Biltmore - Phoenix, AZ

The city of Phoenix was incorporated in the late 1800s. Prior to World War II, its warm climate and popularity as a winter tourism destination helped drive its economy. After the war, thousands of servicemen who had trained in the valley of central Arizona returned to the area and put down roots. Phoenix was a big draw in the 1950s, as it was one of the only major cities in the desert region where air conditioning was widely available.

The area around Hoffman Terrace developed in the decades following World War II, its popularity driven by its close proximity to downtown.

Residents head downtown for cultural offerings that include the Arizona Science Center and the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center. Nearby Scottsdale also has a robust arts scene. Annual events downtown include fireworks and festivities every Fourth of July.

Hoffman Terrace provides easy access to a diverse mix of locally owned and chain restaurants, many of them situated near the intersection of 24th Street and East Osborn Road. Pizza, Mexican, Afghan and Indian food comprise some of the offerings in the immediate area of Hoffman Terrace.

At 24th Street Pizza & Gyros, you can enjoy local favorites such as hand-tossed pizzas, gyro sandwiches and boneless wings. The gyro sandwiches come topped with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki, with french fries served on the side. Locals also recommend trying the chicken kebabs. When you want to enjoy a great meal in the comfort of your own home, take advantage of the fast and friendly delivery offered by this locally owned eatery.

Khyber Halal Restaurant has a nondescript exterior and basic interior. The restaurant's abundant flavor and flare come through in its food, which includes fare from Pakistan, India and Afghanistan. Broaden your palate with an Afghan entree such as the kabli pulao, a foot-long beef shish kebab served over rice and topped with shredded carrots and raisins. If you want something more traditional, opt for a burger or a chicken wrap with fries.

For an authentic taste of Mexico without having to cross the border, head to Asi Es La Vida Restaurant for lunch or dinner in a casual yet refined setting. If you arrive between 2-6 p.m., you can enjoy excellent happy hour specials that include the best margaritas in town. Menu favorites include the cochinita pibil. This consists of slow roasted pork covered with orange sauce and red onions, and the coctel de Camaron. It also featuring jumbo shrimp served with a flavorful Acapulco sauce.

Hoffman Terrace residents have abundant nightlife options right in the neighborhood. Shady's on East Indian School Road has a retro ambiance with an old-school jukebox, along with pool tables and plenty of beers on tap. A quarter-mile west sits Kat's, a relaxed dive bar full of friendly regulars. For a greater selection of bars, clubs and live music venues, downtown Phoenix and the vibrant suburb of Scottsdale each can be reached in a 10-minute drive.

Many of the streets in Hoffman Terrace have sidewalks and bike lanes; residents enjoy walking around the community with pets, for exercise or to visit neighbors. As a whole, however, Phoenix remains a car-centric city. Most residents drive when their destinations lie more than a short distance away.

Hoffman Terrace sits in close proximity to several major highways, including Interstate 10 and Interstate 17. This makes it easy to access many points of interest in the Phoenix metro area. The neighborhood also contains abundant free parking.

If you don't want to drive, you can take a taxi; multiple companies operate in the area. Call in advance for a ride since you can't hail a cab in Hoffman Terrace. Uber, the popular ride-sharing service, also has a strong presence all over Phoenix.

Valley Metro, the public bus service in Phoenix, features a stop near Hoffman Terrace.

Locals visit Los Olivos Park when seeking an afternoon of outdoor recreation. The park features a fitness course, lighted sand volleyball, playgrounds, abundant green space for playing sports or picnicking and a nine-hole disc golf course. Free parking and admission make Los Olivos Park an affordable and fun way to have fun with the whole family, including the dog.

The park doesn't host annual events, but many groups get together to use the facilities for banquets and parties.

The cost of living in Hoffman Terrace runs slightly lower than the average cost of living for the Phoenix metro area. Expect to pay an average of $775 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and about $3.25 for a beer in a local bar. Area gas prices usually hover at 12 percent lower than the national average, while a bus ticket to downtown costs $2.

Hoffman Terrace residents who love to shop live in an ideal location. The Biltmore Fashion Park shopping mall is only a mile up the road. Its anchors include the department store Macy's and high-end retailer Saks Fifth Avenue; the mall also houses many popular chain boutiques such as Ann Taylor and CHICO's.

Dozens of local boutiques and specialty shops also populate the area around Hoffman Terrace. Visit Turtle's Treasures Consignment and Resale Store for deals on gently used furniture, home decor and collectibles. If you're a stamp or coin collector, stop by C & C Coin and Stamp, where you can buy and sell coins, stamps, precious metals, jewelry and watches.

Residents head to the Walmart Supercenter on East Thomas Road for large grocery trips, or if they prefer to shop organic, they visit Whole Foods Market or Trader Joe's, both located less than a mile north on North 20th Street. The Phoenix Public Market downtown, which operates on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings, carries local produce and other goods from area farmers.