The Tallest Monuments in the U.S., Ranked
The U.S. is home to some towering monuments. Each architecture has its own story and record-breaking height. But which one stands the tallest? This ranking will take us on a vertical journey through the country’s most impressive monuments, stacking them up against each other—literally.
Gateway Arch – St. Louis, Missouri: 630 Feet
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Towering over the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch is the tallest monument in the country and the world’s tallest arch. It was completed in 1965 and symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. The stainless steel structure shines brighter in the sunlight and turns into an architectural wonder.
San Jacinto Monument – La Porte, Texas: 567 Feet
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San Jacinto Monument commemorates the Battle of San Jacinto, the decisive fight that secured Texas’ independence from Mexico in 1836. The view from the observation deck treats visitors with the Houston Ship Channel and beyond. There’s even a museum that details Texas’ fight for freedom.
Washington Monument – Washington, D.C.: 555 Feet
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The Washington Monument is one of the most recognizable structures in the U.S. This marble obelisk honors the nation’s first president, George Washington. The monument has seen its share of history, including earthquake damage in 2011 that led to a significant restoration. Now, visitors take an elevator ride to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the National Mall.
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial – Put-in-Bay, Ohio: 352 Feet
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This monument stands as a tribute to peace and the pivotal role of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry in the War of 1812. It commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie. The massive Doric column is one of the tallest in the world, and the observation deck provides a stunning view of the lake and Canada on clear days.
Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument – Indianapolis, Indiana: 284 Feet
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Downtown Indianapolis wouldn’t be the same without this limestone behemoth. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument honors Indiana’s war veterans. The structure is detailed with sculptures, fountains, and an interior museum. Climbing its 330 steps is a workout, but the view from the top is worth it. Every year, it transforms into “The World’s Largest Christmas Tree.”
Pilgrim Monument – Provincetown, Massachusetts: 252 Feet
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Many associate the Pilgrims with Plymouth Rock, but their first landing was in Provincetown. The Pilgrim Monument marks this historic moment, standing tall over Cape Cod. Its design was inspired by a famous tower in Siena, Italy. Visitors who climb the 116 steps and 60 ramps inside are rewarded with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Bunker Hill Monument – Boston, Massachusetts: 221 Feet
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Boston’s Freedom Trail is packed with historical sites, and the Bunker Hill Monument is one of its biggest highlights. It commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. This granite obelisk was one of the first significant monuments built in the U.S. and a tribute to the early Revolutionary War soldiers.
Statue of Liberty (Pedestal + Statue) – New York, New York: 151 Feet
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Lady Liberty needs no introduction. Gifted by France in 1886, she stands as a symbol of freedom and democracy. While the statue is 151 feet tall, adding the pedestal brings her full height to 305 feet. She has endured everything from hurricanes to years of oxidation, yet she remains as powerful and meaningful as ever.
Pegasus and Dragon – Hallandale Beach, Florida: 110 Feet
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Pegasus and Dragon features a winged horse battling a fierce dragon. It was built in 2014 and towers over Gulfstream Park, a racetrack and casino. The bronze sculpture is striking and captures the moment of battle in stunning detail. It may not have the historical weight of others on this list, but it certainly wins for sheer drama.
Our Lady of the Rockies – Butte, Montana: 90 Feet
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Our Lady of the Rockies was built as a tribute to mothers everywhere and has been watching over the town since 1985. Constructing a statue this size on rugged mountain terrain wasn’t easy—volunteers relied on helicopters and the National Guard to transport the massive pieces. The statue is only accessible via guided tours.
Sam Houston Statue – Huntsville, Texas: 67 Feet
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Artist David Adickes completed this statue of the Texas hero in 1994. Houston is known for leading Texas to independence from Mexico. The statue looks every bit as formidable in sculpted form. It is one of the tallest statues of an American statesman, and travelers often pull over for photos with the Lone Star icon.
Christ of the Ozarks – Eureka Springs, Arkansas: 65.5 Feet
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Christ of the Ozarks has been spreading its arms wide since 1966. Evangelist Gerald L.K. Smith built this stark white statue as part of an enormous religious park. The design is simple—long robes, a solemn face, and an outstretched embrace—but its sheer scale makes it impossible to overlook.
Giraffe Statue – Dallas Zoo, Texas: 67.5 Feet
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This giraffe statue is the tallest in the world and even taller than a real giraffe. This enormous sculpture is impossible to miss and is a playful tribute to the zoo’s beloved residents. The statue’s long neck and spotted design make it look right at home, even among the Texas skyline.
Golden Driller – Tulsa, Oklahoma: 75 Feet
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The Golden Driller is a tribute to the roughneck spirit that helped shape Oklahoma. At 75 feet tall, he’s impossible to ignore, his boots planted firmly next to the Tulsa Expo Center. His belt buckle alone could fit a grown man and the mustache is classic. He’s a local legend who has been part of Tulsa’s skyline for decades.
Vulcan Statue – Birmingham, Alabama: 56 Feet
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Vulcan is not just the world’s largest cast-iron statue—he’s also the Roman god of fire and forge. This 56-foot-tall statue symbolizes Birmingham’s iron and steel industry roots. After decades of wear, Vulcan underwent a major restoration and now stands proudly on Red Mountain. His outstretched arm holds a torch, which glows red when there’s a traffic fatality in the city.