Lincoln Heights Los Angeles, CA

Around 1830, the area that is now Lincoln Heights was included in a Spanish land grant. Back then, it was known as East Los Angeles. Albert Sidney Johnston was the commander of the US Army Department of the Pacific in California. Loyal to his adopted home state of Texas, Johnston resigned his post when the Civil War began and he learned that Texas had seceded from the Union. Eventually, he became commander of the Confederacy's western armies. He participated in several battles, and was wounded at the Battle of Shiloh. Thinking the bullet to his knee wasn't anything serious, he sent the doctor away and tended to wounded Union soldiers. The bullet had clipped a major artery and he bled to death, roughly one hour after being wounded. Johnston Street is named for him, and the neighborhood changed its name to Lincoln Heights as a tribute to Johnston's role in the war and his conflicted loyalties. In addition to the historic San Antonio Winery, Lincoln Heights is home to historic Lincoln Park (established in 1881). This was one of the city's first parks. Those who appreciate art should visit The Brewery Artwalk, a twice-a-year event that takes visitors on a tour of the Brewery Art Colony. Pieces can be purchased and visitors typically have the opportunity to speak with the artists themselves.

Open 24 hours, Carnitas Michoacan gives is the perfect place to satisfy late-night Mexican food cravings. Generous portions at a low price mean you can bring your friends and chow down on the cheap. If you love meat, try the carne asada burrito, and wash it down with a cold horchata. Beer enthusiasts should check out Barbara's at the Brewery. Its location in the Brewery Artist Colony gives it a quirky vibe, with pieces by local artists hanging on the walls. The Brewery Artist Colony dates back to 1982, when a change in zoning laws allowed artists to live and work in industrially-zoned buildings. Located in the former Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery, this colony has been hailed as the "world's largest art complex." Dino's Burgers serves your food fast and has the appeal of an old school diner. The hole-in-the-wall location makes this place feel like a hidden gem, and it has plenty of regulars, a testament to the quality of the food. The burgers may be the main attraction, but try out one of the breakfast burritos when you want to start your day with a big meal. The neighborhood's unique nightlife scene includes a lot of everything, from local bars to dance clubs, all with their own style. If you want to see live music and dance, check out the Airliner. To make it interesting, the club projects movies onto the wall while bands perform. Go on Wednesdays for Low End Theory, a chance to hear intriguing genre combinations from local DJs.

Residents have several options for getting around their neighborhood, including cars, buses, or walking. Motorists have quick access to several freeways for commuting to the rest of the city. Interstate 5, running north and south, cuts through the neighborhood. Interstate 110, also running north and south, intersects with the 5 on the neighborhood's north end. When you need to go east or west, just hop on Interstate 10, which lies immediately south. You can find affordable parking lots and street parking. Those without cars have several public transportation options. Sixteen bus lines service the area, with the Metro Gold Line available for longer trips. Head over to the Lincoln/Cypress Station for access to the Gold Line and multiple bus routes including the Metro Rapid 751 and 794 routes. Taxis and ride share companies such as Uber service the neighborhood. Pickup times vary, but the central location and popularity of the area mean you usually don't have to wait long. With mostly flat terrain and an area of less than 2.5 square miles, Lincoln Heights can be traveled quickly by foot or bike. You can handle most errands without a car.

Historic Lincoln Park is a neighborhood gem. As LA's first park, it hasn't changed all that much since it opened in 1881. Enjoy spectacular views, a beautiful lake, picnic areas, a playground, ball fields, a recreation center, and a senior center. Get a workout in at the gym while the kids learn to skateboard or play some basketball at the Lincoln Heights Recreation Center. Designed for those of all ages, the recreation center holds events for teens every Friday night and has free classes for kids. Fees for other activities vary based on the class.

Life in this neighborhood carries a lower price than most areas in Los Angeles. The cost of leasing apartments or houses tends to be inexpensive. A one bedroom apartment in Lincoln Heights usually rents for about $900 per month, although you may find even cheaper arrangements. A Metro ride to the city center costs $1.75, and gas prices come in around 14 percent higher than the national average. A pint at the local pub costs about $4.

Although not a shopping hub like other parts of Los Angeles, the neighborhood of Lincoln Heights does have a collection of small, independent shops. Stock up on job-specific clothing at 5 Points Men's Clothing on Pasadena Avenue. This compact shop that caters to men, women, and children carries everything from medical scrubs to reflective safety vests. The store also takes custom orders for businesses and individuals. Those in the market for jewelry should head over to Claudia Endler Designs, which provides designs featuring modern cuts with an edgy touch. The price reflects the quality of the designs, and you can be sure that any jewelry you buy is a unique work of art. Large grocers in the neighborhood include Big Saver Foods and Smart & Final. Big Saver Foods gives residents a place to get their groceries at a low price, and it also offers ethnic foods, such as chorizo, mole, and chicharrones. Since the neighborhood doesn't have a farmers market, those looking for fresh produce generally shop at Smart & Final.