TRUE BEAUTY
OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS GROUP INDY CUSTOM POOLS DESIGN • BUILD • NURTURE • SWIM
DESIGN WITH PURPOSE
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA
Start 2025 off right! Enjoy winter games and icy fun at Carter Green, get serious with amateur pickleball, cheer on the Indy Fuel hockey team, find inspiration at this season's home and bridal shows, and delight in Indy's culinary scene during Devour Indy Winterfest. And that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg!
A NEW VIEW
Alternate View is reimagining eye care through personalized service, advanced technology and a spa-like experience.
TRUE BEAUTY
At The Mae Salon, owner Korie Lance has created a holistic space helping clients flourish both inside and out.
LIFE WELL-CENTERED
Hamilton County's own Clay Terrace has evolved into a premier destination for health and wellness.
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LUXURY IN EVERY BITE
For Valentine's Day and beyond, DeBrand Fine Chocolates offers the one gift you know they'll love!
THE WILLOW WAY
From post-holiday blues to year-round beauty, Home and Willow Design knows how to transform spaces into personal sanctuaries.
SECRET SEASON
Our country's National Park System takes no holiday, meaning that winter is a magical time to experience all that America's most majestic landscapes have to offer.
'ROUND THE TOWN
Ignite your passion and transform your routine with our guide to the area's premier fitness boutiques.
Editor-in-Chief
EDUARDO PEÑA
Managing Editor
JUSTYNA PEÑA
Assistant Editor
MATTHEW HUME
Writer SUSAN SALAZ
Photography
SARA ACKERMANN GABRIELLE NOËL
Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA
Social Media Specialist CHRISTIAN PEÑA
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AGENDA
By SuSaN Salaz
January
January 14-19
Moulin Rouge! The Musical Old National Center moulinrougemusical.com
Transport yourself to Paris’s glittering underworld as the 10-time Tony Award®-winning Moulin Rouge! The Musical takes center stage at Indianapolis’s historic Murat Theatre. This spectacular adaptation of Baz Luhrmann's beloved film dazzles with lavish sets, show-stopping musical mash-ups, and an intoxicating tale of truth, beauty and love.
January 15 Indy Fuel Fishers Event Center indyfuelhockey.com
The Indy Fuel hits the ice at their dynamic new home in Fishers Event Center, facing off against the Maine Mariners on January 15. Experience ECHL hockey in this state-of-theart venue as the Fuel continue their inaugural season in Fishers, bringing high-energy professional hockey action to Hamilton County’s newest sports destination.
January 17-19
Festival of Ice Carter Green theiceatcartergreen.com
Celebrate winter’s artistry at Carmel’s Festival of Ice, a three-day celebration featuring professional ice carvers transforming blocks into masterpieces. Experience live demonstrations, vote for your favorite sculpture, savor the Carmel Fire Department’s chili cook-off and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate at The Ice at Carter Green.
January 18-19
Indy Amateur Open
The Dink House apatournaments.com
Experience the pickleball phenomenon at The Dink House’s Indy Amateur Open, part of the prestigious 2025 tour organized by the Amateur Pickleball Association. This premier indoor tournament welcomes players of skill levels ranging from 2.5 to 5.0 and features competitions in doubles, mixed doubles and singles, all with guaranteed play and professional organization.
January 20 – February 2
Devour Indy Winterfest 2025
Participating Restaurants devourindy.com
Savor central Indiana’s most anticipated culinary celebration as Devour Indy Winterfest returns, transforming the region into a food lover's paradise. With over 100 premier restaurants across six districts, diners can enjoy specially crafted value menus—from downtown hotspots to hidden suburban gems. No tickets are needed—just bring your appetite for adventure!
January 24-25
Carmel Winter Games
The Ice at Carter Green theiceatcartergreen.com
Watch Carmel’s first responders face off in the spirited Hero-Olympics, and then join the fun at the Carmel Winter Games. This unique winter festival transforms The Ice at Carter Green into a playful arena featuring Ice Trike Relays, Human Curling and Human Hungry Hippo competitions, complete with mascot appearances and DJ entertainment.
February 2
Indianapolis Bridal Expo
Marriott Downtown louiestuxshop.com
Did your holiday season shine with more than just Christmas lights? Turn your “Yes!” into the ultimate “I do” at Indiana’s largest single-day bridal event. The Indianapolis Bridal Expo features over 120 top-notch vendors, multiple runway shows, and exclusive deals at the downtown Indianapolis Marriott.
February 7
First Friday
The Stutz ithestutz.com
Step into the creative heart of Indianapolis during First Friday at the historic Stutz Building. This beautifully restored 1912 automotive factory pulses with artistic energy, showcasing dozens of working artists who open their studios for an evening of discovery. Browse original artwork, meet the creators, and experience the building’s stunning transformation.
February 7-9
Spring Home & Outdoor Living Show
Grand Park Events Center suburbanindyshows.com
Featuring over 200 local experts presenting the latest in luxury renovations, landscaping and design, the Suburban Indy Spring Home & Outdoor Living Show hosts artisanal vendors, a plant market, wine tastings and family entertainment throughout this premier home inspiration event at the Grand Park Events Center.
A NEW VIEW
How Alternate View Is Transforming Eye Care
A
Q&A with Mollie Tavel Kaback
A third-generation eyecare provider, Mollie Tavel Kaback blends luxury retail with medical expertise at Alternate View, her boutique practice in Carmel City Center that’s reimagining eye care through personalized service, advanced technology and a spa-like atmosphere.
By SuSaN Salaz
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Q: How does Alternate View’s approach to eye care differ from traditional practices?
A: At Alternate View, we prioritize personalized, boutique-style care tailored to each client’s unique needs, blending advanced vision care with curated luxury eyewear and expert styling. We specialize in dry eye treatment, offering advanced diagnostics and treatments in a high-end, spa-like setting. With dry eye affecting a growing number of adults, we focus on delivering both relief and rejuvenation.
From our personal styling experience to our curated selection of refreshments—including coffee, sodas, wine and beer—we create a fun, relaxing atmosphere. Our goal is to ensure every client leaves with eyewear that feels as good as it looks, perfectly suited to their style and lifestyle.
Q: What emerging technologies or treatments are you most excited about bringing to your Carmel City Center practice in 2025?
A: We’re excited to bring cutting-edge technology that enhances every aspect of the eye care experience. From our paperless process to state-of-the-art imaging and dry eye diagnostics, our advanced digital tools provide precise assessments and personalized care.
One of the innovations we’re most proud of is the use of virtual reality to create custom progressive lenses. Unlike traditional designs, this approach tailors each lens to the individual, delivering unmatched clarity and comfort. These advancements, combined with precise digital measurement tools, reflect our commitment to offering the most advanced solutions in eye care.
Q: With increased screen time becoming unavoidable, what habits and approaches do you recommend for protecting eye health while maintaining productivity?
A: The 20-20-20 rule is crucial: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at
something 20 feet away. And blink. Blink often. Additionally, optimize your workspace with proper lighting and ergonomics, adjust screen settings to reduce glare, and use artificial tears to alleviate dryness. These strategies help mitigate digital eye strain without compromising productivity. If you’re struggling with visual discomfort, come see us – there’s no need to suffer when solutions are available.
Q: How should people incorporate eye wellness into their overall health strategy?
A: Regular eye examinations should be viewed as essential self-care. Research suggests that a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids supports eye health, and comprehensive eye exams can detect conditions like diabetes and hypertension early. Just as we prioritize the care of other parts of our body, our eyes deserve the same attention and commitment. Recognizing that eye health is integral to overall wellness ensures a comprehensive approach to personal health.
Q: How are you expanding Alternate View’s services to create a more comprehensive wellness experience?
A: In addition to eye care and eyewear, we’re excited to integrate facial aesthetics into our offerings. Caring for your eyes naturally extends to the surrounding skin and overall facial wellness, creating a holistic approach to how you see and present yourself to the world. With treatments designed to address dry eye, enhance skin health and rejuvenate your appearance, we believe you should be able to care for your eyes and face in one seamless experience—delivered by providers you trust and in a setting that prioritizes your comfort and individuality.
Experience the difference at Alternate View, located at 750 Veterans Way, Suite 228, in Carmel City Center. To learn more about their innovative approach to eye care or to schedule an appointment, visit alternateview.com and follow @youralternateview on Instagram for the latest news.
true beAuty
Korie Lance of The Mae Salon
By SuSaN Salaz | PhotograPhy By Gabrielle Noël | artwork By eduardo Peña
The Mae Salon isn’t your typical beauty destination. Owner Korie Lance has created a holistic space where inner beauty is celebrated as much as outer beauty, offering premium salon and spa services along with coaching programs to help clients flourish inside and out.
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For Korie Lance, owner of The Mae Salon, beauty isn’t about conforming to a single ideal—it’s about discovering and embracing one’s authentic self. Driven by the mission to help clients “look good, feel good, do good,” she has created an environment where beauty transcends traditional salon services. For Korie, who sees her work as a calling rather than just a career, The Mae is a space where personal growth and self-discovery naturally align with expert beauty care.
“What lights me up is when I get to be a part of someone’s positive transformation,” Lance shares from the warm, refreshing salon at 49th and Penn in Indianapolis. “That can be how they look with their hair, but also in reframing the way they look at their lives and what their next steps are.” This integrative approach has earned The Mae recognition as one of the Top 200 Salons in the Nation for both 2023 and 2024, and Salon of the Year for 2023 by Salon Today magazine. “We’ve also been recognized for Accountability: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and also Overall Growth by Summit Salon Business Center. We won those two categories at their yearly Summit last year out of hundreds of salons across the US and Canada,” she adds. But for Korie and her team, success isn’t measured in accolades. It’s measured in the renewed confidence she sees in her clients.
“People come in to get their hair done and they’re usually feeling a certain way about themselves or their life,” Lance explains. She discovered this transformative power of beauty services early in her career when a conversation in beauty school shifted her perspective. “I realized we could do so much more than just change someone’s appearance. We have this unique opportunity to help people rediscover their light when life’s stresses have dimmed it.” This revelation
shaped her entire approach to the beauty industry, leading her to envision a salon that would nurture the whole person—mind, body and spirit.
Building this kind of salon wasn’t initially part of Korie's plan. “I never wanted to open up a hair salon,” she admits. “But when I wanted to start a family, it was time to shift how my work-life balance looked.” After experiencing the more superficial side of the beauty industry, she realized the environment she envisioned—one that aligned with her values and supported her role as a mother—didn’t exist. “That’s when the calling became clear—you’re meant to create this for others.” Now a mother of three, including a new baby, Korie has built exactly that: a space where true beauty could flourish from within.
This vision stands in contrast to much of the beauty industry, which remains focused on external appearance. “The world of beauty spends so much time focusing on outward beauty, and that approach never leads to lasting results,” she explains. “True authentic beauty is really cultivated within—it’s about what we’re thinking inside, what we’re consuming, how is our heart?” This philosophy infuses every service at The Mae, where clients are encouraged to make style choices not from a place of seeking change, but from a place of knowing they are already loved and worthy and ultimately enough.
The salon’s approach to beauty is refreshingly different from industry norms. “Beauty doesn’t look one way,” Lance emphasizes. “It looks lots of different ways.” This philosophy is evident in everything from their styling techniques to self-care concepts, celebrating diversity in all its forms. While The Mae’s stylists are known for their expertise in creating soft, organic styles that enhance natural
At The Mae Salon, owner Korie Lance brings her mission of ‘look good, feel good, do good’ to life through a personalized approach and understanding that beauty looks different on everyone.
beauty, they focus on helping each client find their own unique look rather than following trends.
This individualized approach extends to The Mae’s spa, where lead esthetician and spa director Sarah Villwock leads a comprehensive (and luxurious) aesthetics program. “At The Mae our primary focus during your spa service is intention. By deeply focusing on the mindbody connection, it’s more than a facial—it’s a spiritual experience. This intention helps our clients truly unwind and realign with their inner beauty, which allows them to shine from the inside out,” says Villwock.
The spa offers everything from rejuvenating facials and micro-needling to dermaplaning, with each service designed to enhance natural radiance while providing a moment of deep relaxation. “Getting a facial is similar to yoga,” Lance explains. “It’s not just physical—it’s an emotional renewal. It’s so soothing to the parasympathetic nervous system and has so many benefits beyond the beauty side of it.”
Taking this commitment to holistic care even further, Korie offers exclusive coaching services for clients seeking a fresh perspective and deeper personal growth. It’s yet another way The Mae helps clients align their inner and outer journeys, creating lasting positive change. This dedication to authentic beauty and personal growth has created more than just a salon—it’s fostered a community where clients and staff alike are encouraged to thrive. “So many of our clients and our team all have that missional ‘do good’ aspect,” Lance says. “It speaks to them, here at the salon and in their own personal lives, too.”
As Indiana’s first benefit corporation salon, The Mae’s impact goes beyond its walls. The team regularly supports local and global organizations and engages in community
initiatives, hosting events such as their upcoming body positivity workshop led by a licensed therapist. “When you feel good about yourself, you’re inspired to do good for others, too,” Lance says.
Looking ahead, Korie plans to expand The Mae’s offerings while remaining true to its core mission. “We’re not just about hair,” she states. “I got into this industry because I loved the inner transformation that happens when people feel beautiful. We really try to stand out as a place that goes against the status quo and encourages everyone to embrace their natural beauty.”
For those seeking renewal this new year, find The Mae at 4907 N. Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis. For more information, appointments and the latest news and events, visit their website at themaesalon.com and follow @themaesalon on Instagram.
Beyond Beauty: Exclusive Coaching at The Mae
The Mae’s signature coaching program, led by owner Korie Lance, offers an exclusive opportunity to explore personal transformation further. Combining her expertise in beauty with her passion for helping others reach their full potential, Korie works with select clients to create lasting change from the inside out.
“We’re creating this place where looking good, feeling good and doing good intersect,” Lance explains. Her coaching approach builds on the transformative experiences she’s witnessed in her years of helping clients embrace their authentic beauty.
The program aligns perfectly with The Mae’s philosophy, offering guidance that extends far beyond appearance. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, professional development or a deeper connection to your authentic self, Korie’s coaching provides a unique pathway to transformation.
For coaching inquiries, contact The Mae Salon directly. Space is limited.
By SuSaN Salaz
Life Well-Centered
A New Era of Self-Care at Clay Terrace
Clay Terrace has evolved into a premier destination for health and wellness in Hamilton County, with an impressive array of new establishments focused on helping visitors look and feel their best. The center’s latest additions demonstrate a thoughtful curation of services that complement each other—from revolutionary fitness concepts and therapeutic treatments to clean eating and beauty services. Whether you’re seeking a quick lunchtime workout, a relaxing spa experience or a healthy meal, these new wellness-focused businesses offer innovative approaches to self-care, all in one convenient location. Each brings its own unique contribution to the community’s growing reputation as a comprehensive wellness destination.
bluemercury.com
Luxury beauty retail meets personalized expertise at Bluemercury, an elegant addition to Clay Terrace’s wellness offerings.
“Bluemercury strives to redefine modern luxury in beauty, and the opening of Clay Terrace is a testament to our commitment to elevating the beauty retail landscape,” says Jenna Goldberg, Head of Stores, Omni-Channel & Strategy. She adds, “We invite the community to join us in celebrating this exciting expansion and look forward to becoming an integral part of the Carmel community.”
The boutique combines a carefully curated selection of premium skincare, cosmetics and wellness products with the personalized attention of highly trained beauty experts. Beyond retail, the location features a spa offering specialized treatments and services. Each visit promises an elevated shopping experience where clients can discover new products, receive expert beauty advice, and indulge in luxurious spa services. The arrival of Bluemercury at Clay Terrace further establishes the center as a destination for those seeking premium beauty and wellness experiences.
sweetgreen.com
Farm-fresh dining meets modern convenience at Sweetgreen, Clay Terrace’s newest destination for health-conscious cuisine. “We're thrilled to be part of the vibrant and thriving Carmel community,” says Matt Proctor, who leads the local team. “At Sweetgreen, we believe in connecting people to real, nutritious food and making healthy eating accessible to everyone.”
The restaurant’s seasonally curated menu features vibrant salads, warm bowls and protein plates crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Each dish combines innovative flavors with nutrient-rich components, offering a fresh take on fast-casual dining. Whether dining in or utilizing their efficient mobile ordering system for pickup and delivery, guests can expect consistently fresh, thoughtfully prepared meals that align with their wellness goals. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond the menu, with eco-friendly packaging and waste reduction practices throughout their operations. The addition of Sweetgreen to Clay Terrace enhances the center’s diverse culinary landscape while catering to the growing demand for sophisticated, health-forward dining options.
@sweetgreen
drybarshops.com
@drybarshopsindy
Step into a world of pampering and polished perfection at Drybar, Clay Terrace’s premier blowout destination. “Drybar is a no-cut, no-color salon specializing in styled blowouts and promoting self-care,” says Sasha Higgins, owner of Central Indiana’s three Drybar locations. “The convenient, high-quality experience we provide is centered around making our clients feel confident, pampered and ready to take on whatever life throws their way.”
The chic salon’s signature services include everything from the sleek Manhattan to the tousled Cosmopolitan, each styled in an environment designed for relaxation. Clients can enhance their experience with scalp massages, hair masks or styling upgrades while enjoying a complimentary beverage. At Clay Terrace, Drybar adds a touch of luxury to everyday beauty routines, creating a dedicated space for self-care and style. Professional stylists use premium products and advanced techniques to ensure each client leaves feeling transformed, whether preparing for a special event or simply elevating their everyday look.
body20.com
At this soon-to-open sleek boutique studio, advanced technology transforms traditional fitness training. “We're thrilled to bring BODY20’s revolutionary fitness approach to Clay Terrace,” says Sharon Sadowski, franchise owner of BODY20 Carmel. “Our FDA-cleared EMS technology delivers the equivalent of a week’s worth of traditional workouts in just 20 minutes.”
Each appointment pairs clients with a certified coach who customizes the experience using real-time body composition analysis and adjustable stimulation levels for different muscle groups. The premium one-on-one training experience requires no workout clothes—the studio provides personal, sterilized EMS suits for each session. The technology is gentle on joints and tendons, making it perfect for busy professionals, parents and anyone seeking rapid strength gains without spending hours in the gym. Sadowski adds, “As Carmel and the surrounding community prioritizes both health and efficiency, we’re excited to offer a solution that respects their time while delivering exceptional results.”
@body20carmel
Innovative wellness technology meets luxury spa experience at Perspire Sauna Studio, a standout addition to Clay Terrace’s growing wellness community. “Instead of superheating the room around you, and instead of steam, infrared therapy heats your body from within, penetrating into your cells to bring benefits to a wide range of health needs,” says owner Louise Hughes.
The studio combines traditional sauna elements with cuttingedge infrared and red light therapy, delivering a unique “perspire” experience that targets everything from chronic pain to skin rejuvenation. Each private suite features entertainment options, including Netflix and YouTube, allowing guests to customize their 40-minute sessions. Flexible membership options range from single sessions to unlimited monthly packages, making this innovative therapy accessible for various wellness goals. The studio’s approach to wellness has already made an impact, with clients reporting improved sleep, reduced pain and enhanced recovery after workouts, adding a distinctive dimension to Clay Terrace’s comprehensive wellness offerings.
@perspirecarmel
By SuSaN Salaz
Luxury in Every Bite
DeBrand
Fine Chocolates of Indianapolis
For Valentine’s Day and beyond, DeBrand Fine Chocolates offers the one gift you know they’ll love, from hand-selected assortments to edible works of art that make every occasion memorable.
Lori and BiLL Sonner
When it comes to expressing appreciation for those you cherish, DeBrand Fine Chocolates delivers luxury in every aspect of the experience. Their intimate Indianapolis boutique near the Fashion Mall features cozy private booths perfect for date nights, along with elegant seating areas that accommodate celebratory group gatherings. Guests can savor handcrafted chocolates alongside perfectly paired coffee selections in an atmosphere that makes every visit special.
“We understand that every person’s taste is unique, which is why we make it easy to create the perfect gift for anyone special in your life,” says Indianapolis partner Lori Sonner. “Whether you’re selecting individual pieces in person or shipping a curated collection to loved ones, you can trust that each chocolate reflects our commitment to excellence.”
This Valentine’s season, DeBrand showcases their annual Limited Edition Fabric Heart Box, featuring original artwork by Oreonna Shepherd, that makes the packaging as special as the Classic Collection chocolates within. For those seeking a more dramatic (and delicious) presentation, DeBrand’s signature Art Boxes offer an entirely edible experience, with both the meticulously crafted chocolates and their artistic chocolate containers able to be enjoyed.
From decadent truffles to rich caramels and pure fruit creams, each confection is crafted using only the finest ingredients at DeBrand’s Fort Wayne headquarters. Since opening their Indianapolis location in 2017, DeBrand has established itself here as the destination for those seeking an elevated chocolate experience, with shipping available to share the luxury with loved ones near and far.
Visit DeBrand Fine Chocolates at 8685 River Crossing Boulevard in Indianapolis. Call Lori at 317 669-0955 to place your order and find out more at debrand.com.
By SuSaN Salaz
The Willow Way
Start the New Year in Style with Home & Willow Design
From post-holiday blues to year-round beauty, this Fishers design team knows how to transform spaces into personal sanctuaries. Their philosophy? A design approach as flexible and graceful as the tree that inspired their name.
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As holiday decorations come down and winter settles in, many homeowners face a familiar challenge: their spaces feel empty and less inviting. “The number one problem our clients face is that they have an idea of how they want their space to feel but have no idea how to make it happen,” says Stacy Stater, lead designer and founder of Home & Willow Design in Fishers. “We solve that by discovering your needs, creating your vision, and bringing it to life.”
This philosophy of transformation—turning houses into homes—runs deep at Home & Willow, where it’s embodied in the company’s very name. “We do have a character trait, a core value that we’re teaching here,” Stater explains. “It’s called Willow. You need to be flexible, deep-rooted, graceful... and go with the storm.”
As we move into the new year, adaptability is key. The design team is seeing a marked shift toward wellness-focused spaces, with clients investing in sophisticated home gyms, meditation areas and spalike bathrooms. “People want their homes to be more than just four walls,” notes Kamryn Camp, office manager and jill-of-all-trades here. “They’re craving space where they can truly live, not just exist.”
The trend goes beyond the basics, with clients investing in infrared saunas, steam rooms and meditation spaces. “We’re seeing people prioritize their physical and mental well-being at home,” Camp notes. “They want spaces that support their whole lifestyle.”
Another emerging focus is preparing for outdoor living. “January and February are actually prime times to start planning outdoor furniture and living spaces,” Camp says, adding that such forward thinking gives clients time to thoughtfully design and order pieces that will arrive just in time for warmer weather. “We’re designing outdoor living rooms, dining areas, and even full kitchens,” Camp adds. “When you start planning in winter, we can focus on every detail—from weather-resistant fabrics to lighting that extends the outdoor living season well into fall.”
What sets Home & Willow apart is its unique approach to the design process. With an experienced team and a brick-and-mortar, shoppable studio that
showcases furniture, fabrics and finishes, it offers a tangible design experience. Clients can touch, feel and envision their future spaces in a way that digital presentations can’t match.
Their process begins with a discovery session, where the team learns about clients’ needs, style preferences and lifestyles. “Our homes are where we build our most important relationships—it’s where we escape, find rest, and refuel for the next day,” says Stater. “Home must be a direct reflection of our personality.”
Ready to transform your space? Schedule a free discovery session with Home & Willow in their Fishers studio at 8100 East 106th Street, where their team can help bring your vision to life. Visit homeandwillowdesign.com and follow @homeandwillowdesign on Instagram to learn more.
By SuSaN Salaz
Secret Season
Five National Parks that Shine in Winter’s Final Act
Experience America’s most majestic landscapes during their most exclusive moment as winter winds down, creating extraordinary scenes few travelers ever witness.
The weeks between winter’s peak and spring’s arrival offer savvy travelers an exclusive opportunity to explore America’s national parks. During this serene interlude, which generally lasts from late January through March, these stunning landscapes reveal aspects that summer visitors never experience.
Each day offers the chance for dramatic light on fresh snow, intimate wildlife encounters, and the first subtle signs of seasonal change. This is when America’s wilderness truly demonstrates its refined character—when morning frost creates ephemeral art on desert flora, when wildlife viewing becomes an intimate affair, and when the interplay of light and landscape reaches its peak. Here are five parks that highlight nature’s most exquisite performances during winter’s final act.
Death Valley National Park, California
Winter transforms Death Valley into a wonderland of subtle beauty. By February, the possibility of a rare “super bloom” keeps photographers poised, as carpets of desert gold and purple phacelia can appear after perfect rain conditions. The low-angled winter sun creates dramatic shadows across Badwater Basin’s salt flats, while pleasant temperatures make exploring golden canyons possible. Zabriskie Point offers its most spectacular sunrise views as winter storms cap distant peaks with snow while leaving the desert floor pristine.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Winter storms along Olympic’s coast create nature’s most dramatic theater. From the historic Lake Quinault Lodge, watch powerful Pacific waves crash against sea stacks while staying perfectly cozy. The Hoh Rain Forest reaches peak mystique, its moss-draped maples veiled in winter mist. Roosevelt elk move to lower elevations, offering intimate wildlife encounters, while the park’s famous tide pools reveal their secrets during winter’s extreme low tides.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
In the quiet of late winter, Big Bend reveals its most elegant face. The Rio Grande runs clear through Santa Elena Canyon, perfect for private river excursions. The Chisos Mountains, dusted with occasional snow, provide a dramatic backdrop for desert hikes, while night skies reach their clearest for exceptional stargazing. Animals emerge from winter patterns for prime wildlife viewing, and the first bluebonnets appear as early as February, dotting the desert with unexpected color.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Winter brings the Everglades’ most sophisticated season, when water levels concentrate wildlife without sacrificing accessibility. Wading birds gather in impressive rookeries, while gentle breezes keep insects at bay. Private boat tours through mangrove tunnels reveal roseate spoonbills and wood storks in breeding plumage. The Anhinga Trail becomes an elegant wildlife viewing promenade, and rare white pelicans make their annual appearance.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree’s winter character emerges with crystalline clarity. The low desert light creates perfect conditions for photography, highlighting the sculptural qualities of granite formations and the park’s namesake trees. Rock climbers find ideal conditions on world-class routes, while hikers enjoy the desert’s subtle winter palette. Hidden Valley comes alive with early wildflowers, and nights offer exceptional stargazing.
By SuSaN Salaz
’Round the Town
Start Strong — Your Mini Guide to the Area’s Premier Fitness
The fitness landscape is burning bright with innovation, from cycling studios and strength labs to hot yoga havens and more. Whether you’re a dedicated athlete or just starting your wellness journey, these high-energy destinations will ignite your passion and transform your routine.
InCycle City Center
736 Hanover Place, Suite 285 Carmel, IN 46032 incycleindy.com
InCycle elevates the boutique fitness experience with its sun-drenched, state-of-the-art cycling studio and comprehensive strength training facility in Carmel City Center. Beyond signature rides featuring music-driven cardio and weights, the studio offers innovative fusion classes like Barre Fusion and Ride Restore, all within an inspiring, results-driven community that blends luxury with functionality.
IndyFit
City Center
720 S. Rangeline Road
Carmel, IN 46032
Located in the exclusive Clubhouse of the Residences at Carmel City Center, IndyFit offers an intimate, holistic approach to fitness. Their expert trainers blend personalized strength training with therapeutic soft tissue work and targeted stretching, delivering a bespoke wellness experience that addresses both performance goals and physical restoration.
Orangetheory Fitness
2438 East 146th Street
Carmel, IN 46033
orangetheory.com
At Orangetheory, with locations in Carmel, Ironworks, and throughout the Indianapolis area, certified coaches offer personalized attention in an energetic group setting. Here, science-backed workouts combine rowing, treadmill intervals and strength training with signature heart-rate monitoring technology. This guides members to the optimal “Orange Zone,” where metabolismboosting magic happens.
Shred415 Indy
The Bridges 11503 Spring Mill Road, Suite 400 Carmel, IN 46032 shred415.com
Shred415 reinvents the workout routine with its signature four 15-minute interval format, alternating between dynamic treadmill drills and targeted strength training. This luxury fitness destination at The Bridges in Carmel removes barriers to wellness with onsite childcare, making it the go-to choice for discerning professionals balancing ambitious fitness goals with busy lifestyles.
F45 Training
Clay Terrace
14300 Clay Terrace Boulevard, Suite 120 Carmel, IN 46032 f45training.com
In Clay Terrace, F45 revolutionizes fitness with time-efficient, 45-minute workouts that can burn up to 750 calories each session. With over 5,000 unique functional movements, these science-supported group sessions merge high-intensity training with a welcoming community atmosphere, ensuring variety and engagement. Additional locations in the area provide easy access to this results-focused program.
FlexWerk
City Center
885 Monon Green Boulevard, Suite 120 Carmel, IN 46032 flexwerkfitness.com
Within Carmel City Center, FlexWerk revolutionizes personal training with its innovative FlexSpace concept—private, premium fitness studios available by the hour. Equipped with state-of-theart technology and equipment, these boutique spaces serve both independent trainers building their businesses and fitness enthusiasts seeking an exclusive, personalized workout environment.
[solidcore]
Clay Terrace
14300 Clay Terrace Boulevard, Suite 105 Carmel, IN 46032 solidcore.co
Redefining Pilates through an innovative 50-minute workout, [solidcore]—with locations in Clay Terrace, Broad Ripple and downtown Indianapolis— emphasizes slow, controlled movements to achieve complete muscle fatigue. This luxe studio’s lowimpact, high-intensity approach targets slow-twitch muscle fibers, creating lasting endurance and transformative results.
SPENGA
Clay Terrace
14511 Clay Terrace Boulevard, Suite 150 Carmel, IN 46032 carmelin.spenga.com
SPENGA Carmel delivers fitness’s holy trinity in every 60-minute session: 20 minutes each of heart-pumping spin, dynamic strength training and restorative yoga. This innovative studio elevates the experience with dedicated spaces for each discipline, energizing DJinspired beats, and invigorating aromatherapy, creating a multisensory approach to total-body transformation.
Studio 49
4913 N. Pennsylvania Street Indianapolis, IN 46205 studio49fitnessindy.com
Revolutionizing fitness with its patented CRT Method, Studio 49 combines resistance bands with cardiovascular training on a specialized suspended floor. This inclusive wellness space in the heart of the Meridian Kessler neighborhood welcomes all ages and abilities, fostering longevity through balanced workouts that simultaneously enhance strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health.
YogaSix
11503 Spring Mill Rd, Suite 700 Carmel, IN 46032 yogasix.com
YogaSix offers six unique class types, ranging from hot and powerful sessions to slow, mindful practices, including beginner and sculpt classes. Each class is led by expert instructors trained in the YogaSix methodology, providing a consistent yet creative experience that’s easy to follow and accessible to all. With a welcoming staff ready to help you find the perfect class for your goals, this Carmel studio is the ultimate destination to enhance your fitness and embrace mindful movement. Fishers location coming soon!
