A Perfect Girls' Day in Carmel, Indiana

Our day started at Java House, an amazing local coffee shop known for their cold brew. I usually go for their Cloudy Mocha Cold Brew which is basically an elevated chocolate milk, but since it was freezing out, I opted for a Dirty Chai Latte that really hit the spot. Becca had a hot matcha and couldn't decide if she liked mine or hers better. They also have smoothies, lemonades, lunch options and all-day breakfast. It's the perfect place to catch up with friends or even escape your home office for a bit.

Know before you go: When the weather's nice, they have an outdoor order window. I love this option because I don't have to navigate any doors!

Next door is Penn & Beech Candle Company, and if you love candles as much as I do (I have one burning or warming about 80% of the time I'm home), this place is a dream. You get to create a custom candle with scents you choose yourself.

We spent at least 15 minutes smelling all the options because there are so many. When I asked how many fragrances there actually are, they said 120! I couldn't decide between fruity or woodsy. Luckily, when you arrive they give you a clipboard with a piece of paper to jot down your favorites, and the staff helps you find combinations that work well together.

Know before you go: All the tables in the main room are bar height, and the separate room has pretty high tables as well. If you don't have a wheelchair with a lift function, reaching the table can be tricky. We pivoted to a sideboard table, which was a better height and suitable solution.

They also have a drink menu with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options—a mimosa would be such a fun addition to the experience!

When it came time to pour, I had Becca handle the wax (I definitely don't trust myself not to spill it everywhere). I went with an Aperol Spritz scent and named my candle "Italy is Calling." Becca mixed ginger ale and rose (odd, I know, but surprisingly not bad) and named hers "Spicy Moira Rose" in honor of the late Catherine O'Hara.

With our custom candles setting, we headed to our next stop just a short drive away. If you haven't experienced a salt cave, you're in for a treat. The Carmel Salt Caves & Spa is a man-made space filled with 22 tons of Himalayan salt imported from Pakistan. Beyond being surrounded by salt, a machine pumps medical-grade salt into the air, a process called halotherapy. It's excellent for respiratory health, reducing inflammation and clearing mucus. Salt is also a natural antiseptic, so it helps cleanse your lungs.

The space was transformed from a charming yellow house into a modern spa. Since there are quite a few steps at the front entrance, they've installed a lift that's super easy to use. I had no trouble getting inside.

The staff asked if I'd like to stay in my chair or transfer to one of theirs. Since transferring is difficult for me, I stayed put, though their chairs offer red light therapy if you're able to use them. They gave us each a cozy blanket, and I tilted my chair back for 45 minutes of pure relaxation.

Inside, gentle ocean waves and tones play to help put your brain into Alpha mode which is the state you're in right when you wake up or just before falling asleep. It’s also when your subconscious is most receptive. Our guide encouraged us to practice gratitude and affirmations while we meditated. They dimmed the lights, and we had 45 minutes of uninterrupted calm.

When our session ended, I felt like I was breathing more clearly. My sinuses felt open in a way I hadn't noticed before. The one thing to know: drink lots of water afterward. Since salt naturally attracts moisture, you might feel a bit dehydrated. My lips were definitely drier, but it was a small trade-off for that clear-headed, relaxed feeling.

The Carmel Salt Caves also offers other services, including a foot spa. The foot spa bowls are connected to the floor, so if you use a wheelchair, you may have difficulty reaching them on your own. If you're able to transfer to their chairs, though, you should be all set.

Know before you go: 

• Wear comfortable clothes
• You're welcome to transfer to one of their zero-gravity chairs if you'd like, but you don't have to. I stayed in my wheelchair and was perfectly comfortable.
• Bring socks, as shoes aren't allowed inside (they'll provide a pair if you forget). However since I didn’t get out of my chair, I didn’t need to remove my shoes.
• The floor is covered in salt, so it feels a bit like walking on sand

Our final stop was Silver in the City, my favorite local shop. This unconventional little gift store sells jewelry, housewares, and more. I could spend hours here and still feel like I haven't seen everything. Most things are unique that you won't find anywhere else. I left with another candle (told you I'm obsessed), a cute puzzle, a greeting card, and some funny stickers.

Know before you go: It's a fairly small store, but I've never had trouble navigating. Unless it's super busy, I always feel comfortable browsing.