Located in Riverside Park at 89th Street and Riverside Drive on Manhattan's Upper West Side, the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument stands as an impressive tribute to Union Army soldiers and sailors who served in the American Civil War. Dedicated on Memorial Day in 1902 with President Theodore Roosevelt officiating, this white marble structure measures approximately 100 feet tall and 50 feet deep. Designed by architects Charles and Arthur Stoughton alongside carver Paul E.
M. DuBoy, its form was inspired by the ancient Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens. When visiting this historic site on a curve along Riverside Drive, you can view its exterior ring of twelve Corinthian columns, entablature inscribed with a tribute to those who saved the Union, and a roof surmounted by eagles and cartouches.
On the south side of the monument, you will discover two mounted Civil War-era cannons. The back steps on the west side offer scenic views of the Hudson River. Although the structure has faced long-term deterioration and safety fencing, summer visitors can enjoy classical outdoor theater performances on the back steps or take in its classic architecture from surrounding park pathways.
What to see at Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument
- Inspired by Athens' Choragic Monument of Lysicrates and built with white marble and granite
- Twelve Corinthian columns carrying an entablature inscribed to Union soldiers and sailors
- Two mounted Civil War-era cannons positioned on the south side
- Hudson River views accessible from the terrace steps on the west side
Visiting tips
If you wish to see the veined white marble interior and mosaic floor, plan your visit during Open House New York when the monument opens to the public one day annually.
How long: Under 1 hour · Best time: Summer months
How to get there & what’s nearby
Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument is easy to reach on New York metropolitan area’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Riverside Park and Master Apartments. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our New York metropolitan area travel guide.
See the full New York metropolitan area travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.