Carmel Weekend Getaways
Story by Kate Lustig
Hello, Spring! As we waved goodbye to one of the iciest Hoosier winters we’ve had in the past 10 years and as we emerge from a challenging 2020, it is exciting to know that spring is here. If you are not quite beach and airplane- ready but looking for a slight change in scenery, a weekend getaway in Carmel may have just what you need.
While Carmel’s familiar Main Street area, the Arts & Design District, has much to offer in the way of dining, shopping and gallery-crawling, its neighboring Carmel City Center is a unique destination spot of its own. Located at the intersection of Range Line Road and City Center Drive (126th Street), Carmel’s City Center is distinguishable with its Old World European architectural aesthetic, narrow streets and walkable space.
There are 16 retails stores in City Center including kid favorite Kits & Kaboodle toy store, J. Benzal Menswear for the sartorially gifted man in your life and modern goods mercantile, Nine + Roxy. If it’s self- care that you’re looking for, there are numerous spas and fitness-based businesses from which to choose to get pampered from top to toe.
In August of 2020, the Hotel Carmichael opened its doors in City Center, as the first Marriott Autograph Collection property in Indiana.
After a four-star slumber in one of the hotel’s 122 rooms, guests can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at Vivante French Eatery where, just outside the restaurant windows, they are treated to a view of The Center for the Performing Arts, home to the highly acclaimed Palladium and beautiful Carter Green just right off of the Monon Greenway.
If it’s outdoor activities that are next on your weekend list, the Monon Greenway is the perfect place to hop on your bike, take a long walk with the family or put on your favorite music and run a few miles.
The recently completed Monon Expansion, just south of the Midtown Plaza area, features bocce ball, ping pong tables, water features, a climbing structure for the kids and plenty of outdoor seating. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself spending an entire day at the award-winning Midtown Plaza.
It is not unusual to see every bike rack and outdoor gathering space filled as visitors and locals alike bike, walk, roller blade and drive to this popular part of the city. Sip locally crafted beers and spirits from Sun King Distillery atop one of the best rooftops in the state or try a cold brew from Java House if that is more your style. If you happen to be out with the girls or it’s date night, the gorgeous Penn & Beech Candle Co. is a picture-perfect place to spend some time.
