Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch
A grand Civil War memorial arch, offering stunning city views from its summit and showcasing intricate historical architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Guided tours available
Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch
Best Time
Guided tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand Civil War memorial arch, offering stunning city views from its summit and showcasing intricate historical architecture.
"This memorial is such a majestic city landmark. Its so beautiful even just driving through or gazing from Bushnell Park."
🎯 Climb the Steps!
Don't miss the chance to climb the 86-96 steps for amazing city views.
📍 Know Your Location
There are arches in both Hartford, CT and Brooklyn, NY. Confirm your destination!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Arch
Bushnell Park, Hartford, CT / Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY
A majestic Civil War memorial with intricate sculptures and a triumphant quadriga.
Panoramic City Views
Top of the Arch (Hartford)
Climb 86 steps for breathtaking vistas of Hartford and its Capitol building.
Intricate Sculptural Details
Base of the Arch
Marvel at the detailed artwork and historical representations adorning the arch's piers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb for a View
Location, Location, Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb the Steps!
Don't miss the chance to climb the 86-96 steps for amazing city views.
📍 Know Your Location
There are arches in both Hartford, CT and Brooklyn, NY. Confirm your destination!
📅 Check Tour Times
Tours are often limited to specific days/times, especially in Hartford.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be easy to find, especially when roads are closed to cars.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb the Steps!
Don't miss the chance to climb the 86-96 steps for amazing city views.
📍 Know Your Location
There are arches in both Hartford, CT and Brooklyn, NY. Confirm your destination!
📅 Check Tour Times
Tours are often limited to specific days/times, especially in Hartford.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be easy to find, especially when roads are closed to cars.
🏛️ Near Other Landmarks
Often visited alongside the State Capitol or Prospect Park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch as a majestic and impressive landmark, particularly appreciating the architectural details and the rewarding views from the top in Hartford. Its presence enhances the beauty of the surrounding parks and cities, making it a worthwhile stop for many. Some note the limited access for climbing and the need to confirm tour schedules.
"Wow, this was very impressive to see. Stopped to see the capital building and the Corning Fountain and this was here as well. Totally feel we hit a home run, between the building, fountain, and this. All were wonders to behold. Makes Hartford a very magnificent city to visit."
Brian Dible
"I went to meet up with eightsixgo run crew and it was beautiful! The art work on the street to the arch was all breathtaking!"
Jesse Hernandez
"Nice little area with cool arch on a bridge. This is right down the street from the state capital, so it's worth a walk over to check out. The details on the arch are pretty cool to look at. The area is surrounded by nice walking trails and lots of open space."
Joel Feld (Learn with Joel)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The arch is located in Bushnell Park, downtown Hartford, CT. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby, and is often visited in conjunction with the State Capitol building. +1
The Brooklyn arch is situated at Grand Army Plaza, a major hub. It's accessible via multiple subway lines and is adjacent to Prospect Park.
Yes, both locations are well-served by public transport. Hartford has bus routes near Bushnell Park, and Brooklyn's Grand Army Plaza is a significant transit nexus.
Driving is an option for both. In Hartford, parking is available, and roads around the arch may be closed to cars, making it pedestrian-friendly.
Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly for the Hartford location, typically on Thursdays. Check local listings for schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General viewing of the arch from the outside is free. Access to climb the arch for views typically requires joining a guided tour, which may have a fee.
The arch itself is a monument and is always visible. However, access to climb it or take tours is restricted to specific hours, often during daylight.
Viewing the exterior is free. If you wish to climb to the top for the views, you'll likely need to book a tour, which may have a cost associated with it.
Yes, guided tours allow visitors to climb the spiral staircases inside the arch to reach viewing platforms.
It's advisable to check the specific tour operator's website for booking recommendations, as popular tours can fill up, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the architecture, explore the surrounding park (Bushnell Park or Prospect Park), and climb the arch for city views.
A quick visit to admire the exterior can take 30 minutes. Climbing the arch and enjoying the views might add another hour, depending on tour availability.
Climbing the arch involves many stairs, making it inaccessible for those with significant mobility challenges. The exterior can be viewed from ground level.
The base of the arch offers great perspectives of its scale and detail. From the top, you get panoramic shots of the city.
Restroom facilities are typically available in the surrounding parks, such as Bushnell Park or Prospect Park.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be good for capturing the details.
Drone usage is often restricted in city parks and around historical landmarks. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the arch's grandeur. Telephoto lenses can highlight the intricate sculptures.
Shooting from directly in front emphasizes its symmetry. Angles from the side can showcase its depth and the surrounding park landscape.
From the top, capture panoramic cityscapes, including the State Capitol in Hartford or the Brooklyn skyline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children or those who prefer not to climb, the surrounding parks (Bushnell Park in Hartford or Prospect Park in Brooklyn) offer ample space for running around and enjoying the outdoors. The arch itself serves as an impressive backdrop for family photos.
🏛️ History Buffs
Exploring the arch provides a tangible link to the past and the nation's history. The Brooklyn arch, with its detailed sculptures and symbolic quadriga, offers further insights into the period's artistic and commemorative practices.
Learning about the recent restoration efforts also highlights the ongoing commitment to preserving these historical treasures. Visiting these arches offers a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made and the architectural achievements of the late 19th century.📸 Photographers
In Hartford, the arch's placement in Bushnell Park allows for framing shots with greenery, and the view from the top offers stunning cityscapes. The Brooklyn arch at Grand Army Plaza provides a dramatic entrance to Prospect Park, with opportunities for both grand architectural shots and more intimate details. +1Consider visiting during the golden hours for dramatic lighting, or during local events like parades for a more dynamic scene.
+1 Remember to check for any restrictions on drone photography, especially in urban park settings. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Arches: Hartford vs. Brooklyn
+2Across the country, the Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Arch in Brooklyn, New York, stands proudly at Grand Army Plaza, marking the entrance to Prospect Park. Dedicated in 1892, this arch also honors Union soldiers from the Civil War and is adorned with sculptural figures and topped with a quadriga. It recently underwent a significant multi-million dollar restoration, enhancing its already impressive presence.
+3While both arches share a commemorative purpose and impressive architecture, their locations and specific design details differ. It's crucial for visitors to be aware of which arch they intend to visit to avoid confusion.
Climbing to the Top: An Unforgettable Experience
These tours are often led by knowledgeable guides who can share historical insights about the arch's construction, its architect George Keller (whose ashes are interred within the arch), and its significance as a Civil War memorial.
+1 The experience provides not only a physical journey but also a historical and educational one, making it a memorable part of any visit to Bushnell Park. Remember to check the tour schedules in advance, as they are typically offered on specific days and times. Architectural Grandeur and Restoration
+1 Its construction in the late 19th century reflects the era's grand public monument building. The Brooklyn arch, located at Grand Army Plaza, is equally striking, featuring sculptural figures and a prominent quadriga (a chariot drawn by four horses) at its apex, symbolizing triumph.
This arch recently benefited from a substantial multi-million dollar restoration, ensuring its preservation and enhancing its visual appeal for generations to come. The completion of this restoration has been met with positive reception, highlighting the community's appreciation for this iconic landmark. 
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