Community Center/Sunnyvale Sunnyvale, CA

Initially dominated by fruit orchards, Sunnyvale expanded with canneries built in the area after the arrival of the railroad in 1864. In 1906, the industrial growth of this area got a boost when Hendy Iron Works moved to Sunnyvale. Lockheed Missiles and Space Company moved here in 1956, becoming one of the city's biggest employers and contributing to the growth of the area. After the introduction of the microprocessor in 1971, this place became the hub of manufacturing, research and development of computers and semiconductors. Known as Silicon Valley, this area continues to be in the forefront during the Internet era as well.

At the Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum, see the historical home of the Murphys, who were the early settlers of this area. Other exhibits include miniature trains, Lockheed-sponsored displays and tech-industry demonstrations. This free museum, open three days a week, also hosts Victorian tea parties and an antique fair.

Embark on a culinary adventure in Sunnyvale, with food trucks and Indian, Korean, Japanese and Middle Eastern restaurants ready to serve hungry locals. At Bon Chon Chicken on El Camino Real, order the spicy rice cake, pot stickers with soy garlic sauce and the kimchi slaw. Pickled radishes add another layer of flavor to the dish. Locals swear all chicken dishes on the menu come to the table crispy, moist, and perfectly glazed. Wash it down with a pitcher of yogurt soju. Great service and a relaxing atmosphere make this spot quite popular — come early to avoid the crowds, especially during lunch hour on weekdays.

For authentic Middle Eastern fare, try DishDash on south Murphy Avenue. Signature dishes include bamieh, slow cooked lamb with rice and vegetables; mashwi, king prawns and sea bass; and mo, kebabs with tender beef cubes and vegetables. The mansaf features slow-cooked lamb in an aged yogurt sauce. Basmati rice and pita bread complement the meal. Make reservations to avoid the wait at this eatery.

Several sports bars, dive bars, karaoke bars, and pubs serve as local watering holes for Sunnyvale residents. Head to Blue Max for a night of Karaoke, with cheap drinks and a great crowd thrown in for good measure. An excellent selection of songs, in addition to TVs, a dart board, and pool tables, ensure that everyone has fun. Friendly bartenders and a good craft beer menu make this spot a favorite for locals who want to unwind after a long workday.

Most residents commute to work in private vehicles, though a significant percentage use public transportation or carpool with co-workers. State Route 82 runs through this neighborhood, following the path of the historic El Camino Real and connecting the neighborhood to Interstate 280, which leads to San Jose. Taxi services include Yellow Cab Taxi, Sky Cab and Flat Rate Airport Taxi. Uber also serves the area.

With on-street and off-street bike lanes and biker-activated traffic signals, Sunnyvale has received recognition as a bicycle-friendly community. Some errands can be accomplished on foot in this somewhat walkable neighborhood, but walking remains mostly a recreational activity.

Public transportation options include the Caltrain commuter rail, buses and a light rail operated by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. Seven downtown parking lots provide ample parking spaces for residents — some even offer free, unlimited parking. Two park-and-ride locations also allow locals to utilize public transportation.

Parks within walking distance of most parts of the neighborhood allows Sunnyvale’s residents to enjoy leisure activities like walking, biking and sports. Community centers run tons of arts, sports, and cultural activities that residents enjoy throughout the year.

The 5.6-acre Braley Park sports children’s play areas, shuffle board, sand volleyball, lighted tennis court, and a water play area with a timer. Visitors also utilize the basketball courts and multi-use field in the school adjacent to this Japanese-style park.

The Sunnyvale Community Center, an area highlight, includes a large theater for plays, recitals and concerts. It also houses a creative arts center, indoor sports center, general recreation center and arboretum complex. The community center runs summer programs, after-school activities, and a senior center.

The Sunnyvale Art and Wine Festival, held in June, features local artists, food and wine. Adults enjoy free samples and live music while kids play in bounce houses or go on kiddie rides.

The cost of living in Sunnyvale rises significantly higher than the cost of living in San Jose, with the median rent for a one-bedroom residence at $1,920. A bus trip to San Jose using Valley Transit Authority costs $2, and a pint of beer costs $5. Gasoline prices are 11 percent higher than the national average.

Retail stores like Target, Toys ‘R’ Us, and Best Buy serve this neighborhood, sitting in shopping centers like Cherry Orchard and Pavlina Shopping Center. The independent side of the shopping experience thrives here as well. At Isabella Boutique on Murphy Avenue, expect attentive staff and an extensive selection of hand-made dresses, scarves, accessories and shoes. The store supports local designers and carries echo-chic merchandise.

CJ Olsen Cherries in the Cherry Orchard Shopping Center carries fruit, specialty foods and gifts. Locals come here to pick up favorites like cherry pie, apricots, plums, nuts, jams, jellies, chocolates and gift baskets.

Safeway, Trader Joe’s and Sprouts serve the grocery needs of this neighborhood. The year-round Sunnyvale Farmers Market operates every Saturday morning, stocking tons of local and seasonal produce, hot foods and French pastries, and even live music.