Carmel Travel Guide

Carmel, Indiana, is based north of Indiana and has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. In 2018 it was chosen as the best place to live in the states, not only because of its advancements, but also because of its safety -- a reason that many families and group of friends decide to visit this gorgeous town. Carmel is also a historical city, having been settled around 1830. There are plenty of great places to visit here, including parks, museums, markets and outdoor activities such as trails. For the more artistic traveler, the downtown area is the home to Carmel Arts and Design District, plus there are plenty of festivals that take place in Carmel.

Things to Do in Carmel

The top things to do in Carmel include various landmarks and sight-seeing tours.

The Carmel Art and Design District is a very popular choice for visitors looking to buy souvenirs and bag something from one of the local vendors selling their arts and crafts. The edgy and colorful art district has many nice restaurants and coffee shops, and is ideal for people-watching. Additionally, there are a lot of gallery openings in the area, so if you are an art-lover be sure to attend one; most of the times the artists give a little speech as well. If you're interested in antiques, the Carmel Old Town Antique Mall should be on your itinerary.

The Center for the Performing Arts is not only a gorgeous building but a fantastic place to see a variety of shows. For outdoor activities check out the Monon Trail which is great for hiking and biking, or visit one of the many parks with picnic areas, designated areas for volleyball, tennis, and soccer games.

Elsewhere, the Waterpark at the Monon is an amazing day out for children and adults alike to cool down in summers. If you are traveling without children, head to one of the local wineries for a wine-tasting tour and sample a glass (or two) of the region's grapes.

The downtown area is brilliant for an afternoon stroll where you can take in the beautiful buildings and sights. Once you've worked up an appetite, the Carmel Farmer’s Market is a must-see -- many vendors sell the freshest fruits, vegetables, and pastries here.

Best Places to Stay in Carmel

The downtown area is best for having quick access to cafes, restaurants, and shops. If you prefer a more laid-back neighborhood and want to be close to parks, the southwestern districts of the city are better. Wherever you stay, you're sure to have a wide selection of vacation rentals. If you are traveling with your family and want a vacation rental condo which is fully equipped, or are traveling with a large group of friends and want to stay in a house with many bedrooms and bathrooms, Carmel will be able to accommodate you!

Best Time to Visit Carmel

The best time to visit Carmel is May or September when the weather is warm. The average temperature during summer is 80 degrees but it rains a lot during July. The winter months are freezing cold so if you plan to be outside most of the time definitely plan for the summer months.