D'Andrea - Sparks, NV

The D'Andrea community resides in Sparks, Nevada, a city that was first inhabited by the Native American Washoe tribes. In 1904, the Southern Pacific Railway company established a switchyard in the area that bypassed the town of Wadsworth. This caused a predicament for Wadsworth railroad workers, as they were required to move closer to the switchyard to continue working. Southern Pacific solved the problem by providing the workers with land lots adjacent to the railway for $1 a piece. The railroad company also shipped the workers homes, possessions and livestock to the new city at no cost. The city was named Sparks after Governor John Sparks and was officially incorporated in 1905.

The Sparks Museum and Cultural Center features historical railroad artifacts and hosts annual art shows that showcase the work of local Nevada artists. The museum also hosts guided tours and educational art programs for children.

D'Andrea residents don't have to travel far when it comes to dining and nightlife, as a wide selection of popular eateries and bars reside within a mile or two of the neighborhood, conveniently located on and around Vista Boulevard and East Prater Way.

For tasty, authentic Mexican fare, check out Murrieta's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina on Vista Boulevard. With indoor and outdoor seating options, friendly servers and 99-cent tacos Monday through Friday from 2-5 p.m., you definitely can't go wrong with this popular neighborhood establishment. Regular patrons recommend the seafood enchiladas, a melt-in-your-mouth meal of fresh tortillas filled with shrimp, lobster, and crab meat, smothered in mushroom cream sauce.

If you're hungry for a traditional breakfast served in a bright and welcoming dining room, stop by Peg's Glorified Ham n Eggs on East Prater Way. Voted "Best Breakfast" on the Best of Nevada Survey 13 years in a row, Peg's gets it right every time. Peg's customers feel right at home in this friendly establishment, enjoying signature menu items such as the "Glorified" veggie Benedict, a delicious take on the classic favorite with avocado, tomatoes, onions, and spinach.

If you're looking for an ideal spot to watch the big game and enjoy some tasty appetizers, local sports enthusiasts suggest Spiro's Sports Bar & Grille on East Prater Way. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Spiro's features a full bar, wide-screen televisions, video poker, and free Texas hold-em poker, as well as a vast menu of entrees and appetizers. Insiders highly recommend Spiro's Macho Nachos, a heaping plate of tortilla chips topped with chili, tomatoes, jalapenos, cheese, and sour cream that pairs perfectly with an ice-cold brew or a tangy margarita.

For an exciting night of drinks, dancing and celebrity entertainment, drive approximately 5 miles to the city of Reno, and stop by LEX Nightclub at the Grand Sierra Resort. This massive club is 25,000 square feet, has three full bars and features many upscale amenities, including a glass dance floor, an indoor pool and 33 VIP tables. Guests enjoy viewing celebrity performances, mingling with well-known public figures, and dancing to chart-topping pop, hip hop and electro tunes.

In addition to driving, residents of the D'Andrea community enjoy walking and biking through the residential areas, as the streets and sidewalks are sturdy and safe. Cyclists also have access to 19 miles of bike lanes throughout Sparks and Reno.

The City of Sparks allows residents to park on residential streets for up to 72 hours at a time, but all vehicles must be registered and possess current license plates. Drivers can also utilize city parking meters wherever available for $1.50 per hour. Individuals who travel by bus can board RTC Washoe local buses at various stop locations within the area, including East Prater Way and Lillard Drive.

While you won't find any taxis to hail circulating through the neighborhoods, transportation can easily be arranged by contacting Reno Sparks Cab Company. Ride services such as Lyft and Uber do not operate within the state of Nevada. Interstate 80 can be accessed via North McCarran Boulevard and East Victorian Avenue, allowing for convenient travel into the surrounding cities.

The City of Sparks Parks and Recreation Department provides residents of the D'Andrea community with over 50 free-to-enter parks that feature amenities such as picnic tables, walking trails, playground equipment, and recreational areas.

Pah Rah Mountain Park on Shadow Lane provides visitors with volleyball courts, basketball courts, and tennis courts, making it a great option for sports and fitness enthusiasts. Families also enjoy visiting Pah Rah Mountain Park, as it features three playgrounds, picnic tables, and barbecue grills, allowing for a fun day outdoors with the whole family.

If you're looking for a nice spot to spend some quality time with your dog, local dog owners suggest Sparks Marina Park on Howard Drive. This spacious park rates high among locals, as it features a two-mile walking loop around the marina, drinking water, a sectioned-off gated area, and waste receptacles.

The City of Sparks hosts several family-friendly community events each year that celebrate the city and its residents. Star Spangled Sparks takes place every 4th of July and features the largest fireworks display in all of North Nevada. Another popular favorite is the annual Pumpkin Palooza celebration in Victorian Square. Kids and adults alike enjoy this exciting fall event, as it features a carnival midway, fortune tellers, a haunted schoolhouse, and a costume parade.

The cost of living in the D'Andrea community exceeds the cost of living in Sparks, Nevada by approximately 13 percent, with local renters paying an average of $890 per month in rental costs for a one-bedroom residence. One-way bus fare into the city costs $2 for adults and $1 for disabled individuals, seniors and youths. Domestic and imported beers at local Sparks pubs normally cost between $3.50 and $6, however, certain establishments may advertise lower prices during special promotions or happy hours. Gas prices in Sparks, Nevada exceed the national average by approximately 8 percent.

While there aren't any high-end merchandisers within the community, D'Andrea residents enjoy living near a nice variety of outlet stores and popular retailers that offer quality merchandise. Gap Outlet and Nike Factory Store on Scheels Drive feature affordable fashions and sportswear, while Stein Mart on South McCarran Boulevard provides clothing and housewares at discount prices.

When it comes to shopping for groceries, clothing, housewares and specialty items, D'Andrea residents appreciate living within close proximity to multiple grocers, retailers and specialty shops located on East 2nd Street and North McCarran Boulevard. For groceries and standard household items, locals recommend the Walmart Supercenter on East 2nd Street, as well as Save Mart on East Prater Way. Some of the freshest veggies and fruits in the area can be found during the summer months at the Sparks Thursday Farmers Market in Victorian Square, open from 3-8 p.m. between June and August.