Garrett Durham, NC

The neighborhoods close to Duke Forest were initially developed as a way to attract professors from around the country to teach at Duke University. During the early years of the university, much of the surrounding community was dependent on the tobacco industry. Housing was either meant for workers or industry tycoons. There were not a lot of affordable housing options, so Duke began developing this tract of land and offering beautifully built homes to employees at discounted prices.

While the area was never heavily developed, houses continued to be added as the university grew. The Garrett neighborhood serves as an example of one of the latest evolutions of this approach to planned communities.

Residents enjoy easy access to the Nasher Museum of Art, the Museum of Life and Science and the Museum of Durham History.

Residents only have to take a short drive south to Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard for a selection of national chain restaurants and local eateries that serve up specialty dishes. Red Lobster, Subway and Panera Bread all have locations along this main thoroughfare.

For a taste of authentic Mexican and Salvadoran food, stop by El Cuscatleco. This locally owned and family-friendly restaurant features a spacious dining room with cozy booths and plenty of tables. Order from the Salvadoran portion of the menu to sample dishes that tend to be seafood based and come with a variety of sauces. The camarones entomatados includes Salvadorian-style sauteed shrimp with tomato sauce and provides a hearty meal with an appealing taste profile that may be new to diners.

Locals who love Southern cuisine visit Dickey's Barbecue Pit. It serves up North Carolina-style barbecue, which features a vinegar sauce, and a long list of tasty Southern side dishes. For a truly authentic experience, order the classic pulled pork sandwich with meat that has been slow cooked in an open pit and comes on a soft bun with onions. Pair it with a side of deep-fried hushpuppies for a complete taste of the South.

If you're looking to let loose in the evenings, downtown Durham provides plenty of options. The Durham Performing Arts Center hosts Broadway shows, big name performers and international acts throughout the year. Music lovers can also catch shows on a nightly basis at the Pinhook and Motorco. Dancing follows most performances, so be sure to stick around for a full night of entertainment.

Local drivers can easily access Highway 501 to the east and head south to more commercial areas to enjoy shopping and dining options. This highway also connects to Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard and I-40, which runs east and west to other major cities in the Triangle region. Residents don't have to worry about searching for parking spots. Both the city and local businesses provide plenty of free options.

Durham is a bike-friendly community, allowing residents to easily commute on two wheels. Locals can connect to major paths along Pickett Road and safely travel to all parts of the city and the university's campus. Pedestrians can also be seen throughout the day using the paths for exercise.

Garrett residents enjoy easy access to Duke Forest, where visitors can hike and run the trails, go horseback riding on forest roads, fish the lakes and enjoy educational events held throughout the year. The forest, which covers over 7,000 acres of land, has been mainly dedicated to research and preservation, so dogs have limited access to the park.

Families can head to the Cedar Falls Park to enjoy baseball fields, tennis courts, playground equipment and plenty of open spaces. All of the amenities can be used for free by residents.

The cost of housing in the Garrett neighborhood runs well above that of the rest of Durham and most of the Triangle area. A one-bedroom residence rents for an average of $977 per month. However, other living expenses can be relatively affordable and on par with area averages. A bus ride costs $1.25, and the Triangle Transit System can be used to travel between major cities and costs $75 for a monthly pass of unlimited rides. Gas prices typically align with national averages. Locals who head out for a night on the town can expect to pay $4 for a bottle of domestic beer.

Shoppers have plenty of options that line Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard. This main thoroughfare hosts major national retailers such as TJ Maxx, Old Navy and Target. Locals only have to drive a few miles to enjoy convenient access to all their favorite stores.

Ninth Street serves as one of several premier destinations for specialty shopping in Durham. This area features an eclectic collection of stores and restaurants that reflect the city's close relationship with Duke University and the quirky, artistic spirit of the city. At Boho on 9th, shoppers can peruse clothing designed and constructed by local artists and pick out unique gift items. It carries a selection of locally made soaps, lotions, cards and jewelry that is all one-of-a-kind.

Book lovers should not miss out on a trip to the Regulator Bookshop. This local store carries a selection of out-of-print books and rare finds. Many famous authors visit the shop to do readings and sign books, so customers have the opportunity to meet renowned authors and purchase signed copies of bestsellers.

Residents stock up on groceries at the local Food Lion, Kroger and Whole Foods. The Durham Farmers Market also opens on Saturdays to allow locals to stock up on fresh produce.