For years, we have traveled through the Bennington area of Vermont. It is easy to see the Bennington Battle Monument anytime you are in that area, but we never had the time to stop, so we finally decided to check out the monument.
The monument is in a beautiful area of Bennington. We went in October, and the tree-lined streets are just absolutely gorgeous. Later, it was fun to look back down on the road from inside the monument.
There is a parking area right next to the monument. You can buy tickets to go up the monument elevator at the gift shop. We paid $5 per adult and $1 per child. The gift shop also sells some great local items and other souvenirs.
We saw a Painted Moose out front of the Monument in October, and it is fun tradition to see different moose around Vermont.
The Bennington Battle Monument was completed in 1891, and is just over 306 feet tall. It was built to commemorate the Battle of Bennington, which took place on August 16, 1777.
We thought you had to climb all 417 stairs to reach the top of the monument, but the stairs are permanently closed. The only way to the top is via an elevator. I would say it is your average size elevator, and there is an attendant running it. When you are done at the top, you can either catch the elevator as it brings more tourists up, or there is a bell you can ring.
There are narrow windows all around the top, and there are maps on the inside walls to give you an idea of what you are looking at as far as mountains and other geographical features.
The views are incredible, and it was fun to look down and see the beautiful tree-lined street we had come in on.
We went during prime leaf peeping season, and the view of the mountains are great.
There are some historical items at the base of the monument (inside), which are interesting.
There are also restrooms near the monument, which came in handy since we have kids and were in the car for a while.
We had a fun time at the monument, having passed it for so many years and going at prime foliage time. Visiting the monument was fairly quick, as we checked out the top, took photos, and took a brief look at the historical items at the bottom.
The monument is open mid-April through October 31.
For more information visit: http://www.benningtonbattlemonument.com/
These are such lovely views and photos! I would be happy and relaxed to visit a place like this.
What a beautiful view from the top. Elevator much faster and easier.
I haven’t been up to Vermont in ages.We go to New Hampshire a lot, but haven’t driven over to VT in many years. We need to get over there one of these times we are up there.
This is a lovely monument. I’ve never been to Vermont before. I need to go at some point because it really is a stunning area.
The painted moose project sounds neat and it’s a definite tourist attraction seeking out the “hidden” moose throughout the town. We’ve seen the painted pig project in Virginia and the painted cows in Austin, TX and had to stop and take pics every time we saw one.
I really like history. Whether it’s good or bad we need to know about it. This looks like a great way to explore history and have fun with the kids at the same time. I would love to check it out and I will if I travel that way.
I have never heard about this battle or monument before. Thanks for helping me learn something new. And it is absolutely gorgeous, too!
Vermont isn’t too far from where I live (New York State). This battle monument is right up my alley, as I love history!
Wow what a beautiful looking place to explore, the monument looks amazing and what a view you get from it, I’m glad there is a lift to help you to the top.
I haven’t been to New England in a long time and this place looks amazing to explore! Maybe I can get my husband to spring for a trip there soon…thanks!
What an amazing monument!! I would love to visit Bennington VT one day! How cool!!
I would love to go see this monument in person. I am glad you do not have to climb all 417 stairs to reach the top of the monument. I will have to see if we can check this out the next time we are in the area.
This looks like a really cool monument. I love the painted moose out front of it too.
Looks like a fun place to go! Not very expensive either. It’s interesting to see a painted moose there too! We have them around our city as well.
Vermont is on my list to visit. I’ve got a friend who has a home there and loves to visit from the South. I’ve seen painted cows and horses around here. A moose would be cool to see.
That is such a cool monument, and what an amazing view! I’ve driven through Vermont but never really had a chance to explore. I definitely want to see more of the state, it’s so gorgeous there.
What a beautiful view. The fall season looks like the best time to go. I like that it’s cheap.
What beautiful sight and historic place this monument is. I hope that this would be preserved for generations to see and learn about the history.
I enjoy visiting monuments and museums. It being a quick tour will be wise with a little one in tow.
Vermont is just so beautiful when captured through your eyes! Thank you for so many lovely images! I have always wanted to visit Vermont but if I never get to I still can feel like I’ve been there!
Indeed a such a landmark. The view when you are up is really amazing! I guess I will wish to just stay in one of the corners there to have witnessed the beautiful view up there.
This is a nice landmark, and a great price to see it. A good time to get off the road while leaf peeping and see a monument like this.
What a beautiful monument that I’d love to see in person one day! The scenery is amazing!
A very nice monument! If ever I get to Vermont this will surely be on the list! Thanks for sharing!
So beautiful! Indeed a beautiful sight to visit in Vermont!