Little River Miami, FL

From the 1850s to 1925, the vicinity was known as Lemon City due to the abundance of lemon groves that permeated the neighborhood. In 1925, Lemon City became annexed into Little River to the north and Buena Vista to the south, although several residents still refer to the area as Lemon City. Little Haiti did not earn its name until the late 1980s when Haitian immigrants flocked to the neighborhood, turning it from an agricultural community to a residential one. Today, new investors continue to work on developing the area.

The Little Haiti Cultural Center serves as the neighborhood museum, displaying Haitian art, sculptures and crafts. Sign up for a ceramics class or catch an Afro-Caribbean folk dancing performance at the on-site 270-person-occupancy theater. Celebrate Miami Heritage Month annually in December by heading to the museum and participating in scheduled events uncovering the cultural influences in the area.

Experience a wide variety of dining options in the Little Haiti neighborhood. Feast on traditional American food at Blue Collar, including braised platters and succulent ribs. Locals love the mac and cheese with bacon and the shrimp and grits. Order the bread pudding or the chocolate cake for dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Sample authentic Argentinian dishes at Fiorito restaurant. Try the Milanese sandwich accompanied by fried papas or the pumpkin soup and sweet bread. The octopus a la plancha and empanadas also rate as favorites among regulars.

For flavorful brick-oven pizza, you won't go wrong at Andiamo. The godfather pizza, topped with various meats and veggies, melts in your mouth. Order the classic New Yorker pizza smothered in cheese and pepperoni. Enjoy your meal while taking in some fresh air in the outdoor seating area.

In Little Haiti, the nightlife scene flourishes with pubs and lounges along with dance clubs and dive bars. Locals hang out at Churchill's for the energetic rock bands that play live music. On Mondays nights, be a part of the jazz and jam night; sip on a cocktail while rocking out to the local beats. Dance the night away at the News Lounge, or experience the piano bar at Magnum Lounge. Check out the amazing happy hour specials at Balans Restaurant and Bar.

Approximately 70 percent of residents prefer to drive their own vehicles when moving about the neighborhood. Commuters revel in easy access to Interstate 95 and available parking at reasonable rates. For those looking to ditch the car and utilize public transportation, jump aboard the Miami-Dade Metrobus system, which has routes connecting Little Haiti to neighboring towns and cities. Due to the area's close proximity to Miami, hailing a cab won't be difficult, and you can also call ahead for Uber service. When riding a bike or walking, it's in your best interest to use a bike trail as most streets do not accommodate those looking to cycle or walk.

Experience the great outdoors at surrounding area parks. Little Haiti Soccer Park awaits those looking to have fun while participating in recreational sports. The soccer fields and playground provide fun for all ages. Splash around at the on-site water park on a hot day. The park does offer after school, summer, winter and spring break camps for kids, but these require fees. The park hosts the GOTV Canvass event typically held in October.

Slightly outside of Little Haiti in North Miami lies Oleta River State Park. Get some exercise by hitting the biking and hiking trails with the pooch, or head out on the water to raft or kayak. Take in the remarkable views that leave guests amazed and at peace with nature, or rent out a pavilion for a picnic or party. Sign up for the many biking, hiking and kayaking events that occur here throughout the year. Kids require adult supervision when participating in any water activity.

The cost of living in Haiti checks in at 9 percent less than the Miami average. Renters pay $794 a month to dwell in a one-bedroom residence. With gas prices 4 percent higher than the national average, save some cash and take a one-way ride on the Miami-Dade Metrobus for $2.25. When enjoying the nightlife scene, expect to pay $9 for a beer at a club and half the price at a local dive bar.

Shopping malls and high-end stores lie right outside of Little Haiti in Miami. Shoppers find locally owned boutiques in the immediate area selling clothing and accessories as well as sports wear and swimwear. Rebel boutique specializes in children's and women's clothing. Find designers such as Karina Grimaldi and Ramona LaRue, and browse through the designer consignment section for some amazing deals. Locals also enjoy shopping at Bahdi Boutique for women's workout wear. The boutique carries Hard Tail High Performance and Splits 59 out of Los Angeles and Planet Body and MC out of Brazil. While picking out the perfect workout gear, don't forget to grab a yoga mat and recycled mat bag sold right at the shop. For all of your swimwear needs, head to I Shine 365. Find top swim labels, modern designers and more affordable lines perfect for every budget.

Residents who prefer to support local farmers and vendors shop at Upper Eastside Farmers Market for fresh produce. Customers can also find eggs and made-to-order juices along with a selection of baked goods, honey and jams. If you would rather shop at a supermarket, head to Mercy Lowes Food Supermarket or Zubi Supermarket for all your every day grocery needs.