Bridgetown North - Cincinnati, OH

Before being distinguished as a neighborhood, Bridgetown North began as part of larger Green Township. Hunters and trappers first settled in this area in the early 1800s, and farms dominated most of the region throughout the next century. With the rise of industry during the early 20th century, people began building cars and highways. More residents began to flock to Bridgetown North to escape the bustle of downtown life, and the area evolved into the urban suburb it remains today.

The neighborhood does not include any museums, but the Green Township Public Library does offer resources and articles about the neighborhood's history along with educational events and programs throughout the year. The library also hosts a monthly genealogy club for members of the community to gather and work together to research information about their family heritage.

Plenty of quick and casual restaurants line the streets of Bridgetown North. From fast food chains to family-owned diners, this neighborhood serves up something for everyone. If you're looking for a traditional option, check out TGI Friday's and Bob Evan's on Glenway Avenue.

For a more local dinner option, stop into Ron's Roost. Enjoy a classic country-style dinner like turkey and dressing or oven roasted chicken. If you're feeling adventurous, give the classic German Sauerbraten a try. During the summer, diners at Ron's Roost enjoy live music on the restaurant's outdoor patio.

Just down the street on Bridgetown Road, Nick & Tom's Restaurant and Bar serves up fresh fish and burgers along with specialty desserts. Stop in early for drink specials during the restaurant's daily Happy Hour between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Don't miss Nick & Tom's annual Thanksgiving Dinner.

For packed clubs and loud music, head to neighborhoods closer to downtown. If you're looking to relax at a local bar with friends, Bridgetown North offers the perfect nightlife scene. Check out locally owned bars such as Wild Mike's or Stacey's Place for drink specials and a casual atmosphere.

Some areas of Bridgetown North can be easily traveled on foot with clusters of stores and restaurants accessible within a few city blocks. However, traveling by car is the most common and convenient option. With plenty of parking lots near commercial areas and close proximity to the highway, car travel works best in this neighborhood.

If you prefer to cycle, you won't find dedicated bike lanes in Bridgetown North. However, cautious and experienced cyclists find it relatively simple to share the road with other vehicles. Nearby Mt. Airy Forest offers miles of hilly mountain biking trails for adventurous cyclists looking for a challenge.

Cincinnati's metro bus SORTA offers plenty of routes throughout Bridgetown North, connecting the neighborhood with nearly every other part of the city. While the bus is easy to catch in this neighborhood, don't expect to hail a cab. If you're planning to take a taxi, call ahead or use Uber.

Several parks near Bridgetown North provide residents with recreation options and facilities at no cost. Harvest Home Park, a 60-acre park on the east side of the neighborhood, includes plenty of picnic shelters and a playground area for kids. The local Kiwanis Club hosts an annual Harvest Home Fair each September, bringing a parade, live music and vendors to the park. Calling itself "The biggest little fair in Ohio," this event draws people from all over the city.

On the southeast edge of Bridgetown North lies the largest park in Cincinnati, Mt. Airy Forest. This park includes dozens of miles of hiking and biking trails along with many playground areas and fields. Bring your dogs to Mt. Airy Forest where they can run off leash in the city's largest fenced dog park. The park also hosts annual events, including a community cleanup and trail racing series for both cyclists and runners.

Residents of Bridgetown North find the cost of living comparable to other areas of the city. Many reasonable housing options give newcomers to the area a selection of affordable options. The average one-bedroom apartment rents for $557,comparable to most of Cincinnati. Because shopping and dining options are mostly high value and casual, residents generally find these prices slightly lower than city averages. You can expect to pay $3 to $5 for a pint of beer at local bars and pubs.

Many people in Bridgetown North travel by car, and locals find that gas prices remain similar to city and national averages. For those preferring public transportation instead, a ticket on the SORTA metro bus to downtown Cincinnati or other areas of the city costs $2.65.

Bridgetown North includes plenty of shopping areas for residents. While most of its stores are high value and inexpensive, the neighborhood also offers a few high-end boutiques. Grocery shoppers find plenty of affordable options at Aldi and Gordon Food Service. If you're looking for local and organic food, take a short drive to Lettuce Eat Well Farmer's Market in Westwood. Residents from all over the west side of the city flock to this market to purchase seasonal produce, homemade baked goods and other local treats.

Gardeners can't miss Peter's Nursery and Garden Store on Harrison Avenue. This gardening store has been owned by the same family for three generations. Browse seasonal plants and flowers while stocking up on gardening tools, mulch and fertilizer. Locals rave about the personal service and low prices at this specialty store.

For jewelry service with a personal touch, stop into Robin James Jewelers. This family-owned jewelry store offers a selection of rings, watches and other products. If you're looking for the perfect sparkly gift for yourself or a special someone, the jewelers at Robin James offer friendly advice and service.