At Riverside Drive and West 89th Street in Riverside Park, the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument commemorates Union Army soldiers and sailors who served in the Civil War. Steps rise to a domed structure supported by columns, with an American flag and old cannons on the platform. Stop to look over the monument, read its history and enjoy the park’s city skyline views. In summer, the plaza also hosts pay-what-you-wish outdoor plays by the Hudson Classical Theater Company.
A Civil War memorial in Riverside Park
The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument stands at Riverside Drive and West 89th Street. It commemorates Union Army soldiers and sailors who served in the Civil War. The monument gives this stretch of Riverside Park a distinct historic landmark to visit during a walk through the park.
Its design draws the eye upward: a series of steps leads to a domed structure supported by columns. An American flag flies on the platform, where old cannons also stand. Take time to look over these details and read the history displayed at the site.
The plaza in summer
The area around the monument is used for more than sightseeing. Families and local groups gather near the plaza for celebrations, and it provides space to sit, talk or take photographs within the park.
During summer, the Hudson Classical Theater Company stages outdoor plays here. Performances use the plaza as an open-air setting, with the audience seated around the acting area. The company’s shows are pay-what-you-wish. Check its current schedule and ticket information if you plan to attend, since performance details change.
Planning your visit
The monument is a simple stop to add to a Riverside Park walk. You can explore the steps and platform, take in the city skyline views and continue through the park. Entry is free, and there is no need to wait in a line to look around.
For a performance, plan around the company’s schedule and arrive ready to sit outdoors at the plaza. If you are visiting only to see the monument, a leisurely walk and time to take in its features are enough for a short stop.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee for the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument?
No. Visiting the monument is free.
Where is the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument?
It is in Riverside Park at Riverside Drive and West 89th Street in New York City.
Can you see a play at the monument?
Yes. The Hudson Classical Theater Company stages outdoor plays at the plaza during summer. Its performances are pay-what-you-wish; check the company’s schedule for current details.
What is there to see at the monument?
The monument has steps leading to a domed structure supported by columns, with a flag and old cannons on the platform.
