Fodor's Expert Review Patouxay Monument

An ersatz Arc de Triomphe, this monument is a prominent landmark, if minor attraction, between the city center and Pha That Luang. During the war years, America donated concrete for a new airport runway, but it was used to build this monument, instead. You can climb the stairs of its seven stories for a decent photo op and stroll the souvenir stalls on the second floor.