Lansdowne - Charlotte, NC

Long before development of the Lansdowne subdivision was completed in 1959, the land and much of the surrounding area belonged to the Alexander family. Abraham Alexander played a significant role in the creation of the city of Charlotte, and held a position as Director and Trustee of the city’s land. Abraham, along with five of his family members, signed the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence in 1775. The land remained in the Alexander family for some time, although the exact length of time is unclear. By the late 1800s, most of South Charlotte was farmland. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that textile and manufacturing leaders began developing the land to build their own luxurious homes. Lansdowne remains a suburban haven for many of the city’s top business people.

From exotic international cuisine to traditional American fare, there are flavors to please everyone’s tastebuds in and around the Lansdowne area. On the southwest side of the neighborhood, Gleiberman’s Kosher Mart & Deli serves authentic Israeli cuisine featuring freshly cut kosher meats and house-made deli salads. Stop by Sunday evening to enjoy the full dinner menu. Try Moroccan fish, tender beef brisket or grilled lamb shoulder with your choice of rice, potato or fries. Pick up a cupcake, a cookie or a slice of cheesecake for dessert.

To the north of Lansdowne, Red Rocks Cafe, Bar and Bakery cooks up an assortment of American dishes, ranging from unique salads and gourmet burgers, to fresh seafood and tender steaks. Visit between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday for Bloody Marys, mimosas and one of Charlotte’s best brunch menus. There’s nothing like the Lockees’ Breakfast Burger, featuring Black Angus beef, a fried egg, bacon, topped with cheddar cheese and stone grits, all on top of a fresh croissant roll.

The Arboretum, about 10 minutes south on Providence, houses dozens of local, regional and national restaurant chains, including your favorite fast food joints. Ten minutes west of Lansdowne on Fairview, the Southpark Mall features a similar selection, along with several upscale establishments. Find the locals at either shopping center enjoying a drink at one of the many taverns, wine rooms or sports bars. Movie theaters, coffee shops and live music venues provide entertainment in the area. When you’re in the mood for dancing, the best nightclubs await about 20 minutes away if you head toward the city.

Residents own an average of two cars per household in the Lansdowne community because vehicles still provide the easiest way to get around the area. The neighborhood sits along Highway 16 and Providence Road, less than 15 minutes from Highways 74 and 51. The drive to Interstate 77 takes about 20 minutes, while Interstate 485 connects about half an hour away.

Many bus stops serve the area, along with an assortment of taxi companies and Uber. Walking doesn't prove a safe or reliable mode of transportation, but several of the surrounding roadways are bike-friendly. Dedicated bike lanes connect the Lansdowne neighborhood with McAlpine Creek Park, so it's easy for residents to enjoy an afternoon of cycling at the Greenway.

Nature lovers appreciate the neighborhood’s easy access to local parks and greenways. James Boyce Park borders the southeast side of Lansdowne and provides a space for outdoor fun for the entire family. Multipurpose trails for jogging, biking and walking wind through the 73-acre park, along with a covered picnic area, 2 softball fields and a playground. The park also provides access to McAlpine Creek Park with additional trails, a fishing pier and one of the city’s five off-leash dog parks. There's no admission charge for either park, and leashed dogs are welcome throughout both facilities.

One thing that sets South Charlotte apart from other areas remains the high cost of living. Lansdowne residents earn an average annual salary of almost $80,000, well above the national average. High home values and increased rental rates account for the community's higher cost index. Renters can expect to pay about $731 per month to live in one of Lansdowne's single bedroom townhomes, while detached dwellings and multi-bedroom apartments rent for much more. Lansdowne residents usually don't pay more than other Charlotteans for other goods and services. Domestic bottled beers are about $3 at most of the local bars, and gasoline prices run about 4 percent more than the national average throughout the city. When you take the bus to Uptown, plan to pay $4.40, and allow yourself at least half an hour.

Lansdowne residents never need to travel far for shopping. The upscale Southpark Mall, featuring over 150 nationally-known retailers, awaits residents less than 10 minutes away, while the nearby Arboretum houses dozens of additional stores, including high-end consignment shops and favorite regional chains that specialize in handmade jewelry, trendy fashions and home decor. You can find more choices when you travel 10 minutes north of Lansdowne to Cotswold Village Shops or 15 minutes southwest to Carmel Commons Shopping Center.

All of the nearby shopping malls have grocery stores on site, ranging from classy Harris Teeters to Fresh Food and Whole Food Markets, but the nearest farmers market remains at least 20 minutes away. In historic South End, Atherton Market features an assortment of goods from local farmers, chefs and artisans, alongside several other locally-owned shops and boutiques. Visit Barbara at the Canine Cafe, and pick up gourmet dog treats or 'pawty' cakes that are baked fresh each day. A Shade Above serves as the best place to go for all your window fashion needs.