Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Carmel, Indiana

Frequently ranked among the finest places to reside in the United States, Carmel is a suburban city situated north of Indianapolis that has experienced substantial growth since the 1990s.

The history of Carmel can be traced back to a settlement known as Bethlehem, which was established in the 1830s. Presently, much of the city’s commercial activity, dining, and cultural offerings are concentrated in modern, well-designed districts, accessible by walking or cycling.

These districts are interconnected by the Monon Trail, which runs through the city, extending all the way to central Indianapolis.

The most impressive among the newer districts is Carmel City Center, characterized by its grand spaces and classical-style architecture, showcased by the Palladium, an exquisite Renaissance Revival concert hall.

1. Carmel Arts & Design District

The city has allocated several blocks for small enterprises, and this district has rapidly become the Midwest’s leading arts and design hub.

Numerous attractions highlighted in this article can be found within the Carmel Arts & Design District, which features studios, art galleries, unique dining options, and shops offering antiques, collectibles, home goods, artisanal gifts, and fashion.

The area boasts a diverse array of culinary and beverage establishments, and similar to Carmel’s other recently developed neighborhoods, the Monon Trail allows residents to leave their vehicles behind.

The district is also enjoyable to navigate, featuring distinct street signs and public artworks by the renowned Realist, John Seward Johnson II (1930-2020).

2. Carmel City Center

South of the Arts & Design District lies Carmel’s primary commercial and cultural hub, designed to blend the welcoming charm of a neighborhood with the vibrancy and elegance of a downtown area.

Carmel City Center is conveniently located adjacent to the Monon Trail and encourages exploration by foot or bicycle. The prominent Center for the Performing Arts commands attention, yet there are many other discoveries within the area, including a variety of boutiques, local eateries, a brewpub, and fitness and yoga studios.

This location also serves as the summer venue for the growing Carmel Farmers’ Market each Saturday, and public events are routinely held here. These events continue through the fall and winter months, featuring Oktoberfest celebrations and a festive Christkindlmarkt.

3. The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts

A notable venue within the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel City Center, the breathtaking Palladium stands out.

Completed in 2011, this structure is more recent than it appears, distinguished by its imposing limestone facade and Renaissance Revival architecture inspired by the Villa La Rotonda (1566) near Vicenza.

Underneath its grand dome, the 1,600-seat auditorium features a classic horseshoe shape, complemented by outstanding acoustics enabled by sound-reflecting walls.

The Palladium serves as the home of the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and the Palladium Players theater group. The schedule is packed with performances by artists and ensembles across various genres, in addition to theatrical productions, dance showcases, and children’s events.

Bi-weekly guided tours are available for those wishing to learn more about this architectural landmark, and visitors can view a gallery that hosts rotating exhibits celebrating the history of American popular music.

4. Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collections

This distinctive museum located in the Arts & Design District is one of the few institutions in the United States that focuses on the art of fine miniature creations, predominantly at a 1:12 scale.

The extensive collection features miniature houses, room boxes, and individual artifacts, all demonstrating an extraordinary level of craftsmanship.

This artistry is evident throughout the exhibits, and the rich detail and historical accuracy are critical in the realm of miniature art.

Housed within seven rooms, the exhibits are frequently updated and can be enjoyed through self-guided, audio, or docent-led tours.

5. Coxhall Gardens

This beautiful park was once the residence of philanthropists Jesse and Beulah Cox, who donated the land to the county in 1999.

The centerpiece of Coxhall Gardens features an amphitheater designed for outdoor concerts during the summer, complemented by meticulously landscaped gardens, fountains, public art, and two large symmetrical ponds.

Adjacent to the ponds stands Coxhall Mansion, which is accessible for tours and rentals, along with an elegant 90-foot bell tower positioned near each pond.

Waterfowl such as egrets and herons are frequently observed at the ponds, and a delightful Children’s Garden is also available, featuring a sundial, village stores, echo wall, and various other attractions.

6. Waterpark at the Monon Community Center

Since its opening in 2007, the Monon Community Center has established itself as an upscale recreational facility featuring a fitness center, indoor pool, KidZone for childcare, and a wide array of group fitness classes.

However, it is the outdoor waterpark that attracts visitors during the summer, offering a multitude of attractions for enjoyment under the sun.

The facility includes a spacious lap/activity pool, a lazy river, a kiddie pool, adventure slides, a plunge slide, and a FlowRider for surfing at speeds reaching 30 mph. Renting one of the park’s cabanas, suitable for up to eight guests, can enhance the experience.

7. Monon Trail

This walking, jogging, and cycling path has been referenced several times, highlighting its significance to the Carmel community.

Exceeding 20 miles in length, this rail trail follows the route of the historic Monon Railroad, which commenced operations in 1847, traversing Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky.

Utilizing the trail allows one to travel all the way to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, passing through Westfield to the north and Broad Ripple to the south of Carmel.

In close proximity to the city, it serves as a convenient means of transportation, connecting Carmel’s downtown districts, Central Park, and the Center for the Performing Arts.

8. Central Park

The Monon Trail effortlessly bisects this park, which houses the Monon Community Center and the Waterpark.

Concealed off the Monon Trail are approximately six miles of pathways that traverse native prairie, forests, and wetlands.

In certain areas, particularly within the eastern woods, it can be hard to believe you are still within the city limits. In the western segment of the park lies Westermeier Commons, featuring a modern, accessible playground, which offers over 25,000 square feet of play area.

Adjacent to this is a splash pad, designed with water features inspired by the local natural environment. Additional amenities at Central Park include a skate park, dog park, picnic shelters, and boardwalks.

9. Indiana Design Center

Located within the Arts & Design District, the Indiana Design Center offers a multitude of resources and inspiration for both interior design professionals and the general public.

Inside, visitors will discover over 15 showrooms and 45 kitchen displays, in addition to an extensive range of products related to home aesthetics, furnishings, and building materials.

The public is welcome to explore retail showrooms on the first level, which feature an array of items from drapery and hearths to luxury electronics and biophilic design elements.

On the upper level, trade-exclusive showrooms may be visited alongside an interior design professional or through one of the “Featured Designers” listed on the center’s website.

10. Carmel Farmers’ Markets

Throughout the year, residents of Carmel can purchase local produce, ingredients, and other food items, as the local farmers’ market operates in both summer and winter seasons.

Every Saturday from May to September, more than 60 vendors set up at 510 3rd Avenue SW, transitioning to the nearby Wire Factory, one of the last remaining historical industrial structures in the city, during October.

For an idea of the market’s offerings, expect seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including tomatoes, corn, and garlic, as well as an assortment of products such as eggs, meats, poultry, baked goods, sauces, jams, and jellies.

Culinary experiences also play a role in the event, offering items like waffles, breakfast burritos, ribs, egg rolls, and smoothies, while live entertainment is featured most weeks.

11. Flowing Well Park

The Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation Department oversees this unique park located on the city’s east side. Lushly wooded, Flowing Well Park is situated along the banks of Cool Creek and is distinctive for its artesian well.

This well was discovered in 1904, serendipitously, while drillers sought natural gas. Subsequently, the landowner dedicated the well for public use, and Flowing Well Park opened in 1994 as Carmel’s first public park.

The artesian well undergoes quarterly bacterial testing; however, the CCPR conducts monthly inspections.

This allows visitors to confidently fill their own bottles, though boiling the water before consumption is advisable. From the well, guests can explore trails leading into the woods and find benches along the creek for relaxation.

12. Midtown Plaza

Connecting the Arts & Design District to Carmel City Center, Midtown Plaza represents a lively development situated in the city’s former industrial sector.

Hosting several major local employers, Midtown Plaza has been designed as a social hub both during the day and evening, featuring welcoming green spaces, benches, and communal tables.

Restaurants and bars invite patrons to socialize, and summer activities abound with outdoor entertainment ranging from films and live music to broadcasts of sports events.

Midtown Plaza is also home to an interactive play area, including a spray park for children, ping-pong tables, cornhole boards, and bocce courts, all accompanied by public art.

13. Peace Water Winery

Featuring a sophisticated tasting room that aligns with Carmel’s Arts & Design District, this locally owned winery offers handcrafted Napa Valley wines in Indiana.

A notable aspect of Peace Water Winery is that 50% of its profits are donated to eight different charities (both local and international), each selected by one of the owners’ eight children.

Visitors are welcome to experience the tasting room in Carmel without a reservation, sampling Peace Water’s offerings by the glass or flight.

Knowledgeable and amiable hosts provide insights into the winemaking process and the characteristics of each wine, enhancing the selection experience. The winery also boasts a charming back patio featuring regular live music performances.

14. Conner Prairie

Just across the White River from Carmel lies a fascinating Living History Museum that showcases life along the river in the 19th century.

This property was formerly owned by renowned fur trader and politician William Conner (1777-1855), who erected his Federal-style brick residence here in 1823.

Conner Prairie was established as an attraction in the mid-1930s when it was acquired by Indiana pharmaceutical industrialist Eli Lilly (1885-1977).

For a glimpse of the permanent exhibits available, visitors can tour the William Conner House, which has been restored to reflect its 1820s appearance, explore a Lenape Native American camp, and observe craft demonstrations at the Makesmith Workshop.

The museum features domestic animals and animal husbandry interactions at Animal Encounters, offers insights into Hoosier entrepreneurship through the Create Connect displays, and presents a reconstructed 1836 pioneer community known as Prairietown.

15. Golf

For golf enthusiasts, Carmel is an ideal destination, boasting eight courses in total.

Among these, three public courses were designed by esteemed architects such as Pete Dye, who previously resided in Carmel, and Robert Trent Jones, Jr.

Brookshire Golf Club, located just east of Carmel City Center, provides scenic views along the picturesque banks of Cool Creek.

Further east, near the White River, is the Dye-designed Plum Creek Golf Club, recognized for its abundant water features and tree-lined greens.

Lastly, Prairie View Golf Club overlooks Conner Prairie across the White River, set within a landscape of undulating natural grasslands and wetlands, interspersed with stunning mature oak and sycamore trees.