Ddi you know that Ohio is home to the world’s largest doric column? Most people don’t—but the story behind this massive structure is much more interesting. Located on South Bass Island in the bustling summer town of Put-In-Bay, you’ll find a massive column that commemorates an important time in Ohio history, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. It’s situated 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world, according to nps.gov. Here’s why this national park belongs on your Ohio bucket list:

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and Visitors Center is a popular destination on the island.

Alvin Trusty/Flickr The monument honors Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry, who won one of the biggest victories in The War of 1812. It also serves to celebrate the lasting peace between Britain, Canada, and the United States that followed the war.

Pictured is the view from the top of the monument. You can observe the whole island and beyond from atop the column.

Sean Munson/Flickr Note: Admission to the center is free, and admission to get to the top of the monument is $10.

This 352-ft. memorial became part of the National Park System in 1936 and was declared a National Monument by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

James St. John/Flickr For even more history, take some time to visit the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum, where you’ll learn all about the rich history of the Lake Erie Islands.

The monument is officially the world’s largest doric column and can easily be seen from miles and miles away.

James St. John/Flickr Please note: While you can view the monument and surrounding grounds year-round, the Visitor Center and Observation Deck is closed for the season until May.

Even if you can’t make it to the top, this is one Ohio monument everyone needs to see at least once—even if it’s from the ground below.

NOAA’s National Ocean Service/Flickr

Have you ever been to Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like! Share your thoughts, photos and experiences with us!

Alvin Trusty/Flickr

The monument honors Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry, who won one of the biggest victories in The War of 1812. It also serves to celebrate the lasting peace between Britain, Canada, and the United States that followed the war.

Sean Munson/Flickr

Note: Admission to the center is free, and admission to get to the top of the monument is $10.

James St. John/Flickr

For even more history, take some time to visit the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum, where you’ll learn all about the rich history of the Lake Erie Islands.

Please note: While you can view the monument and surrounding grounds year-round, the Visitor Center and Observation Deck is closed for the season until May.

NOAA’s National Ocean Service/Flickr

For more must-see Ohio landmarks, check out our previous article: 15 Historical Landmarks You Absolutely Must Visit In Ohio.

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Address: Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, 93 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA