Amberley - Cincinnati, OH

Founded in 1940 and named after a city in England, this Cincinnati suburb developed organically as people flocked to the area, recognizing Amberley’s beauty and charm. Most of the houses were built in the mid-20th century and reflect that era’s style

The closest local museum, the American Sign Museum has a mission to celebrate the rich history of American signage through preservation and education. They preserve historic signs, pointing out contributions the sign industry has made to business, popular culture and the overall American landscape. While Amberley Village does not have much of an arts scene outside of the Mayerson JCC, nearby Cincinnati contains a lively arts community with frequent events and annual festivals.

The majority of nearby restaurants lie along Reading Road and Montgomery Road, though many locals drive into Cincinnati — and even north to Dayton — for dining and entertainment.

Since 1951, Montgomery Inn has been pleasing residents with their tasty ribs. The historic setting provides a timeless atmosphere in which to enjoy a menu that varies from mozzarella sticks and Greek salads to barbecue pulled pork and a fried cod sandwich. Their daily specials give you a chance to taste phenomenal dishes at a bargain price, and the restaurant also caters.

For delightful Indian cuisine, go to Amma's Kitchen. Roughly translated, the word "amma" means "to lovingly provide food to a child." For an appetizer, try the aloo bonda, their yummy batter-fried potato patties. Follow that with an onion dosa (rice crepes filled with sautéed onions), or let the staff guide you through the many unusual menu choices.

Trio Bistro's upscale but relaxing atmosphere has provided patrons with a pampered culinary experience for more than two decades. Presenting fine dining at its best, the restaurant accommodates intimate dinners and private parties from 12 to 70 guests. While reservations aren't required, making one is a good idea due to the high volume of business, especially on weekends.

Amberley residents have numerous choices when it comes to nightlife, and will sometimes go into nearby Cincinnati. The Mad Frog dance club alternates between DJs and live performances by local and regional acts in various genres, including electronica, hip hop, indie and rap. Closer to home locals head to great low-key bars like Gaslight Cafe, where the service is good, food is greasy and the decor hasn't been updated since the 70s.

Most residents in Amberley own and drive their own vehicles, though people locally ride bicycles. Cincinnati Metro buses run here, but fares run higher than they do closer to downtown. You can purchase a pass to help minimize the cost if you frequently use mass transit. Scheduling rides via taxis or Uber can be arranged via phone or computer, and parking costs nothing, no matter where you need to go in this part of town. Nearby Interstates 71 and 75 take you to Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus, and these interstates connect to 275, a loop that runs through southwestern Ohio, southeastern Indiana, and northern Kentucky.

The town presents a wonderful area for walking, jogging, riding a bike and rollerblading, but due to its lack of sidewalks and bike lanes, residents conduct most of their outdoor activities in nearby Amberley Green or French Park.

Residents frequent 275-acre French Park's miles of hiking trails, creeks, meadows and picnic areas. It costs nothing to enter on weekdays, but they have entrance fees on weekends and holidays. Rent the French house in the park, surrounded by gardens and meadows, for parties and other functions. The house, built in the early 1900s, contains numerous rooms and outdoor terraces, providing ample space for gatherings large and small.

Amberley Green has walking paths and tennis courts, though key cards must be purchased in order to use the tennis courts, which have lights for nighttime use.

While local parks permit leashed dogs, Wags Park is closest off-leash dog park. For Fido's safety, they require that all dogs be spayed or neutered, and have documented proof of vaccination. An annual membership fee applies, and a charge of $5 for a temperament test on the first visit ensures that no dogfights occur. The WagsPark Spa provides professional grooming and pampering, or if you're more of a self-serve type, you can use their WagOmat dog wash. They also have a training academy and a boutique-type online pet store.

Amberley has no significant annual events or festivals, but many of the surrounding municipalities do, especially Cincinnati.

Lower than the city average, the cost of living here allows students to afford an apartment right alongside their professors — one-bedrooms go for around $620 per month. Gasoline prices sit around 10 percent below the national average, and bus fare to downtown Cincinnati runs around $3. Draft beers for $2 can be found at a number of local establishments, while bottles cost $4 to $6 at most places.

Reading and Montgomery Roads contain most of the local shopping selections, primarily high-value stores. Tri-County Mall sits 10 miles to the north, and 10 miles south lie the many shops of downtown Cincinnati.

Kayla's Posh Pets Grooming & Boutique provides grooming services for your pet's health and well-being. The knowledgeable experts can recommend the best brushes for you to use at home, as well as to teach you how to use grooming time as bonding time with your pet. The boutique stocks gift items in addition to everyday needs, treats and fun stuff for your furry family members.

At the Busy Bee Boutique in Loveland, find the perfect gift for that young person in your life, or your best friend’s newborn. The jewelry, accessories, toys and household goods all pop with fun colors and clever designs.

Sav-a-Lot has a discount grocery store near Amberley, and you can shop at the Dillonville IGA on the east side. Green Bean Delivery provides home delivery of fresh, locally-grown organic produce.