Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

Climb a Monument, See Connecticut

Topping a promontory at the highest point in East Rock Park, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument is visible for miles. Just hiking up "Giant Steps Trail" -- more staircase than trail -- to its base requires effort and stamina. The monument is 112 feet high, topped by the Angel of Peace. It was built in 1887, but apparently never opened to the public. In 2010, after five-year-long, million-dollar restoration, the monument was finally deemed safe enough to admit the curious. It is not for the claustrophobic; you climb around and around inside a six-foot-wide tube before emerging on an observation deck to see -- Connecticut.

Climb a Monument, See Connecticut

Address:: East Rock Park, New Haven, CT
Directions:: In the Soldiers and Sailors Monument atop East Rock Park, at the northeast edge of the city. I-91 exit 5 (northbound) or 7 (southbound) onto US 5/State St. Drive north 1.5 miles. Turn left at the Dunkin Donuts onto Ridge Rd. Drive a quarter-mile. Turn left at the stoplight onto Davis St., then quickly turn left again into the Park, then quickly turn left one more time, through the metal gates. Drive 1.5 miles to the monument.
Hours:: Interior access a few days a year; call for next open day. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 203-946-6086
Admission:: Free

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