The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument stands as a grand tribute to Union Army soldiers and sailors who served in the American Civil War. Completed in 1902 and located at Riverside Park’s West 89th Street entrance, this classical marble monument is a striking example of the City Beautiful movement, yet it remains a quiet stop on many uptown walking tours.
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Despite its historical significance and commanding riverside setting, the monument is often missed by casual visitors exploring the Upper West Side. This article explores why the monument is a hidden gem, how restoration efforts have affected access, and practical tips for incorporating it into your Riverside Park walk.
A Monument Inspired by Ancient Greece
The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument was designed by the architectural firm Stoughton & Stoughton with sculptural work by Paul E. M. DuBoy. Its design is an enlarged adaptation of the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens, featuring a cylindrical form with 12 Corinthian marble columns and a richly decorated marble finial crowned by eagles and cartouches.
Completed on May 26, 1902, the monument honors the bravery of New York’s Civil War regiments. Its classical form and prominent riverside location make it a distinctive landmark, yet its architectural style and setting give it a serene, contemplative atmosphere that contrasts with the busier city streets nearby.
Why Most Uptown Walks Don’t Reach the Monument
Though Riverside Park is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, many common uptown routes focus on the park’s southern sections or the adjacent Riverside Drive promenade. The monument, located near West 89th Street, sits slightly off the main pedestrian flow, making it an easy spot to miss without intentional planning.
Additionally, the monument’s interior has been closed for years due to safety concerns and ongoing restoration, reducing its draw as a destination. The surrounding terraces and balustrades had suffered advanced erosion and vandalism before the City allocated over $62 million for restoration starting in 2024, which has further limited access during construction phases.
Restoration and Access: What Visitors Should Know in 2026
The City of New York began a comprehensive restoration of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument in 2024, addressing masonry deterioration, structural repairs, and accessibility improvements. The project includes installing a winding accessible path to the monument, designed to complement its classical form, and restoring terraces and balustrades.
As of July 2026, the exterior and surrounding park areas remain open to the public, but the interior is only accessible during special events such as Open House New York. Visitors should check the NYC Parks website or local announcements for any temporary closures or event schedules before planning a visit.
Planning a Detour: How to Include the Monument in Your Riverside Walk
To experience the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, plan a deliberate detour from the main Riverside Drive path near West 89th Street. The monument sits on a promontory overlooking the Hudson River, offering scenic views and a peaceful spot to pause.
Walking north from the popular 72nd Street or 79th Street entrances, you can extend your route to include the monument’s plaza and terraces. The new accessible path under restoration will soon make this detour easier for visitors with mobility challenges.
Local advocates and preservationists encourage visitors to support the monument’s restoration by attending Memorial Day ceremonies or other public events held at the site, which continue to honor the legacy of Civil War veterans.
Historical Significance and Community Role
The monument has served as a focal point for Memorial Day parades and ceremonies for over a century. It was designated a New York City landmark in 1976 and is listed on the New York State Register of Historic Places.
Beyond its commemorative purpose, the monument and its surrounding parkland provide a green respite in the dense urban fabric of the Upper West Side. The Riverside Park Conservancy maintains the plantings around the monument, enhancing its serene environment.
The restoration project reflects a renewed commitment by the City and local leaders, including Council Member Gale Brewer, to preserve this historic site for future generations.
Why This Monument Deserves a Spot on Your NYC Walks
For those looking to explore beyond the usual landmarks, the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument offers a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Its classical design and riverside setting provide a unique contrast to the bustling city streets and modern skyscrapers.
Visiting the monument is an opportunity to connect with New York City’s Civil War heritage and appreciate a quieter, less trafficked part of Riverside Park. With restoration nearing completion, now is an ideal time to plan a visit and witness this hidden gem as it regains its full grandeur.
Practical notes
- Access: Exterior and plaza open year-round during Riverside Park hours (dawn to dusk); interior open only one day annually during Open House New York or special events.
- Location: Riverside Park at West 89th Street and Riverside Drive, Manhattan, NYC.
- Transit: Accessible via subway lines 1, B, and C to 86th Street; bus routes M72 and M104 serve nearby stops.
- Admission: Free to visit exterior and plaza; no reservations required.
- Accessibility: Restoration includes installation of an accessible path; check NYC Parks for current access details.
- Check Before You Go: Visit https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/riverside-park/monuments/10576 for updates.
Tags: #hidden_gems_odd_finds #NYC #secret_NYC #things_to_do_in_NYC #New_York_City #Soldiers_and_Sailors_Monument #Soldiers_and_Sailors_Monument_NYC #Riverside_Park_Civil_War_memorial #Upper_West_Side_hidden_gems #NYC_monument_restoration_2026 #historic_landmarks_Manhattan #Riverside_Park_walking_routes #accessible_NYC_monuments #Civil_War_memorials_New_York_City
Sources consulted: NYC Parks - Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument Restoration · Riverside Park Conservancy · Wikipedia - Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument (Manhattan) · NY Landmarks Conservancy · NYC Mayor's Office - Memorial Day 2026 Remarks · council.nyc.gov · nycgovparks.org · nynavyleague.org · ecoxplorer.com · archives.nyc
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