Kings Meadow - Miami, FL

During the early 1900s, Miami pioneer Henry Flager used Kings Meadow as a staging area while he constructed the Overseas Railroad that lead to the Florida Keys. The area’s growth continued in the 1930s, evolving around Parrot Jungle, one of South Florida’s first tourist destinations. The community witnessed a shift during the 1950s as ranch-style homes began sprouting up throughout the area. This change led to the neighborhood’s rural and lush landscape it's known for today.

The Wings Over Air Miami Museum serves as a tribute to the men and women who pioneered civilian and military aviation. The museum displays and occasionally flies classic and military airplanes, providing a legacy of aircraft with a rich insight into the lives of the pilots who flew them.

From casual sidewalk cafes to the best in fine dining, Kings Meadow houses a terrific assortment of local and international cuisine options. Residents often say that Wagons West Restaurant serves the best brunch in town. Don't come expecting a slice of cantaloupe and free mimosas when you sit down. Instead, come ready for the witty waitresses and cooks that give this small establishment its charm. Sample the delightful banana nut packages or the club sandwich with a side of crunchy potato fries. Other menu favorites include the crab cakes Benedict and French toast, which go great with a hot cup of local coffee.

When you're looking for an authentic New-York-style deli, stop by Roasters 'n Toasters. This lovely little spot has been a community favorite since 1984. During breakfast, the smell of fresh coffee fills the air wile diners pick from a variety of dishes, such as the smoked whitefish. Try the west slide story at lunch, a baked knish topped with pastrami and corned beef, served over hot sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese.

The waiters at Miss Saigon Bistro dress in traditional Vietnamese odia - long colored dresses - and have a talent for making guests feel welcome. Try the traditional beef pho, which is large enough to share and comes accompanied by rice noodles, chunks of beef, sprouts and hot sauce. The toasty spring rolls have a distinct chewy flavor and make for great appetizers. For dessert, opt in for the strongly brewed Vietnamese coffee with sweet condensed milk.

When the sun goes down, head over to Miller's Ale House to catch a ball game. The establishment contains more than 30 TV sets around the bar area, all tuned into the most popular games going on each day. Appetizers include classics like nachos, spinach dip and their signature chicken zingers, which come packed with tongue-sizzling flavors. Daily drink specials include $9 beer buckets and $5 mixed drinks. Make sure you arrive early if there's a popular game scheduled, or you might not be able to find seats.

Scully's Tavern, another popular nightlife option in the area, delivers a familiar, laid-back atmosphere that serves cold beer until 3 a.m. While you wait for your drinks, pass some time at one of the pool tables in the back. Local DJs play an assortment of popular music on weekend nights, which keeps the party going until the wee hours.

Locals in Kings Meadow prefer to travel by car, as street parking is abundant and free in most places. There are several public transportation options as well, such as the Metrobus, which has a fleet of 16 buses connecting to South Beach, downtown Miami, Miami International Airport and as far north as Aventura.

This friendly suburb has ample sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes, making it easy and safe to hop on a bike or walk to the nearest farmers market. Hailing a cab off the streets may be near impossible, but arranging a pickup with a local company requires a simple phone call. Lyft and Uber are available throughout South Florida.

The South Florida Freeway 864 runs through the middle of town and provides easy access to nearby cities like Aventura, North Miami, Little Havana and Coral Gables.

Take your kids or teens to Kings Meadow’s Park for a fun, fully supervised selection of programs that focus on fitness as well as the appreciation of nature, science and cultural arts. Pet lovers can bring their dogs for a stroll in the pet-friendly walkway that circles the park.

A little farther south, Hammock Park provides 90 acres of mixed hardwood forest with more than 300 species of trees, flowers, shrubs and ferns, combining to make a magical experience in nature with the entire family. Set up camp at one of the serene campgrounds or take a hike through one of the gorgeous nature trails. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as you never know how long you’ll want to stay in this small slice of paradise.

The cost of living in Kings Meadow stands higher than the South Florida average, however, it comes with an added level of luxury and comfort. A one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,130 per month.

A one-way fare on public transportation costs $2.25, while the local trolley system can take you around town for 25 cents. Gas runs about 8 percent lower than the national average, and expect to pay about $4.50 for a pint of beer at a local bar.

Locals in Kings Meadow typically do their shopping at the Falls, one of the largest open-air shopping destinations in the nation. Among the more than 100 stores, you'll find giant retailers like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and American Girl. Make sure to take a stroll through level one, a covered walkway surrounded by a million-gallon waterscape and tropical garden. High-end stores include Coach, Zales, and Brighton.

Enjoy great service and unbeatable prices at Cocoa Couture Boutique, a store that sells unique women styles for a wide range of fits. Francesca’s Collection specializes in new fashion styles for women and men, and has the latest in jewelry, accessories and shoes.

Residents do their groceries at the Publix on Kendall Mall or the Winn Dixie on 104th Street. Wayside Fruit and Vegetable, a quaint outdoor farmers market dishes out amazing fruitcakes, baked goods and snow cones on the weekends.