East McAllen - Pharr, TX

This region was granted by Spain to Antonio Gutierrez and his descendants continued to occupy this land until 1883, after which the land passed on to the assistant manager of the last descendant, who died without a heir. This manager's name was John McAllen. He set up a ranch here and called it McAllen Ranch. Companies such as Hidalgo Irrigation and the Brownsville and Mexico Railway brought in more people. The McAllen family sold the area to developers, and this led to the growth of this neighborhood as it is seen today.

For museums, head to the International Museum of Art and Science on W Nolan Avenue or the La Quinta Mazaltan on Sunset Drive. To catch a glimpse of the talent of local artists, visit the Art House on Laurel Avenue.

The cultural diversity of East McAllen reflects on its local cuisine too. For a taste of ethnic Mexican food, head to Delia's on S. 23rd Street. This restaurant serves homemade food that includes one of the best-tasting tamales on this side of town. People with gluten allergies can eat here too as its tamales are gluten-free. The restaurant serves other authentic Mexican dishes such as veracruzano, bean cheese and jalapeno, and spicy pork.

The cultural mix of East McAllen is best seen in the Patio on Guerra, which serves a mix of Mexican and Mediterranean food. Located on S. 17th Street, this restaurant serves exotic dishes such as Texas quail seasoned with Mexican spices, seared kangaroo tenderloin cooked in olive oil, and pork osso bucco. It also serves a range of seafood items that include lobster, tuna, halibut, and salmon dishes. Its aesthetic interiors coupled with friendly waiters make this restaurant a favorite among locals.

For all-American comfort food, stop by Salt -- New American Table on N. Main Street. This restaurant serves all the American staples such as a New York strip, pork chops, steaks, and steamed clams. Tastefully designed interiors and fresh food add to the pleasure of dining here.

For a good selection of nightlife spots, the locals drive to downtown McAllen. The Centennial Club on Austin Street has live music, comfortable surroundings, and great food. You can eat your main meal elsewhere and finish off your evening at the Club with drinking and dancing, or just go there to start and make a full night of it.

Deloreans on W. Nolana Street is another good spot to wind down after a long day at work. This dive bar has a good stock of drinks including some interesting cocktails. The DJ plays '80s and '90s music on Fridays and Saturdays, and fun bands also perform live from time to time. Good crowds and affordable prices also attract locals to this place.

McAllen Express Transit provides public transportation for the city of McAllen and its neighborhoods. Buses operate through all parts of the neighborhood, and it costs $1 for every ride. For students and seniors, it is only $0.50. Domestic bus lines also take residents to other cities from the Downtown Bus Terminal in the city of McAllen.

Cars are another popular mode of transportation due to this neighborhood's proximity to I-2 and US-83. Plenty of public parking exists which add to car usage. Many taxi companies and Uber also service the area.

Head to Zinnia Water Park on N 33rd Street on a warm summer day as it has a pool and slides for small children as well. It costs $5 for residents to use this park for a whole day.

To take your canine friends for a walk, head to McAllen Dog Park on Tamarack Avenue. This public park also has open spaces for kids to run and play.

East McAllen sits 17 percent lower than the national average cost of living. This low cost of living results in affordable living as a single bedroom apartment rents for a monthly average of $522. A pint of beer costs an average of $3 to $4 at the local pubs. A gallon of gas is also 11 percent lower than the national average.

Locals throng to La Plaza Mall on S. 10th Street because it has many brand-name clothing stores such as Ann Taylor's and Macy's. Good restaurants also add to the attraction. However, this mall can be heavily crowded especially during the weekends.

For a personalized shopping experience, head to Karlas on N. 10th Street. This store sells all sizes of women's clothing, jewelry, home decor items, purses and candles. Friendly employees come around to check if you need any help, and the owner even gives you suggestions on the best accessories for any dress.

To take a break from regular department stores, visit Barn White on N. 10th Street. This place sells home decor, bath and kitchen accessories and cookbooks. It also has a bridal registry for weddings.

For your grocery needs, head to Earth Born Market on N Taylor Road or H-E-B on Trenton Road. Get your fresh produce from Sprouts Farmers Market