Stand in the center of downtown Indianapolis at Monument Circle and admire the Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a 284-foot neoclassical landmark built from Indiana oolitic limestone. Designed by Prussian architect Bruno Schmitz and dedicated in 1902, this towering obelisk is the first monument in the United States dedicated to the common soldier. Originally intended to honor Hoosier veterans of the American Civil War, it also serves as a tribute to Indiana’s soldiers from the Revolutionary War through the Spanish–American War.
As the largest outdoor memorial in Indiana, it stands surrounded by brick-paved streets, pools, and cascading fountains. You can walk up broad stone steps to the terraces or step inside to reach the observation deck via stairs or elevator. Take time to explore its incredible commemorative statuary, including Rudolf Schwarz's massive limestone groupings representing War and Peace, as well as scenes titled The Dying Soldier and The Return Home.
Look up to see George T. Brewster’s 30-foot bronze statue of Victory crowning the obelisk, alongside historic bronze statues of figures like William Henry Harrison and George Rogers Clark. It is an iconic piece of American history.
What to see at Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument
- George T. Brewster's 30-foot bronze statue of Victory topping the monument
- Rudolf Schwarz's massive limestone sculpture groupings of War and Peace
- An interior observation deck accessible by stairs or elevator
- Bronze statues honoring historic figures like William Henry Harrison and George Rogers Clark
- Surrounding pools, fountains, and broad stone terraces at the base
Visiting tips
Head inside the interior of the obelisk to access the observation deck using either the stairs or the elevator.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument is easy to reach on Indianapolis’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Indianapolis Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Indianapolis travel guide.
See the full Indianapolis travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.