Did you know that Indianapolis has the second most historical monuments and memorials in the United States, second only to Washington, D.C.?
The city is a treasure trove of commemorative landmarks, each with its own unique history and story. While we did not highlight every monument or memorial in the city, here’s your guide to some of the most iconic monuments in Indianapolis, complete with notable facts about each!
Soldiers and Sailors Monument
📍Monument Circle
This towering monument is the crown jewel of Indianapolis and a must-see for any visitor to the city. Erected in 1902, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument honors Indiana’s Civil War veterans. At 284 feet tall, it’s an impressive sight, and its four statues at the base represent the infantry, cavalry, artillery, and navy.
📝 Notable Fact: The monument has a unique observation deck that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors may access the observatory by taking the stairs or paying $1 for an elevator ride.
📏Height: 284 feet, 6 inches tall—just 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty
🧱Designed by Bruno Schmitz | Sculpted by Rudolf Schwarz
Indiana War Memorial
📍51 E. Michigan Street
The Indiana War Memorial stands as a tribute to Hoosiers who served in various military conflicts. It is one of the largest military monuments in the country and serves as the heart of the War Memorial Plaza. Visitors can explore the memorial itself, the Indiana War Memorial Museum, and several statues that commemorate Indiana’s military history.
📝 Notable Fact: The memorial is part of a 7.5-acre plaza that includes an impressive 130-foot-high obelisk, which serves as the centerpiece of the monument.
📏Height: 130 feet tall
🧱Designed by Pierre L’Enfant and George W. Stoddard
USS Indianapolis Memorial
📍Near the Indianapolis Zoo, White River State Park
This memorial honors the 879 crewmen of the USS Indianapolis, which was sunk in 1945 during World War II. The tragedy is one of the most somber chapters in U.S. naval history, and the memorial features a sculpted bow of a ship with the names of the crew members engraved.
📝 Notable Fact: The USS Indianapolis memorial is unique in that it not only serves as a tribute to the crew but also as a place of reflection for visitors to learn about the ship's tragic history.
📏Height: 20 feet tall
🧱Designed by Michael Rosato
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
📍35 E. Ohio Street, near the Indiana War Memorial
This poignant memorial honors Indiana’s Vietnam War veterans. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Indianapolis features a black granite wall inscribed with the names of over 1,500 Hoosier soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict.
📝 Notable Fact: The memorial was dedicated in 1987, and it is a key location for the annual Vietnam Veterans Memorial Ceremony, bringing together veterans and their families for a time of remembrance.
📏Height: 14 feet tall
🧱Designed by R. Thomas Rosenthal
The Medal of Honor Memorial
📍5 Monument Circle
The Medal of Honor Memorial honors Hoosiers who have received the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the U.S. The monument features powerful sculptures that represent the bravery and sacrifice of these heroes.
📝 Notable Fact: The memorial's corner statues symbolize different branches of the military, with the centerpiece featuring a heroic soldier poised in tribute to the fallen.
📏Height: 16 feet tall
🧱Designed by Various artists
Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
📍1230 N. Delaware Street
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is the former home of the 23rd president of the United States. While not a traditional monument, this historical home serves as a museum that showcases the life and legacy of Harrison, Indiana’s only U.S. president.
📝 Notable Fact: The house is one of the most well-preserved presidential homes in the country, offering visitors a chance to explore its original furnishings and artifacts from the 19th century.
🧱Designed by William H. B. S. Wicks
The 9/11 Memorial
📍1000 W. Washington Street, near the Indiana State Police Headquarters
The 9/11 Memorial in Indianapolis is dedicated to the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks. It features a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, symbolizing both the tragedy and the resilience of the American spirit.
📝 Notable Fact: The steel beam was donated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and the memorial serves as a place of remembrance for first responders and victims alike.
📏Height: 12 feet tall
🧱Designed by Various artists
Indianapolis may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of monuments and memorials, but it certainly has a rich collection that rivals many other major cities. From honoring military heroes to preserving the legacy of the city’s most influential figures, these monuments tell the stories of bravery, sacrifice, and history. So, next time you’re in Indianapolis, take a walk through Monument Circle and beyond, and experience the power of history firsthand!
Not able to make it in person? You can take a virtual tour!
