Columbia-Tusculum - Cincinnati, OH

The roots of Columbia-Tusculum spread over two centuries, making it the oldest neighborhood in Cincinnati. Benjamin Stites founded the settlement of Columbia in November 1788, bringing 26 settlers along the Ohio River from New Jersey. The original settlers cooperated with Native Americans, expanding the fledgling neighborhood to include 50 cabins, a mill and a school by 1790.

During the 19th century, Columbia-Tusculum served as a transportation corridor for people traveling from downtown Cincinnati to its eastern suburbs. Train tracks, roads and streetcar system provided transportation throughout the neighborhood.

Columbia-Tusculum's tradition of a close-knit community began in the early 1900s. Today, the community continues to maintain this strong sense of connection among all its residents. While no museums call the neighborhood home, the historic Carnegie Center hosts art galleries and annual events, include Playhouse in the Park's "Off the Hill" summer performance series.

Columbia-Tusculum features some of the most popular restaurants in the city. Dining options range from laid-back and affordable to high-end, with enough variety to please every palate.

Locals and travelers alike flock to Eli's Barbeque on Riverside Drive. Patrons can listen to live music while sampling pulled pork sandwiches, jalepeño cheddar grits and "dirty" macaroni and cheese. This old-school cash-only establishment also features year-round outdoor seating with cozy heated tents during the winter months.

For a local, organic lunch or dinner option, don't miss Green Dog Cafe. This casual walk-up restaurant focuses on providing the best regional and season fare, serving antibiotic-free pork and organic, sustainable fish dishes. Be sure to give the salmon wrap a try. Jeff Ruby's Precinct steakhouse provides a luxurious option for those extra-special occasions. Located in a historic police station building, this restaurant's atmosphere seems just as exquisite as the cuisine. Begin your indulgent evening with Oysters Rockefeller before moving on to a wide selection of prime steaks, lamb and seafood. When it comes to nightlife, residents of Columbia-Tusculum prefer to sip a few beers at a casual local pub to partying at a lively club. Head toward downtown for a faster-paced night life, but for a few relaxing drinks with friends, check out the craft brew options at Stanley's Pub.

Because of the close proximity of shopping, entertainment and residential areas, Columbia-Tusculum proves to be a neighborhood convenient for pedestrians. Columbia Parkway, a major highway connector for commuters traveling from the east side of the city, provides quick and easy access by car to the downtown area as well as eastern suburbs.

Riverside Drive along the southern border of Columbia-Tusculum includes a dedicated bike lane, easing travel for cyclists traveling to and from downtown. Cincinnati's public bus, SORTA, also offers a variety of lines connecting Columbia-Tusculum other parts of the city. While it may be difficult to hail a cab in this neighborhood, you can call Uber and Lyft for a ride. Most streets include plenty of public parking for those who prefer to travel by car.

With its riverfront views and rolling hills, Columbia-Tusculum includes some of the best parks in Cincinnati. All free of charge and dog-friendly, the neighborhood's parks provide countless options for outdoor activities. From a casual stroll to a trail run or a bike ride, you'll find outdoor entertainment abundant at the parks in this neighborhood.

Residents flock to Alms Park, known for its breathtaking hilltop views. Originally cleared by the Native Americans keeping watch on 18th-century settlers, this Ohio River overlook was originally known as "Bond Hill." The 94-acre park offers several shelter houses, hiking trails and picnic areas. Park-goers can often spot wedding photographers taking advantage of the park's extraordinary views. Alms Park is great for kids, too, with several playgrounds and plenty of space to run and play.

If you'd like to try your hand at gardening, Columbia-Tusculum has a collection of community garden plots. For a small donation, residents can lease one of 30 raised beds and collect fresh vegetables all summer long. If you can't commit to a whole season, volunteers are also welcome to weed and care for the garden plots on a periodic basis.

The cost of living in Columbia-Tusculum remains slightly below the city average. Because rental rates and housing costs in the neighborhood are less expensive than other areas, Columbia-Tusculum offers affordable housing options, with the average rental rate in Columbia Tusculum only $562 for a one-bedroom residence.

Gas prices in the area usually compare equally to the national average. A trip from Oakley to downtown on the SORTA metro bus costs $1.75.

While restaurant and shopping options range from inexpensive to luxurious, the average price points generally match the rest of the city. You can expect to pay $4 to $6 for a pint of beer at local pubs.

Boasting independent specialty stores and a farmer's market, Columbia-Tusculum provides locally focused alternatives to the traditional shopping experience. In this neighborhood, residents eschew large national chains in favor of more personal, intimate shopping options. Though the neighborhood itself does not offer a major grocery store, a quick drive along Columbia Parkway connects residents to major shopping centers along Red Bank Road, including Walmart.

For environmentally-conscious home renovators, Greener Stock is the specialty store of your dreams. The shop offers natural, eco-friendly and non-toxic products for home and business renovations. Improve your home's energy efficiency with solar panels or a sink that recycles clean toilet water.

If your guitar or ukele need a little TLC, Hiltbrand Guitars offers instrument repair with a personal touch. This family-run shop reassures music lovers with its attention to detail and quality worksmanship. If you're looking for a unique new instrument, the shop also sells custom, handmade guitars and mandolins.

For residents looking for fresh produce straight from the farm, Columbia-Tusculum Farmer's Market has a selection that's sure to please. Local growers keep the market stocked with fresh seasonal produce, flowers and homemade goods Monday through Saturday during the summer months.