Carmel, Indiana

A family oriented and rapidly growing city, Carmel has about 80,000 residents currently.

The old downtown area is being revitalized and formed into the Arts and Design District in Carmel.

The little city is attractive to new business ventures which keeps property taxes low.

Many opportunities for shopping, parks and recreation, and excellent schools.

Originally inhabited by the Delaware Indians, a plat of land was laid out in 1837 to become the Town of Bethlehem. Known for it's fur trading, a General Store was erected in 1837. In 1846 the townsfolk wanted a post office and were informed that there was already a town named Bethlehem and the name was changed to Carmel.

The city's collection of J. Seward Johnson statues are part of its initiative of designating the city's Old Town area as the Arts & Design District. Since the city's commitment to the revitalization of Old Town through investment in infrastructure and redevelopment efforts through the Carmel Redevelopment Commission, this area has been transformed from vacant storefronts to a thriving shopping and dining destination of more than 100 businesses, many of them arts-related.

It is so much fun to watch visitors have their pictures taken with some of these life size statues in our district.

The sweet little girl watering flowers stands next to the building where I work. She was appropriately placed at the Worlds Smallest Children's Art Gallery.

Come stroll on the Monon Trail built along an old railroad line for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Welcome to Old Towne Carmel Bed and Breakfast. Located near the heart of the Old Town Carmel Arts and Design District, our home is just a short walk from all the art galleries, shops and restaurants our community has to offer. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, when you walk through our door you will be greeted with peaceful surroundings, luxurious guestrooms, and modern conveniences to make your visit special.

In addition to our guestrooms, we also offer a lovely space for small group luncheons or meetings. Let us make your luncheon or meeting extra special with our first-class catering within the tranquil confines of our home.

At Old Towne Carmel Bed and Breakfast, our goal is to create a haven for you that combines the comforts of home with the luxury and tranquility of a fine getaway. From relaxing in front of the fireplace to exploring the quaint surroundings of one of Indiana's most unique communities, we know your stay with us will be one that you will not forget!

---Welcome message from Old Town Carmel Bed and Breakfast.

Need a haircut while you are in town? These guys can do the job for you!

Weekdays you will find them in the shop from 7 AM to 6 PM. Saturday hours are from 7 AM to 2 PM and they are closed on Sundays.

A great group of guys who are very friendly and helpful when there are events going on in the district.

Located at 41 W. Main Street.

Visit their website at Main Street Barber Shop

One of my favorite stops is filled with classic treats and sophisticated sweets, The Simply Sweet Shoppe is sure to evoke memories of your favorite neighborhood candy store. The warm, whimsical decor will delight your eyes while sparkling jars of colorful confections will entice your sweet tooth.

Their hot chocolate is superb!

The Simply Sweet Shoppe has been a happy addition to the Arts and Design District.

You can visit their website at Simply Sweet Shoppe.

Located in the Arts and Design district since May 2006 this great pizza place offers gourmet pizza at it's best.

Dine inside or outside as the restaurant is located where Main Street and the Monon Trail intersect.

It is one of my favorite lunch spots while I'm at work. As much as I love their pizza, they have one of the best spinach salads I've ever had!

One of my favorite restaurants in the Arts and Design District of Carmel, Indiana is Donatello's. Located at 9 W. Main Street the Aasen's provide a cozy and classic atmosphere for their patrons.

I interact with Beth and Adam (two of the three owners) at least once per week for my lunch. The freshly made selections on the menu are really authentic and delicious. My favorite is the Ravioli on the lunch menu, it is scrumptious! The portions of food are very generous, too. Look at this photo of their Spaghetti Marinara!

Beth always has the tables dressed in crisp white linens giving a classy and romantic feel. It is perfect for a business lunch or a romantic date.

If you would like to see their menu and hours of operation visit their website at Donatellos Italian Restaurant.

Copyright: May 1, 2009 by BevsPaper (Beverly Owens)