Did you know that Indianapolis devotes 25 acres to honoring our nation’s heroes (more than any other city in the United States) and trails only Washington, D.C., in its number of war memorials? Memorial Day is just the right occasion to pay your respects. Many honored landmarks are located within easy walking distance, laying the groundwork for a self-guided tour you won’t soon forget.

Find memorials outside of Indianapolis using the visit Indiana military site:

See all Memorials

 

Monument in Monument Circle

Start your journey at the soaring Soldiers and Sailors Monument that anchors Monument Circle at the very epicenter of the city. Take the elevator to the observation deck at the top of the spire (or climb the 331 stairs if you’re feeling spry) for one of the best bird’s eye views of the downtown region. 

Indiana War Memorial Shrine Room

The seven-block war memorial district showcases the handsome limestone Indiana World War Memorial and Museum to its fullest advantage. Inside, visitors can admire a series of moving exhibits that trace America’s military heritage from its earliest stages through the present day. Don’t miss the chance to spend a few moments of quiet contemplation in the stunning Shrine Room. University Park, just south of the War Memorial, holds the DePew Fountain and statues of Abraham Lincoln, Hoosier U.S. President Benjamin Harrison and Vice President Schuyler Colfax Jr.

American Legion Mall Indianapolis

Boasting a spectacular view of the skyline and downtown Indy’s annual 4th of July fireworks display, the American Legion Mall includes the organization’s national headquarters, Veterans Memorial Plaza and memorials to commemorate service members lost in World War II and the Vietnam and Korean conflicts. The newest addition to Indy’s proud collection, the Indiana Gold Star Families Memorial, sits at the north end of the mall in front of the Indianapolis Public Library’s central branch.

Memorial to the USS Indianapolis that transported Uranium for the Little Boy Bomb

Wrap up your tour with a stroll along the scenic downtown Canal Walk to admire the USS Indianapolis Memorial, the Medal of Honor Memorial and the 9/11 Memorial.

Crown Hill Cemetary\

Bonus stop – Crown Hill Cemetery contains three national cemeteries in addition to a dedicated Field of Valor section that includes Eagle Plaza and an Eternal Flame.  

For more information about Indy’s monuments and war memorials, visit in.gov/iwm/.