Eastlake - Birmingham, AL

The neighborhood was first developed by the East Lake Land Company in the mid-19th century, with East Lake Park's construction following soon after. The park served as a private attraction for the surrounding community, anchoring itself as a central hub of activity complete with a hotel, boat docks, casino, theater, baseball diamond, golf course and a carnival midway. This idyllic suburban destination brought in many families and cemented Eastlake neighborhood's place as a residential district. Birmingham annexed the area on January 1st, 1910, declaring the park open to the public. The park's attractions subsided during the Great Depression, though the surrounding neighborhood still retains that cheery community charm.

Drive north along 73rd Street for a day of family fun at the Southern Museum of Flight. Kids can marvel at the Korean War Jets and Vietnam War Helicopter displays while adults immerse themselves in the museum's informative historical presentations.

While this suburban area doesn't have much for dining residents know to stroll down 1st Avenue or Crestwood Boulevard to find some of the area's most exciting up-and-coming restaurants alongside the area's tried-and-true establishments. Transport yourself across the globe with international flavors, or enjoy a hearty American meal alongside the Irondale Cafe regulars. Eastlake provides locals with a refreshing variety of fun and excitement just around the corner.

Irondale Cafe draws customers back time and time again for its classic southern American menu served alongside an old railroad. Order the fried chicken meal with a side of macaroni, green beans and squash for a dish sure to fill even the most hungry patrons. Don't forget a side of fried green tomatoes to complete any meal.

Known for some of the best sushi in Birmingham, Sushi Village on Crestwood Boulevard serves a variety of classic and specialty rolls in addition to hibachi noodles. Order the Love Boat to enjoy a range of sushi favorites with enough to share, or dive into the specialty sushi, including octopus, squid and surf clam rolls. Stop by during lunch hours to save a few bucks without sacrificing any of the rich flavor.

A local favorite, Sammy’s Sandwich Shop proudly displays the awards won by its signature burgers on the wall when you walk in. If it's your first time in, try the beef or chicken rider for a tasty meal served inside a pita pocket. Those interested in the award-winning recipes should order a classic burger topped with grilled onions for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Those looking to spend a night out on the town without straying far from home can head down to Bourbon Street Bar & Lounge on Cooper Hill Road for an evening of drinks, dance and karaoke. The serving staff serve drinks quick and check up on you often to ensure you have what you need. Sample a few local Alabama breweries on tap or order from the extensive craft beer menu to find what you need.

Route 11 and Interstate 20 flank Eastlake, providing locals with convenient travel options both into downtown Birmingham and out into the greater surrounding area. Though the city does not have access to rideshare services such as Lyft and Uber, Birmingham's taxi cab companies ferry residents throughout the city. Head to 2nd Avenue if you need to hail a cab.

Public parking is freely available along with many of spots on residential side streets in the area. Eastlake's major roads lack designated biking lanes for cyclists. Most residents rely on an automobile to get around due to the residential nature of the area, though the Birmingham Jefferson County Transport Authority provides Eastlake with bus stops along 1st and 2nd Avenues.

Head southwest of the neighborhood to visit the Irondale Municipal Park and spend a quiet afternoon in the fresh air. Curl up with a book beneath one of the trees in the heavily forested sections of the park or bring your dog along to run wild in the adjacent Irondale Dog Park. The nearby Adventure Park provides kids with hours of entertainment. The admission fee grants access to a rock climbing wall and mini golf course, among other attractions.

Those looking to spend a fun afternoon with the local community should not miss the annual Whistle Stop Festival in downtown Irondale. Bring the whole family along to enjoy live performances from local artists, including musicians and dance troupes, and to savor the great flavors from local restaurants at outdoor vendor areas.

The greater Eastlake area's cost of living averages eight percent above the overall Birmingham average. A standard one-bedroom apartment in the area costs about $550 for one month's rent. A ride into downtown Birmingham on the CTA bus costs $1.25, and local pubs charge an average of $5 for a pint of beer. Average gas prices for the Birmingham area sit about 10 percent beneath the national average.

Drive northeast along 1st Avenue to take advantage of the variety of stores conveniently located for Eastlake residents, including Family Dollar, CVS Pharmacy and a number of auto repair centers. Other local grocery stores include Piggly Wiggly and Village Market.

The Alabama Farmers Market in west Birmingham makes the trip worth it with a large variety of vendor stalls selling fresh-baked, grown and raised goods seven days a week all year. Check the Alabama Farmers Market website to see a list of current seasonal crops, or just stop in to chat with the friendly people who grow your food locally.

Head southwest into downtown Birmingham to find a number of charming specialty shops and boutiques perfect for those who love to hunt down hidden treasures and vintage items. Music fans should stop by Seasick Records on 5th Avenue to meet their vintage and new release vinyl record needs. The store stocks all genres of music, from jazz to punk to indie to metal, ensuring you can find that specific record you're searching for.

Zoe’s keeps many patrons coming back for the rich assortment of trinkets and special items not found elsewhere. Browse the store's countless vintage collectibles, unique consignment clothing, fashionable accessories, and shoes. Speak with the store owner if you're in search of something particular to ensure you head home happy.