
Soldier and Sailor Monument
A towering tribute to Indiana's veterans, this iconic monument offers stunning city views from its observation deck.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Soldier and Sailor Monument
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A towering tribute to Indiana's veterans, this iconic monument offers stunning city views from its observation deck.
"Ascend to the observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Indianapolis!"

📸 Capture the Views
Head to the observation tower for stunning cityscapes. Best experienced on a clear day!
🚶♂️ Explore the Base
Take time to read the inscriptions and appreciate the detailed artwork at the monument's base.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Statue
Top of the monument
A majestic bronze statue crowns the monument, symbolizing victory and remembrance. A true testament to the era's artistry.
Observation Tower Views
Inside the monument
Ascend to the observation tower for panoramic views of the surrounding city. A breathtaking perspective awaits.
Civil War Memorial
Base of the monument
Explore the intricate details and inscriptions at the base, dedicated to the valor of Civil War soldiers and sailors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Monument's Significance
Check for Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
Head to the observation tower for stunning cityscapes. Best experienced on a clear day!
🚶♂️ Explore the Base
Take time to read the inscriptions and appreciate the detailed artwork at the monument's base.
📅 Check for Events
The monument is a hub for gatherings. See if any local events coincide with your visit!
🏛️ Understand the History
Learn about the Civil War heroes honored here for a more profound experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
Head to the observation tower for stunning cityscapes. Best experienced on a clear day!
🚶♂️ Explore the Base
Take time to read the inscriptions and appreciate the detailed artwork at the monument's base.
📅 Check for Events
The monument is a hub for gatherings. See if any local events coincide with your visit!
🏛️ Understand the History
Learn about the Civil War heroes honored here for a more profound experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Soldier and Sailor Monument for its historical significance and impressive architecture. The panoramic views from the observation tower are a major highlight, offering a unique perspective of Indianapolis. Some find the entry fee for the tower a bit steep, but most agree it's worth the experience.
"The Monument to the Soldier and the Seaman reminds the now living one of the bloodiest events of the Second World War - the liberation of Sevastopol in 1944 from fascist invaders. Sevastopol was the most important base for the Germans and kept it, they were ready at all costs. Just as the German fought the remnants of Vlasov's army and seven Romanian divisions. By the end of April 1944, the hope of preserving the Crimea, and especially of Sevastopol, had completely disappeared and the enemy began to flee from the peninsula."
The Chaos
"Great views and mighty statue"
Samiul Maruf Sarker
"Good wiew"
Elena Moyseeva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Soldier and Sailor Monument is centrally located in downtown Indianapolis, often referred to as Monument Circle. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area, making it convenient to reach via bus routes.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available around Monument Circle. It's advisable to check parking rates and availability in advance, especially during peak hours or events.
If you are staying in downtown Indianapolis, the Soldier and Sailor Monument is a walkable destination from many hotels and attractions. It's a great way to experience the city's core.
The monument is the centerpiece of Monument Circle, a traffic circle. Visitors can approach it on foot from the surrounding streets, enjoying the views as they get closer.
Yes, Indianapolis's public bus system serves the downtown area, with stops frequently located near Monument Circle, making the Soldier and Sailor Monument accessible via public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the grounds and viewing the monument from the outside is free. However, there may be a fee to enter the observation tower or any internal exhibits.
The exterior of the monument is always accessible. For specific hours regarding the observation tower or any interior access, it's best to check the official monument website or local listings as hours can vary.
While viewing the monument from the outside is free, there is typically a fee to ascend the observation tower. Check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, visitors can enter the monument and ascend to the observation tower for city views.
Information on discounts for the observation tower or any special exhibits is usually available on the monument's official website. It's worth checking for student, senior, or group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the grand statue at the top, explore the detailed inscriptions at the base honoring veterans, and ascend the observation tower for panoramic city views.
A quick visit to see the exterior can take about 30 minutes. If you plan to go up the observation tower and explore thoroughly, allow 1-2 hours.
Absolutely! The monument itself is very photogenic, and the views from the observation tower offer fantastic photographic opportunities of Indianapolis.
While official guided tours might be limited, the monument's historical significance and the surrounding area offer plenty to learn. Informational plaques are often present.
It's a tribute to Indiana's veterans, particularly those who served in the Civil War, honoring their sacrifices and service.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the monument offers great angles for capturing its grandeur. The observation tower provides stunning panoramic shots of downtown Indianapolis.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the monument and from the observation tower. Be mindful of any specific restrictions posted.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting on the monument. Clear mornings can also provide excellent visibility for city views from the tower.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around significant landmarks. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire monument from its base. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the statue or distant cityscapes from the tower.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the base of the monument allows for a more hands-on learning experience, where children can look for different symbols and inscriptions. Consider bringing a small notebook for them to sketch or write down what they see. The open space around Monument Circle is also good for letting kids stretch their legs before or after exploring the monument itself.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles from the base to emphasize the monument's height and grandeur. Capture the details of the statues and reliefs for close-up shots. Don't forget to frame shots that include the surrounding urban environment to give context to this iconic landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tribute to Hoosier Heroes
The monument's design is rich with symbolism. At its apex sits a magnificent bronze statue, the "Victory" or "Miss Indiana," representing triumph. The base is adorned with intricate sculptures and inscriptions that detail the valor and struggles of the soldiers and sailors it commemorates. Visitors can explore these details up close, gaining a deeper appreciation for the historical context.
Beyond its historical significance, the monument offers a unique visitor experience. A grand staircase leads to the entrance, where visitors can ascend to a 231-foot-tall observation tower. From this vantage point, one can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Indianapolis, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike.
Experiencing the Monument Circle
Visitors often find themselves drawn to the circle for its aesthetic appeal and as a starting point for exploring the city. The monument is flanked by two water pools and a grand staircase, enhancing the visual experience. It's a popular spot for leisurely strolls, photography, and simply taking in the urban landscape.
During special occasions or holidays, Monument Circle often becomes a venue for community events, light displays, and celebrations, further cementing its role as a central gathering place for Indianapolis residents and visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit