Inkster, MI

Inkster, much like the rest of Michigan, was originally inhabited by Native Americans. It wasn't until the early 1800s that European settlers started to enter the area and build the communities that now populate Detroit and surrounding areas. Inkster in particular started to take shape after the first post office was established in town, but it was still some time before the city saw a significant increase in residents.

Every July, the neighborhood hosts the annual Summer Music Festival, which features food vendors and a classic car cruise down Michigan Avenue. The festival also plays hosts to great local bands that play on the main stage.

The diversity of Inkster is directly reflected in the restaurants that inhabit the neighborhood. For a taste of authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese food, stop by the Al Sultan. Don't be turned off by the neon decor or cartoon covered menus - they serve up the real deal. Start with a side of garlicky hummus and go with the classic chicken shawarma for your entree. You also can't go wrong with their chicken, lamb or beef kabobs.

Locals also flock to the Gracie See Pastaria for their fill of classic Italian dishes and made-to-order pizzas. Enjoy a dressed-down dining experience with a friendly atmosphere and menu full of hardy comfort foods. For those who love toppings, the Kitchen Sink Pizza comes loaded with 11 different additions including bacon, olives and pineapple. For a truly indulgent meal, kick your diet to the curb for an evening and dig into the fettuccine alfredo, which comes laden with indulgently creamy sauce.

While this mostly residential neighborhood might not be known for its nightlife, you can always swing by Jon's Goodtime Bar to grab a drink after work and catch up with the neighbors. This local watering hole is a popular gathering place and offers a relaxed, casual environment to enjoy a beer and maybe even a bowl of their famous onion soup.

A short drive east will put you in the center of Detroit's entertainment district. Catch a Tigers baseball game or watch them on television from inside one of the many sports bars in the area. Head to the Detroit Opera House or Fox Theater for great live shows, or try your luck at the casinos.

Residents can quickly and conveniently travel the city by car. Major thoroughfares like Michigan Avenue make it easy to get across town and Highway 12 will take commuters east to Detroit. The streets are lined with ample parking spots and centrally-located lots make it easy to park and run errands. Residents can catch a ride on the SMART buses that service the area for $2.00 a ride. Cabs and Uber services provide other transportation options, but don't expect to be able to easily flag down a taxi; you'll have to call for a pick-up.

For those who prefer to get around using their own two feet, the streets are pedestrian friendly but not particularly bike-friendly. Residents can cycle around, but the harsh winters and lack of designated bike lanes makes having a car the best transport solution.

Enjoy beautiful river and wooded views on the local Lower Rouge River Recreation Trail. Covering four miles before connecting to the I-275 Metro Trail, the Lower Rouge River trail leads to an additional 33 miles of open space to explore. Walk or bike the trail for free and enjoy a stop at Heritage Park, which provides picnic tables, athletic fields and a small golf course. You can bring Fido, but remember to keep him on the leash

Heritage Park also provides the best view for the neighborhood's annual fireworks, which are a small part of the larger Liberty Festival.

The cost of living in Inkster runs significantly lower than other parts of Detroit, which explains its popularity among those considering a move. Rent for a one bedroom apartment averages just $588 per month. Drivers can enjoy gas prices 5% below the rest of the city and up to 10% below the national average. Even a night out won't break the bank, with domestic beer prices at $3 a bottle.

When it comes to shopping in Inkster, the neighborhood provides the necessities, but lacks any major malls. The Inkster Town Shopping Center is the shopping stop on most locals' lists. Many of the area's commercial buildings line Michigan Ave, a major throughway in Inkster where residents will find some interesting specialty stores that cater to specific niche markets.

To check out great deals on women's clothing and accessories, be sure to stop by Rainbow Shops. They offer a variety of both trendy and classic pieces for women of all ages. Low prices and large selection make this shop a go-to for bargain hunters. Citi Trends is another women's apparel shop that caters to urban fashions.

For those residents interested in renting their furniture or appliances, Aaron's offers affordable payment plans on these would-be big purchases.

Residents can do all their grocery shopping at the local Meijer store. They carry a selection of locally grown produce and offer a full-service pharmacy, bakery and deli.

While Inkster has yet to establish a farmers' market, residents can stock up on a wide variety of produce and international foods at the Eastern Market in Detroit. This historic venue has an exciting assortment of fresh cooking ingredients and local specialties, and is open on Saturdays throughout the year.