Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial stands as the world's most massive Doric column, rising 352 feet above Lake Erie on South Bass Island. The memorial honors both the decisive 1813 Battle of Lake Erie and celebrates over 200 years of peaceful coexistence between the United States, Canada, and Britain along the world's longest undefended border. Families discover maritime history through museum exhibits featuring actual artifacts from Commodore Perry's fleet, while the memorial's unique location on an island requires a scenic ferry journey that adds adventure to the visit. The observation deck typically offers breathtaking panoramic views across Lake Erie, though it will be closed for rehabilitation during 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Junior Ranger Program at Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
The Junior Ranger program here focuses on naval history and international cooperation through interactive activities and exploration. Kids complete age-appropriate booklets while learning about Commodore Perry's victory and the memorial's message of peace between the United States, Britain, and Canada.
- Climb the 352-foot memorial column for panoramic Lake Erie views
- Learn about historic naval ships and War of 1812 battles
- Explore the visitor center's interactive exhibits about peace and cooperation
Program Details
Best Ages for Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial
Ages 6–9
The younger booklet focuses on puzzles and games that help kids understand the basics of the War of 1812 battle and memorial construction. Children this age truly love the ferry ride adventure and spotting ships on Lake Erie from the memorial grounds. The museum exhibits with colorful battle displays capture their attention better than detailed historical text.
Ages 10–12
The older booklet challenges kids with more complex activities about naval strategy, international diplomacy, and Lake Erie's ecosystem. This age group appreciates learning about Commodore Perry's famous message 'We have met the enemy and they are ours' and understanding why this memorial celebrates peace rather than just victory. They can handle the memorial's height and historical significance while completing more detailed environmental protection activities.
Ages 13+
Teens and adults can tackle the Great Lakes Junior Ranger Activity Book, which covers broader environmental themes across multiple parks. They'll appreciate the memorial's architectural significance as the world's most massive Doric column and understand the complex international relationships commemorated here. The 15-minute Battle of Lake Erie film provides deeper context that older kids find engaging.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Ferry service to South Bass Island operates from Catawba Point via Miller Boat Line or Jet Express from late April through October, with limited winter service. Purchase memorial observation deck tickets at the visitor center from 10am-5:45pm in 15-minute time slots, as weekend tickets can sell out by 2pm. Children 15 and under visit the observation deck free when accompanied by an adult.
Van & RV Notes
Park your Sprinter van at the mainland ferry dock parking lots in Catawba Point since no vehicles travel to South Bass Island. The ferry ride becomes part of your adventure, and island transportation includes golf carts, bikes, and walking. Plan for the ferry schedule when timing your return to the mainland.
Best Time to Visit
Visit between May and October when ferry service runs regularly and island businesses operate fully. Summer months offer the most activities but can be extremely hot and humid with sudden thunderstorms. Late spring and early fall provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds, though brisk Lake Erie winds can make cooler days feel much colder.
How Long to Spend
Plan a full day to include ferry travel time, Junior Ranger activities, and exploring Put-in-Bay village. The memorial visit itself takes 2-3 hours, but families often extend their island stay to enjoy the unique setting.
Don't Miss
The free 15-minute Battle of Lake Erie film brings the naval battle to life with vivid storytelling that kids remember long after visiting. Historic weapons demonstrations during summer months let families see authentic War of 1812 uniforms and equipment, making history tangible for young visitors.
Fun Facts for Kids
Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's famous victory message 'We have met the enemy and they are ours' was written in pencil on the back of an old envelope
The memorial column is built from pink granite quarried in Massachusetts and stands taller than the Statue of Liberty
South Bass Island sits just 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world between the US and Canada
The Battle of Lake Erie was fought entirely with sailing ships, making it one of the last major naval battles of the Age of Sail
Plan Your Stay
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Where to Stay
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Nearby Parks to Earn More Badges
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Michigan tells the story of the War of 1812's bloodiest battle and its connection to Perry's later Lake Erie victory
James A Garfield National Historic Site
Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers 125 miles of hiking trails and the scenic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad between Cleveland and Akron
River Raisin National Battlefield Park
James A Garfield National Historic Site preserves the home where the 20th president conducted America's first front-porch presidential campaign
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