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5 Favorite Hiking Trails in and Around Indianapolis

While Indianapolis might not be the first place to think of when looking to go hiking, there is a surprising number of trails all within a short drive of the city. There are plenty of parks and other natural areas not far from the city, and many can be reached with only a short drive. The hiking trails you'll find there will be well worth it, so why not head out for some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of Indiana? 5 Favorite Hiking Trails in and Around Indianapolis more 1. South Overlook Waterfowl Sanctuary Trail This scenic trail is located in the heart of the city, in Eagle Creek Park, and is an easy 2.4-mile hike with some stunning views over the waterfowl sanctuary from which it gets its name and makes this a great trail for birding enthusiasts. There are plenty of woods to explore throughout the park, with many small, secluded creeks and inlets along the shores of the lake. 2. Brown County State Park – Trail 8 This moderately difficult trail through one of the most scenic state parks is great if you're comfortable with some changes in terrain and a little climbing. The beautiful view over the 16,000 acres of untouched forest makes it all worthwhile. It's especially worth going in the fall, when the oranges, browns, yellows, and red colors of the trees make it a spectacular place to visit. 3. Indiana Dunes National Park – Cowles Bog Trail The incredible plant life along this trail makes it well worth a visit, and the views of Lake Michigan are quite something. Make sure to take the longest hike possible, with no shortcuts, so as not to miss out on the best of them. The trail runs along the edge of a wetland, before shifting to the right and passing through a black oak savannah, before finally reaching the top of a large dune. Access to the trail is best from the south car park. 4. Knobstone Trail While it may be some distance from the city in Clark and Jackson State forests, this long, challenging trail is perfect for experienced hikers. However, you'll need about four days to complete the whole trail, so make sure to bring plenty of supplies with you. The southern terminus is at Deam Lake State Recreation Area, and it terminates at the northern end in Spurgeon Hollow, although there are other routes you can take at the northern end that will affect the trip distance. 5. Clifty Falls Less than two hours' drive from the city, the Clifty Falls state park is full of long trails of about 7 miles long, passing under gorgeous cliffsides and pass stunning waterfalls as you climb through the forest. Several other trails run through the park that can be joined together to make longer or shorter loops, depending on your preference.   There are plenty of other magnificent trails for the adventurous to tackle in the area, so head outside and explore! And while your nearby, make sure to drop in to Ed Martin Acura and ask us which trails are our favorite!

6 Best Spots for Delicious Mexican Food in Indianapolis

Indianapolis has many great Mexican food restaurants to choose from. We have compiled a list of the best food around to satisfy your cravings for enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, and much more. 6 Best Spots for Delicious Mexican Food in Indianapolis more 1. La Parada Located near downtown, La Parada is known by locals to be the best Mexican spot. Highly recommended meals are the chimichangas, tamales, elote, and quesadillas. The takeout is known for being just as delicious as dining in, and the friendly staff will make sure your items ready in time for your departure. The meals are big enough to share and priced perfectly. 2. The Tamale Place The Tamale Place is so yummy, you will want to come back for your next meal. This restaurant has developed a great reputation. Besides having excellent tamales, the tacos and tortas will not disappoint. There are also plenty of vegetarian options including veggie tacos, nachos, and tamales which are not common items on most Mexican menus. 3. La Hacienda With 5 locations, La Hacienda is guaranteed to have what you are looking for. The food is lovingly prepared with the freshest ingredients and delivered quickly to your table. Customers enjoy the burrito California which includes pico de gallo, guacamole, chicken or steak, beans, rice, lettuce, and wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. You cannot go wrong with the nachos, giant enchilada meal, or other combination meals that have a mixture of items of your choice. 4. Nada Located within walking distance of the Circle City Mall and Monument Circle, Nada will make sure you have a fabulous dining experience in a beautiful atmosphere. You will enjoy a fresh take on classic Mexican meals. Favorites include pork belly tacos, homemade salsa trio, baja fish tacos, and delicious churros for dessert. 5. Bugambilias Mexican Cuisine Bugambilias is a perfect find for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine at a great price. Enjoy carne asada tacos, arroz con pollo, mixiote, mole poblano, and carnitas, from the extensive menu of traditional-style food. The friendly staff is ready to get your food ordered and delivered at just the right time. The atmosphere is kept clean and perfect for a fun night out. 6. Festiva Enjoy a beautiful atmosphere and a romantic dinner at Festiva. Twinkle lights are hung by the bar and on the heated patio, which gives Festiva a warm and comfortable feeling. Customers enjoy the carne asada, shrimp tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, and dark chocolate flan. This restaurant is meant for night service and opens at 4:30 pm most days of the week. 7. Guadalajara Grill and Mexican Restaurant Guadalajara is the perfect place for families and has a fun atmosphere. The walls and chairs are hand-painted with the art of Mexican culture. Favorites among customers are the enchiladas rancheras, combination meals, fish tacos, and chilaquiles. The margaritas are huge and include many different flavors to suit anyone's needs. But please drink responsibly and be of legal drinking age.   This list will help you to make an easy decision for your next meal. Visit Ed Martin Acura for directions to your new favorite Mexican spot!

5 Great Hotels for Visitors in Indianapolis

Indianapolis is a city with countless attractions, such as its world-famous Motor Speedway and zoo. Each year “Indy” welcomes millions of tourists, many of whom find a place to stay at one of the city's downtown hotels. Depending on where you stay, you could be just minutes away from art galleries, nightlife, and the finest restaurants in the city. Keep reading to learn more about some of our favorite places to book a room. 5 Great Hotels for Visitors in Indianapolis more Ironworks Hotel Indy This stunning and unique hotel features industrial-style accommodations and decor. Ironworks is a boutique hotel with 120 rooms that range from the traditional style to the Founder's Suite, which comes with its own rooftop terrace. Amenities include a first-class fitness center, elaborate bathrooms, and a 24-hour concierge. Ironworks also features three restaurants so you can enjoy a meal in the hotel, or stop into one of the many restaurants nearby. Marriott East Indy's Marriott East hotel is located just a few blocks from the Children's Museum, not far from the heart of downtown. Upon entering its massive lobby, you'll be met with friendly staff who will help you get your accommodations set up. The Marriott East features an array of amenities which include a fitness center and the Skylight Bistro, an on-site restaurant that provides guests with breakfast and dinner options and uses locally sourced ingredients in all of their food. Drury Plaza Hotel This upscale hotel is a short distance away from Lucas Oil Stadium and Butler University campus. It provides its guests with a fantastic complimentary breakfast, and spacious rooms with quality mattresses and pillows on every bed set. Another perk that guests of the Drury Plaza Hotel will enjoy is its indoor and outdoor pool. The Drury Plaza is also just a few blocks away from another popular attraction, the Indiana State Museum. Conrad Hotel This hotel is located right in the heart of downtown Indy on Monument Circle. Its upscale rooms and lobby feature impressive artwork and guests will get a sense of the first-class ambiance as they enter the beautifully designed lobby, lit by an elegant chandelier. The Conrad features 247 rooms and is 23-stories tall. Guests will want to head to the sixth floor to access the fully-equipped fitness center, salon, and pool. The hotel is also seconds away from award-winning restaurants. Home2 Suites Home2 Suites is the perfect place for visitors in town for an extended stay. The accommodations here are made up of only suites that feature full kitchens and separate living and working areas. It's conveniently located close to downtown so guests can enjoy a night out on the town and come back to an ambiance that feels like a home away from home. Amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi and 24-cleaning service on the hotel grounds.   Whether you're visiting from out of town or a resident of Indy simply looking for a quick getaway for a couple of nights, these fine establishments will make you feel welcomed and comfortable. And while you're in the area, stop by Ed Martin Acura today for all your automotive needs.

Start the Day Right at These Fantastic Breakfast Places in Indianapolis

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Therefore your choice of breakfast location may also be the most important decision of your day. Luckily Indianapolis has no shortage of top-notch breakfast places to choose from. Whether you are hoping to find a country home-style breakfast or something more modern, there is a place for you. Here are just a few locations to visit and awaken your taste buds. Start the Day Right at These Fantastic Breakfast Places in Indianapolis more Yolk Yolk likes to push the creative boundaries on breakfast, offering innovative new dish concepts as well as traditional fare and comfort food the whole family will love. Enjoy their cool, urban upscale setting and find out why they have won multiple awards and continued popularity among locals and tourists alike. They even have their own private label premium coffee and pancake mix so that you can bring the flavor home with you. Le Peep With 6 locations nearby, you'll never be too far away next time you want a satisfying breakfast experience in a warm atmosphere. With an extensive menu and commitment to only the freshest ingredients from local sources, visiting Le Peep will be a dining experience you will want to repeat again and again. You will find all the things you want for breakfast as well as a few things you didn't know you wanted, such as their intriguing designer juice concoctions. Café Patachou If you are searching for modern vibes and possibly the best coffee in town with your breakfast, then you can't go wrong with Café Patachou. Described as a ‘student union for adults', this is a place to see and be seen while enjoying delectable breakfast dishes made from local and organic ingredients and get your day off to an excellent start. Good Morning Mama's Café Converted from an old filling station into a hopping 1950s themed breakfast and brunch spot, this place will charm you with delicious food and a fun, quirky atmosphere. The food is delicious, the service is friendly and you will find yourself recommending this place to your friends for sure. Don't miss the real working jukebox! Metro Diner This is a place where you can get dinner for breakfast or breakfast for dinner in a lovable diner setting. Have yourself a hot cup of coffee or a cool mimosa along with your choice of flavorful, comforting dishes you're sure to enjoy. The appealing atmosphere and southern home cooking will have you wondering why you hadn't visited sooner, but you will definitely be back.   After you are done delighting in the wonderful customer service at the local breakfast spots, come on over to Ed Martin Acura to find the same level of service excellence when it comes to purchasing your next vehicle. We love to make the car buying process as simple as possible so all you have to worry about is enjoying your new vehicle and wondering where you will go for your next breakfast.

Day trips from Indianapolis | Ed Martin Acura

4 Wonderful Day Trips to Take if You Live in Indianapolis

People who live in Indianapolis know that there's plenty to do in this wonderful city, but sometimes you just want to get out and try something a little different. Luckily, there are plenty of great day trips just a quick drive away. 4 Wonderful Day Trips to Take if You Live in Indianapolis more 1. Indiana Dunes National Park If you are looking for an outdoor experience that is a little different, then you should check out the dunes in Indiana Dunes National Park. Located on Lake Michigan, this national park is home to over 15,000 acres of sand dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. This place is truly a hikers paradise with over 50 miles of trails for you to enjoy with your loved ones.   Families can explore the park or get engaged with a number of activities that are hosted throughout the park. This can include a picnic, an organized program put on by the park, or a short hike in one of the many interesting areas of this national park. Whatever your speed is, there is something for you here in Indiana Dunes National Park. 2. Wolf Park Located in Battle Ground, Indiana, Wolf Park is a wolf conservation, education, and research center. For people with young children, park programs allow them to get up close with these fascinating creatures while learning about the important role that wolves play in ecosystems. Open since 1972, Wolf Park is a great educational day trip that is sure to be remembered for years to come. 3. Paoli Peaks Paoli Peaks is approximately 90 miles from the capital city, and it offers visitors a chance at fun winter activities. If you enjoy sports like skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, then this could be a great day trip for you and your family. Even if you've never tried snowboarding or skiing before, you can still enjoy the amenities and dabble in a beginner's class to see what it is all about. 4. Indiana Zipline Tours Indiana zipline tours is located in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and it offers your family a chance at an adrenalin-filled day. With eight zip lines, a swinging bridge, and floating platforms, there is a lot to do here. It may be a little scary, but once you get started, you'll see why ziplining has exploded in popularity in recent years. Combine this with knowledgeable and fun guides, and you are looking at a great day trip for you and your family.   When we think of vacations, we often think of going somewhere far away, but we often forget about the many things you can do in your own backyard. As we have seen, there is no shortage of day trips across Indiana for you and your family to do. If you need help finding a car to explore Indiana with, call Ed Martin Acura to get the help you need with all of your vehicle needs and questions.

Take a Stroll Along the Central Canal in Indianapolis

The crown jewel of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, is the Central Canal. The 1.8 million people who call metro Indianapolis home, and it's tourists, both love this hub of urban entertainment and relaxing refuge. Stroll your way along landscaped trails to experience a wealth of history, nature, and culture in the heart of this major American city. Take a Stroll Along the Central Canal in Indianapolis more Winding Through History In 1836 Indiana began construction on the canal, intending to use it to connect the existing Wabash and Erie Canal to the Ohio River. Unfortunately, the state fell into near bankruptcy just three years into construction, and only 26 miles of the intended 296 miles were finished.   In the 1900s, the partially-finished canal was revived as a source of water for the city. In 1971, it was named an American Water Landmark. What began as a project to connect waterways was set to be transformed as a grand welcome to locals and visitors alike. A Revitalized Centerpiece The canal was extended into the neighboring 250-acre White River State Park in the 1980s. The Canal Walk was created in 2001, and in 2004 Indianapolis named The Canal and White River State Park as one of six official city Cultural Districts.   Today you can walk, run, or bike the 3-mile Canal Loop, or if travel by water is more to your liking, rent a pedal boat or kayak and float your way through the city. You can even hire a gondolier to whisk you on a ride as you take it all in, sometimes with a serenade thrown in for good measure! Culture on the Central Canal Institutions for the whole family line can be found all along the canal. Treasures abound at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, and the Indiana Historical Society and Indiana State Museum combine artifacts with education and fun. Visit the apes at the world-renowned Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center as well as many other animals at the Indianapolis Zoo.   Sports fans will enjoy the exciting NCAA Hall of Champions, and architecture buffs will find plenty to see among the historic churches and contemporary buildings all along the way. Numerous concerts and festive events are held throughout the year along the water and at various venues in White River State Park. Stay and Play Visitors can easily find a comfortable home base in one of the numerous hotels located within The Canal and White River State Park Cultural District. From budget-friendly to luxury, you're sure to find a friendly welcome and a comfortable bed. When it's time to stop for a snack or a meal, there are plenty of restaurants ready to serve you. Try the Canal Bistro, Flatwater, or Fresco Italian Cafe on the Canal for delicious food with a water view. Quick stop shops supply beverages, snacks, and treats.   We hope you enjoy all the places, sights, and sounds the canal offers. While you're in Indianapolis, be sure to visit Ed Martin Acura, an 8-time Acura Precision Team winner. Shop for a quality vehicle, and expect to be treated like family!

3 Places to Get Coffee in Carmel, Indiana

California has a wine trail, Kentucky has a bourbon trail, and Carmel, Indiana has a Caffeine Trail! These shops take you throughout Carmel to taste the best espressos, lattes, teas, hot chocolates, and other beverages. Here’s three favorite local coffee shops to check out. 3 Places to Get Coffee in Carmel, Indiana | Carmel Acura Dealer more The Cake Bake Shop This locally owned, small coffee shop was started by Gwendolyn Rogers. Her crumb cake has been featured in Oprah’s Favorite Things list. The Cake Bake shop is carefully decorated with detail for each season and has a full service restaurant and bar. This Carmel coffee shop features exquisite French inspired décor and you can order everything from a ham, rosemary, and goat cheese quiche to a delicious s’mores mocha. Be sure to save room for dessert too. Kolache Factory Kolach originated in Central Europe and this pastry is available in both sweet and savory offerings at Kolache Factory. Enjoy coffee to go with a cinnamon roll or grab a hot chocolate and sausage and gravy pastry. Rosie’s Place Rosie’s Place is the perfect place to grab lunch and a coffee before work. The menu is also perfect for a weekend brunch with everything from Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes to the Southeast Chicken Sandwich. This local favorite features yummy comfort food and their butter cookies are a crowd favorite.   Wherever you end up deciding to pick up coffee along the Carmel Caffeine Trail, Ed Martin Acura is ready to help you get there safely. Stop by today to test drive a new Acura or check out our used inventory.

6 Popular Holiday Shopping Spots in Indianapolis | Indiana Acura Dealer | Ed Martin Acura

6 Popular Holiday Shopping Spots in Indianapolis

With only a few days left to get your holiday shopping done, we decided to help you out by compiling this list of some of the most popular spots in Indianapolis. 6 Popular Holiday Shopping Spots in Indianapolis more 1. Home Grown Indiana Located on Harrell Parkway in Hamilton Towne Center, this Indiana-themed boutique is filled with fabulous gift ideas carefully curated from local sources. Choose from state-themed clothing for infants to adults or perhaps you'd like to gift a piece of locally-crafted jewelry. Other gift ideas include bath bombs, key chains, glassware, and wooden signs. Shop seven days a week. 2. Blue Peppermint Boutique This five-year-old, locally-owned boutique is located in the Fisher's District neighborhood and is filled with the most original fashions and accessories to satisfy even the most persnickety fashionista on your gift list. Let one of the friendly staff help you decide between an Ah-dorned bag, a trendy winter sweater, or the never-wrong gift card. They're open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sundays. 3. Homespun: Modern Handmade Boasting inventory contributed by more than 300 vendors, Homespun aims to offer only the best in contemporary creations. Located on Massachusetts Avenue in downtown, owner and shopkeeper Amanda invites you to peruse the boutique/gallery for the perfect gift. Choose from artisanal bath and body products, original artwork and home decor, handcrafted jewelry, and more. Shop seven days a week. 4. Silver in the City This shop offers an eclectic compilation of gift ideas sure to help you eliminate some names from your gift list. Do you know someone who needs a David Bowie Christmas ornament? You can find it here along with silver Bigfoot stud earrings and a dumpster fire sweatshirt. If these unique ideas aren't your taste, try a more traditional gemstone necklace or a scented candle. They're open seven days a week for your convenience. 5. REI: Recreational Equipment, Inc. Hydro Flasks, Yeti coolers, and Garmin solar watches make perfect gifts for the outdoor adventurer on your list, and REI is the place to get them. You may also like a Patagonia jacket or a GoPro camera. REI is conveniently located on Castleton Corner Drive where the friendly and knowledgeable staff are eager to help you choose the perfect gift for him or her. Shop Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. and on Sundays, 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. 6. Three Dog Bakery Whether you're selecting a gift for a pup or a pup-parent, Three Dog Bakery can hook you up. Choose from pup clothes, toys, and freshly-baked treats, because every dog deserves a red velvet pup-cake. Am I right? Stop by their Massachusetts avenue storefront seven days a week, and bring Fido with you. You may have waited until the last minute to get your holiday buying done, but that's no reason to despair when you have this great list to help you get it done. While you're cruising around town, cruise on into Ed Martin Acura where you may just find a gift for yourself.

The Best Pizza Places in Carmel, Indiana

The Best Pizza Places in Carmel, Indiana

If you're in the mood for some delicious pizza, Carmel, Indiana will not disappoint. Here are a few of the best pizza places in the area. Rosati's Chicago Pizza Rosati's Chicago Pizza has been serving quality pizza for five generations. Their one-of-a-kind recipe has been passed down through the years, so you'll taste the authentic Italian flavor in each and every bite. Rosati's cheese blend uses multiple cheeses for a rich, golden-brown delivery. The vegetables are garden fresh and the dough is made from scratch every day using a traditional rotating pizza deck oven. When it comes to the crust, there's a style for each preference. You can choose from traditional thin crust, Rosati's unique double dough, their famous Chicago deep dish, and stuffed crust. Finish it off with their many available toppings and you'll be ready for a mouth-watering pizza that will have you coming back for more. more Bazbeaux Pizza You'll find Bazbeaux Pizza in Carmel's Arts District, where it has been since opening this location in May 2006. The interior offers plenty of seating and a wine bar while their large trailside patio offers a scenic outdoor experience. If you'd rather enjoy your pizza from the comfort of your own home, you can have it delivered during their available lunch and dinner delivery hours. If you like trying new things, you'll love their specialty menu featuring pizzas like The Luke and Tchoupitoulas. The Luke is made with a small amount of their savory cheese blend, Buffalo chicken, blue cheese, red onion, and a small garnishing of fresh celery. Tchoupitoulas is topped with Cajun shrimp, green pepper, house roasted red pepper, red onion, andouille sausage, and fresh garlic for an explosion of flavors you've never before experienced. Blaze Pizza Blaze Pizza keeps things simple with their build you own menu style. You can choose from an assortment of crusts like a gluten-free cauliflower crust or keto crust. Next, you pick your sauce – if you like to mix things up, be sure to give their spicy red sauce or garlic pesto sauce a try. With a variety of cheeses to choose from, including a vegan cheese, you'll be able to please the whole crew with a pizza from Blaze. Top it off with some meats, veggies, and a delicious finish like their balsamic glaze and you'll almost be ready to dive in. Once the pizza is in the blazing hot oven for 180 seconds, you'll have yourself a perfectly crisp, delicious pizza. Pizzology Pizzology prides itself in delivering pizza made with high-quality ingredients that are sourced from family farms as much as possible. A couple of its unique, fresh pizzas include the Bee Keeper with soppresatta, honey, jalapeno, and fresh mozzarella and the healthy but delicious Brussels Sprouts pizza featuring roasted Brussels sprouts, mornay sauce, caramelized onions, and goat cheese. If pizza is your love language, then Carmel, Indiana is your soul mate. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by one of these local joints to experience their mouth-watering perfection for yourself. Image courtesy of pixabay.com

5 Things Downtown Indianapolis, IN Has to Offer

5 Things Downtown Indianapolis, IN Has to Offer

If you're a racing fan, you already know that Indianapolis is synonymous with race cars and motorsports. However, there are many other fun attractions in the city, especially in the downtown area. Fountain Square This quaint area of downtown is home to numerous antique stores, delicious restaurants, and live street entertainment. It has the feel of a fair and there's always something new to see and do. Local artists display their work and live musicians stroll around the square or set up on a street corner. Annual events also take place here, including the Fountain Square Music Festival and Santa on the Square. Even if you've already visited Fountain Square a couple of times, you'll always find something different to enjoy. more Indy City Market A farmer's market and craft fair in one, the Indy City Market is the place to go for authentic fresh food and unique gifts from over 30 vendors. Local artisans sell their wares and hometown restaurants provide street versions of their food. You will find handmade jewelry, locally brewed coffees and teas, and much more at this outdoor market. Prepare to spend at least a couple of hours here to ensure you see everything there is to offer. Downtown Indy Canal Walk Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Downtown Indy Canal Walk. Not only can you stroll along the path that lines the canal, but you can also rent pedal boats, kayaks, or hire a gondola to sail down the canal if you'd rather. Take in the gorgeous architecture and scenery as you float serenely down the canal. The highlight of the trip may just be the 17-foot waterfall that displays a marvel of engineering. Don't worry, your kayak cannot sail over the waterfall; it's only there for you to view. Indiana Statehouse For the history buff, there's the Indiana Statehouse, which is open for tours that allow you to see the government of Indiana hard at work while you also learn about the state's colorful history. You can either take a self-guided tour, which can be done at your own pace, or, if you plan ahead, you can arrange a guided tour that will last about 45 minutes. All tours are free of charge and will take you inside the inner workings of the state legislature. Indy Zoo Nearly every large city in America has a zoo, but the one in Indy definitely stands out among the rest because it is one of a very few zoos to be triple-accredited as a zoo, an aquarium, and a botanical garden. A single admission price will gain you access to all three attractions, which is also unusual. You will see more than 1,200 animals that represent about 230 species. At the botanical garden, you will find yourself immersed among 47,000 plant specimens. Visiting this zoo will likely take all day, so plan accordingly. Even though Indy is well-known as a city that loves car racing, these five attractions in downtown prove the city is much more than that. For even more suggestions on things to do downtown, drop by Ed Martin Acura, where you'll get an insider's look at downtown Indy.   Image courtesy of pixabay.com

7 Great Parks and Hikes Near Carmel, IN

7 Great Parks and Hikes Near Carmel, IN

Bustling sidewalks, a thriving art scene, and a story that can be traced to 1837: this is Carmel, IN. While you're out and about, plan on seeing lots of greenspaces. The town contains parks and trails that are as numerous as they are beautiful, so you'll want to pack your bike, walking shoes, and plenty of water. Cherry Tree Park Towering trees that change with each season characterize this lovely park, and you can enjoy all the colors while walking or biking the paved trail. But the 13 acres of open space are the real attraction. Use this area to play with the dog, enjoy a game of catch, toss a frisbee, fly a kite, or simply lean against a tree and read in the shade. Whatever your preference, this park can give it to you. more Founders Park If you're looking for a place to take the family, Founders Park is it. The playground is inspired by nature and features structures to crawl through, climb up, slide down, and much more. A giant sandbox and swings provide more traditional fun. But the park isn't just about play. In addition to walking trails, you'll find a pond and wetlands. Organize a softball game in the open sports field, or enjoy the serenity offered by the prairie. From the pavilion, you can eat lunch or watch the sunset. Hagan-Burke Trail This trail is 1.4 miles of pavement that take you past full, mature trees, plants, bushes, and flowers. It's perfect for strolling, jogging, power walking, or biking. Greyhound Trail Although small, at just 0.6 of a mile, this trail features a very interesting site: a historic bridge salvaged from the 1920s. It connects with the Hagan-Burke Trail in case you desire a longer path, or, you can enjoy a quick, brisk walk here. Flowing Well Park The main attraction here is the artesian well, from which cool, clear water flows for all-day enjoyment. If you go, you'll also be treated to a picnic shelter and a flowing stream for wading or playing along the shore. There's plenty of natural beauty as well, thanks to trees and flowers. Central Dog Park This park is designed for four-legged family members. Small and large breeds are welcome, with areas specifically designated for each. Owners can gather in the shade or enjoy the picnic shelter. Additional amenities include stations for dog waste and an entry system that requires a key. Membership dues are payable at ten dollars per month. White River Greenway Lots of shade and paved trails make this the ideal escape for a hard day of running or biking. For one mile, you'll move along the White River, through woods that will help you forget your troubles and get in touch with nature. Carmel's parks and trails provide something for everyone. Whether you want to spend a day with the family, enjoy a romantic picnic, or work up a sweat exercising, you have choices. But, we have to ask one question: how will you get there? Visit Ed Martin Acura today, and drive off in a new, beautiful car. Image courtesy of pexels.com

 5 of Indy's Best Coffeehouses

5 of Indy's Best Coffeehouses

Indianapolis, Indiana, knows how to make a great cup of coffee. Whether you're looking for a sweet espresso-based drink or an intelligently brewed cup of coffee, there's an Indy coffeehouse with your name on it. Here are a few of our favorites. Calvin Fletcher's Coffee Company Calvin Fletcher's Coffee Company is easily one of Indianapolis's most favorite coffeehouses. This caffeine destination is as much of a community as it is a coffee s hop. Some of the profits the shop makes go to fund neighborhood causes. The walls of the shop feature local artists' works. In addition to all the love and care the cafe gives to its community, it also serves up decent cups of coffee. If you're looking for great, single-source, fresh-roasted coffee, Fletcher's has you covered. more Bovaconti Coffee Bovaconti Coffee is one of the newer members of the hip Indy coffeehouse scene and is certainly worth visiting. Th e chic and artsy style Bovaconti offers makes it a hip spot to hang out with friends or a date. But if you're simply looking for a great to-go cup of coffee, this shop has what you're looking for. You'll find all the coffee shop staples here: lattes, doppi o espressos, cappuccino, etc. If you're looking for a thoughtful latte creation, try the Tiger Eye chai latte or the Café Miel. Henry's Coffee Bistro If you're headed out for an hour or two of fun in the Massachusetts Avenue Arts District, stop by Henry 's Coffee Bistro for a great cup of coffee and a refueling bite to eat. This bistro's menu has all your staple coffeehouse tastes covered, as well as plenty of iced mochas and non-coffee cold drinks to choose from. If you're hungry, Henry's breakfast, brun ch, and lunch options, such as paninis and salads, will leave you ready to face the rest of your day. Foundry Provisions Foundry Provisions in downtown Indianapolis is a great coffee shop to meet with friends or business partners. Tucked away on 17th St reet and Alabama, Foundry Provisions is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and coffee. This is a clean neighborhood cafe-style bistro that serves everything from ice cream and muffins to paninis and bagels. The drink menu has plenty of coffee drinks, as well as kombucha on tap, Italian soda, tea-based creations, and more. Georgia Street Grind Georgia Street Grind is another coffeehouse that caters to drinkers who care about where their coffee comes from. This cozy, small shop is a great destination for a cup of joe on the go. The shop gets its coffee beans from local roasters with a focus on single, ethical sources. When you just need an expertly made latte, Georgia Street Grind is an excellent coffee shop to visit. Explo re each of these top-notch shops to find the coffeehouse that best suits your style. Whether you're looking for a hip place to study, a gathering place for your friends, or just a good cup of coffee to start your day off right, Indianapolis's coffeehouses are unparalleled. Image courtesy of pixabay.com

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