Denton, TX

Though founded in the mid-1800s, Denton did not begin to come into its own until the foundation of the two universities — University of North Texas, in 1890, and Texas Women's University, in 1901.

The universities and the famed College of Music at UNT helped transform the neighborhood from a small town to the arts-and-culture hot spot it is now. Paste Magazine noted the city as having the best music scene in the country, and several notable musical acts got their start in the town.

A handful of museums give you access to the history of Denton, including the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum and the Bayless-Selby House Museum. Several galleries and local coffee shops, such as Jupiter House, feature the work local artists on a regular basis. Many festivals take place throughout the year, including the Denton Blues Festival and the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival.

The large international community in Denton, a result of the two universities in the area, means that this neighborhood hosts a vast number of dining options, featuring fare from all over the world. From down-home cooking to Vietnamese food, you can find something to whet virtually any appetite. Though it caters to the younger crowd, nightlife options abound — though those in search of a hot dance club will find more opportunities down in Dallas.

The best area for cuisine can be found at The Square, located around the historic courthouse in the middle of town. Start your culinary tour at the Abbey Inn, a British-style pub featuring contemporary twists on U.K. classics. Try the succulent fried Scotch eggs with a side of sweet raspberry coulis, or dig in to the savory Abbey cottage pie.

When you're ready for dessert, take a trip to Beth Marie's for the most talked-about ice cream in Denton, featuring flavors like German chocolate cake and rocky road, topped with their homemade hot fudge.

The Greenhouse boasts an upscale, relaxed atmosphere with a sampling of trendy fare, such as rainbow trout drizzled in tangy cilantro lime butter or seared ahi tuna drizzled in a decadently spicy wasabi aioli.

Denton hosts a thriving music scene, and you'll find tons of venues to see a live show. Stop by Hannah's or Dan's Silverleaf for the hottest regional acts, or head to the Rockin Rodeo for the best country bands in the area. Most of these hotspots double as bars, but for a more relaxed atmosphere, check out spots like Oak St. Drafthouse — a favorite among the locals — which serves up local craft beers on draft. For one of the best spots for a beer, burger and the big game, head to The Loophole. To get a party started, visit Lucky Lou's, which is always packed come Friday or Saturday night.

Though a car provides the most convenient transportation option, many locals get around by bus as well. The Denton County Transportation Authority runs buses throughout Denton and down into neighboring areas. Denton also connects to the DART rail system servicing Dallas, which allows residents easy access to the downtown Dallas area. Though you will not be able to hail a cab, several taxi companies serve the area. Uber is also available.

Free public parking can be found around major areas, such as The Square, with metered parking available along some of the busier streets in the area. Major interstates and highways run through Denton, and you can easily access them by way of several main streets.

The most walkable spots in the city include the areas surrounding the universities and the downtown square. Other areas of Denton tend to lack sidewalks, and though bike paths tend to be sparse, the streets do tend to be safe for cyclists.

Several parks and playgrounds lie in Denton, including Evers Park, Fred Moore Park and Cross Timbers Park, among others. Though on the small side, they present unique recreational opportunities, such as golfing at North Lakes Driving Range. Locals can find plenty to do and lots of space to enjoy the Texas weather. You can visit the parks for free, but expect to pay for some activities, such as golfing or visiting the water park.

Kids enjoy the age-appropriate playgrounds throughout the neighborhood parks, and those with furry friends can enjoy a day at Wiggly Fields Dog Park. Throughout the year, the city hosts events such as a holiday reindeer romp and a winter mini-camp for kids. Though not oriented toward exercise, plenty of trails for hiking and biking make it easy to get a workout at Denton's parks.

The cost of living in Denton comes in a bit below the national average, and is comparable with other similar neighborhoods in Texas. A pass for the DART rail system to get to Dallas can cost upwards of $10, though monthly and weekly passes grant savings to those who use DART on a regular basis. Renters can expect to pay around $700-800 for a one-bedroom apartment, and about $3.50 for a beer at one of the local bars. Gas prices trend low, about 12 percent less than the national average.

Denton is a shopper's paradise. Several stores line The Square and its surrounding streets, while you can find numerous major retailers in the shopping centers along Loop-288 and the Rayzor Ranch shopping compound. However, those in search of a more upscale shopping experience should head to Dallas or neighboring Fort Worth.

For antiques, eclectic retro items, handcrafted jewelry and much more, head to the Denton Mini Mall — and Denton Mini Mall II — located on The Square. La Di Da and Shoefly by La Di Da feature whimsical items of women's fashion from the hottest indie labels around. Put Rose Costumes on your agenda at Halloween or when your next big costume party rolls around. This shop sells and rents on hundreds of high-end costumes and costume accessories, from Disney-princess ball gowns to mascot costumes.

Several grocery stores make it easy to do the weekly shopping. Walmart and Target serve the area, in addition to Kroger's, Brookshire's and Cupboard Natural Foods. For a farmers market with fresh produce and handcrafted goods, the Denton Community Market opens on Saturdays from April through November.