Things To Do
The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers, Carmel City Center
This Parisian style bakery is Elisa’s favorite spot in town to indulge in cake and coffee! You can pick up something sweet from the shop to take outside to eat on the patio or enjoy a meal in their decadent dining room. Get your cameras ready because you won’t want to forget this extraordinary experience. Reservations are recommended if you want to sit down for a meal here.
Midtown Plaza Carmel
Located right off of the famous Monon walking trail, Midtown Plaza has plenty of seating (couches, tables, and lounge chairs) for you to enjoy for free while people watching, warming up by a bon fire, or viewing a game on the giant screen. There are also ping pong tables and other games to play for free around the plaza. This is a great cost free activity to do in Carmel. You can also enjoy one of the many restaurants and bars around it (try Ryan’s favorite beer at Sun King). This spot is extra special to the bride and groom because they lived next to it for 2 years! Parking all throughout Carmel is completely free (even the garages!)
Caffé Buondí
This Italian-style cafe is Elisa’s favorite breakfast/brunch spot in Carmel. It’s located just 5 minutes from both hotels.
Verde - Flavors of Mexico
Check out the couple’s favorite Mexican spot! It’s conveniently located less than 5 minutes from both hotels. Elisa LOVES the chorizo street tacos here.
Penn & Beech Candle Co.
Make your own scented candle at Penn & Beech. This is one of Elisa’s favorite activities.
Monon Trail
The Monon Greenway replaced the old railroad that used to run straight through Carmel. The development of Carmel as a city is centered around the Monon. Take a stroll or go for a run on the paved trail to enjoy the scenic wooded areas, neighborhoods, art murals, and restaurants that line it. Fun fact: Elisa trained for 6 half marathons on this trail! The Monon has several access points throughout Carmel. The address provided takes you to a building with a free parking garage in it next to Midtown Plaza. The surrounding streets also have free parking. You can park here and access the trail next to the garage. Walk north or south, it’s all beautiful!
3UP
This is Elisa and Ryan’s favorite bar in Carmel. They’ve made so many special memories here after living nextdoor for 2 years, from becoming friends with the bartender (tell Colin the bride and groom say hi!) to sharing the news of their engagement with friends. The bride also brought her friends here for her bachelorette party. Enjoy a craft cocktail here while taking in beautiful views of Carmel. There is free parking on the streets and in the garages surrounding 3 Up. You’ll head into the entrance next to Anthony’s Chophouse (the valet standing outside can point you to the entrance) and take the elevator to the 3rd floor. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available.
The Pint Room Bar
This is a solid burger spot with Carmel’s largest selection of beer on tap. Try out the bride’s favorite burger, the P-B-B & J.
Peace Water Winery
Enjoy a wine tasting at Peace Water Winery in Downtown Carmel. After finding your favorite wine, grab a bottle and head to the patio for some live music. Free street parking is available in front of the winery.
Coxhall Gardens
This is a beautiful park located in West Carmel. Elisa loves picnicking and strolling here.