Visiting Carmel, IN

The town of Carmel is arguably one of the best places to live. Known for its lovely landscape, mellow weather, and kind people. Carmel is a wonderful place to escape the busy city, reconnect with nature, and enjoy some of life's simplicities. Whether you are from Carmel or just visiting, you'll find a slew of interesting and impressive events and places to keep you occupied. Whether you enjoy hiking and biking, are a budding historian (or have a tiny frontiersman),  or adore everything mini, Carmel has something for you. Read on to learn about our list of things to do in Carmel, Indiana. 

Monon Greenway

Image via Flickr by Towne Post Network

The Monon Trail is an asphalt trail that replaced the old railroad that once ran through Carmel. The greenway (pictured above) is lined with wonderful wooded areas and has several stops along the way with seating to rest, water fountains to quench your thirst, and restrooms for convenience. This stretch — perfect for a solid evening walk — connects the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and downtown Indianapolis. 

It starts in Hamilton County on 96th St., right here in Carmel. Then it travels for 20 miles through Grand Park, Westfield, and Sheridan. This pet-friendly trail even has amenities for your four-legged friends. They have pet-sized water fountains, dog waste areas, and puppy bags to help you clean up after your buddy and keep the trail clean and sanitary for everyone. Ensure that your pet is on a leash no longer than six feet. 

Visitors are welcomed to explore the trail by foot or on bike. For your convenience, you can even rent a bike from Zagster Bike share stations. If you have kids, make plans to stop at Monon Boulevard. It is a newly renovated area between 126th and Main Street. This section provides fun interactive play experiences for kids of all ages. They have ping-pong tables, bocce ball courts, corn hole, and a spray plaza. 

Please keep in mind when using the trail that no motorized vehicles are allowed, pets must be on leash at all times, and loud music is prohibited. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset, and free parking is available on 96th St. For more details or information, please call 317-573-4044.

Conner Prairie

Conner Prairie is a living-history museum in Hamilton County that focuses on preserving the William Conner homestead. Their mission, as stated on their website, is to "inspire curiosity and foster learning with by providing engaging and individualized experiences." They tailor programs to meet the needs of a diverse community and allow guests the opportunity to choose what to take part in and guide their own learning and experiences.

They offer Sensory Hours for little hands to practice fine motor skills and take part in some tactile learning. Preschool on the Prairie is a program that offers a play-based curriculum to help young minds build critical thinking skills and develop a growth mindset from the early years. This two-to-three-day program serves children aged 3 – 5 years old. Other educational opportunities include animal encounters, a tour of the William Conner house, and the opportunity to learn a frontier trade. Be sure to visit them for the Headless Horseman Night Flights for a special balloon voyage treat! 

This interactive learning experience is a must for historians and learners of any age. You'll find the prairie at 13400 Allisonville Road, in Fishers, Indiana. From April 1 through May 30, the prairie is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed Monday through Wednesday. From May 31 through October 31, the prairie is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays. For winter hours, please check their website for updates. 

General admission ranges from $15 for youth to $20 for adults. Conner Prairie offers senior citizen discounts and $2 off each ticket if you buy online in advance. Military discounts are available in-person with a valid ID. To book a field trip or for lodging information, call 317-776-6000. 

Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collectibles

The Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collectibles is home to an array of miniature homes, dioramas, vignettes, and hand-crafted pieces. This is a perfect destination to spend the afternoon for children and adults. The intricate pieces are fascinating and span a variety of time periods and places. This home-turned-museum offers visitors the option of an audio guide or just perusing and reading from binders at each exhibit. The museum host is knowledgeable and friendly. We suggest you carve out at least two hours from your day to enjoy your visit fully. 

A must-see is the exhibit is Judy's Dream. The exhibit features pieces decorated and arranged by Judy Berman, founder of Chrysnbon Miniatures. The set-ups are made from only Chrysnbon pieces and speak to the versatility of the accessory kits. Another exhibit the shoe lovers can't miss is the display featuring porcelain and Fenton glass shoes on display in the Collections Room. These intricate pieces are captivating and represent a small piece of the over 700 artifacts donated to the museum. 

The museum is located at 111 E. Main St., right in Carmel. Current hours of operation are Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed Monday through Thursday. General admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 3-9 years old. Military and seniors get a $2 discount. 

So there you have it. Tom Wood Nissan has just shared our list of top things to do in Carmel, Indiana to keep you and your loved ones entertained. Check out one of these spots for your next family outing or to have something new and exciting to do with friends. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite event or spot to have some fun and unwind? Let us know! Leave a message and we'll be happy to include your suggestions on our list.