Perry's Victory and International Peace National Memorial is a significant historical site located in Ohio, commemorating the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Situated on South Bass Island in Put-in-Bay, this national memorial serves as a tribute to the American victory led by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry.
The historical background of the memorial dates back to September 10, 1813, when Perry's fleet, composed of a small squadron of warships, engaged and defeated the British Royal Navy in this pivotal battle. The victory ensured American control over Lake Erie and ultimately influenced the outcome of the war.
The memorial, established in 1919, offers visitors an opportunity to delve into this chapter of American history through various exhibits and informative displays. The centerpiece of the memorial is a massive Doric column that towers 352 feet above Lake Erie, adorned with a bronze statue of a youthful Perry proudly holding a remodeled naval battle flag.
Visitors can explore the memorial's visitor center, which houses an array of exhibits, interactive displays, and artifacts related to the battle. The Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial also provides a unique vantage point to admire scenic views of the lake and surrounding islands from its observation deck.
Aside from the historical significance of the memorial, the area surrounding Lake Erie offers a multitude of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Nearby, the town of Put-in-Bay provides opportunities for shopping, dining, and exploring the island's quaint charm. Water enthusiasts can also partake in boating, fishing, and various water sports on Lake Erie.
In addition, South Bass Island State Park is located nearby, offering picturesque hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities. Visitors can also take a ferry to explore other islands in the vicinity, such as Kelley's Island or Middle Bass Island, which boast their own unique attractions and natural beauty.
Overall, Perry's Victory and International Peace National Memorial in Ohio serves as both a historical tribute and a captivating destination for visitors interested in learning about the Battle of Lake Erie. With its exhibits, striking architecture, and the surrounding recreational opportunities, it offers a well-rounded experience for anyone visiting the area.
Perry's Victory and International Peace National Memorial is situated on South Bass Island in Ohio's Lake Erie. This stunning memorial marks the pivotal Battle of Lake Erie, which took place during the War of 1812. The location provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding islands. With its strategic position at the western end of Lake Erie, the memorial serves as a symbol of peace and unity between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. It stands tall, reminding visitors of the historical significance of the area and its role in shaping America's relationship with its neighbors.
93 Delaware AvenuePut-in-Bay, OH 43456Driving DirectionsPhone: 4192852184Web: Link
The best time to visit Perry's Victory and International Peace National Memorial would be during the months of July and August. During this time, the average maximum temperature is 82°F, and the average minimum temperature is 66°F. The monthly precipitation is around 3.1 inches, which is relatively moderate. These months provide pleasant weather conditions for outdoor activities at the memorial.
Some of the activities you can do in Perry's Victory and International Peace National Memorial are: Astronomy Stargazing Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Arts and Culture Biking Boating Fishing Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Living History Historic Weapons Demonstration First Person Interpretation Freshwater Fishing Cultural Demonstrations Live Music Stand Up Paddleboarding Craft Demonstrations
Learn about these topics at Perry's Victory and International Peace National Memorial: Animals Birds Geology Night Sky Arts Native American Heritage Fish Trails Water Trails Colonization and Settlement Military US Army African American Heritage Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Lakes Astronomy Scenic Views Forts Infantry and Militia Artillery Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts American Revolutionary War Civil War Indigenous and Native Warrior Indian and Frontier Wars Coasts, Islands and Atolls Sculpture War of 1812 Maritime Maritime - Military Ships and Shipwrecks US Navy US Marines Colonial/European Contact Conflicts French and Indian War
The visitor center is open mid-May through mid-October. Enjoy a 15-minute film on the Battle of Lake Erie and Perry's Victory. Exhibits trace the events of the War of 1812, the armament of the time and more. A 2-story window offers a view of the 352-foot marble memorial. An interactive exhibit explores the memorial's construction and the peace that has endured since the War of 1812 between the United States, Great Britain, and Canada. Purchase tickets to the memorial observation deck.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
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| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-15 | Upper and Lower Plaza Rehabilitation The Plazas, Rotunda, and the Observation Deck of the Memorial will be inaccessible for the 2026 and 2027 seasons due to the Upper and Lower Plaza Rehabilitation. Thank you for your understanding. More |
| 2025-05-15 | Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial News Release The National Park Service recently awarded a contract to restore the upper plaza at Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial. This significant investment from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund will address critical infrastructure and safety needs and improve the visitor experience. More |
| 2024-09-30 | Completion of Seawall During the summer of 2024 Perry’s Victory and International Memorial saw the completion of the project to rehabilitate and rebuild the aging seawall that protects the Memorial. Construction work begin back in April of 2022 and concluded in July of 2024. More |