Greater Heights - Houston, TX

The Heights came along in the late 1800s, when Oscar Martin Carter purchased the land and started developing businesses, homes and parks. Created for those who wanted to avoid downtown, it became a municipality in 1919. Up until World War II, the Heights was a thriving community. It eventually went downhill and lost its spark; however, as more young professionals moved into the area to build and renovate homes, the neighborhood has been rehabilitated. The historic fire station, built in the early 1900s, is one of the area's major restoration projects. Locally, The Heights Association holds many events such as plays and workshops, and the Bicycle Rally and Fun Run are held here annually. In addition, the Museum District and theater are located minutes away from the Heights.

As one of the best areas of Houston for restaurants and nightlife, Greater Heights is hopping. You'll have so many places to explore here you won't even have to venture to Downtown Houston -- unless you want to -- after moving to your Greater Heights apartment. The food and fun will be just outside your door. Carter and Cooley Company Delicatessen serves sandwiches only during lunch, but it has been named one of the best restaurants in the area by local media. Located in the historic downtown section of the Heights, the deli's sandwiches keep customers coming back for more. The building was originally a drug store when it was built in 1921, but the new owner renovated it while keeping the ambiance of the past. Whether you dine in or purchase the ingredients to make your meal at home, the choice is yours when you visit Revival Market, which is located on Heights Boulevard. This eatery serves breakfast and lunch and is known for its catering services. Known for their hot dogs, you would be encouraged to try a frankfurter for lunch. Residents searching for a great Sunday brunch often stop at Shade, which is located on 19th Avenue. Shade's specialties include buttermilk fried chicken and a soup trio that serves a sample of the restaurant's daily soups. 13 Heights Bar on North Shepherd has a fun atmosphere that will make it one of your favorite go-to places. Open every night until 2 a.m., 13 Heights Bar visitors enjoy a skilled DJ and great bartenders. On weeknights you are sure to find something going on, like a game night or karaoke.

Located on North Main, the Greater Heights transit center, run by Houston Metro, serves as a hub for incoming and outgoing routes. Riders have access to routes that travel all over the city and any area that Metro services. Uber is another option in the area the area, and while cabs are available, they must be called. Most parking is available on the street because the local restaurants typically have small parking lots that are reserved for valet. Some streets do have parking meters with rates that are very fair and can be paid by cash or credit card. People do walk and ride their bikes throughout the area, but not all of the area is pedestrian friendly. Pedestrians should stay on the sidewalks when possible.

Mamion Park was constructed in the late 1800s, and the Heights Association has been working to preserve it. Originally the location of the Cooley Mansion, it was later demolished and transformed into a park. The Mansion was one of the first homes in the area to have electricity. Donovan Park, another option, was built in the 1960s and has a playground for the kids to visit. Both parks serve as architectural landmarks and work to bring people in the community together. Additionally, the parks can be rented for events for a fee, and both are dog friendly.

The cost of living in the Heights has increased drastically over the years and continues to do so. One-bedroom apartments in Greater Heights start at $1000 and can go up to $3000. The cost of living in this area also exceeds Houston's.

The Galleria Mall and Memorial City mall are both in close proximity to the Heights, while Target and Walmart offer residents an alternative to the nearby specialty shops. For grocery needs, Kroger and HEB can be found near I-10. Both mail out circulars weekly with their specials and sales, so customers can get a look at what the stores have to offer. Residents who prefer shopping at farmers markets can frequent the Canino Produce Co., which spans more than 20,000 square feet of space and presents as many locally grown products as possible. Heights Station Antiques attracts customers from all over the city. Selling custom furniture and memorabilia, the store houses some of the best preserved collectibles that money can buy, Choose from sofas, mirrors and lamps from all over the world. This gem matches up with the city's charm. Hello Lucky clothing boutique provides ladies with an alternative to shopping at the malls for clothing. You can shop in this trendy boutique for a little black dress or cute top to wear, while selecting some accessories from the handmade jewelry available.