Soldiers and Sailors Monument

The Soldiers and Sailors monument on the circle, in the center of our city, may be one of Indianapolis’ most iconic structures. I remember climbing up the steps (for what seemed like forever!) to the very top and seeing my city from above for the first time and being amazed.So when it came time to bring my own children to the monument, I was excited to see their reactions. While we didn’t climb all the steps, instead opting for the elevator to nearly the top, the reaction was the same – awe.

2020 Update: the elevator to the top is still broken and awaiting replacement, so it will be several months before the elevator is available again. You can still climb the stairs!

The Soldiers and Sailors monument is open Wednesdays-Sundays from 10:30-5:30 (between May and October) or 10:30-5:30 Fridays-Sundays (November-April) and is FREE if you choose to climb the stairs up and down. Be warned that the 331 stairs are somewhat steep, narrow, and of course, winding. For someone who is slightly scared of heights the elevator was a welcome option! Elevator prices are only $2 for adults, $1 for children 6-18, free for kids under 5 and for veterans. There’s about a flight of winding stairs left after the elevator, which was the perfect amount for our group that included a babywearing mama and an almost 4 year old.

The space at the top of the monument is tight, but allows for a 360-degree view from the center of the city. There really isn’t much that compares to that! After our decent you can visit the Colonel Eli Lily Civil War Museum on the lower level, and check out the gift shop. I recommend lunch and people watching on the steps of the monument following your visit, or if you want to continue the theme of being “up high”, consider visiting one of these restaurants where you can eat up high and get another view of our great city!

Address
1 Monument Circle
Indianapolis
IN
46204

Visit Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Upcoming Events