Brightmoor - Detroit, MI

In 1921, Burt Eddy Taylor purchased 160 acres of land for the purpose of building the planned community of Brightmoor. The developer hoped to build affordable housing for migrants from the south, with the subdivision officially opening in 1922. Between 1923 and 1924, he added 2,913 additional acres, where families could achieve the "American Dream" of owning a home and living in modest comfort. Over the years, the population dwindled as higher crime rates set in, turning the once working class neighborhood into an area of abandoned homes. Over the years, numerous efforts have been made to restore the neighborhood to its original glory, with Brightmoor back on the upswing of becoming a safe, family-friendly suburb.

Annual events such as the holiday lights festival at Greenfield Village celebrate the season, while The Henry Ford Museum teaches residents about the automotive industry that helped put Detroit on the map.

For good old-fashioned soul food, visit J's Cafe on Grand River Avenue. The casual atmosphere and welcoming staff make you feel at home as you decide which delectable dish to order. The signature crispy pork chops served with homemade macaroni and cheese and cooked cabbage will leave you wondering how the chops manage to stay so crisp under the generous serving of gravy. Keeping with tradition, the fried chicken, black-eyed peas and butter-topped cornbread will have you salivating before your meal even arrives.

A neighborhood tradition since 1966, Bob's Pizza Palace on West 7 Mile Road serves up everything from slices and whole pies to ribs, chicken and shrimp. The open counter to the kitchen offers an entertaining view of Bob kneading and flinging the dough, and the place offers delivery to locals. Order the fried shrimp for a change of pace.

Scotty's Fish & Chips on Fenkell doesn't disappoint. The restaurant first opened its doors in 1950. You'll instantly feel as if you've taken a step back in time upon entering, with little having changed in the subsequent decades. Bring the family for the traditional fish and chips basket, or try the frog legs and chips if you're hungry for something more unique. Scotty's also serves more kid-friendly fare, such as chicken strips, hamburgers and grilled cheese.

As far as nightlife goes, downtown Detroit has something enticing to satisfy any mood. For a truly unique dive bar, go to Tom's Tavern on West 7 Mile Road, where the drinks cost less than a gallon of gas and the cavern-like atmosphere puts you in the mood to kick back and relax in your chair on the famously uneven floor. Grab some quarters for the old-school jukebox as you sip on an ice cold Bell's Two-Hearted Ale. The warm hospitality adds to its charm; just remember to bring cash, because the owner doesn't accept credit cards.

If you feel like dancing but want to avoid the typical club scene, try Club Yesterday's on Telegraph Road. The club caters to people in their 30s and 40s looking to get their groove on in a spacious, dimly lit space. Whether you feel like ballroom dancing or showing off your hip hop moves, this place has it all. The full bar and great drink specials allow you to cut loose without feeling out of place. Bring your friends, significant other or even your parents for a night filled with high-energy fun.

Ready your vocal chords for a trip to the Encore Lounge off West 7 Mile Road for free karaoke nights every Thursday. This hot new lounge features a full menu, so you can enjoy a bite when breaking from the stage. Fridays are Fish and Blues nights, featuring great food combined with the best of local blues talent.

Brightmoor's close proximity to Interstate 96 leads most residents to travel by car to their destinations. You can use your own vehicle, or utilize the convenient Uber app on your smartphone to locate a taxi, private car or airport shuttle for hire within minutes. Plenty of bicycle-friendly roads and walking paths allow you to commute to nearby locations during the warmer months, while the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDT) provides public access to numerous bus routes throughout the city for a nominal fee.

You can also take advantage of the Detroit People Mover for a view of downtown Detroit from above, with a one-month fast pass costing just $10 for unlimited rides. You can easily locate numerous parking garages downtown, whether you need to park for a few hours or all day. A $6 per day fee will secure you a spot in the Port Atwater Parking Garage on Beaubien Street, where you can rest easy knowing your car will be safe while you take care of business or pleasure.

Being outdoors during the changing seasons remains important to Michigan residents, and a number of nearby parks will keep you busy.

The Brightmoor neighborhood has two local parks connected by a greenway. Covering 250 acres of land, Eliza Howell Park holds the title as the fourth largest park in Detroit, with a 1.5-mile nature trail connecting to Stoepe Park, where you can take a leisurely walk to enjoy the scenery or get some cardiovascular exercise in by going for a run. Be sure to stop and appreciate the numerous butterflies made out of plywood added to the nature trail by Detroit artist Chazz Miller.

For family-friendly fun, head to Capitol Park, where you can watch the kids enjoy the splash pad before having a picnic and heading to the expansive playground. No admission fees and lots of open space make this a great place to relax and enjoy a day in the warm sun or bundle up for some winter fun.

The cost of living in Brightmoor can be considered low, landing right on par with the surrounding Detroit area as the neighborhood continues to rebuild. The average one-bedroom apartment costs $531 per month, while a pint of beer at the local pub costs around $3. A one-way ride on the DDT will set you back $1.50, and the price of gas hovers 3 percent above the national average.

Brightmoor residents are surrounded by shopping options that suit just about every need. For close-by options, several shops sit on Schoolcraft Avenue. Sugarland Kandy Shop is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

For the finest in fashionable legwear, visit Hollywood Hosiery Boutique on Grand River Avenue. Featuring brands such as Look from London, Sisi of Italy, Memoi and Spanx, it has everything from leggings, jeggings, and tights to specialty hosiery. Whether you're going for casual-chic or more something else, count on excellent customer service from the friendly staff to help put together your perfect look.

Fresh-from-the-farm produce remains a Michigan staple, with numerous markets to choose from during the open season. The Northwest Detroit Farmers Market has around 20 booths selling items such as baked goods, organic fruits and vegetables, and farmhouse cheeses. Sponsored by the Grandmont-Rosedale Development Corporation, the market aims to improve the health and wellness of local residents.

For major grocery shopping, Meijer is a popular stop that offers several locations in the surrounding area to choose from. Superland Market offers a smaller, locally owned and operated option. Residents shop here for convenience, quality and the sales. Superland offers bundle deals, which are a great way to save on beef, chicken, breakfast items, and more.