It's Memorial Day weekend in Chicago, and that means cookouts, relaxation and mattress sales. But for those who are looking to make this weekend a little more meaningful, Curbed has got you covered. Chicago has many wonderful memorials and monuments dedicated to those who have fought in our nation's armed conflicts and we've mapped 10 sites throughout the city that are perfect spots for reflecting on the sacrifices of our fallen countrymen. Freedom isn't free, but visiting these wonderful spots in Chicago is.
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10 Free Places To Visit In Chicago This Memorial Day
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Philip H. Sheridan Statue
Along Sheridan Road is a statue of the man that the street is named after. The tall statue of the Civil War general riding his horse is seen rallying his Union troops at the Battle of Cedar Creek.
Elks National Veterans Memorial
This Beaux Arts style domed structure was built in 1926 to pay tribute to members of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks who fought in World War I.
Ulysses S. Grant Memorial
Located in the heart of Lincoln Park (named after Honest Abe), lies this Louis Rebisso designed tribute to Union General and two time United States President Ulysses S. Grant. Built in 1891, the memorial is a centerpiece of Lincoln Park.
Standing Lincoln Statue
Completed in 1887 by sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this statue of Abraham Lincoln is one of the most famous of Honest Abe in the world. Replicas of this statue can be found at Lincoln's tomb in Springfield and at London's Parliament Square.
Milton Lee Olive Park
A popular destination for engagement and wedding photographs, this park was named for Vietnam soldier and Medal of Honor recipient Milton Lee Olive.
Soldier Field
Soldier Field is not only the home to the Chicago Bears, but it is also the city's largest memorial to war vets.
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Grand Army of the Republic Meeting Hall
Located in the Chicago Cultural Center, the Grand Army of the Republic Meeting Hall and Memorial is easily one of the most beautiful rooms in the entire city.
Chicago Vietnam Veterans Memorial
With the words "CHICAGO REMEMBERS" etched in stone, this solemn memorial located in Wabash Plaza off Wacker Drive was dedicated by former Mayor Richard M. Daley on Veteran’s Day in 2005.
General John Logan Monument
Located in downtown Grant Park lies this striking statue of General John Logan built in 1897 by Augustus Saint-Guadens. Norwest Side neighborhood Logan Square also receives its name from the famous Union general.
Victory Monument
Built in 1927 by sculptor Leonard Crunelle, the Victory Monument located in Bronzeville pays homage to the Eighth Regiment of the Illinois National Guard, a group of African-American soldiers who fought in France during WWI.
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