Hill Valley - Indianapolis, IN

In 1969, residents established the Hill Valley Homeowners Association to combat a proposal to put a mobile home park adjacent to the neighborhood. The neighborhood grew over the next couple years to incorporate a much larger area. This primarily residential area doesn't possess a rich history like some of the other neighborhoods in Indianapolis yet has remained a proud community throughout the years.

The cultural and art scene misses the neighborhood, partially because the neighborhood is made up mostly of homes and families. However, a few churches in the neighborhood hold events and activities throughout the year, and Indianapolis's large cultural and art scene sits just minutes away.

Inside the area served by the HVHA lie a handful of restaurants including Italian, German and fast food favorites. A short drive outside the neighborhood boundaries increases your options, with local favorites and gems scattered throughout the small shopping centers and strips.

Located just on the other side of the neighborhood's northern border sits Vito Provolone's, one of the south side's Italian staples. While everything on its menu may make your mouth water, patrons love the chicken diablo, which includes mostaccioli pasta and chicken strips tossed in a spicy tomato cream sauce. The menu includes a wide selection of specialty salads and pizzas; if pizza suits your tastes, the prices include up to five toppings -- additional toppings cost extra. This small restaurant features a comfortable decor and a nice wine selection, making it ideal for a night out.

German cuisine may not be something you find everywhere, but Hill Valley residents have a top-notch option in their area. Edelweiss Restaurant, located on the German Park grounds, presents a menu full of traditional German food. German traditions include jägerschnitzel, a hand-cut pork loin with creamy white mushroom sauce. The restaurant also serves Bavarian platters, each of which come with two sides. Numerous meat combinations and sandwiches line this portion of the menu. The spaetzle always delights and visitors can't say enough about its rich texture and flavor.

While you might not find a bar within the neighborhood boundaries, you will find them just outside. Schneider's Pub, a local hangout with an extensive menu and fun events, creates an intriguing atmosphere with karaoke, trivia and other events.

Sidewalks line the streets in front of the picturesque '70s ranches and two-story homes in Hill Valley, making cycling and walking popular activities when just strolling through the neighborhood. The main roads outside the neighborhood can become busy, making them somewhat tumultuous for cyclists. For most amenities, however, you have to drive to your destination. Several IndyGo bus stops lie within two miles if you must use public transportation. If you would rather take a cab, call and set up an appointment with one of the numerous companies that serve Indianapolis, including Uber.

Several highways have easy access from Hill Valley, including US 31, which sits just east of the neighborhood. US 31 connects Greenwood and Indianapolis, and further north. It hits Interstate-465 just north of the neighborhood and Interstate-70 in Indianapolis. Interstates 465 and 65 have ramps within a 10-minute drive.

Restaurants, retailers and other amenities have large parking lots; the neighborhood features space for free street parking in front of the residences.

Perry Park, which has Indy Parks' only ice rink, serves Hill Valley residents. This kid-friendly park has an NHL-sized ice rink with four locker rooms. Local high schools and leagues use the facility and public skates and rink rentals give every patron an opportunity to strap up and get on the ice. The Aquatic Center features tube slides -- younger kids will enjoy the polar bear slide. The park contains 21 acres, which includes a small patch of woods and trail. Bring your leashed pet to enjoy walking around this busy Indianapolis park. This park has remained an Indianapolis favorite since its creation in 1961. Getting in won't cost anything, but using the rink or some of the other facilities comes with a nominal fee.

German Park is a private park available by reservation only. This park commonly hosts German clubs and festival events.

Hill Valley's cost of living stays on par with Indianapolis at well below the national average. This neighborhood features single-family homes that rarely go on the market as rentals; most of the homes feature three or four bedrooms. One-bedroom rentals run from $575 to $790.

The local pubs and bars that surround the neighborhood won't take a chunk out of your wallet. Go out and grab a beer -- a pint or bottle of your favorite brew will cost you between $2 and $6, depending on the brand. Gas in the area varies, but sometimes falls as much as 8 percent below the national average.

Several commercial centers lie within the area of Hill Valley, although not necessarily within the neighborhood boundaries. Along State Route 135, you'll find a large selection of mini-malls and strips, offering everything from services to restaurants, retailers to salons. Just south of the neighborhood check out Selective Seconds, a consignment shop with almost 5,000 square feet of women and junior fashions, along with accessories. J.L. Johnson Fine Jewelers has served the Greenwood and south side area for decades. This specialty jewelry shop has cases full of diamonds, bridal sets, designer collections and fine watches. Several grocery stores lie within a 10-minute drive. Nature's Pharm, a small, locally owned chain serving the area, features a wide variety of organic groceries, supplements, herbals and personal care items. During the growing season, residents of Hill Valley will find several farmer's markets in the general area, including just north in Southport or a short drive south to Greenwood.