colonel eli lilly civil war museum - soldiers & sailors monument

I have been going to the monument since a kid when I was able to run all the way to the top. To go to Indy & not go up into the monument is..well..un-American!

This relatively small exhibit within the lovely Monument is a jewel for anyone with an appreciation of history. The soldiers' letters from the Civil War say more about the horrors of war, than many bigger museums. Go.

Our family loves history! We were thrilled to have a chance to visit this small museum while visiting Indy. Although small in size on the inside, the museum is very well done! We spent an hour in the museum brushing up on our Civil War knowledge and then headed up the 330 stairs to the top of the monument! The monument is very beautiful from the outside, and the view from the top is quite neat. We are all athletes in our family and the steep stairs were no joke; taking the elevator to the top might be a better option for some! We are glad we added this stop to our long weekend in Indy!

A historic monument to Indiana's war dead. This monument is literally the center and heart of Indianapolis. The lower level is a museum to Indiana's contribution to the Civil War and other later military actions. A decent gift shop is limited by space. Visitors can walk to the top of the observation deck or take an elevator. In December, the monument is transformed into the "World's Largest Christmas Tree" with strands of lights hanging from the top of the structure to the ground. Also the site of many downtown events and activities throughout the year.

This little museum in the basement of the Soldiers and Sailors monument is worth a stop for history buffs. Emphasis is on the average soldier's life rather than military history. Two very loud videos were playing the whole time that were kind of distracting. You could hear them everywhere in the museum.

The museum (under the base of the monument) is great for families with kids and doesn't take too long. The monument on the Circle (inexpensive and free to veterans), while not the tallest point in the city anymore, still gives a really nice 360 view of Indy from the top.

Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum - Soldiers & Sailors Monument is located in the heart of Indianapolis in Monument Circle (Downtown). First go visit the small but thoughtful Civil War exhibit in the base of the monument (more Hoosiers fought in the US Civil War than any Union State). The monument is made from limestone of Owen County, Indiana and rises feet to the top (just 12 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty). Check out the fountains and the bronze works of art built into the magnificent facade. Some of the highlights include: "War", "Peace", "The Home-front" and "The Dying Soldier". The 4 statues signify Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and Navy. The beautiful monument is open to the public and the view from the top is worth the 330 stair climb ($2 for the elevator) and a good workout for the foods of the heartland! The view (while cramped) is 360 and glassed in. You can spot the Monument and War Memorial Mall, The Chase Tower, Lucas Oil Stadium, Monument Circle (in 360), Christ Church Cathedral, The State Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, Eli Lilly, The State House and Federal Building. Check out the gift shop on the way out.

This is a worthwhile attraction. It gives you an appreciation of the sacrifices people endured during that time. It's easy to find and I like the setting.

Awesome views of Indianapolis. Pay for the elevator. It's a lot of stairs to the top Be warned it is a bit cramped

Great views of Indianapolis from the top. The museum is very nice & clean. Employees are helpful if you need them. The shop is okay. Thought it could have more in it. Would go again.

This monument was well lit for the holiday season. The entire monument was lit with Christmas lights. The horse drawn carriages were charming (except for the poopoo bags).This is a nice stop when touring city!

Great structures and since its nearing Christmas they have decorated it with lights and have given the Monument a Christmas look...I was there the night they light on the lights...its was a once in a life time kinda experience...Performances,Fireworks,lots of lights and excitements...folks form far and near were there to grace the occasion ..its also nice to visit during the day and take a walk around the circle...nice historical sculptures everywhere. its a Very Nice place to visit Really

Visit the day after Thanksgiving to see the lighting of the tallest christmas tree.The entire circle is lighted for the christmas season.

Very old on The Circle and very tight space. Looks like no updates since the last time I was there 40 years ago.

This is THE landmark for Indy. I understand that changes are coming to make it more pedestrian friendly. Not sure why it needs the change, but it's coming