Briarfield - Newport News, VA

The Hampton area has a difficult past as it was burned down during both the American Revolutionary War and the Civil War, but from the ashes, a group of contraband slaves built an encampment in 1861. The city of Hampton was incorporated in 1849, but the Briarfield area did not truly develop until the early 20th century when it became an industrial and residential area for blue-collar workers.

Over the years, the neighborhood has collected cultural treasures such as the antique display barn at Bluebird Gap Farm, and a short drive takes you to the Virginia War Museum. Residents also enjoy easy access to the city's biggest annual festivals like the Hampton Bay Days that pushes for conservation of the bay and the Blackbeard Festival where participants encounter recreated pirate scenarios.

Take a drive down Mercury Boulevard and Briarfield Road to explore a rich dining scene featuring hometown grills and cafes serving up all-American favorites that reflect the area's blue-collar charm. Whether you want chicken and waffles, a BLT or a meatball sub, Briarfield has plenty of lunch options that don't break the bank. The restaurant spread may be sparse, but quality makes up for quantity in this neighborhood's collection of hidden gems.

Fill up on all your breakfast favorites at Tommy's Restaurant, a popular diner serving up huge portions at unbeatable prices. Residents pack in for the corned beef hash, short stacks and three-meat omelet, but lunch options such as the catfish plate with hushpuppies carry the same quality and value that keep customers coming back day after day. Although Tommy's has a diverse menu, don't expect any organic granola or gluten-free rhubarb muffins at this down-home cafe. Remember to bring cash, and be ready for a line going out the door if you come on the weekend.

When you need a big slice of cheese pizza after a long day at work, satisfy your craving at Vito's Pizza. This place may not look like much, but it dishes out some of the best handmade New York-style pizza pie in the city. Each order comes out piping hot with piles of fresh cheese and just the right amount of greasy goodness. For a little variety, the hot subs are sure to hit the spot.

Nightlife options in Briarfield focus mainly on bars, most of which are found near the Newmarket Plaza Shopping Center as well as the coliseum. Follow the locals to TJ's Sports Tavern on Huntington Avenue, a sports bar that hosts a corn hole tournament every Sunday and serves up enormous 6-pound burgers. If you want to get your dance on, head over to The Alley, an edgy nightclub that hones in on the best in hip-hop and R&B. Expect loud music, strobe lights and a packed dance floor with energetic vibes.

Getting around the neighborhood rarely presents a problem thanks to Briarfield's collection of quiet residential streets, but be prepared for a congested crawl if you take Mercury Boulevard or Interstate 64 during peak hours. When running your errands, enjoy plenty of free parking along the streets and in retail lots. If you need a ride to the airport, call a ride-share service like Uber or a nearby taxi company like Newport News Taxi or Yellow Cab.

Hampton Roads Transit dispatches plenty of buses to the neighborhood for a hassle-free ride into downtown Hampton, and a number of bike-friendly roads make for an easy cruise during the warmer months if you prefer eco-friendly transportation. Although the neighborhood remains somewhat walkable, keep in mind that most amenities lie within driving distance of the residential streets.

When you want to kick back and enjoy the sun after a long work week, stop by one of the neighborhood's beloved public parks. Briarfield Park at the neighborhood center has a softball field, tennis courts and a playground for the kids. Residents also stop by to jog or walk their dogs on the fitness trail.

For some family fun, head over to Bluebird Gap Farm, a free farm-themed park complete with a petting zoo and viewing area housing close to 150 domestic and wild animals. You can also let your kids enjoy the playground or eat your lunch in the picnic areas. Don't miss the storytelling events for an experience your little one will talk about for days.

Briarfield residents enjoy a cost of living that falls well below average for the Hampton area with a standard one-bedroom apartment costing around $648. If you need to take the bus into downtown, expect to pay around $1.75 for a one-way trip. Gas prices tend to hover 3 percent below the national average, and a pint of beer at a local pub like Luckie's costs close to $6.

Briarfield's retail scene comes alive with thrift shops, furniture stores, dollar stores and a few national clothing retailers — a haven for bargain-savvy shoppers. Drive along Mercury Boulevard to find retail hubs like the Mercury Plaza Shopping Center featuring Burlington Coat Factory, an auto shop and some choice restaurants. For a more upscale shopping experience, a collection of high-end fashion boutiques lie a short drive away in Peninsula Town Center.

When you're searching for furniture for your new apartment, forgo the overpriced chains to visit Good Wood Furniture, a local business stocking everything from dressers and dining room sets to bed frames and nightstands. Here you find solid wood furniture that lasts for decades, and other items like memory foam mattresses and pillows carry low price tags. This place also stocks a nice collection of patio furniture, classy lamps and wall clocks.

When you need to do your grocery shopping, head to Food Lion for all your staples, or stop by the members-only BJ's Wholesale Club to purchase cheap bulk food items. Don't forget to check out the nearby farmers market in downtown to grab some fruits and veggies fresh out of the garden.