Acres Homes - Houston, TX

At one point, Acres Homes was considered Houston's largest unincorporated community of African Americans. The area was established during World War I when plots of land were sold for farming and gardening. The name came about because the land sold in acres and not plots, hence the name Acres Homes. The Texas State Historical Association has deemed it one of the historic neighborhoods of Houston.

Prior to being annexed by the City of Houston, Acres Homes did not have a water system or public transportation. Once it was added, the community began to flourish in terms of business development and homes. Residents migrated to the area for the low priced shot-gun homes and close proximity to the city. The rural community was considered a great alternative to urban living.

The lack of museums and art scene does make residents have to travel outside of the neighborhood for cultural entertainment.

Although you only find casual eateries in the neighborhood, the various selections of cuisine don't disappoint. Choose from Chinese cuisine, authentic Moroccan food and American favorites. Find popular fast-food chains on every corner, and dine in places that the whole family or a large group can enjoy.

Located on Shepherd Drive, Josie's Place features tasty Cajun dishes and Southern charm. Most patrons use Josie's for catering large events. It does, however, open daily and has great lunch and dinner specials. Enjoy a plate of tender oxtails with a side of yams and cabbage, or keep it simple with chicken and green beans.

Stop in Victory Eatery, and enjoy your choice of a burger, barbecue or seafood. This menu consists of a vast selection of dishes, such as a spicy black-bean burger or Cajun fried chicken. This restaurant happens to be one of the few in the area that serves up quality, affordable food outside of the usual fast-food places.

Locals go to Wakefield Crowbar for a guaranteed good time. This eatery not only has a great menu, but it has a volleyball court, too. It also features activities and specials during the week, such as trivia night and steak night. Most locals visit for the happy hour, which features beers as low as $2 and well drinks for $4. Weekend brunch brings in people all morning seeking to enjoy a mimosa with their omelette. This bar doubles as a great lunch spot and after-hours hangout.

The relaxing atmosphere makes Acres Homes a great nighttime environment for those wishing to grab a drink with friends after a long week. Find patrons in places such as Plonk Beer & Wine Bistro enjoying a drink and catching up with friends.

The majority of locals drive privately owned vehicles around the neighborhood. With the easy access to Interstate 45, residents can get to other parts of the city in no time. Highway 249 also runs throughout the area and serves a great alternative when trying to avoid traffic. Ample parking can be found along the streets, and most places have parking lots. Parking fees are not common. Though some lots are tended, others are not.

For visitors who opt not to own a vehicle, Uber does service the area, and cab rides can be scheduled. Hailing a cab proves difficult. Other transportation options include the Metro. Routes 044, 040, 079, 064 service the area. The routes provide transportation to prime destinations such as downtown, and a few transfers get you to the Medical Center or Museum District.

Despite the lack of bicycle lanes, cyclists can still use the sidewalks. Pedestrians can feel safe walking or riding their bikes along the streets of Acres Homes.

Residents take great pride in the parks of Acres Homes, especially Lincoln Park. This park serves as a safe haven for students and children throughout the year. The park has a community center that hosts after-school events for students and provides tutoring services. During the summer, children can participate in the summer programs, and receive breakfast and lunch. Lincoln Park has a lighted sports field as well as a playground. There is also a pool and lighted tennis court.

Carver Park was the home of the softball team sponsored by former president George Bush. Stuebner Airline Park has a vast amount of green space and a paved running trail.

In comparison to Houston, Acres Homes has an overall lower cost of living. Housing costs equal the city, but the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment runs about $300 lower. Residents in Acres Homes enjoy a median rental rate of $494.66.

The typical cost of a beer comes in around $3, about the same as the city. Getting to the city via public transportation only costs a few dollars round trip. Gas prices exceed the national average by about 10 percent.

You find several shopping centers around Acres Homes. No major malls call this area home, though, and you won't find very many high-end shopping options. Many great chain stores, such as Auto Nation, can be found along highway 261. Several stores, however, can be found on Interstate 45. Find retail shops featuring antique goods and specialty items.

Students enjoy a trip to Victory Center Bookstore located on Lone Star College's campus. This bookstore has more than just textbooks. Browse the great deals on electronics and supplies. Another gem that locals can't get enough of remains Couturier Fashions. This boutique has women's clothing for the fashion-forward lady. Find the perfect outfit for a night out on the town or a casual dress.

Grocery options include Foodarama and Kroger's. No farmer's markets are in the area.