Blog

At Meadowland of Carmel, we are proud to be not only Carmel's leading auto dealership but also simply a member of the wonderful community that is Carmel, NY. We love being a part of Carmel, and we want to help others enjoy their time here as much as possible, too. That's why we put together our list of fun activities you can do in and around Carmel today! Arts on the Lake Art on the Lake is a non-profit organization that aims to share a love of music with the community. Events that Art on the Lake promotes include classes for adults and children looking to develop their artistic abilities and musical performances where you can enjoy some talented and outstanding musicians. There are also plans to convert the firehouse in nearby Kent into a new art center. Catfish Loop Trail Located at Fahnestock State Park, the Catfish Loop Trail offers as beautiful a hiking experience as you'll find anywhere in New York. The loop covers 4.6 miles in full, or you can make plans to walk in and turn around for a shorter distance if desired. In addition to many beautiful, historical stone walls left from centuries-old society, it also features a standing rock formation and stunning views to take in. Centennial Golf Club If you love golf, then you have to take in a round at Centennial Golf Club. The USGA-certified course is a beautiful and challenging day for golfers of all ages. Suppose you're looking for an activity to do with your family. In that case, Centennial Golf Club offers free play for junior golfers under the age of 14 with an accompanying adult in the group. Chuang Yen Monastery Maintained by the non-denominational Buddhist Association of the United States, the Chuang Yen Monastery is a beloved part of Putnam County. In addition to the attractive architecture and statuary on the Monastery grounds, it also hosts events, such as group meditation and yoga, online courses, and discussion groups to help visitors learn about or expand their spiritual understanding of the world. Crown Point State Historic Site If you or someone in your family is a history buff, then you have to check out the Crown Point State Historic Site. Dedicated to the preservation of historical ruins which date back to colonial wars in the 1700s, the Crown Point State Historic Site offers a learning opportunity for guests and the chance to walk through history. For explorers who enjoy taking part in geocache games, the historic site is also a must-visit, as it includes three different caches for the 2021 New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation department's geocache challenge. Fahnestock State Park Fahnestock State Park is always an excellent option when looking for a fun and refreshing day outdoors in nature. In addition to the previously mentioned Catfish Loop Trail, the massive 14,086-acre park is home to picnicking areas for an afternoon outdoors and campgrounds for those looking for a more extended stay. Excellent bird watching among the beautiful trees within the park is available, and if you are into fishing, you can get out on the lake and try your luck. Hallelujah Foot & Spa Sometimes, all you're looking for out of the day is the opportunity to relax and put your feet up. While doing so on your couch at home can be fun, doing so at a spa is unbeatable. Hallelujah Foot & Spa offers a range of features, from foot reflexology and mini facials to hour-long hot stone massages. You'll leave feeling like a brand new you by the time the experts at Hallelujah Foot & Spa have finished taking care of you. Ninham Mountain Multiple Use Area Named after Wappinger Chief Daniel Ninham, the Ninham Mountain Multiple Use Area is a state-managed preservation full of the delightful views Putnam county is known for. The park is an excellent opportunity to take your bikes for a ride or go for a hike. If you prefer the water, head out for a paddle or bring your rod with you to fish. When hunting season rolls around, don't miss out on the chance to hunt or trap game, such as whitetail deer, pheasant, turkey, and more. Veterans Memorial Park Veteran's Memorial Park is not only a lovely tribute to those who have served our country. It also offers a full array of recreation activities for local residents to enjoy. The park offers many sports, including basketball, skating, and volleyball. Warm weather brings the opportunity for hikes, swimming, and fishing on the waters. The park also features a playground for kids and fitness equipment for adults. Walkway Over the Hudson The Walkway Over the Hudson offers unbeatable fall views and lovely sights all year round. Featuring a bridge that allows you to cross the Hudson surrounded by rolling hills and trees, with excellent hiking and exploring opportunities on either side, you're sure to have a great time. You can even stop in at the walkway shop to buy souvenirs so you can remember your wonderful day. Vanderbilt Mansion The Vanderbilt name is attached to one of the most famous families in American history, with the Vanderbilt Mansion serving as a true showpiece. Visiting the Vanderbilt Mansion offers both a taste of the outdoors and a walk through history, with both the opulent furnishings inside the mansion and the gorgeous park outside of it sure to impress. So, what do you think of our list of the most fun activities in Carmel? Did we include all your favorite places, or is there more fun out there that we left off? You can tell us about it. And remember, whether you're shopping for a new or used vehicle, looking to sell, or simply in need of high-quality service you can rely on, the team at Meadowland of Carmel is here for you. It's our goal to make you leave happy, and we hope to see you walk through our doors soon!

The workweek can often be exhausting, so relax in the Carmel area when you have a day off. There are plenty of incredible landscapes to see and things to do nearby. Take a look below to learn how you can spend 24 hours near Carmel. Have Breakfast at Countryside Kitchen A good breakfast is a perfect way to start your adventure. Countryside Kitchen is in Mahopac, only about 10 minutes away from Carmel. It has a variety of unique, delicious dishes. Check out the Holy Cannoli Pancake Platter, the S'mores Waffle, or the Blazin' Chicken and Waffles with jalapenos and buffalo sawmill sausage gravy. Pancake options include cookie dough, coconut, M&M, brownie, Nutella, pumpkin, Oreo, multi-grain, chocolate chip, maple syrup, and peanut butter. You can also order two types of pancakes on one plate. Signature breakfast dishes include the Jammed Pancake Tower, Old-Fashioned French Toast, French Toast Bites, the Flaky Pastry, Egg Plate, the Cajun Egg, Roll Plate, and the Healthy Egg White Wrap. The Big Breakfast comes with two eggs, bacon or sausage, buttermilk pancakes, home fries, and a slice of toast. The Eggs Benny has poached eggs, Canadian bacon, home fries, and hollandaise sauce over an English muffin. Meat lovers can't get enough of the Pig-Pen. It's a plate of home fries, sausage, ham, hot peppers, onions, bell peppers with chili, and cheddar cheese. The Pig Pen also comes with two eggs made you however like them. Choose the Blazin' Buffalo plate if you want a sharp and spicy kick to start your day. It has biscuits covered in buffalo sawmill sausage gravy and jalapeno peppers. You can visit Countryside Kitchen from around 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The hours sometimes vary, and it's closed on Mondays. Search for Inner Peace at the Chuang Yen Monastery Image via Flickr by Tony Fischer Photography Breakaway from the patterns of everyday life and find some peace at the Chuang Yen Monastery, only about 10 minutes away from Carmel Hamlet. The monastery contains a giant indoor statue of the Buddha in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can attend regular garden parties, poetry and meditation classes, retreats, and kung fu classes. Book study classes are available if you want to learn more about the ideas behind Buddhism. Memorial tablet ceremonies are public for people who have recently lost loved ones. You can even learn the language that the Buddha spoke, Pali. Introductory and intermediate classes are available, and they focus on learning to read the teachings of the Buddha in their original language. Dharma Discourse Talks are held regularly as well. These talks focus on developing wisdom, ending suffering through the eight-fold path, gaining a clear comprehension of Dharma, purification of mind, daily mindfulness, aspirations for peace, and more. Walk-in meditation classes happen in the Temple of Enlightenment every Sunday at 10 a.m., and there's a gift shop with a variety of interesting souvenirs of your choice. You can also quiet your mind by the Zen Garden or the Seven Jewel Lake. Have Lunch at Bliss Dairy Bar & Grill The wraps, sandwiches, hot dogs, and other Bliss Dairy Bar and Grill items can give you the energy you need after a long meditation session. The Balboa is hot roast beef and Swiss cheese sandwich on garlic bread, and the Bronx Grandma sandwich comes with potato, egg, hot peppers, and cheese. Try out the chicken cordon bleu or the New York cheesesteak if you favor classic sandwiches. Bliss Dairy Bar and Grill's wraps include tuna salad, sesame chicken, eggplant, Cajun chicken, hamburger, and buffalo chicken varieties. The macaroni and cheese are pan-style, and it comes loaded with your choice of barbecue chicken, buffalo chicken, chicken breast slices, bacon, or chili. Classic, chili, and chili cheese hot dogs are available. If you'd rather have a slider plate, the Belly Bombs might be right up your alley. They're 4-ounce burgers with American cheese, pickles, bacon, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Carmel residents love The Olsen Twins, a pair of 4-ounce patties with bacon, tomato, lettuce, onion rings, American cheese, and chipotle mayonnaise on a toasted bun. The Nacho Burger weighs 8 ounces, and it comes with Cheddar cheese, jalapeno salsa, avocado, cilantro dressing, and nacho chips on a sesame seed bun. Play a Round of Golf at Putnam Golf Course William G. Mitchell founded the Putnam Golf Course in 1959. It's an 18-hole course in nearby Mahopac, and golfers of all ages are welcome. Golfing rates for Putnam County residents and non-residents only vary by $10, so friends and family from outside the area can enjoy a game of golf too. For an even more inexpensive game, forgo the golf cart and stretch your legs using a pull cart between holes. Season passes are available. Season pass holders can play on weekends when the course is closed to others. The Putnam Pro Shop has a wide selection if you need golfing gear. Grab Dinner at the Carriage House The Carriage House Restaurant and Tavern are ideal for unwinding after the day's adventures. It has delicious, Southern-style dishes and strong drinks. Entrees include sesame seed crusted tuna, filet mignon, New York strip steak, fish and chips, short ribs, bacon parmesan scallops, and wild Alaskan salmon. Each plate comes with two sides. Suppose you want something you can carry with you for a quick dinner, grab one of their famous sandwiches. The California club has grilled chicken, applewood smoked bacon, baby spinach, avocado, and basil pesto mayonnaise on multi-grain toast. Customers love the black and tan steak sandwich. It comes with skirt steak, black and tan sauce, sharp cheddar cheese, and fried onions on toast wedges. The Carriage House Salad has mixed greens, apples, dried cranberries, Gorgonzola cheese, candied walnuts, and a raspberry vinaigrette drizzle. You can take a stroll through Veterans Memorial Park after you eat. We hope your day in and around Carmel Hamlet, New York, is pleasant and relaxing. The items on this list can help you expand your mind, exercise your body, and enjoy delicious food. What are your favorite things to do near Carmel? Contact us and tell us about any attractions we missed.

Are you excited about adrenaline sports? If the answer is yes, you are in luck. Southeast New York offers numerous spots ideal for extreme sports. You can engage in all types of extreme activities including hang gliding, sky diving, shark diving, cliff jumping, and bungee jumping, to mention a few. Discover some ways to get a rush near Carmel whether you're squeezing through an underground cave or driving fast in a luxury car. Go Skydiving at Western New York Skydiving Image via Flickr by Martin How If you are looking for a safe place to go skydiving, head to Western New York Skydiving. After a short safety lesson, you make your way into a small plane. When you are about 10,000 feet in the air, you get attached to hang out of the plane and tumble out. A small parachute will pop up to prevent you from spinning, and you will free fall. This is an out-of-the-world experience. White Water Rafting at the Hudson and Black Rivers White water rafting is an adventurous water sport that attracts many people. The sport combines both fun and danger and gives you the adrenaline rush that you long for. If you are looking for an extreme activity that offers an adrenaline rush and natural beauty, white water rafting is probably the best option. You can go white water rafting in the Black River or the Hudson River. The Black River has attracted many adventure enthusiasts for over 30 years. It has over 20,000 square miles of drainage area, which offers a unique rafting experience during the rainy season. The Hudson River provides an exciting 17-mile adventure. Surrounded by the amazing views of the Adirondack Mountains, you will feel like you are out of the city. A unique feature of white water rafting on the Hudson River is the range of fast-moving rapids to calm waters. This offers the guides the time to give you some history about the area before the next rush of action. Zip-Line New York Zip-line New York offers the highest, longest, and fastest ride of its kind with its 650-foot line suspended 60 feet above the Catskills' tree canopy. You can start with the relatively easy Mid-Mountain tour or go for the extreme options right away. The extreme options include the Night Zip which takes place at night,  and you can expect to encounter forest creatures. The other option is the Skyrider which allows speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. Rock Climbing at Brooklyn Boulders Rock climbing doesn't require planning an expedition. Reach new heights on the bouldering walls at Brooklyn boulders. The Gowanus Climbing Gym features more than 18,000 square feet of climbing and bouldering walls. If you are a beginner, you can sign up for climbing classes. Cliff Jumping Cliff jumping is an adventurous activity that your group won't soon forget. If you are an adrenaline junkie who loves this type of sport, you are in for some great spots near Meadowland. Some of the popular spots include the Calf's Penn located in Lake George, Jones Hollow located on the Little Hoosick River, and Split Rock Hole located outside Minnewaska State Park. Bungee Jumping Another popular sport for adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping is offered by some professional companies in southeast New York. However, you may need to drive almost 100 miles before you can get a professional bungee company. The closest bungee jumping sport to Carmel is in Wakefield. The Great Canadian Bungee features a stand-alone jumping facility constructed 200 feet above a large water body.  In need of a car to ride to a bungee spot? check out this list of pre-owned cars under 20k. Hang Gliding Get views of New York gliding at 2,500 feet above the city. If you are not scared of heights, this is a great opportunity to have an aerial view of the city and marvel at the scenes. You can book a trip with Xcelerated Adventures and fly through the mountains. The company offers tandem hang gliding trips where you and your instructor strap into a hang glider and get air towed up behind a plane. Ride a Hot Air Balloon If you would like to go for an extreme adventure with your family and friends, you can try gliding across the sky in a hot air balloon. A hot air balloon is perfect for a group of two to 10 people and allows you to see the beauty from high above the treetops. There are several hot air balloon companies in the area and each one is ready to give your group a memorable adventure. Book a ride with Ballooning Adventures, and you have an exhilarating adventure to look forward to. Jet Skiing at the Hudson River Jet skiing on the Hudson River is another exciting adventure that is worth your while. While you might have seen the New York skyline before, the view from the Hudson allows you to see it in a new light. In addition to incredible views, it allows you to surf some of the top tourist attractions including Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Coney Island. Discover an Underground Waterfall at Secret Caverns Go spelunking in underground caves at Secret Caverns located near Howes Caverns. The underground caves lead to a 100-foot underground waterfall. You can explore the art splashed outside the building and the billboards as you wait for the tour to begin. The billboards are plastered with the history and gallery of the caverns. Each time you visit, you will find new content on the billboard. There are lots of places near Carmel, New York, where you can experience some real adrenaline rush. Meadowland of Carmel has recommended some of the most popular spots to visit and enjoy a thrilling afternoon close to home. You will never regret making your way there! Do you think we have left out a particular spot? Contact us and let us know. If you are looking for a new car to get you to your destination, you can visit our dealership, and our specialists will help you select a vehicle that suits your needs. We are open Monday through Saturday.

When you're looking for a sizzling, juicy steak to sink your teeth into, you don't want to settle for any little slab of meat. You want something seasoned to perfection with just the right amount of marbling to savor every bite. Many excellent establishments can help you cure your craving for a quality cutlet in the Carmel, New York area. No matter your cut choice, you can get the best value for your money if you know the right places. Read on to discover our list of the best steakhouses in the Carmel, New York area. McCarthy's Grill House Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by adactio McCarthy's Grill House is a hidden gem that locals love. It is conveniently located at 374 NY-52, in the heart of Carmel. They have a friendly staff that helps make your dining experience relaxed and enjoyable. Their crisp linen tablecloths and comfortable seating arrangement lend an air to the atmosphere that instantly puts guests at ease. They offer a daily menu, have rotating seasonal items, and provide gluten-free options upon request. They provide various menu options, ranging from dinner salads, appetizers, chicken entrees, seafood, and burgers. What you want to try is their selection of steaks. Available on their daily menu, they have everything from 10- or 16-ounce New York strip steaks to Teriyaki and Cajun steaks. However, for a pop of flavor in your mouth like no other, we suggest you order the sizzling garlic steak. It is a generous serving of quality beef cooked to perfection. Served with a crispy salad and warm bread, the meal is a satisfying marriage of flavors. Follow up your main course with one of their international coffees. We favor the Nutty Irishman. It is a tasty brew with Baileys and Frangelico. They are open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m and are accessible from anywhere in Putnam County. After purchasing your new vehicle with us, head over to McCarthy's for a celebration steak. They even offer catering services for your next anniversary party—Call 845-222-6012 for details. V&V Italian Steakhouse The 30-minute drive over to Newburgh is worth it for the savory steaks you'll find at V&V Steakhouse. Our friendly staff raves about the ambiance at this fine establishment. The upscale decor lends a touch of elegance to your dining experience, making this a perfect restaurant for a first date or surprise engagement proposal. They have generous servings that are adequately priced for the amount of food you are plated, the flavorful goodness in each bite, and the quality service you receive. They use traditional Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors of their menu items and are consistent with the quality of food and service they provide. They serve their guests Omaha steaks, ensuring only the best farm-to-table ingredients meet your plate. Many customers rave about the T-Bone steak, an excellent option for the hungriest of diners! Those looking for something lighter offer a fresh Mixed Greens Field Salad with fresh diced tomato, red onion, and a homemade balsamic dressing. Other flavorful options include Pollo Principessa, a breaded chicken with lemon and white wine butter sauce. Next to the bridge, you'll find them at 34 Plank Road in Newburgh, New York. Just don't go on Mondays, because they're closed. Luigi's Famiglia Cucina Luigi's Famiglia Cucina seems like a phenomenal place to savor the flavors of Italy and get some fantastic pasta. And it is. Their welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff immediately treat guests like family to start a pleasant and impressive dining experience. Known for serving some of the best pizza in Carmel, the hardworking owner of this family business uses an authentic wood-fired brick oven to prepare many meals. You'd be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't try their Ribeye steak at least once in your life. It is tender, succulent, savory, and cooked so perfectly it melts in your mouth. They serve the steak with sauteed broccoli, carrots, and roasted potatoes in place of pasta. With this filling meal, you'll be happy you skipped out on the pasta for some steak. Top off your meal with a cappuccino to ease digestion, and you'll be a happy carnivore. You can order online for delivery services or utilize their carry-out options. Luigi's will also be happy to cater your next event. Call 845-225-4000 for details and information on placing an order or making a reservation. Carmel Diner Make an appointment for an early morning routine service on your vehicle, then drive over Carmel Diner at 63 Gleneida Avenue. This family-owned and operated establishment sits at the heart of Carmel and has for the past 25 years. They offer a family-friendly dining experience with a diverse menu that will satisfy little tummies, picky eaters, and enormous appetites. Their versatile seating can accommodate single diners at the traditional diner bar, large parties, or a couple looking for an intimate dining experience. Like an authentic diner, breakfast proves to be the most important meal of the day and is available all day. Whether you arrive at 7 a.m. or 7 p.m. We suggest you opt for their steak and eggs. Loyal customers swear it's the best they've ever had. Carmel Diner is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is ready to serve you. They offer dine-in services and are equally happy to prepare your meal for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Curbside pickup and no-contact delivery are both available. You can even order online at your convenience. Carmel Diner is proud to offer catering services to the community and provide you and your guests with anything on their menu. Inquire using their form or call 845-225-5000 for information. There it is! Meadowland of Carmel has just shared with you our list of the best steakhouses in the Carmel, New York area. Did you find a new enticing steakhouse to hit up for your next celebration? Did we miss a favorite of yours? Please leave a message and let us know your spot for savory steaks. We'll be happy to include your suggestions on our list.

Carmel, New York, is a friendly and quiet town with a rich history. Whether you are from Carmel or are visiting, it's essential to be aware of the beautiful landmarks in and around Carmel. These are unique attributes of the town. Each place contributes a bit of charm to this hamlet of Putnam County. When planning a fun family weekend, a day trip, or seeking a little relaxation from a busy week, visiting one of these spots can help you re-energize. Read on to learn about the list of unique landmarks of Carmel, New York, suggested by our friendly staff here at Meadowland of Carmel. Veterans Memorial Park Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Arbron A daytime visit to Veterans Memorial Park can help you reconnect with nature, allowing you to enjoy life's simple pleasures. It is a perfect spot to stroll on a sunny Sunday morning after brunch. Take the kids on a bit of picnic to give them a break from the screens. Pack up a basket and a blanket and head down there. The park is at 201 Gypsy Trail Road and is open from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During fall, winter, and part of spring, they close at 3:30 p.m. While at the park, visitors can hike one of several trails, take the kids fishing, or go for a dip in the pool. During the winter, visitors who brave the cold can go ice skating or skiing. This park is also an excellent destination for history buffs or a homeschool history lesson. Sprawled throughout the park, you'll find several special memorials dedicated to veterans. The Gold Star Mother's Monument is one thoughtful and beautiful memorial you should visit. Dedicated June 2006 to all mothers who lost a child in service to the country, the grieving bronze female statue is a silent reminder of the damaging effects of war. Five granite benches surround the graceful visage, inviting park visitors to marvel at the craftsmanship or sit and meditate. Continue your walk throughout the park to see other displays, including three victory gardens donated by the Buddhist Association of the United States to honor all veterans, a Cobra AH-IG/S/F Helicopter that served in the Vietnam War, and a pair of crossed U.S. Navy anchors, to keep different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. You can also visit the Veterans Museum, which honors all men and women who have served in the armed forces. It hosts several authentic artifacts, ranging from the American Civil War to present-day military operations. The museum is open on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or by appointment. Call the park office at 845-808-1994 to make an appointment. Chuang Yen Monastery The Chuang Yen Monastery is an excellent destination for a memorable educational experience alone or with your loved ones. This welcoming and serene Buddhist temple is located at 2020 NY-301 and is a must-see for anyone in Carmel. Make a whole day of it and get there early to see the beautiful architecture's calm. You'll get to see the most significant indoor Buddha statue in the Western Hemisphere or participate in the Saturday Dharma study program. They sometimes offer lunch service for a vegetarian meal hosted by volunteers. Stop by the library to peruse some Buddhist literature, and ask the librarian or volunteers for advice or more information. They request visitors dress modestly when visiting and not pick the flowers on the property. The Monastery is only open on Saturdays, and visitors must apply for a permit to visit in advance. Check their website for reservations and details. Walkway over the Hudson Make sure your car is in good driving condition first, then drive your family over to Walkway Over the Hudson. In just over 40 minutes on I-84, you'll find yourself at the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge. A visit to the walkway Over the Hudson will treat you to one of the most glorious sunsets of your life. Be sure to take your camera to capture the bright colors of the sunset painted in the sky. This is a great place for pet lovers who enjoy an evening walk with Fido. Just be sure you have a leash that is 6-feet long and that temperatures are moderate so your furry friend's feet don't get too hot. Fun upcoming opportunities include Flow like the River. It is a free event that welcomes all and teaches the meditative movements of Qigong. These low-impact movements and exercises combine gentle breathing and meditation with helping relieve anxiety and stress. Check the website for dates. The walkway hours are from 7 a.m. to sunset. If there is a chance of lightning or high winds, the walkway does close for safety. Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site Get your family cozy in a new vehicle and take them on a bit of drive up to Hyde Park, New York. The Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is only about 40 miles away from Carmel, a prime destination with an educational value that makes learning fun. This mansion turned museum was built by one of America's first families of wealth. Guests are often in awe of the intricate architecture that elegantly captures the aristocratic style of its time. Begin your visit by stopping at the Pavilion Visitor Center for information on tours, current exhibits, gardens in bloom, and open trails. Many visitors opt for the self-guided tour that allows you to take in the beautiful decor and artifacts at your own pace. You can even use your smartphone or tablet to listen to an audio tour narrated by a ranger. Take a stroll on the Vanderbilt Riverfront Trail and then stop at the guest center to grab a souvenir to commemorate your visit. The museum is in Hyde Park at 119 Vanderbilt Park Road. Tours are limited, and they require reservations. Contact them at 845-229-7770. So there you have it. Meadowland of Carmel has just shared with you our suggestions for unique landmarks of Carmel, New York. Consider visiting these for a quick day trip to experience some of the great cultures of Carmel. Did we miss a favorite spot of yours? Please leave a message and let us know! We'll be happy to include your suggestions on our list.