Indiana War Memorial: "Behind-the-Scaffolding" Tour

In downtown Indianapolis, it’s hard to miss the Indiana War Memorial, a temple-like limestone monument rising several stories above street level. Dedicated in 1933 to honor Hoosier veterans of World War I, today the landmark recognizes the contributions of veterans of all foreign wars. Some of its most impressive views are hidden within, including a soaring Shrine Room surrounded by blood-red marble columns and topped by an enormous American flag. It’s an architectural showstopper that’s been shrouded in scaffolding since late last summer as crews make necessary repairs to ensure the building’s future.

On March 9, Indiana Landmarks’ Indiana War Memorial: "Behind the Scaffolding” tour explores recent work to preserve the memorial, as well as its history, architecture, and the contributions of Indiana veterans recognized in its halls. On this 60-minute guided tour, guests will have an exclusive opportunity to traverse the catwalk above the impressive Shrine Room and tour the roof-level interior hallway lined with leaded glass windows offering unparalleled city views. This exclusive perspective comes with a price -- the stairs to the top, all 170 of them, include both marble-lined hallways and eight flights of concrete utility steps.

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a little exercise! Please contact us prior to purchasing a ticket if wheelchair access is necessary. Portions of the tour may require special accommodations. Please note that this tour is not open to children under 12 years of age due to safety restrictions on the memorial’s upper levels.

In addition to the tour, Indiana Landmarks is hosting a talk at Indiana Landmarks Center on March 7, where experts will explain the challenges of preserving this Indianapolis icon and recent work to make it watertight.

Indiana Landmarks offers the Indiana War Memorial "Behind the Scaffolding" tour in cooperation with Indiana War Memorials Commission, Indiana War Memorials Foundation, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., STRUCTURAL, A Structural Group Company, and the State of Indiana.