Chimney Lakes - Jacksonville, FL

Part of the larger Westside section of Jacksonville, Chimney Lakes shares its history with most suburbs of Jacksonville. Originally a separate entity within Duval County, the area consolidated as more and more residents moved away from downtown Jacksonville. Since the nearby suburbs were not technically part of the city of Jacksonville, the city faced financial hardships and loss of population.

Travel to downtown Jacksonville to visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features contemporary art from 1960 to present.

Chimney Lakes' restaurants, most of which are large chain restaurants, lie in a cluster near the Oakleaf Town Center.

Osaka Japanese Steak House serves authentic Japanese cuisine. Watch the chef prepare your meal right at your table, surrounded by Japanese decor. Try the tofu teriyaki or the steak, shrimp and chicken combination.

For a different kind of Asian food, try Manila Thai, where you enjoy Filipino and Thai cuisine. The artfully decorated dishes combine with the friendly staff to make this place a local favorite of many residents. Try the pork sinigang or the beef kaldereta. Whichever meal you choose, you'll want to come back soon.

When you want something heavy and hearty, visit Pasta Market Italian Restaurant. Decorated with chandeliers and a warm ambiance that reflects your own dining room, Pasta Market Italian Restaurant serves as the perfect place to dine with your family or take that next big date. Whether you get the fettuccine Alfredo or a hand-tossed, New York-style pizza, pair it with a delectable wine.

In the evening, when you want some fun and entertainment, head over to Cheers Park Avenue. Kick back and relax with your friends as you enjoy good drinks and food. When the music starts to play, move down to the dance floor, which features state-of-the-art lighting and sound. Cheers books many local talented musicians for live performances.

Like many suburbs in the Jacksonville area, residents of Chimney Lakes rely heavily on their personal vehicles to get around the neighborhood and reach other parts of the city. Luckily, most local businesses furnish their own free parking to customers. On the downside, few major highways and expressways lie near the neighborhood, making it somewhat hard to reach them.

While Jacksonville public transit doesn't travel out to Chimney Lakes, you can schedule an appointment with a taxi if you need a lift.

Because most businesses are not spread throughout the neighborhood, residents typically don't walk or bike around the area, which doesn't have any bike lanes.

Residents of Chimney Lakes find some outdoors adventure at the Clarke House Park. Originally built in the 1900s by William Clarke, this park sits on the National Register of Historic Places, so you get some history lessons with your outdoor excursion. The free park allows dogs, and patrons have the option to rent the pavilion or other facilities in the park for parties or events.

Residents also enjoy the nature trails at the park. Surrounded by the beautiful Florida wilderness, relax as you take a walk with your dog or family or just gaze at the park's gardens and learn a little about the local fauna. Other amenities include a sand volleyball court, a large playground for your kids, pavilions, barbecue grills, lake and restrooms.

The cost of living in Chimney Lakes resides about 5 percent higher than the Jacksonville average cost of living. The cost of housing serves as the major culprit behind this higher cost of living. Expect to pay about $924 each month for a standard one-bedroom apartment in Chimney Lakes.

On the other hand, the majority of other amenities cost about the same as the rest of Jacksonville. If you stop by the local bar after work for a drink, expect to pay $3.50 for a domestic beer or $5 for an import. Gas runs about 9 percent lower than the national median.

Like the area’s restaurants, most shops within Chimney Lakes sit near the Oakleaf Town Center; most of these are larger chain stores. While these shops sell stylish clothing, don't expect high-end options. For local boutiques, you must travel a little outside the neighborhood.

For a unique collection of antiques and home decor, check out The Curiosity Shoppe. This little boutique collects interesting pieces that really suit the shop's name. Discover uncommon home decor, art, furniture, handbags and much more. Perfect for anyone who loves exclusive items, The Curiosity Shoppe boutique sells both new and used high quality items.

A little farther away sits Crave Boutique. This trendy shop sells both men and women’s fashions, specializing in name-brand denim, clothing and accessories. The shop prides itself on getting new brands and items often, selling items from those you're likely to find at the big mainstream stores.

Two excellent grocery stores service the area. Publix prides itself on selling great products and having incredible customer service. Departments include bakery, deli, meat, produce, floral, baby, pet and dairy. Target also meets all your common grocery needs, as well as selling clothing, electronics, auto accessories and many other products.

For fresh local produce, visit Bargain House of Fleas. At this open-air flea market, you find a collection of many sellers. Some sell used items or handmade crafts. However, many vendors sell fresh produce from their own farms for low prices.