Hamilton Heights - New York, NY

The area now known as uptown Manhattan remained rural for centuries after Dutch colonists purchased the island of Manhattan in the 1600s. Hamilton Heights is so named because Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury of the United States and one of the founding fathers, resided there in his later years. Hamilton's house still stands today as part of Hamilton Grange National Monument in St. Nicholas Park.

By the early 20th century, the first of New York City's subway lines had reached the neighborhood, and developers began residential construction in earnest. The micro-neighborhood known as Sugar Hill, stretching from West 145th Street to West 165th Street in Washington Heights, historically attracted wealthy residents and thus features some of the more opulent architecture.

Hamilton Heights may lack a citywide reputation for quality dining options, but residents who know where to look find a respectable set of restaurants. Broadway acts as the major thoroughfare and features many of the best culinary finds, as well as the majority of the nightlife. Although the area maintains a residential feel, a few laid-back bars and lounges mean night owls don't necessarily have to leave the neighborhood to raise a glass.

For a taste of the Far East, check out Geisha Sushi on Broadway near West 142nd Street. With no expense spared on presentation and specialty rolls like the Fire Island Roll with wasabi and the American Dream with rock shrimp tempura, this sushi joint claims a top spot among uptown Japanese eateries.

A little later on in the evening, grab a few friends and head to At the Wallace to challenge your balancing skills with the largest Jenga set in the city. More than just games, this dive bar lures crowds with its low-priced beer and quirky atmosphere. With decor ranging from exposed brick to checkered floors to literal handwriting on the (bathroom) wall, At the Wallace breathes new life into the neighborhood bar concept.

You won't need a car when your rent a Hamilton Heights apartment -- this neighborhood, like all of Manhattan, is extremely pedestrian-friendly. And while you could spend the majority of your waking hours in Hamilton Heights with little need to leave, extensive and reliable mass transit systems make for easy access to the rest of the city. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates a 24-hour subway system and the 1 train runs through the heart of the neighborhood, with the A, B, C, and D running along its eastern edge. Commuters also have access to numerous bus routes, bound for both the Bronx and all points south. Given these options, commuters to midtown Manhattan can often make the journey in as little as 30 minutes. Many residents bike, particularly in the warmer months, and they tend to compete with less traffic than in other Manhattan neighborhoods. Car owners can find street parking more easily than in areas downtown, but competition is still steep. Also, weekly street cleaning means you can't leave your car unattended for long. Parking garages also exist for those willing to pay. For commuters who work a fair distance away, Hamilton Heights offers easy access to major thoroughfares such as Interstate 87 and the Henry Hudson Parkway. Taxis generally stay farther south of Hamilton Heights, but residents can easily call car services such as Uber.

Outdoor life in Hamilton Heights revolves around St. Nicholas Park, which runs from West 127th Street to West 141st Street and forms part of the eastern border of the neighborhood. The park, free of charge for residents and visitors alike, features barbecue areas, handball courts, playgrounds, and a dog run.

To the west along the Hudson River, Riverbank State Park draws athletes of all ages. Within its 28 acres, Riverbank maintains numerous amenities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, a skating rink, and a 400-meter, eight-lane running track. The Riverbank State Park College Fair, held annually in the spring, has become a premier event for New York City students exploring future education options. More than 60 national colleges and universities attend each year.

The cost of living in Hamilton Heights has remained lower than New York City at large, though proximity to Central Park and plentiful transportation options have increased prices faster than neighborhoods farther north. Renters can find one-bedroom apartments in Hamilton Heights for as low as $1,300.

The uptown location and stable rents keep prices for groceries and other everyday items on par with the Manhattan average. A beer at the local bar sets you back around $7, and a car service to midtown Manhattan can cost as little as $20. Gas prices hover around the New York City average, or 11 percent higher than the national average.

Hamilton Heights sits within walking distance to a variety of small businesses. The heart of the action lies along Broadway to the north and south of the neighborhood.

For help keeping their feet comfy and stylish, shoppers turn to Vamps NYC at Broadway and West 163rd Street. Vamps delights its customers with name brands at value prices, all in an uncrowded space. The staff here wins praise for its helpful, easygoing style; you never feel pressured to make a purchase.

Residents seeking groceries and everyday items find various options. Discover chains such as Fairway, and enjoy specialty grocery stores such as Chinelos II where shoppers purchase Mexican products and prepared foods. Food lovers in search of farm-fresh fare should head to the Harvest Home West Harlem Farmers' Market, held at West 137th Street and Broadway on Tuesdays between June and November.