Carmel (Indiana)
Understand
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Hamilton County Convention and Visitors Bureau
address: 37 East Main StreetNot-for-profit tourism organization that promotes and encourages the development of Hamilton County tourism, conventions, festivals and other special events. Carmel is home to the main office. Staff are very helpful and welcome visitors who need information. Visit their website for a full event calendar and interactive map of destinations, golfing, restaurants, shopping and places to stay.
Get in
By car
From the metropolitan Indianapolis area, take U.S. 31 north to 126th Street. Carmel's city center is located between U.S. 31 and Keystone Ave. (State Road 421). It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from downtown Indianapolis. Carmel has become the defacto roundabout capital of the US, with more than 80 such roundabouts, much as are found in major European countries. US 31 at the Carmel boundary is a major US highway that has been renovated with off ramp roundabouts that eliminate stop lights from I-465 to the northern boundary of Carmel. Speed limit on this road, however, is a paltry 50 mph and is routinely monitored by the local police, however with no lights travel from one end to the next is about 7 minutes.By plane
In addition to the Col. Weir Cook Indianapolis International Airport, located off of I-70 in Indianapolis, smaller planes can schedule a landing at one of two airports in Hamilton County and nearby Boone County, located just west of Hamilton County. Both offer aircraft charter, sales, rental, catering, flight school and more.
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phone: +1 317-849-0840address: 10401 Willow View Rd, Fishers
- Indianapolis Executive Airport 11329 East SR 32, Zionsville. +1 317-769-3288.
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phone: +1 317-758-4161address: 27045 Jerkwater Road, Sheridan
Get around
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Hamilton County Convention and Visitors Bureau
phone: +1 317-848-3181address: 37 East Main StreetNot-for-profit tourism organization that promotes and encourages the development of Hamilton County tourism, conventions, festivals and other special events. Staff are very helpful and welcome visitors who need information. Visit their website for a full event calendar and interactive map of destinations, golfing, restaurants, shopping and places to stay. - Carmel Visitor Center 35 E. Main St. +1 317-848-3181 x103. Open M-F, 9AM-5PM; Sat., 10AM-6PM and for special events.
By car
General speed is between 55-70 on interstates and highways, and generally 35 on other roads unless otherwise posted.
See
Museums
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address: 111 E. Main StThis is a rare find, a museum that caters specifically to miniature homes, room boxes and vingnettes. They also have a gift shop and a childrens play area. Very unique, but only open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 11AM-4PM and Sundays, 1 to 4PM $4 for adults, $2 for children under 10.
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World's Smallest Children's Art Gallery
address: 40 W. Main StreetThe World's Smallest Children's Art Gallery, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, showcases children's art from different schools from September–May. Special showcases in June. Admission: Free Open: Sundays, 2-4PM -
address: 211 1st Street SWBuilt in 1883, the depot served as the main transportation and freight site for Carmel. The renovated depot houses the Carmel Clay Historical Society. Open: Tuesday and Wednesday 9AM-12PM and 1PM-5PM, Friday and Saturday from 12PM-3PM and Sunday, 1PM-3PM
Do
Festivals
Art of WineJuly. Browse at the shops in the Arts & Design District, gaze at local art, and enjoy wine tastings form about 10 Indiana Wineries during this annual summer event.
Carmel ArtomobiliaEarly September.The Carmel Arts & Design District promises to stimulate your senses by celebrating the art and design of the automobile. Unlike any other event, the Carmel Artomobilia marries the beauty of classic, vintage, exotic and rare car collections with artists inspired by automotive design. From historic Ford Model As to late model Lamborghinis, Artomobilia guests will celebrate decades of engineering and craftsmanship
Carmel International Arts FestivalLate September Features juried artists (numbering close to 150 each year) that appeal to informal collectors as well as art enthusiasts. Dancers, local musicians perform and a children’s activity tent includes arts and craft projects geared for smaller children. Admission is free but food vendors charge.
CarmelFestHeld every 4th of July features performances by the Carmel Symphony Orchestra in addition to annual firework display, a community parade, food, games and other family-friendly entertainment.
Gallery Walks/ Second Saturdays2nd Saturday of each month Come to the Arts District for an evening of culture, art and fun! See local and visiting artists. Enjoy unique refreshments s and a raffle for one of our local restaurants in the galleries.
Rock the DistrictJune. Rock the District is a free, community-wide music festival and shopping extravaganza taking place in the heart of the Arts & Design District in downtown Carmel, Indiana.
Outdoors
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Carey Grove Park
address: 14001 N. Carey Rd5 acres with an arboretum, half-size basketball court, community organic garden, trail, playground and softball diamond. -
Monon Community Center & Central Park
address: 1235 Central Park Drive East and 1195 Central Park Drive WestThe 161-acre park is free but some activities are an additional cost. The park includes a wetlands area, garden, park areas and 4 miles of trails connecting to the Monon Trail, which will take you all the way south to Indianapolis and northwest to Westfield, Indiana. A 10,000 square foot skate park welcomes skateboarders. Fees apply at The Monon Center and Aqua Park, which includes an outdoor pool, water slide and lazy river. An indoor pool and fitness center, with gymnasiums and studio classes also are available. Daily passes and value passes for 10 visits are available for visitors, although prices are higher for non-Carmel residents. -
Cool Creek Park
address: 2000 E. 151st StThree to four miles of wooded trails, playground, softball and soccer fields and basketball court are all available here. Also home to the Cool Creek Nature Center which hosts the annual Cool Creek Concert series. -
Coxhall Gardens
address: 2000 W. 116th St125-acres of park and gardens include a children’s garden, conservatory, reflecting pools and two belltowers. -
Flowing Well Park
address: 5100 E. 116th St18 acres featuring an artesian well where you can fill up your own jug and containers with naturally clean flowing water. A few small trails and fishing too. - Hagan-Burke Trail Major Access: Monon Greenway, Rangeline Road, 146th Street. The trail, which is a little more than one mile, connects the Monon Greenway to 146th Street. A portion of the trail travels along Cool Creek.
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Hazel Landing Park
address: 10601 Hazel Dell Pkwy44 acres featuring fishing and a canoe launch into the White River. -
Lawrence W. Inlow Park
address: 6310 E. 131st StPlaygrounds with tree houses and a small water park are the big features here. Nature trail and shelters too. -
Lenape Trace Park
address: 9602 Westfield BoulevardThis 5 acre park features a shelter and a short trail that connects to the Monon. -
Meadowlark Park
address: 450 Meadow Ln17 acres with a pond and dock and fishing. Trail and basketball court too. - Monon Trail Greenway Stems from 96th St up to 146th St. Carmel's own 5.2 mile extension of Indy's Monon Trail. A new mile-long extension connects the trail to Westfield, Indiana. Open from dawn to dusk (they do fine you if they catch you at night) with easy accessibility to shopping and activities. One can ride, skate, run or walk along this extensive and well kept greenway. Pets are welcome as long as you clean up after them.
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Prairie Meadow Park
address: 5282 Ivy Hill DriveThis beautiful prairie landscaped park houses a 1/4 mile recreation trail. -
Pleasant Grove Park
address: 445 E. 11th StreetThis 6-acre park is family-oriented with a soccer field, softball diamond and playground with shelter. -
River Heritage Park
address: 11813 River Road40-acre part features an adaptive playground for those with special needs. The park also has two sand volleyball courts, an amphitheater and picnic areas. -
West Park
address: 2700 W. 116th St120 acres featuring trails, wide green space, big playground, trails and small water park. In the winter, the north face of the park’s hill turns into a sledding hill. -
White River Greenway
address: 13410 River Road15-acres pocket park next to the White River. Undeveloped except for 2.5 miles of asphalt trails. -
address: 260 W. Carmel DriveEnjoy a rental bicycle ride throughout the heart of Carmel all the way to Broad Ripple. Pedal the paved Monon Greenway on a comfort bicycle or tandem. Free locks, helmets, trail maps.
Music and Performing Arts
Carmel Symphony OrchestraFormed as a community orchestra in 1976, the Orchestra now plays at various venues through the Carmel area, but now calls the Palladium home. Enjoy intimate performances of great works and masterpieces with guest performers or take in the Fourth of July concert at Carmel Civic Square. Tickets are affordable and discounts are given for students and seniors.
The Center for the Performing ArtsAfter more than a decade of planning, the Center for the Performing Arts is becoming a reality in Carmel, Indiana. The facility includes four state-of-the-art performing arts venues: a 1,600-seat concert hall, a 500-seat proscenium theater, a 200-seat studio theater and an outdoor amphitheater. It also serves as an education center and museum for the Michael Feinstein Foundation, housing the rare memorabilia and manuscripts of The Great American Songbook Collection.
Rising high on the Carmel skyline with its domed European style design, the Palladium has captured the attention of residents and visitors alike. The four-fronted, symmetrical design with its limestone facades and columns offers a timeless elegance and an unparalleled setting for attending world-class entertainment.
The Tarkington, a 500-seat proscenium theater, is home to the resident theater group Civic Theatre.
The Studio Theater is a flexible theatrical space intended to nurture local and national artists. In addition to the Center’s resident companies and their productions, the Center will present national performers.
Golf
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address: 12120 Brookshire Pkwy18-hole public course designed by Carmel resident William Diddel.
- Crooked Stick Golf Course 1964 Burning Tree Ln. +1 317-844-9938. Private 18-hole course, designed by the legendary Pete Dye, has hosted the Solheim Cup, US Women's Open, 1991 PGA Championship, and the 2009 US Senior Open.
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address: 12401 Lynnwood BvdAnother Pete Dye designed course in Hamilton County, Plum Creek has hosted the 2004 IWGA Mid-Amateur. Semi-private club offers PGA Pro led instructional programs. Area hotels offer a “Stay and Play” package for Plum Creek.
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address: 13199 River RoadLocated on 206 acres, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf course is a daily fee facility. Area hotels offer a “Stay and Play” package for Prairie View.
Family Fun
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address: 617 3rd Ave. SWIndiana's largest laser tag complex. Make a team with friends or strangers and sneak around shooting each other with harmless lasers and with music blaring and lighting effects. Lasers emit from state of the art Lasertron equipment. It's quite spooky seeing lasers bouncing off the walls through the dark room. They also have a huge arcade and a Noble Roman's pizza restaurant on site.
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The Monon Center at Central Park
phone: +1 317-848-7275address: College Avenue and 111th StreetFeatures a fitness center, dance studio, group fitness studios, indoor track, gymnasium, indoor aquatics center, party rooms, concessions, locker rooms, skate park, a 10-acre outdoor aqua park, a cafe, banquet rooms, childcare, art studio, computer lab, classrooms and a conference center. -
address: 1017 West Main StreetAn internet cafe and upscale venue featuring interactive video games for individuals and groups of all ages.
Learn More
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Carmel Clay Chamber of Commerce
address: 37 East Main StreetThe Chamber can provide information about area businesses and upcoming events.
Buy
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address: 14390 Clay Terrace BlvdAs the first outdoor lifestyle center in Indiana, Clay Terrace stands as a unique and beautiful jewel in the Simon Property Group portfolio. Here, over 70 retailers line the center's broad sidewalks, gently rising up Clay Terrace Boulevard from U.S. 31. Vintage storefronts and antique lighting blend seamlessly with modern amenities and convenience. Home to everything from locally owned boutiques to nationally known shopping destinations, Clay Terrace offers something for even the most discerning shopper.
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phone: +1 317-817-9463address: 313 E. CarmelOne of Central Indiana’s best liquor stores. Featuring countless wines, beers, and liquor from all over the world. Also has amazing deli with gourmet fine eats.
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address: 111 W. Main StDowntown Carmel’s recently created district features interior designers, art galleries, furnishings showrooms, home décor and specialty shops in addition to retail and restaurants. See their website for a full up to date directory. Stately brick buildings, with open-air dining, line the streets, which close to host several festivals each year. District is accessible and connected via the Monon Trail, a linear greenway park that extends south all the way to downtown Indianapolis.
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phone: +1 317-569-5975address: 200 South Rangeline RoadThe corner of Range Line Rd. and 1st Street in Carmel’s Arts & Design District. Discover the Indiana Design Center’s showrooms, design professionals, artists and endless resources for residential and commercial interiors. There is inspiration at every corner. The Indiana Design Center welcomes design professionals and the public. The public is welcome to shop in all first floor retail showrooms. Many of the retail showrooms also offer in-house design services for the public. The public may shop the second floor to-the-trade showrooms with their own designer or may use the Designer-on-Call service provided by the Indiana Design Center. Open Monday-Friday 8AM–6PM and Saturday 8AM–3PM
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Antique Emporium
address: 1055 S. Range Line RdUpscale antique shop specializing in antiques and appraisals. We do carry lamp shades and lamp parts as well as offer-silver polishing and other metals. -
phone: +1 317-566-1908address: 38 W. Main StA historic building that once housed the first fire truck in Carmel is now home to over 70 dealers. Booths feature antique furniture, toys, dolls, pottery, books, jewelry, coin operated machines, vintage linens and quilts and more.
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Midland Arts & Antiques Market
address: 488 Gradle DriveMidland satellite location near the Carmel Arts & Design District is open to the public and caters to the design trade and clientele. Open 7 days a week. -
phone: +1 317-574-8990address: 23 E. Main StreetPillowTalk is a charming boutique in the heart of Carmel's Arts and Design District that specializes in couture lingerie, organic skin care, luxurious home fragrance, and locally crafted jewelry. PillowTalk strives to provide an intimate shopping experience, with quality products that make women feel elegant, unique, sophisticated, and pampered.
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address: 111 W. Main StreetThis small but creative gallery packs in many featured artists with displays of blown glass and decorative mosaic pieces. Featured glass artists include Ben Johnson, Michele Soncini, and Nancy Keating.
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M. Grosser Jewelry Design Studio
address: 154 Medical DriveCustom jewelry designs made by Mark Grosser. Diamonds, gold and natural gemstones. -
address: 330 N. Rangeline RoadOffering a wide selection of bug bonnets that are handmade to go on top of your wine glass to keep bugs out. Unique hand crafted wine glasses, wine stoppers and wine baskets customized to meet your fancy.
Eat
Spurge
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address: 8650 Keystone CrossingA fresh grill and wine bar that invites guests to discover the sensational flavors of a seasonally-inspired menu and award-winning international wine list in a casually-sophisticated ambiance.
Mid-range
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address: 14480 Lowe's WayFresh and creative food, knowledgeable and gracious service, and beautiful court-yard inspired dining rooms, combine to provide 'special occasion' experience within a 'casual dining' budget.
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phone: +1 317-706-BUBSaddress: 210 W. Main StreetBub's burgers are made from fresh, hand-pattied ground beef. The buns are custom made to fit their burgers and baked fresh at a local bakery. If you're up for a challenge, try Bub's Big Ugly Burger and get your picture on the wall. Also check out Bub's Cafe at 220 2nd Street SW for breakfast.
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Bub's Cafe
address: 220 2nd Street SWHome of the Big Stack, Bub's Cafe invites you to enjoy a delicious signature blend coffee, large selection of gourmet hot teas, omelets made with fresh ingredients, special recipe pancakes, down home biscuits and gravy, fresh-made Bub Holes (donut holes), and the very popular quiche of the day. -
address: 146th and Hazel Dell PkwyThis restaurant sits right on the border between the town of Noblesville and the city of Carmel. Offers great atmosphere, drinks and food for lunch and dinner. The portions are huge, especially the salads – try the Citrus Island Salad. Indoor and outdoor dining.
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address: 12955 Old Meridian StreetCooking Greek Deli & Market provides home cooked Greek meals, pastries, dried goods, cooking classes, gluten/wheat/dairy free selections and catering. Meal delivery available.
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address: 71 W City Centerdivvy, a sharing plates restaurant & bar from the owners of Woodys Library Restaurant offers a unique dining atmosphere for guests 21 & over. divvy’s menu features contemporary American small plates focusing on a dining experience to be shared. The concept allows patrons to experience and share a variety of items by ordering multiple plates. The menu has items in the range of $5-14 and accommodates a variety of dietary needs including vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free as well as traditional entrees. According to owner Kevin “Woody” Rider, “The name ‘divvy’ was chosen because of the phrase ‘divvy it up.’” Co-owner and Chef Richelle Rider has degrees in nutrition and dietetics and has been named one of “Indy’s Top 10 Chefs.”
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Donatello's Italian Restaurant
address: 9 West Main StreetThis tiny family-run eatery features classic Italian cuisine and fine wine in an upscale, white-table cloth atmosphere. Reservations recommended. -
Dooley O'Toole's
address: 160 E. Carmel DriveDooley O'Toole's is an Irish themed pub. Locally owned and operated, they are a restaurant that is committed to buying from local suppliers. -
address: 12405 N. Meridian StreetFrom sandwiches to salads, Jason's Deli offers healthy food that everyone can feel good about. And it's not only heathly food - it's delicious food!
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address: 14395 Clay Terrace BlvdOffering an exciting twist on American cuisine. Try Kona's signature Macadamia Nut Chicken, Sweet-Chili Glazed Salmon, Kona's Big Island Meatload or the award-winning sushi, hand-crafted by talented sushi chefs at the elegant sushi bar.
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address: 1390 Keystone WayThe cities best cafeteria is at MCL. Waiting in line is a cultural experience in itself. Pick up your tray and pick up your choice of eats. Great fried chicken, salads, mashed potatoes and classics like liver and onions (oh yeah!). Don't forget the huge variety of homemade pies and cakes. Great friendly service too.
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address: 2340 E. 116th StreetImmersive experience of color, art, music and light, providing a delicious escape from the mundane. Great pizzas, calzones, salad and pretzels.
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address: 13644 N. Meridian StreetEnjoy great bar food including breaded tenderloins, jumbo wings and pizza. Live bands every Friday and Saturday.
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address: 2375 E. 116th StreetEveryone should be able to enjoy a fresh, delicious meal and feel good afterward, just like they do every day along the Italian Mediterranean.
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address: 40 E. Main StreetWoody's Library Restaurant was established in a renovated Carnegie Library that was built in 1913. The upstairs seats approximately 60 guests & resembles the original library design with vaulted ceilings and tables creatively situated amongst shelves stocked with donated books. The downstairs is a neighborhood pub setting with approximately 50 seats complete with a pool table, video games, TVs & bar stools.
Cheap
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address: 1315 S. Rangeline RoadEnjoy a Chicago, New Yorker, Chili Cheese, Cincinnati or design-your-own Zacky Dog. Zacky's serves Vienna Beef hot dogs (jumbo or regular) and a whole lot more. Try the Italian Beef, Philly Cheese Steak, Veggie Burger or Hot Links. Top it off with Caribbean Slaw, sweet potato fries, mac-n-cheese and gourmet cookies. There's something for everyone! Locally owned and operated.
Sweets
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Handel's Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt
address: 2466 E. 146th StreetHandel's Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt is made fresh every day on the premises. They use products, equipment, methods and recipes exclusive only to Handel's. -
Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt - Carmel
address: 2760 E. 146th StreetOrange Leaf Frozen Yogurt is fun, healthy treat that you make yourself! Create whatever you like for.45/ounce.
Drink
Wineries
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address: 313 E. Carmel DrVine & Table gourmet market has the largest selection of unique and fine wines in the state, including both every day wines and the most sought after collector wines. Vine & Table also has the best scotch, liqueurs, fine spirits and domestic and international beers.
Sleep
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address: 15131 Thatcher Ln75 suites. This hotel is located next to Cool Creek Park and Village Park Shops and offers indoor pool/whirlpool, exercise room, whirlpool suites and free continental breakfast. Copier and fax on site. Meeting space accommodates up to 30 people. Free parking. Hot breakfast items.
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address: 9797 N. Michigan Rd66 rooms. The hotel features an indoor pool, whirlpool, health club, HBO/cable and complimentary continental breakfast. Meeting space accommodates 20-40 people. Free parking. Smoke free.
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address: 10290 N. Meridian Street149 rooms. The newly renovated hotel features an indoor pool, whirlpool, heath club, lounge, restaurant, complimentary HBO/cable and in-room coffee. Free parking.
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phone: +1 317-844-7994address: 11355 N. Meridian St
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Holiday Inn Indianapolis Carmel
address: 251 East Pennsylvania Parkway -
address: 12197 N. Meridian St103 rooms. This five-story hotel offers an indoor swimming pool and whirlpool, fitness room, large suites, king rooms with in-room whirlpools and hotel business center. Complimentary HBO/cable, USA Today and in-room hairdryers, coffee makers, iron and ironing board. Full service restaurants and bar within walking. Meeting space accommodates 50 people. Free parking.
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address: 13090 Pennsylvania Street110 guestrooms including two whirlpool suites. All guestrooms (standard and suites) come with the following amenities: Refrigerator, Microwave, Coffeemaker, Hair Dryer, Iron, Ironing Board, High Speed Internet, Electronic Door Locks, Two dual-line speakerphones with data ports, Large Work Desk w/Convenient Desk-Level Outlets, and Ergonomic Chairs, Free USA Today, and AM/FM Alarm Clock Radio. Meeting space is approximately 1300 square feet.
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address: 10201 N. Meridian St81 rooms. The hotel offers an indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center and HBO/cable. Complimentary breakfast express, free local calls and USA Today (Mon. through Fri.) are also provided. Meeting space accommodates 5-85 people. Free parking and complimentary shuttle for guests.
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Residence Inn by Marriott Carmel
address: 11895 N. Meridian St120 suites (studios and 1 and 2 bedrooms available). An indoor pool, sport court, exercise room, whirlpool, fully equipped kitchens, complimentary grocery shopping, HBO/cable and on-site guest laundry are included at this hotel. A complimentary Manager's Reception is Monday through Wednesday. Special rates for extended stay are available. Meeting space accommodates up to 40 people. Free parking. -
Springhill Suites by Marriott Carmel
address: 11855 N. Meridian St126 studio suites. This hotel includes an in door pool, whirlpool, exercise room and business center. Hot suite season's breakfast buffet included each day. Each studio suite has separate living and sleeping areas, sofa bed, mini-fridge, microwave, coffee pot and hair dryer. Free high speed internet access. Designed for the traveler needing more space than a traditional hotel room, this all-suite hotel will accommodate the business traveler or a family vacation. Meeting space accommodates 15-20 people. Free parking. -
Staybridge Suites Indianapolis-Carmel
address: 10675 N. Pennsylvania Street119 all-suite hotel with three distinct room types - studio, one-bedroom suite, 2-bedroom/2-bath suite. Amenities include indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, whirlpool, on-site laundry and business center. -
Old Towne Carmel Bed & Breakfast
address: 521 1st Avenue NWLocated just off the main drive of the Carmel Arts & Design District, this 100-year-old home has three rooms with private baths. Fully renovated with modern conveniences (like wireless Internet). A wrap-around porch and outdoor patio are charming. Complementary breakfast and afternoon hors d’oeuvres are offered year round. -
Renaissance Indianapolis North
address: 11925 N. Meridian StOpened in 2008, this is the first Renaissance hotel in Indiana. Marriott hotel service with a more artsy design. Grille 39 offers a fun twist; roll the dice to inspire the cocktail of the day.