I LOVE the small island feel of Put-in-Bay area in Ohio! I attended a Travel Influencer Workshop there which gave me the opportunity to see so many of the attractions in the area. If you visit the area you simply must visit Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.
It’s run by the National Park Service and the Junior Ranger Program participates here too! (one of my kids FAVORITE things to do when we travel!)
This stunning monument honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Eerie during the War of 1812. It also celebrates peace betweenBritain, Canada, & the US – just 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world! In fact you can see Canada from the top – and if you’re using your cell phone chances are you’ll ping into Canadian phone space!
From the road it looks big of course but you don’t realize how absolutely massive and thick this thing is until you get up closer. The monument also boasts that it is the most massive Doric column in the world. (and it’s even taller than the Statue of Liberty!)
But first, make sure you start at the visitor’s center which is across the field from the monument. The park ranger we met there was insanely awesome and when he talked it really felt like he was there at the battle! He was SO passionate about the history.
You’ll find stunning artwork, museum quality displays, and a small gift shop. This is also where kids can pick up their Junior Ranger booklet. Don’t forget to ask the park ranger there about the statue – you can’t miss it and you’ll be glad you asked!
It’s a short walk from the park service building over to the monument but you’ll want to visit on a nice day! It’s a gorgeous view off of Lake Eerie – that’s for sure!
Immediately upon entering Perry’s Monument you’ll see that the remains of 6 soldiers are buried beneath the stone. After hearing a bit about the history from the park ranger you’ll ride an elevator up to the observation deck.
Don’t get so distracted by the awesome view (you can look out over the entire island as well as neighboring islands and even Canada!) that you don’t look UP! Seriously – LOOK UP! The architectural work on the urn at the top of the monument is fantastic.
Best View of Perry’s Monument:
And if you want to see the monument from a stunning spot go to the other side of the island at Oak Park State Park (Ohio’s smallest state park and only 1.5 acres small!). It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic or a romantic evening. You can even access the water via boat here.
If you are hoping to visit Perry’s Monument please make sure you double check if the observation deck and visitor’s center are open. They are closed for the winter although the grounds are open. And if you’re boating around the island see if you can spot the Benson Ford Shiphouse!
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