Illinois State Monument, Southern Illinois Travel Guide

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Honoring Illinois soldiers who fought in the Civil War at Kennesaw Mountain, this monument offers a place for reflection and historical connection.

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Illinois State Monument

The Illinois State Monument, located in Marietta, Georgia, within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, honors the soldiers from Illinois who fought in the Civil War. Dedicated in 1914, the monument stands as a solemn reminder of their sacrifices during the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain.

A brief summary to Illinois State Monument

Marietta, Georgia, 30064, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Illinois State Monument.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Take a guided tour of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park for a deeper understanding of the Civil War history.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Check the park's events schedule for reenactments or educational programs that may coincide with your visit.

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Explore Illinois State Monument on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Illinois State Monument, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Illinois State Monument is located within Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. From Marietta Square, head north on US-41/Cobb Parkway, then turn left onto Dallas Highway/GA-120. Turn left onto Cheatham Hill Drive. The monument is at the end of the road. Parking is available at the Cheatham Hill Dr./Illinois Monument Parking lot. Parking is free. Note that the parking lot is open from 8 AM to 7:30 PM during Daylight Savings Time and 8 AM to 5:30 PM during Standard Time.
Public Transport

To reach the Illinois State Monument using public transportation, take the CobbLinc bus from Marietta to the Arts Center MARTA station in Atlanta. From there, transfer to a MARTA train towards your final destination. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The combined cost for the bus and train is about $5. From the closest Marta station, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare to the monument. The taxi fare may vary.
Ride Share

From downtown Marietta, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are readily available. A direct ride to the Illinois State Monument will take approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost for a ride-sharing service is $24.

Discover more about Illinois State Monument

Nestled in the serene landscape of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, the Illinois State Monument stands as a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers from Illinois who participated in the American Civil War. Specifically, it commemorates those who fought in the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain, a significant clash that took place on June 27, 1864. The monument is located on Cheatham Hill, the site of the Union assault.Dedicated on the battle's 50th anniversary, June 27, 1914, the monument's architecture reflects the solemnity of its purpose. The 25-foot-high structure is crafted from Georgia white marble and features intricate carvings and inscriptions that recount the soldiers' sacrifices. An American eagle crowns the monument, while life-size figures of a Union soldier, flanked by Grecian women symbolizing “peace” and either “victory” or the State of Illinois, adorn its facade.Visitors can appreciate the monument's peaceful surroundings, ideal for contemplation and reflection. The park offers trails and interpretive signs that provide context about the battles fought in the area. The Illinois State Monument provides a unique opportunity to connect with a significant piece of American heritage.