Carmel Hamlet, New York, is a town in Putnam County that tends to sit a little under the radar. It offers lovely views of the Hudson River and is a place where you can relax and get a break from the busy city. Once summer rolls around, there are lots of outdoor activities and attractions in and near Carmel, along with indoor fun if it’s a rainy day. Let’s take a look at some of the top ways to enjoy summer in Carmel so you can start planning your next warm-weather weekend or vacation getaway.
Visit Fahnestock State Park
If you enjoy spending time outside, Fahnestock State Park is one of the best places to enjoy some of your summer days. This park has hiking trails that wind through and up the mountains, and once you get to the top, you can enjoy beautiful views of the woods.
In addition to the hiking trails, the 14,086-acre park has picnic areas for when you want to stop for lunch, a campground, and lots of opportunities for birding, hunting, and fishing. You can fish by boat on Stillwater and Canopus Lakes or do it from the shore on all four ponds and the two lakes. No matter what season you drop a line, you’ll be able to catch bass, perch, pickerel, and rainbow trout.
You can’t beat a day or weekend spent at this park. There are endless activities for the outdoor enthusiast, whether you like spending time on the water or on the trails or enjoying the scenery.
Play a Round at Centennial Golf Club
If you’re a golfer, you should check out the Centennial Golf Club this summer. This is an ideal club for golfers who don’t want to be limited by the average nine- or 18-hole course, as it has a 27-hole championship course. Designed by World Hall of Fame member and U.S. Open winner Larry Nelson, it features rolling hills and natural rock outcroppings. The three nine-hole courses at this club are Meadows, Lakes, and Fairways, and whether you play all three or just one, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Centennial’s courses have multiple tees, so they can accommodate players of all levels. The club is also home to the area’s best practice facility, with a double-ended driving range, bunkered target greens, and a short-game area. If you want to take a lesson, the Centennial Golf Academy offers instruction for those who are just getting into golf and for experienced players who are looking to up their game. The Academy is dedicated to teaching players of all levels and uses a four-step process to help with your game.
Explore the Vanderbilt Mansion
Head to the Vanderbilt Mansion Historic Site when you want a more educational experience for a summer day. Visitors can check out the architecture of the mansion and see the mechanical systems that showcase the industrialization of America. You can also see the tools and methods used to develop the interior of the mansion along with other buildings of the time.
You need tickets to access the mansion but not to enter the park and explore the grounds, nature trails, and gardens. The formal gardens are typical of the Gilded Age style, with geometric patterns and interconnecting parts. Make sure to head to Bard Rock while you’re at the park. This picnic area is one of the few places where you can get close to the Hudson River, and the river landing has a large flat rock that helps form a natural harbor.
Hike to the Mount Nimham Fire Tower
If you want to experience 360-degree views of Carmel and the surrounding areas, take a short hike to the Nimham Mountain fire tower. It’s just 1.5 miles up and back and a relatively easy walk over a gravel road to the fire tower. As you walk along the gravel, keep an eye out for some cool stone chambers along the way. It’s unclear what they are or where they came from, but these formations are a unique feature to explore.
It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. Once you get there, you might not feel like you’re at the top of a mountain, but you can climb the fire tower for unbelievable views of the Catskills in the distance and forests that stretch as far as you can see.
Take a Tour of the Chuang Yen Monastery
Many Carmel visitors don’t know that this town is home to the largest indoor Buddha statue in the Western Hemisphere. You can find this 37-foot-tall statue at the Chuang Yen Monastery. When you visit here, you should also explore the 225-acre property, which has several halls and attractions for you to see. These include:
Kuan Yin Hall: Built in 1985 in the Tang Dynasty style, this hall features a statue of Professor Yinfeng Yang enclosed in a wooden shrine.
Great Buddha Hall: This hall looks similar to the Kuan Yin Hall and was opened in 1997 with a prayer for world peace.
Woo Ju Memorial Library: This library provides educational resources for visitors who want to learn more about the study and practice of Buddhism.
The Monastery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day from April through January. A vegetarian lunch is served outside from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. There’s a small gift shop at the back of the Great Buddha Hall where you can buy a variety of Buddhist souvenirs. Other sites to visit include a Zen Garden to help quiet your mind and the Seven Jewel Lake. Visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering any of the halls.
When summer comes, these are some of the places in and around Carmel where we at Meadowland of Carmel like to spend time. Do you have a favorite summer spot or activity? Come by and tell us about it. We can check it out this summer so that we can add it to our list.
Dodge recently made some headlines when it announced its intent to release an electric vehicle (EV) version of the Dodge Charger. While there’s still some mystery around this vehicle, we have heard some details about it. Below, we’ll highlight what we know about the upcoming EV Dodge Charger, what we expect from it, and how you can get one.
What We Know About a Potential EV Dodge Charger
So far, we know a little bit about what to expect from the EV Dodge Charger. Dodge released an EV Dodge Charger concept called the Daytona SRT, which gives us some information about how this new Charger will differ from previous models.
For starters, Dodge showcased this concept with both 400V and 800V powertrain architectures. With the 400V powertrain, drivers can choose between a 455 or a 590 horsepower option. The 800V powertrain will up the power even further and come with either stage 1 or stage 2 power tunes. Dodge calls this system “Banshee” and previously stated that it would pass the SRT Hellcat engine in terms of performance.
The Daytona SRT concept also features different driving modes, which the driver can select via controls on the steering wheel. Some of these modes are Auto, Sport, Track, and Drag, allowing drivers to get their preferred driving experience with just the push of a button. There’s also a PowerShot button, which gives an instant boost to horsepower.
Finally, the Daytona SRT also features a Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system. This is essentially an exhaust system that comes with rear amplification, turning what would normally be a quiet EV into a growling muscle car that drivers expect from Dodge. With this exhaust system, the Daytona SRT is easily as loud as the Hellcat engine.
With the Charger Daytona SRT not slated for production until 2024, there’s still time for the above specs to change. However, they should give you a good idea of what you can expect from the Charger EV when it finally releases.
Features To Expect in the EV Dodge Charger
Dodge hasn’t released a full list of features for the EV Dodge Charger yet. However, by looking at other recent Dodge vehicles and other similar EVs, we can make some guesses as to what features it might come with.
For example, the Dodge Charger EV will likely come with a hi-tech infotainment system. Most new vehicles typically have a large touch-screen display in the center of the dashboard, through which you can control vehicle settings, audio, and navigation. You can also expect the Dodge Charger EV to come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrations, which will make it easy to connect your phone to the entertainment system.
The Daytona SRT will also likely have the latest safety features. Some features you’ll likely see include a blind-spot monitoring system, an external camera, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking.
Finally, expect the Dodge Charger EV to have a luxurious interior similar to that of other Dodge muscle cars. There will be premium materials throughout the cabin, adjustable seats, climate control, and an adjustable steering wheel. If you’ve ever driven a Dodge muscle car before, the experience will likely be very similar to the Dodge Charger EV, with the only change being the powertrain.
How To Get an EV Dodge Charger
The EV Dodge Charger isn’t slated to be released until 2024. Once it releases, you can get yours at any local Dodge dealership. If you’re in the Carmel, New York, area, you can contact Meadowland of Carmel and let us know about your interest in the EV Dodge Charger. This way, we can notify you when it’s released and ensure that you get one of the first ones. This is sure to be a popular choice when it comes out, so you’ll want to learn that it’s available as soon as possible.
Other EVs To Consider
If you don’t want to wait for the EV Dodge Charger, or if you want an EV in the meantime, there are plenty of other options to consider. Some options you may like include the following:
Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
The Ford Mustang Mach-E GT is another muscle car that’s all electric. This vehicle comes with all-wheel drive (AWD) and delivers excellent efficiency, getting the equivalent of 100 mpg in the city and 86 on the highway. Some other features you’ll find in the Mustang Mach-E include keyless entry, a navigation system, power seating, a backup camera, and a touch-screen infotainment system.
Jeep Wrangler
Consider the Jeep Wrangler if you’re looking for a vehicle that you can take off-road. The Jeep Wrangler offers you several different powertrains, one of which is all electric. A common misconception is that electric powertrains aren’t as powerful, but the Jeep Wrangler proves that wrong. You’ll be able to take your vehicle off the beaten path with ease, thanks in part to its AWD system. With the Jeep Wrangler, you can also remove the roof and sides for more fresh air as you drive.
Ford F-150 Lightning
Finally, if you want a pickup truck, there’s the Ford F-150 Lightning. This pickup has AWD, a 563 horsepower electric engine, a sunroof, and all-terrain tires. Some of the interior features include heated/cooled seats, a navigation system, parking sensors, and a touch-screen infotainment system. You’ll be able to tow and haul a decent amount with the Ford F-150 lighting, as it has a strong enough engine and plenty of room in the truck bed for your belongings.
Learn More About EV Dodge Vehicles at Meadowland of Carmel
Here at Meadowland of Carmel, we can help you find the vehicle you’re looking for. We have a wide selection of new Dodge vehicles that you’re sure to love while you wait for the EV Dodge Charger. We also have an extensive inventory of pre-owned vehicles, often including those EVs mentioned above.
Take some time to browse through our inventory to see what we currently have in stock. Then, contact us to schedule a visit to our dealership or to let us know about your interest in the EV Dodge Charger. Thank you for choosing Meadowland of Carmel, and we look forward to assisting you.
As you know, your tires need to be in good condition to enable you to drive safely. Without a complete set of well-conditioned tires, driving may not be possible at all. Therefore, keeping your tires well-maintained is vital so you can get to work, visit family, or go away for a weekend.
Signs It’s Time for New Tires
There are several ways to tell whether it’s time to buy new tires. Your mechanic can look at your tires during your routine maintenance visits, or you can stop by for a tire check. We offer tire pressure and wear checks in our express lane. There are also some key changes you can look for at home, which we’ll talk about next.
Tread Depth
As you drive on your tires, the tread will naturally wear down over time. Your tire tread is essential to help you maintain a good grip on the road, so when the tread gets low, you can start to slip, especially on wet surfaces. You may need to change your tires sooner if you often driving in adverse weather. The lowest you should let your tread get is 1/16th of an inch in depth. You can measure this using a gauge, or you can slip a Lincoln-head penny into the tread. If Lincoln’s entire head is exposed, your tread is too low.
Tread Wear Indicator Bars
If you look at your tire tread, you may notice bars of rubber placed perpendicular to the tread. These are tread wear indicator bars. They won’t be easy to spot if the tires are brand new, but as the tread wears down, they’ll become easier to see. The closer the tread wears down toward these indicator bars, the sooner you need to replace your tires. If you drive through a wet patch, you can also see the marks from the tread wear indicator bars left in your tire tracks.
Uneven Wear
As we mentioned above, it’s normal for tire tread to wear down over time. However, the pattern of wear is also important. Tires should wear evenly, and uneven wear can be a sign of other problems with your tires, such as overinflation or underinflation, incorrect wheel alignment, not rotating your tires, steering, and suspension. Our express lane service offers tire rotation.
Sidewall Cracks
This problem isn’t about wear but about the integrity of the tire sidewall. If you see cracks, cuts, or missing spots in the sidewall, your tires could be at risk of leaking or blowing out. Sidewall damage can be caused by factors that are mostly out of your control, such as sunlight, chemicals on the road, and tire aging, as well as impact damage, such as hitting rocks or potholes.
Blisters and Bulges
These are also signs of sidewall weakness. If you see an area of your tire that seems to be blistering out, then it’s a sign that it’s time to replace the tire. Bulges and blisters are spots where the internal part of the tire is weak, and air within the tire is pushing outward. These tires have a risk of blowouts, and you should replace them right away.
Embedded Objects
If objects such as nails or rocks are stuck in the tire, you should get a professional to check the tire out. Although a complete replacement may or may not be necessary, it’s best not to ignore these embedded objects. They can lead to leaks or blowouts or allow moisture to enter the tire and damage the internal components.
Valve Cap Damage
If your valve cap doesn’t tighten and seal properly, air can escape out, leading to a leaky tire and low pressure. Alternatively, dirt and moisture can get in through the loose valve cap. Insufficient or excessive tightening usually causes valve cap damage.
Tire Pressure Warning
It’s normal to need to inflate your tires from time to time as they naturally lose some pressure. Typically, this is around 1 PSI per month. However, if you find yourself having to inflate your tires often or your tire pressure light indicator keeps switching on, you may have a problem with the tire constantly leaking.
Rough Ride
If you notice excessive vibration while you drive, your tires could be the culprit. This can happen with uneven tire wear. Other causes of increased vibration include problems with the suspension or the tire alignment. If the vibration isn’t caused by a tire problem, it could lead to tire problems over time, so getting your vehicle checked out is a good idea.
How Often Do You Usually Need To Replace Your Tires?
The answer to this question depends on many factors, including how the tires are stored, how old the tires are, how well they are maintained, and how they are used. Typically, regardless of how the tires look, it’s recommended to get them changed after 10 years. With general use, which is around 12,000-15,000 miles of driving per year, your tires may last between three and five years.
Why Is It Important To Replace Your Tires When It’s Time?
Your tires are a crucial part of the safe operation of your vehicle on the road. They grip your vehicle to the ground below, manage water to prevent hydroplaning, and keep you smoothly and comfortably moving in a controlled manner. If your tires become old and damaged, you could end up in a potentially dangerous situation, such as:
Loss of road grip, leading to slipping or skidding.
Troubles with braking and stopping.
Tire blowouts or a sudden loss of tire pressure, which could make you lose control of your vehicle.
Being stranded in an unfamiliar or inconvenient location.
There’s something about a good brunch that sets the tone for the rest of your day. You have numerous options when you want to enjoy brunch in Danbury, Connecticut. Whether you’re craving a farmhouse meal, upscale dining, or traditional diner favorites, you have a brunch spot in town. Explore this guide to help you discover the best brunch in Danbury, Connecticut.
Market Place Kitchen & Bar
The Market Place Kitchen & Bar makes it a priority to serve local, sustainable foods, with a seasonal menu featuring organic and locally harvested ingredients. This commitment extends to the restaurant’s interior, where 300-year-old barn wood from nearby Brookfield accents the warm brick walls and a full-length bar. You’ll enjoy sharing brunch with friends or family in this quaint space, or you can eat on the outdoor patio on warmer days.
This modern American restaurant serves a delectable Sunday brunch. The brunch menu features a mix of sweet and savory items, like the oat-crusted French toast and the steak and eggs with hash browns and garlic aioli. The chicken and waffle sandwich is a brunch favorite, featuring buttermilk Cajun fried chicken and sweet waffles with Vermont cheddar cheese, a sausage patty, and chipotle aioli. You can indulge in a specialty cocktail or a $5 brunch classic like a bloody mary or mimosa to complement your brunch.
Location: 33 Mill Plain Road.
Hours: Opens at 11:30 a.m. Sunday for brunch.
Craft Kitchen + Bar
When you want a delicious farmhouse brunch but don’t want to leave the city, head to Craft Kitchen + Bar. This cozy restaurant serves a variety of fresh, nourishing dishes to help you start your day on the right foot. The restaurant has a charming interior with textured walls, reclaimed wood, and tufted leather booths. You can also dine on the restaurant’s open-air patio in the summer months.
Craft Kitchen + Bar offers a Sunday brunch with a three-course menu for $39.99. For your first course, you can choose from starters like the guacamole bruschetta with tomatoes and queso fresco. The hearty main course options include crispy salmon with home fries and broccoli rabe, black truffle mac and cheese, and a B.E.L.T., a twist on the age-old favorite with a chuck and brisket burger, bacon, egg, lettuce, tomato, and garlic aioli. You’ll have the option of chocolate mousse cake or strawberry shortcake for dessert, not to mention your choice of bottomless drinks like a screwdriver or Bellini.
Location: 93 Mill Plain Road.
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday for brunch.
Elmer’s Diner
Who says you can only enjoy brunch on the weekend? When you want a tasty brunch on a Tuesday, make plans to visit Elmer’s Diner. This old-school diner features an extensive menu with all your favorite breakfast dishes and savory lunch items, so you can get exactly what you want. Elmer’s Diner evokes a sense of nostalgia with counter seats and friendly, attentive service in a laid-back atmosphere.
The diner’s menu is so large that you could brunch here for weeks and still not try everything. Breakfast items include a variety of benedicts and omelets, like the Elmer’s Norwegian Benedict Style with poached eggs, salmon, and hollandaise sauce over house-made challah bread French toast. There’s also a vast selection of breakfast wraps, pancakes, and waffles. If you’re craving a juicy burger, try the 6-ounce Brazilian burger, topped with a fried egg and mozzarella, ham, onions, tomatoes, red pepper, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Wash it down with a drink from the coffee bar or an old-fashioned ice cream soda.
Location: 22 Padanaram Road.
Hours: Open 24 hours every day.
Molly Darcy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant
For over 20 years, Molly Darcy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant has delighted Danbury residents with traditional Irish cuisine. The casual establishment provides a fun atmosphere for your weekend brunch, with pool tables, darts, and arcade games inside the restaurant. There’s also an outdoor patio, or you can even enjoy your brunch in the beer garden.
Molly Darcy’s serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. You can start with an appetizer to share, like the blackened beef tips or Irish sausage rolls. For your entree, choose from a variety of brunch favorites, including chicken and waffles, short rib hash, or a classic benedict. There’s also soup, salads, and Irish favorites on the brunch menu, such as shepherd’s pie with seasoned ground beef, carrots, peas, and onions with mashed potatoes. If you prefer your brunch in liquid form, Molly Darcy’s also offers a bottomless brunch for $18, allowing you to get your choice of cocktail for 90 minutes.
Location: 39A Mill Plain Road.
Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday for brunch.
Mix Prime Steakhouse & Fish
If you want to celebrate a birthday or special occasion over brunch, Mix Prime Steakhouse & Fish is the perfect place. The upscale restaurant serves fresh, high-quality food in an intimate atmosphere. The elegant dining room features dark wood paneling and striking chandeliers, and a rustic covered patio offers additional seating for brunch. You can come for brunch at Mix Prime on Sundays.
For brunch, you can order from a prix fixe menu of appetizers, entrees, and desserts for $39.99 per person. Starter courses include the soup of the day, a house or Caesar salad, and smoked salmon. For your main course, you can choose from options like the fish du jour, served with risotto and vegetables, or the eggs Benedict with Canadian bacon. The French toast comes with berries and maple syrup. There’s also a burger and an 8-ounce grilled New York strip on the menu. You also have your choice of bottomless cocktails, including Bellinis, screwdrivers, and mimosas.
Location: 40 Mill Plain Road.
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday for brunch.
There you go — five of the best brunch spots in Danbury, Connecticut. What do you think of these options? If you’re a Danbury local, have we missed one of your favorite brunch places in town? You can send a message to Meadowland of Carmel and let us know. We’ll be happy to add your suggestion to our list so others can know about it, too.
As a top dealership in Carmel, New York, we make it a priority to be part of the community. We love helping our customers, whether they’re searching for an affordable new vehicle or looking for the best places to eat in the area. You can see some of our other local recommendations by reading our past blog posts.
On top of unbeatable style and comfort features, the 2023 Ram 1500 can pull or tow with incredible force. This truck will carry you and your passengers through almost any terrain, and its strong towing and payload capacities are just a few examples of its performance and work-ready benefits.
With so much variation in its capabilities depending on which model you get, finding the best for your budget and driving needs can be tricky. Let our sales experts at Meadowland of Carmel find the ideal Ram 1500 configuration for your needs. Take a look at this explanation to find out exactly how much the 2023 Ram 1500 truck can tow. We’ll also go over related information, including valuable tips to get the most out of your vehicle’s towing capability.
Ram 1500 Tow Capacity
Whether as a personal vehicle or a commercial truck, there’s no denying the impressive towing capacity of the 2023 Ram 1500. The exact towing limits will vary depending on which of the four engines your truck has. The choices are a 3.6-liter V-6 engine, a 5.7-liter V-8, a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6, or a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8. Below, we’ve included each engine’s possible maximum towing capacities:
Knowing the upper and lower limits is a good place to start when choosing an engine with the right power range for your needs. Always remember that the 2023 Ram 1500’s exact towing range will depend on your chosen engine and other factors such as rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and the cab body style. It’s clear to see that all four engine options start well over 6,000 lbs., and greater numbers are possible.
What’s on the 2023 Ram 1500 Tow Package?
A new Ram 1500 will bring enough power to tow various trailers and other objects. With that said, it’s worth remembering that not everyone buys a truck for towing. As a result, a tow receiver package isn’t included as standard equipment with the 2023 Ram 1500 Tradesman. Instead, it’s a separate, affordable add-on that includes the following:
Class IV receiver hitch.
Wiring harness with four-pin to seven-pin trailer adapter.
Brake controller for trailers.
On top of an excellent maximum payload, the 2023 Ram 1500 features incredible towing capabilities and easy access to a hitch package. You won’t need any complex or special equipment beyond those above.
Which 2023 Ram 1500 Is Best for Towing and Hauling?
The rear-wheel-drive Ram 1500 Quad Cab, with the long bed and V-8 engine, can tow up to 12,750 lbs. Rear-wheel-drive models often have more towing capacity than four-wheel-drive models, and the long bed with a Quad Cab is the most beneficial mix of length and weight for towing, so these requirements are understandable.
Most other V-8-powered versions can tow between 7,800 and 11,500 lbs. on several combinations. A Ram with a diesel engine has a maximum towing capacity between 7,760 and 12,560 lbs., depending on the combination you choose. The same holds for the other engines, but for the most power possible, keep an eye out for any versions using the 5.7-liter V-8 or turbo diesel.
What Objects Can a 2023 Ram 1500 Tow?
With its excellent towing capabilities, the 2023 Ram 1500 can haul things, including large flatbeds or other special types of trailers, such as horse trailers or those for large boats. Pop-up campers, jet ski trailers, multiple motorcycles, ATVs, and other special cases are unlikely to be a problem. You can bring all kinds of gear to your next adventure or work site, thanks to the 2023 Ram 1500, as long as it has a hitch receiver and the weight isn’t above the model’s maximum capacity.
Towing-Friendly Features of the 2023 Ram 1500
Engine power and capability ratings are important, but they’re not the only factors to consider. On most or all drives that involve towing or payloads, you can rely on some or all of these Ram 1500 features, including the following:
High-strength steel frame.
360-degree surround view camera.
Trailer reverse steering control.
Blind-spot monitoring system.
Trailer sway control.
Active-level adaptive air suspension.
Active air dam.
Ram 1500 tow mirrors.
Electronic roll mitigation.
Electronic stability control.
Parallel and perpendicular park assist.
Forward collision warning.
Rear cross-path detection.
For example, Selec-Speed maintains a constant speed while navigating changes in terrain and slopes around Carmel by controlling the engine torque and brake pressure. This keeps power delivery steady so you can concentrate on steering. Whether hooking up to a trailer, backing it into the right spot, or just maneuvering with it on the highway, features like the ones above all contribute to a calm, engaging driver experience.
Tips for Safe Truck Towing
Even if you’re new to towing, you’ll find the Ram truck welcoming and useful. Although a Ram truck is usually up to the task, being safe and careful ensures you don’t get stuck and need a tow yourself. Take a look at some safety tips listed below to get the most out of your Ram while towing anything.
Check the condition of your Ram’s tires, lights, and brakes.
Adjust your mirrors, seat, and rearview mirror for perfect comfort and visibility.
Always review your specific Ram 1500 trim level’s towing and payload capacities.
Have a spotter to help guide you when backing up to the trailer or backing up the trailer itself.
Don’t carry heavy payloads and tow heavy gear at the same time.
Test-Drive the Ram 1500 at Meadowland of Carmel
Want to decide what style of Ram truck is right for you? Visit our Carmel, New York, dealership and take one of the models in our inventory for a test drive. Whether you wish to lease or purchase a vehicle, we’d be happy to help you do so. Until then, browse through the rest of our new and used Ram vehicles. Our team at Meadowland of Carmel is ready to assist you in finding the perfect Ram vehicle that best meets your needs. Call or use our contact form for prompt assistance.
Some may think that since Carmel has a relatively small population, with just over 34,000 at last count, there’s not much to do around town after the sun goes down. However, that is absolutely untrue, as Carmel surprisingly offers a nice variety of nightlife and activities for those who like to stay out late.
If you’re looking for a big night out with friends or your significant other, or you want to show off Carmel to visitors from out of town, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite nightlife destinations in town to make your evening plans easier to put together. Whether you’re in the mood for a laidback lounge or a hopping, noisy bar, Carmel has something for you.
Fiddler’s Green Pub
If you’re looking for a local, laidback bar that’s almost always certain to be a good time, look no further than Fiddler’s Green Pub. This establishment has been around for years and is one of Carmel’s premier gathering places and most entertaining dive bars. The amusing, sometimes kitschy, Irish-themed bar is a wonderful place to kick back and relax with a large pint of Guinness and a plate of chicken wings.
People looking for a late night out will appreciate the pub’s late closing time. It’s open until 2 a.m. Monday through Wednesday and until 3 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, so you can keep the party going well into the night. Drop by and enjoy the friendly service, comfortable neighborhood vibe, and live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
Molly Darcy’s
Another great Irish pub and restaurant in the area, though it’s located a little further away in Danbury, is Molly Darcy’s. The pub is open until 1 a.m. Tuesday through Friday and until 2 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. This pub has a similar atmosphere to Fiddler’s Green Pub but a good deal more selection for bar food and menu items. Try a juicy burger or delicious shrimp po’boy.
In addition, Molly Darcy’s has fun bar games, such as pool, and some cool themed nights. Come by for Country Line Dancing on Tuesdays and Karaoke Night on Wednesdays. Swing by on Saturday to get a taste of some live music.
Spins Bowl
For a change of pace and something a little different, grab your friends and head out to the alleys at Spins Bowl. It has 26 new professional bowling lanes. But if you’re not a bowler, Spins Bowl offers over 50 video arcade games, air hockey, foosball tables, darts, and six axe throwing lanes.
The Carmel location of this establishment is over 30,000 square feet in area, so it can fit in all the fun you could want. You can also take a break from the games to enjoy the fully stocked kitchen and bar. Spins Bowl stays open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can enjoy the space all evening and sit down for a delicious meal and drinks at the bar.
Players Club
Open every day from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., the Players Club at the Brewster Ice Arena is a great gathering spot for night owls in town. Sports fans love coming here, as it’s one of the few tried and true sports bars in the area, with beer buckets and bourbon for fans who spend hours here while watching the game on one of the high-definition TVs around the bar. Come here with your friends to watch your favorite team play, then spend the rest of the evening enjoying classic bar eats, snacks, and a wide selection of beers on tap.
As a bonus, you can watch some teams live in the ice rink below the bar. That’s right, local hockey leagues play their games here, and anyone in the bar can sit or stand by the massive windows looking out into the ice rinks and root for their favorite upstate New York team.
McCarthy’s Family Eatery
The family-owned and operated McCarthy’s Family Eatery has been a staple in the Carmel area for years. The restaurant prides itself on its friendly service and tasty comfort food, making regular customers feel like they’re coming home instead of going out.
Try the French onion soup — a local favorite — or the shepherd’s pie. If you prefer more classic bar-and-grill food, the burgers on the menu are absolutely delicious. McCarthy’s outdoor area is usually full of diners in the spring and summer, as tables are moved outside to the patio near a small scenic waterfall. After you’re done with your meal, stay late into the night to taste the beers on tap and perhaps play a game of pool.
Tequila Escape
If you want to try something different from the usual Irish pub fare, burgers, and American comfort food in the Carmel area, head to Tequila Escape for another kind of menu. As you may have guessed from the name, Tequila Escape specializes in Latin Fusion cuisine and, of course, a whole lot of tequila.
Try the shrimp and tuna tacos, the quesadillas, and of course, as in every good Latin-inspired restaurant, the guacamole. If anyone in your group isn’t partial to Latin cuisine, don’t worry — there are still great American staples on the menu, including a classic burger. After you’re done with your meal, order one of the many margaritas served at Tequila Escape or try one of the specialty cocktails on the menu, such as the strawberry pico sour. The bartenders here are excellent, so you can get adventurous with which drinks and spirits you try.
Tequila Escape is open until 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Carmel has a small-town charm, but unlike other sleepy hamlets, it also has a range of late-night dining, drinks, and entertainment nightspots to enjoy. If we left your favorite Carmel spot off this list, contact us at Meadowland of Carmel and let us know, as we’d love to include it in a future post.
The Grand Wagoneer is a powerful and exceptionally well-equipped large SUV with a long and interesting history. We’ll cover that history and why the SUV model was launched and explain some of its manufacturing processes here.
The Jeep Motor Vehicle Company manufactures the Grand Wagoneer. It was initially known as the Full-Size Jeep (FSJ). The FSJ version was released for the first time way back in 1963. Its engineering was so impressive that it continued on the market for decades with only minor changes during that time. The FSJ was transitioned into the Grand Wagoneer in the early 1980s, and its production continues today. Both came with many new features to the class during their respective decades, including power brakes, high-definition radio, power steering, and tilting steering columns.
Defining the Classic Wagon Look: 1970s and 1980s
The early Wagoneers were dialed up to a new level of luxury during the 1970s with heavy-duty wood paneling and plush upholstered seating. Many outdoor-friendly features were added during this time, so the vehicle was marketed as luxurious and rugged. Sales spiked considerably during the early 1980s after major interior updates that left behind the old ‘60s and ‘70s styles.
Leather bucket seating was added, and the engine was upgraded to a truly camping-capable level in the form of its first V-8. The classic wagon-looking Grand Wagoneer ran for around $19,000 during this time. The Jeep company would change hands during the late 1980s, and the vehicle’s style would change too. Map lighting, a rear windshield wiper, and a full sunroof were all 80s additions.
End of the Age of the Wagon: The 1990s
The 1990s saw a sharp decrease in wagon popularity in general, especially early in the decade, and the Grand Wagoneer saw a temporary end of production during the same period. During that time, it was one of the most straightforward and user-friendly vehicles globally, worth almost $200,000 in modern dollars. Major issues with the model included a seriously high fuel consumption rate and a lack of current-gen features in the utility category.
Resurrection of the Grand Wagoneer: 2022, 2023, and Beyond
Jeep wowed the automotive world with the resurrection of the Grand Wagoneer in the early 2020s. The simplicity of the old wood-paneled Wagoneer was abandoned in favor of a fully modern overhaul. The look of the Grand Wagoneer transformed into that of a long, powerful, and overwhelmingly luxurious mega-SUV.
The style and feature updates were pulled off in an incredibly economical manner, greatly increasing the Grand Wagoneer’s capabilities while dropping its modern dollar price by over $100,000 to between $80,000 to $96,000 on average. The new version of the Grand Wagoneer is set to be regularly updated with new and interesting technologies, so keep an eye out for those developments.
Reasons for New Production
Jeep had gone without a large flagship SUV for many years, favoring its midsize Wrangler model lineup instead. As impressive and incredibly versatile as the Wrangler was, it could not fill the niche occupied by such competitors as the Escalade, the Yukon, the X7, or the LX.
The Grand Wagoneer was brought back to bring Jeep into more comprehensive competition with its competitors. In doing so, the company soundly proved that it could manage more than one flagship line at a time. After almost 30 years out of production, the new 2023 Grand Wagoneer is set to dominate the large SUV market landscape.
Choosing a Production Location
Jeep had a lot to consider when considering the possible production plant locations for the new line of Grand Wagoneers. They could have outsourced production and chopped up installation between locations, as many manufacturers do, to increase profits. And they could have done it all in a nearby nation to balance the books between delivery speed and cost.
Instead, they chose a far more honorable route: moving toward the resurrection of motor vehicle production in the Motor City itself: Detroit, Michigan. Almost 6,000 Americans found jobs at the new Wagoneer manufacturing base in Detroit. Jeep intends to keep those jobs in American hands and expand the production area over time.
Behold the Amazing 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
The 2023 version of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is available in four trim levels: the Series I, Series II, Obsidian, and Series III versions. Two engines are available to power the 2023 Grand Wagoneer: a 3.0-liter six-cylinder and a 6.4-liter V-8. The first generates 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, while the second grants 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque.
This Grand Wagoneer is a masterful towing machine, rated to pull up to 8,260 pounds. This is enough to handle some of the largest trailers, campers, and boats pulled by civilian vehicles today, connecting the Grand Wagoneer with its adventurous roots. It can carry up to 1,360 pounds of additional cargo in an area measuring 27.4 cubic feet, or 94.2 cubic feet, with the seating area included.
Music lovers will adore this SUV. Its options include a set of 23 McIntosh premium speakers and a 1345-watt amplifier, capable of producing high sound quality and intensity. It also comes with the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, featuring a 12-inch display.
Find Out More About the Grand Wagoneer at Meadowland
Whether you want to learn more about what the new Grand Wagoneer models have to offer or delve deeper into the storied history of the vehicle, we’re here to help at Meadowland of Carmel. Our kind and professional staff know every Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram on our lot as if they were their own. Our dealership can be found at 1952 US-6 in Carmel, New York. Our office hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. We’re closed on Sundays.
We at Meadowland of Carmel are at your service whether you want a new vehicle or need to have your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram serviced. No matter what you need, feel free to come in at your convenience. We’ll treat you like family.
People who associate New York State with the bustling, crowded streets of New York City would do well to venture out to the upstate haven of Carmel for a refreshing change of pace. This historic town with a population of approximately 35,000 people sits on the tranquil shores of Lake Gleneida and the West Branch Reservoir, surrounded by the lush green landscapes of the Hudson Valley.
New Yorkers, as well as residents of Connecticut and New Jersey, love to visit Carmel for a fun weekend to picnic by the lake or try some local breweries. So, how do you get to Carmel? We will give you a whole host of ways to venture up, whether you’re traveling by car, train, or bus, and share a little bit of the city’s history.
Carmel: A Brief History
The town of Carmel has a small population spread out over a relatively large area. The town technically has no incorporated villages, but locals count the unofficial hamlets of both Carmel and Mahopac as villages.
Carmel was founded in 1740 by George Hughson, before the United States was even established as a country. It was a thriving town by the time of the Revolutionary War, and Patriots like Sybil Ludington rode through Carmel to warn locals of the British arriving, much like Paul Revere.
One of the most charming buildings in town, and an interesting glimpse into the local history, is the Putnam County Courthouse. Built all the way back in 1814, it is the second oldest courthouse in the United States that is still in operation.
How to Get to Carmel From New York City
Thanks to its peaceful location, surrounded by New York’s beautiful upstate nature, Carmel provides a lovely retreat for urban New Yorkers looking to get away for the weekend and relax. Getting to Carmel from New York City is relatively easy, as there are several methods of travel.
The first and perhaps most common way to get to Carmel from New York City is by car. Drive 62 miles on I-87 North to I-684 North toward Albany, though you will reach your destination long before you get to the capital. The drive up should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, provided there’s little to no traffic. If you’re leaving during the afternoon or evening rush hour or early on a Saturday morning, it may take you a much longer time to leave the city.
To avoid driving in traffic, you can take a Metro North-Railroad (MNR) train up to Carmel from New York City. Purchase a ticket for the Harlem line to get all the way to Southeast station, near Brewster. The Harlem train leaves almost hourly from Grand Central, so you won’t have to wait very long to catch the next one. However, look up the schedule to get to the station right before the train departs.
Then, take a cab from the station to Carmel. The drive should only take about 10-15 minutes. Train tickets cost between $13 and $28; they are more affordable during off-peak hours and if you buy them in advance. The train between New York and Carmel takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
How to Get to Carmel from Connecticut
Though there are many possible options for getting from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Carmel, driving definitely makes the most sense. It covers a shorter distance, takes less time, and provides the most direct route; buses and trains must take a very indirect road to get to Carmel, as they must follow the coastline of Connecticut west toward New York and then travel upstate. Since Carmel is almost directly northwest of Bridgeport, this route can add a lot of time and driving distance to your trip.
To drive from Bridgeport, take CT-25 North to I-84 West, where you will cross the state line from Connecticut to New York before eventually arriving in Carmel. The route is 45 miles long and takes about 55 minutes to drive without traffic. Buses and trains will take at least 3 hours to get you from one city to the other.
How to Get to Carmel From Jersey City
If you’re trying to reach Carmel from Jersey City, the easiest option (assuming there’s not much traffic) is to drive. Cross into Manhattan via the Holland Tunnel and then take Henry Hudson Parkway North to get out of the city. Then you must switch to I-684 North before transferring onto NY-22 North to eventually reach Carmel. This route is 64 miles long and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive on a good day.
Sometimes, GPS may show you that traffic to reach Manhattan and then out of the city will more than double your travel time. If this is the case, take the PATH train from Jersey City to Penn Station, a ride of about 23 minutes, then walk over to Grand Central — or alternatively, take the Q32 bus from one station to the other, a ride of about 7-10 minutes — and take the Harlem train up to Southeast, as you would to get to Carmel from New York City.
Though this is a travel route possibility, only take it if traffic is truly unmanageable. Even if you time the trains right, getting from Jersey City to Carmel this way will take at least two and a half hours.
Once you get to the area, immerse yourself in Carmel’s stunning nature and quiet setting. Take a walk through its historic streets, sit by the lake and gaze out onto the water, explore the small-town shops the village offers, or try out one of the many beautiful hiking trails in the area.
What’s your favorite way to get to Carmel for a weekend escape, or to get out of Carmel to visit a nearby city? Let us know, and if you have a great travel suggestion we didn’t think of, contact us at Meadowland of Carmel ; we would love to include your tip in a future article.
As a car owner, you want to recognize and quickly address any potential issues with your vehicle. One of your vehicle’s most important yet often overlooked components is its air filter, which helps keep dust and dirt out of the engine. Unfortunately, a dirty or clogged air filter can cause major damage to your vehicle if left unchecked. Therefore, it’s incredibly important to know what signs to look out for so you can replace it when needed.
Our expert team at Meadowland of Carmel provides more insight on identifying signs quickly so you can have a worry-free, joyful driving experience. Learn more about recognizing common signs that could point towards needing a new filter for your ride.
What Happens if an Air Filter Is Dirty?
When air filters become blocked or clogged, they prevent the engine from receiving adequate air. This can lead to increased unburned fuel and emissions, resulting in decreased air quality. Accumulated soot builds up on the air filter, causing an even greater restriction on the air intake. As a result, your engine’s performance suffers and may even be damaged.
How Can You Tell if Your Air Filter Is Dirty?
Keeping your car’s air filter clean ensures smooth running and efficient working. Thankfully, you can determine whether your air filter needs to be replaced by looking for several signs below.
Reduced Gas Mileage
When the air filters become clogged, they reduce the amount of oxygen flowing into the engine, which reduces efficiency and causes your vehicle to use more fuel than usual. If you notice that your gas mileage has decreased significantly, this could indicate that your air filter is dirty.
Strange Engine Noises
As dirt accumulates in the air filter, it can create a vacuum inside the engine, causing it to make strange noises as it works harder than usual to draw in enough oxygen for combustion. If you hear anything out of the ordinary from under the hood, it’s best to get it checked out by a professional mechanic right away.
Decreased Performance
If you’ve noticed that your car isn’t performing as well as usual, your air filter might be dirty. With enough fresh air entering the engine, performance will improve significantly. This is because combustion requires oxygen. If there isn’t enough oxygen in the engine, combustion won’t happen efficiently, and power will be lost due to incomplete fuel burning.
Check Engine Light Comes On
One of the most obvious signs that your air filter needs replacing is when the check engine light comes on. This indicates something is wrong with your car’s engine and needs addressing as soon as possible. If the light stays on after you have checked all other possible causes, it could indicate that your air filter is clogged or dirty.
Black Smoke or Flames in the Exhaust
A surefire sign that your air filter needs replacing is if you start seeing black smoke or flames coming out of the exhaust pipe. This happens when fuel cannot properly mix with oxygen due to a blocked air filter, leading to combustion problems within the engine. If you notice this happening, get your air filter replaced as soon as possible.
The Smell of Petrol in the Exhaust
If you start smelling petrol from your car’s exhaust pipe, this could also indicate a blocked or dirty air filter. When an air filter becomes clogged or dirty, it restricts airflow into the engine, which makes it difficult for fuel and oxygen to mix correctly. As a result, unburned petrol will escape through the exhaust pipe, producing a strong smell of petrol fumes.
Your Engine Misses or Misfires
Another way to tell if your car’s air filter needs replacing is if your engine starts missing or misfiring while driving at high speeds or under load conditions such as accelerating quickly. The cause is likely to be restricted airflow due to a clogged or dirty air filter, which prevents fuel and oxygen from mixing correctly, resulting in poor performance from the engine.
If your car’s air filter is dirty, it can lead to a loss of acceleration. The engine needs a certain amount of air to function properly. When the air filter is dirty, it restricts the amount of air that can flow into the engine, which can cause a decrease in power.
Loss of Acceleration
If your car’s air filter is dirty, it can lead to a loss of acceleration. The engine needs a certain amount of air to function properly. A dirty air filter restricts the amount of air that can enter the engine, resulting in slower acceleration.
Can I Drive Without an Air Filter?
It’s possible to drive without a car air filter, but it’s not recommended. You also want to avoid dirt and debris clogging up other key components in your engine. Without the air filter, your engine won’t have the same level of protection from contamination, leading to poor performance and a greater risk of damage to your vehicle.
Even though driving without an air filter may be possible, it could cost you more in the long run with decreased performance and additional repairs down the road. Therefore, we suggest you always install a quality air filter in your vehicle.
How Often Does the Engine Air Filter Need Replacing?
Changing the engine air filter is one of your car’s most important maintenance tasks. This simple task can help to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently. But how often should you change your engine air filter?
The answer to this question can vary depending on several factors, including the vehicle you drive and the air filter you use. However, typically, you need to change your engine air filter from every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
Therefore, the next time you’re due for a service, ask your mechanic to check your engine air filter and change it if necessary. An engine air filter change can significantly affect your vehicle’s performance.
Meadowland of Carmel is the best place to take your car to get the dirty engine air filter fixed. Trust our certified professionals to get the job done quickly and efficiently. We use the latest tools and techniques to ensure that your car is running like new again.
Dirty engine air filters can cause all sorts of problems for your car, including decreased fuel efficiency and engine power. If you notice any of the above issues, bring your vehicle to our service center today.
For over a decade, automobile manufacturer Dodge hasn’t released a surprise model of its classic cars into the market. However, for car enthusiasts, the long wait may end when the company officially unveils the 2023 Dodge Hornet.
First, in 2006, Dodge showcased the Hornet concept featuring suicide rear doors and a compact footprint. In a sudden twist of events, the great economic depression prevented this concept from ever being realized in full production.
Dodge is determined to dazzle the car market and enthusiasts with the fastest SUV in 2023. Here’s what you need to know about the long-awaited Dodge SUV:
The Dodge Hornet GT: Interior Design
The interior technology of this Dodge model borrows heavily from its Italian counterpart, the Alfa Romeo Tonale. It features a digital touch-screen panel on the dashboard and the usual performance gauges behind the steering wheel. The steering wheel designs are similar, except that the start/stop button for this 2023 Dodge SUV is located in the center console. Although the Dodge Hornet GT has exterior air vents, they’re square and not round like in the Alfa Romeo.
Regarding entertainment, the Dodge Hornet GT offers nothing but the best. Brace yourself for an infotainment system with a 10-inch Android-backed display. Moreover, the sound system is top-notch due to a 465-watt subwoofer. You can pair the auto entertainment system with your smartphone, allowing you to enjoy music, videos, and other media at your convenience.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT also features built-in Amazon Alexa connectivity. This unique system allows you to wirelessly charge your phone or even start the car if you’re within range.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT also features inspiring designs for the seats, armrests, and interior accessories. This model comes with perforated leather seats bearing a Dodge Rhombi logo. The seats and armrests have distinctive colors that match the car’s interior.
Also, this Dodge model has built-in heating systems in the steering wheel and seat covers to guarantee comfort during cold weather.
To top all these incredible features, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT features a huge cargo area with a whopping 27 cubic feet of space to store your luggage and other items.
The Dodge Hornet GT: Exterior Design
If the Alfa Romeo Tonale’s exterior is the benchmark, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is going to turn heads wherever it goes.
This model features a muscular fascia complemented by heat extractors on the hood. As a result, you’re assured of maximum indoor comfort as you hit the road.
It’s also equipped with an unrivaled lighting system. This includes a full-width light bar, LED daytime lighting, and sleek headlights for night driving.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT features standard 17-inch wheels for comfort on the road. In addition, your new look SUV has alloy rims and state-of-the-art mirror caps. The rims go a long way to boost wheel performance and provide impact resistance if you hit a pothole.
Finally, Dodge is famous for some of the most elegant colors on the market. So, as you anticipate the new model, watch out for inspiring exterior colors, including the following:
Gray Cray.
Q Ball.
Acapulco Gold.
Blue Steele.
Hot Tamale.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT: Driver-Assistance Safety Features
The state-of-the-art security features show that Dodge regarded safety as a priority in the 2023 SUV model.
You can look forward to advanced driver-assistance features like the following:
Automatic emergency braking.
Pedestrian detection.
Parking sensors.
Blind-spot monitoring systems.
Lane departure warnings.
You can also switch to the Tech Security package that offers additional autonomous control while on the road. Top features include traffic jam assistance, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign detection, and lane-centering.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT: Engine Performance
All Dodge Hornet models are powered by a high-performance transverse engine, emphasizing speed and fuel efficiency.
However, unlike the Dodge Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid model, the Dodge Hornet GT has an exclusive gasoline engine compatible with standard all-wheel drive.
As expected, the 2-liter Hurricane engine has four cylinders conforming to an in-line arrangement that provides more than 265 horsepower to propel the car forward.
In addition to the engine thrust, the Dodge Hornet GT incorporates an automatic gearbox capable of clocking a speed of 60 mph in 6 seconds.
The 2023 Dodge GT also stands out among other models because of added features to boost engine efficiency.
Additional exclusive features were added to enhance this model’s engine performance, including the following:
Intelligent braking.
Four-piston front brakes.
Selective damping shocks.
Dynamic torque vectoring.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT: Expected Cost
Dodge may hit the ground running with one of the most pocket-friendly prices for an SUV at about $30,000. Therefore, if you’re looking forward to a new ride in 2023, this budget-friendly price tag will help you seal the deal.
Does Dodge Offer A Warranty?
Dodge understands that you may require technical support soon after leaving the showroom. For this reason, all the new Hornet models have a maintenance warranty.
Specifically, the Hornet GT model has a three-year limited warranty. However, extended warranties are also available from selected dealers at fair prices. Pay us a visit at the Meadowland of Carmel dealership in New York for offers on warranty extensions.
Order and Delivery
Dodge is already accepting orders for the long-awaited SUV model, with an estimated 14,000 buyers already in the order queue. If you haven’t placed your order yet, it may be time to book a slot on the buyers’ list. If you want to get your hands on this incredible new model, visit us at Meadowland of Carmel in New York, and we’ll help you get a new Hornet GT.
The Dodge is undoubtedly returning to the SUV market with its class-exclusive inventions. The year 2023 presents exciting options for the company’s products: the Hornet GT or R/T models.
However, the Hornet GT is the preferred choice for most Dodge lovers. The estimated price is $10,000 lower than the hybrid model. So, if you’re keen on saving a few dollars, you won’t regret choosing this SUV.
In addition, the interior design guarantees extra comfort while driving. The heated steering wheel and leather seats, unique seat design, wireless connectivity, and a clear user interface display are sure to make your drive a pleasure.
Dodge guarantees your safety via driver-assistance features like artificial braking and pedestrian detection. Please contact us today to inquire about placing your order.
