East Orange - Orange, TX

Originally called Green Bluff and later, Madison, the city of Orange incorporated in 1836, the same year Texas gained its independence from Mexico. The city’s location along the Sabine River made it an integral center for shipbuilding during World Wars I and II. Culture abounds in the city of Orange. The Stark Museum of Art houses one of the nations most significant collections of Western art and artifacts. Take a walking tour though the 14,000 square foot W.H. Stark House, circa 1894 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nestled on 252 acres, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center contains more than 300 plant species and serves as a breeding ground for herons. The 1,460-seat Lutcher Theater hosts the best in world-class entertainment including national touring companies and acclaimed artists. Annual events include Art in the Park, the October Scarecrow Festival and the Mardi Gras Parade.

When they want to enjoy a meal or go out for a cocktail residents of the city of Orange have plenty of options. Located in the heart of downtown Orange and housed in the historic dairy building, Old Orange Café & Catering Company delivers old-fashioned service and great American cuisine. Open for weekday lunch and Sunday Brunch, make reservations for dinners served prior to performances at the Lutcher Theater, and enjoy a menu that changes nightly. Lunch favorites include the Spicy Fiesta burger served on a jalapeno-cheese bun and topped with Siracha, fried jalapenos, avocado and spicy mayo. The award winning Lucy’s Café, considered by many locals to be the best lunch spot in Orange, serves up homemade fare in a cute, cozy setting. Regulars rave about the Creamy Chicken Texas Crepes served with a green salad and the flaky crawfish pie. The dessert selection varies daily, and often includes treats such as double chocolate mousse, key lime pie and assorted, freshly baked cookies. When locals crave authentic Italian cuisine, they head over to Luigi’s Italian Grill. The made-to-order dishes come prepared with only the freshest ingredients, and the friendly staff treats everyone like family – whether you are a regular or a first-timer. For a true taste of Italy, be sure to try the creamy fettuccine Alfredo, the tortellini in vodka sauce. For chicken specialties, test out options such as carciofini, prepared with artichoke hearts in a white-wine pink sauce. Be sure to inquire about catering packages for your next event.

Interstate 10 runs through the city of Orange, taking residents east to Louisiana, and west to Beaumont and beyond. Exit 880, the highest numbered exit and mile marker on a U.S. interstate highway or freeway, can be found on Interstate 10 in Orange. Local citizens remain extremely car-dependent as most errands cannot be accomplished on foot. For cyclists, some biker-friendly roads include Lutcher and Meeks Drives. Although Uber doesn't serve the area, South East Texas Transit provides curb-to-curb public transportation for residents of Orange County. SETT picks up passengers in their own driveways and takes them to any destination – school, work, shopping and more. No special requirements or qualifications exist for this service, but you should make reservations. Eastern Limousine and Taxi provides 24-hour service for residents of Orange, including trips to nearby Southeast Texas Regional Airport.

The county of Orange operates three parks in and around the Orange city limits. Claiborne West Park, 12 miles to the west, was named in honor of a man who played an important role in Texas’ quest for independence from Mexico. A wooded recreation area on 453 acres of property attracts visitors to its wildlife and bird sanctuary, part of the Great Coastal Birding Trail. Recreational facilities include a tennis court, softball field and mountain bike trail. Two playgrounds, picnic tables and barbecue grills make the park the perfect place for a family outing. The Amphitheater proves popular for weddings and band concerts. Open 24 hours a day, the Bluebird Fish Camp on Simmons Drive has a boat dock, fishing pier and a small playground. The city of Orange operates a number of lush green parks, including Brownwood, Levingston Lions City Parks.

The cost of living in Orange, Texas runs 2 percent lower than in nearby Beaumont and 3 percent lower than the state average. Compared the nation's average, the cost of living in East Orange sits nearly 13 percent lower. Apartment dwellers can expect to pay an average of $579 a month for a one-bedroom apartment in one of the various complexes in the area. A ride on the bus to anywhere within the county costs only $1, and gas prices fall 11 percent lower than those of the rest of the country. Local bars charge around $3.25 for a bottle of domestic beer.

Those looking to partake in a bit of retail therapy can take advantage of the wide variety of shops in Orange. In addition to many national retail chains, some terrific locally owned boutiques exist. Since 1980, Kim and Ebb Moore have been beautifying homes across southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana. Parlours began as a small antique shop, and has turned into a fine furnishings and design emporium. The shop carries some of the best names in furniture, including Bassett, Wesley Hall and Design Guild. They can also special order lines upon request. Their selection of charming decorative accessories, rugs and lighting provides that special touch in any home. A commitment to providing total customer satisfaction has made Parlours a household name. Who doesn’t love receiving flowers? The team at Heaven Sent Flowers has been helping customers choose the perfect arrangements for over 30 years. Whatever the style – modern, traditional or a little bit edgy – the floral designers at Heaven Sent come up with a uniquely crafted design. The shop also carries a range of gift items for every age and personality. Dedicated to old-fashioned, personal service, the staff proves happy to work within any budget. The only AGS-certified store from Houston to Lake Charles, Mathews Jewelers has been providing quality service and expertise since 1984. A member of the Jewelers of America and the Texas Jewelers Association, Mathews specializes in loose diamonds, unique bridal and fine diamond jewelry. The friendly, knowledgeable staff adheres to the highest level of standards set by independent jewelers. The shop carries a full range of some of the biggest brands in the industry, including Breitling, Leslie Greene and Michele. The Market Basket and HEB supermarkets on North 16th Street serve the Orange community. Both stores provide outstanding value, and feature fresh produce, quality meats and delicious baked goods. The Beaumont Farmers Market, approximately a 30-minute drive away, operates Saturday mornings from mid-March through November. Vendors usually pick the products sold at the market that morning, guaranteeing the freshest produce around.