Sweet Treats, Antiques & Accessibility: A Plainfield Indiana Adventure
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Sometimes the best adventures are the ones that involve good company, a little nostalgia and an unreasonable amount of sugar.
For my latest Accessible Adventure in Hendricks County, Indiana I met up with my cousin in Plainfield, while her daughter was at ballet practice at The Children's Ballet, preparing for their annual performance of The Nutcracker at Hendricks Live!
Rather than sit around and wait, we decided to turn those few hours into our own accessible adventure around town. Our agenda was simple: eat, explore and see how easily I could navigate a few longtime local favorites with my walker.
Spoiler alert: We ate very well.
Two Chicks Whisky Business
Our first stop was Two Chicks Whisky Business, where we happened to visit on Paige Welp’s final day and saw a steady stream of customers stopping in to show their support. The entrance was a little tricky with my walker, but several employees quickly stepped in to help, and I left with a gorgeous red velvet cupcake that was every bit as decadent as it looked.
While Paige is stepping away, the bakery will continue under new ownership and a familiar name, giving this Plainfield favorite a new chapter.
Oasis Diner
Next, we headed to Oasis Diner, where I ordered the half sandwich and soup combo with grilled cheese, stuffed pepper soup and a half-and-half tea. The diner has a ramp along the side of the building, which made getting inside much easier.
Space inside was a little tighter with my walker, so in hindsight, eating outside would have given us more room. But apparently I'm willing to maneuver around a few tables for a good grilled cheese. Don't judge me. We all have our priorities.
Gilley's Antique & Decorator Mall
After lunch, we made our way to Gilley's Antique & Decorator Mall, where a ramp leads into what feels like an endless maze of booths filled with furniture, decor, clothing, collectibles and toys. I spotted more than a few things from my childhood, which apparently means I'm now either antique or vintage. Either way, how rude!
Most of the main aisles were wide enough for my walker, although individual booths varied depending on how merchandise was arranged. There is also a small seating area near the front for anyone who needs a break while browsing. If you're a Gen Xer, consider Gilley's your unofficial trip down memory lane.
Final Stop: Al's Donuts
We probably could have called it a day, but instead we decided it was finally time to try Al's Donuts in downtown Plainfield. The shop was easy for me to navigate, the service was fantastic and while donuts may get top billing, they also offer breakfast sandwiches, bagels, biscuits and gravy on weekends, coffee, smoothies and more.
The donuts were delicious, but then I spotted Prairie Farms chocolate milk and knew we had made the right decision. If you know, you know. Childhood nostalgia plus donuts is a pretty solid way to end an adventure.
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