Mount Rushmore?  Lincoln Memorial? Fort Caroline?  Sure these are undeniably significant symbols of America’s history and wonderful sites for vacations to boot, however we tend to think that our Battle of Lake Erie relic sometimes doesn’t get the notoriety it deserves.  Although to be fair USA Today did just name Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial one of the “Top 50 Most Visited National Monuments in the Country.” Without Commodore Perry’s swift, courageous action on September 10, 1813, control of the Great Lakes would’ve ended up in the hands of the British and with it, America’s hold on Ohio, Pennsylvania and western New York.
It’s for this reason and the fact that the National Park Service is celebrating 100 glorious years of service that we’ve decided to come up with a quick list for why we think Perry’s International Peace Memorial is the Most Underrated National Monument.
Just Look at It — We realize this may not be the most enticing reason, but seriously, just look at it.  Its beauty is in its simplicity.  Every morning the silhouetted reflection onto the calm waters of Lake Erie reminds us how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful place carved out by such tremendous history.

The View — At 317 feet, the observation deck of the memorial is approximately 12 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty’s torch and every single bit of that height makes for one incredible view.  On a clear day you can even see mainland Canada.

It Blends in Like it was Meant to Be There — Through the flowers, across the harbor, from afar.  Perry’s Monument looks good from every angle, but yet doesn’t infringe on the beautiful landscape that is South Bass Island.

Perfect for Selfies — We’re pretty sure people were taking selfies at Perry’s well before the term was even invented…and there’s good reason for that.  At 352 brooding feet, the memorial creates a surreal perspective and is the ideal background for a historic selfie.

Closes in the Winter — Let us explain.  Akin to its home of Put-in-Bay, Perry’s Monument only stays open for part of the season, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.  Just like a cold Ohio winter creates a longing for warm summer sunshine, so to does not being able visit our favorite national monument.  Cherishing those fleeting visits makes you appreciate it that much more.

It’s Rare — Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial is the only international peace memorial in the National Park Services and is situated five miles from the longest undefended border in the world.

A Calming Beacon — Rain or shine Perry’s Monument is always there, a constant fixture on the Great Lakes helping guide those exploring Lake Erie’s western basin.

Have something else you’d like to add?  Feel free to share below or share with us on Twitter and Instagram using #FindYourPark.