Shores & Islands Ohio has an abundance of amazing experiences! Among the long list is the view from the observation deck at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial at Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. This monument was established to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, and to celebrate the long-lasting peace among Great Britain, Canada, and the U.S. The Memorial, a Doric column rising 352-feet over Lake Erie, is situated 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world.
According to the National Park Service, the memorial gets about 100,000 visitors a year. These guests appreciate a walk through the free visitor’s center, which offers exhibits that trace the events of the War of 1812, the armament of the time, the specifics of the battle that turned the tide of the war, and more. A two-story window offers a vision of the marble memorial, while an interactive exhibit explores the memorial’s construction and the peace that continues to endure.
The memorial column is even taller than the Statue of Liberty – by nearly 50 feet! The observation deck offers sights to behold, including a view of the battle site and spectacular views of Kelleys Island. If you want to experience these views for yourself, now is the time to visit Put-in-Bay and Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial!
Why? Because after this season, the monument will be closed for the next two years as the concrete around its base is set to be repaired or replaced. While you’ll still be able to visit the visitors center and grounds surrounding the monument, visits to the observation deck will be suspended until 2028.
The visitors center, as well as viewing the plaza and rotunda are free to visit. The rotunda holds the graves of six American and six British officers killed in the Battle of Lake Erie, as well as a memorial with the names of 123 American servicemen who were killed or wounded.
The observation deck requires a short stair climb to the elevator entrance. Tours of the deck are $10 for those ages 16 and older and timed tickets can be purchased in the visitors center. Those 15 and under can visit for free.
Our country’s third-tallest national monument will be open daily through September 30, 2025 and Friday through Monday throughout the month of October. Hours are currently 10 am-6 pm, however beginning September 8 closing time will become 5 pm. The monument’s final day of operation, and subsequently the final day to visit the observation deck until 2028, will be Monday, October 27th.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is a site to behold and definitely a trip worth taking this season!
