After leaving the IMAX on our cultural tour of downtown, we headed for the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum. I'd like to believe that I'm fairly downtown savvy but honestly I had no idea that this museum even existed. My excuse for this oversight (you can use it too) is that the museum isn't visible from the street and is located inside another building all together. But it's not just any building, it's one that's at the very heart of our city. For those of you who don't know like me, the Civil War Museum is located on the lower level of The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument on the Circle.

The Monument is constructed from Indiana limestone and towers at 284 feet tall, making Lady Victory a mere 15 feet shorter than her big sister, Lady Liberty. An observation level can be reached by elevator for $1 or you can take the stairs for free. I'd say the ride is well worth the money if you value your life. It's from this observation deck that our Circle of Lights Holiday Tree is created. But the view from behind the glass is just as nice, and much safer. Here you can see the circular sprawl from the center of the city and watch motorists try to navigate the roundabout.

On the west side of the monument is the entrance to the Civil War Museum. This museum specifically commemorates the Indiana soldiers who served in the war. The sights and sounds of the time are realistically recreated in a way that makes you think about running for cover. The museum features many authentic artifacts and replicas of wartime wares. You'll see flags and photos, letters from home, a cannon (how'd they get that in here?) and the famously photographed cannonball tree.

You can visit the monument and museum Wednesday through Sunday from 10 to 6. For more information visit www.in.gov/iwm. Next week on our cultural tour we'll cross the street to the Hilbert Circle Theatre, home of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

Editor's Note: