city and a true destination spot. I've been into the meeting room areas of the Monument at ground level, as well, and they are quite beautiful to behold. There is a concrete ramp for accessibility to actually enter the Monument, though I'll note it's not particularly well identified. The pathways around the Monument are either concrete or cinder block - those with mobility issues will want to note that the cinder block can come loose and cause some issues. There is currently work going on to address the large number of loose cinder blocks around the 1/6 mile inner circumference of the Monument. For more information on the Monument, visit its website. If you have concerns about whether or not it's open or accessible to you specifically, I'd recommend calling them in advance. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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This monument seems out of place in the center of Indianapolis. Surrounded by buildings like the Hilton and Salesforce Tower Indy, this historical monument stands 284' 6" tall and was originally created to honor Hoosier veterans of the American Civil War. The monument now also commemorates Hoosiers who fought in other wars as well. It's not only impressive in size but also has beautiful fountains that make walking around worth the stroll. Definitely a place to check out whenever you have time to spare downtown. read more

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There's a really neat monument in Indianapolis Indiana that I visited a few months back. I enjoy going to different cities explore and see in the town doing all that fun stuff see in the monuments art galleries anything that's cool the local flavor. I don't know the story behind this monument or I didn't take the time to look it up to be honest I'm sure other people have. But I don't know much about it but it was still visually cool seeing and something and I really liked read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Soldier and Sailors Monument is one of the most iconic Indianapolis landmarks. It is the center point of the circle and it makes a fantastic backdrop for photos. I did not truly appreciate how ornate it was until I really focused on some of the details of the monument and the surrounding structures. Whether it's your first time or you've seen the Monument before, I highly recommend taking the time to look at the individual features that make up the larger piece. read more

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A monument that one HAS to see in person. The awe and splendor of this is breath-taking. Makes one humble as they take in the sight.

We stopped to admire the Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument. It I is a 284 ft 6 inch tall neoclassical monument built on Monument Circle, a circular, brick-paved street that intersects Meridian and Market streets in the center of downtown. In the years since its public dedication on 1902, the monument has become an iconic symbol of Indianapolis. read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Monument Circle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

An iconic structure that is central to downtown Indianapolis, as well as an good vantage point to take photographs of most of the city's buildings. Built in 1902, this structure is 284 feet high, with an observation deck that has elevator and stair access. There are 330 steps within this monument, with very narrow passage. The elevator itself is no better- you are lucky to fit about three people in the elevator at once. Children and military veterans can access the observation deck for free, while others pay a small $2-3 fee. The view from the top is actually quite good, with city viewpoints from all four sides of the structure. Just remember one thing- you are inside of a monument, not the Empire State building. The observation deck is tight on space, so be mindful of others trying to walk around. Also, be wary of the signage affixed to the walls, steps, etc. This will help make your time more efficieint. There is a gift shop on the ground floor with an assortment of military veteran items, particularly from the great state of Indiana. My favorite may have been books on the US presidents that have served in the military. Kudos to the customer service given by the employees at the front desk, particularly of the Amish guy (great insight on local attractions & restaurants). Highly recommend taking pictures of this structure at night! read more

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Gorgeous monument, what's not to like? Seemed like it was maintained well. The water fountain features are really cool. It was nice just to take a few laps around it. Saw lots of people enjoying lunch on the steps or on the grassy area around it. read more

Two stars might be harsh, but hear me out. I almost gave this place one star. This place is touristy. People are everywhere. Walking through. Sitting down. Taking pictures. EVERYWHERE! As my lovely lady stated in her review, I think this is a great meeting spot. It's obvious enough that you can tell someone to meet you there and boom, you're hanging out! Outside of that, I don't think there's a single reason to go here unless you're celebrating some occasion and want to take pictures. The day we were there, I believe we saw at least 4 wedding groups(maybe more). All of them had at least 15-20 people per group and each group acted like they owned the place. Excuse me... you didn't rent this place out because you can't rent this place out. From our small group passing through, I believe one of the photographers told someone to move out of the shot... oh how I wish someone would've asked me to move out of the shot. You can take your shot elsewhere sir. I'm comfortable right where I am. The biggest take away from this circle is that there is a Starbucks across the way from it. If you're on the clock and need to be somewhere, it'd be wise to skip that Starbucks! It's packed and you'll spend at least 20-30 minutes going through the line and waiting for your drink! read more

Soldiers & Sailors Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I finally took time to visit the monument at my wife's suggestion and so glad I did. This monument is Yuge. It is convenient to be able to park right next to it for FREE. The monument has so much detail and writings on it. Another cool thing about it is the music playing through some quality outside speakers. You might see a couple police officers on horseback situated at the monument. They are happy to converse with you and answer your questions. The monument is positioned in the center of the city, with view of the Capitol Building and many sky-scrapers. There are places to eat and drink within eye-shot of the monument also. Check it out. read more

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