Martin Manchester, CT

The first European settlers arrived in Manchester in 1673, forming a small community of sawmills and paper mills. By 1900, Manchester was a booming industrial city dominated by the Cheney Brothers' silk and fabric company. The Martin neighborhood remained largely undeveloped well into the 20th century, making it one of the city's most modern suburban areas. Living in Martin gives you easy access to the Lutz Children's Museum, a family friendly museum with historical exhibits, live animals and special programs for kids. Head downtown for a number of annual events such as the Manchester Dog Festival and the highly anticipated Peach Festival.

The few charming restaurants surrounding the Martin neighborhood uphold the area's wilderness theme with scenic views and upscale vibes. A short drive into downtown Manchester takes you into a diverse culinary scene featuring everything from hand-tossed pizza to Asian cuisine and classic diner food. Historic buildings and antique decor celebrating local history adorn the area's spread of casual dining establishments, creating a laid-back environment that's sure to keep you coming back. Nestled against a pond and the rolling green acres of the Manchester Country Club, Waterview Cafe is a hidden gem featuring an elegant atmosphere and a peaceful patio for outdoor dining when the weather permits. Stop by on Thursdays for deep discounts on wine bottles, and choose from basic cafe fare like burgers, soups, and salad while enjoying breathtaking views from your table. For unique culinary creations, keep an eye out for popular daily specials like steak quesadillas and seared shrimp and scallops. Martin locals head downtown to dine on specialty "Blockbuster" pizzas like the cheeseburger-inspired White Castle at Mulberry Street Pizza. Start your meal off with a plate of nachos with pulled pork, and resist the temptation to fill up on pizza so you can try a piece of lush carrot cake topped with fresh cream. This local pizzeria also keeps a nice variety of beers on tap with options like Ten Penny Ale brewed in the neighboring community of East Hartford. For lunch and breakfast staples at eye-popping prices, pull up a chair at Fani's Kitchen. A downtown favorite, this local diner serves up one of the best crispy chicken wraps in town. If you're feeling adventurous, ask the staff to add bacon for an indulgent touch. Stop by in the morning for some short stacks or poached eggs on toast. When it comes to nightlife, most locals go downtown to explore the laid-back grill and sports bar scene. However, you always find an eager crowd at the Hungry Tiger Music Club & Cafe, a hot spot for live music performed by local bands and other special events. Choose from nine beers on tap, and keep an eye on the daily drink specials with slashed prices.

Martin residents enjoy easy access to the Hartford area via Interstate 384 while Main Street provides a quick trip to downtown Manchester. You never have a hard time finding free street parking in the area, and local ride-share and cab services like Uber and Ace Taxi Service offer a quick ride to your destination. The CT Transit buses make no stops in or around the neighborhood, making this a largely car-dependent community. For a greener alternative, you can also take your bike down the numerous bike-friendly roads during the warmer months. Due to the immediate area's lack of amenities, it can be tough to run errands on foot.

Manchester's rich collection of public parks remains one of the city's greatest treasures, and the Martin neighborhood lies within walking distance of several beautiful green spaces. Visit Globe Hollow Field to bathe in the family friendly outdoor pool during the summer, or stop by to walk your dog while enjoying views of the reservoir. For a more natural landscape, head to Case Mountain Recreation Area to hike or mountain bike through dense hardwood forests. Check out the stone bridge, cast your line into Case Pond or choose from seven trails that spread out from four trailheads. You can reach the summit of Case Mountain in about 25 minutes, and the views of the city below are nothing short of breathtaking.

Martin residents enjoy a below-average cost of living for the Manchester metro area. When searching for a one-bedroom apartment, expect rental rates of around $892. Gas prices hover around 11 percent above the national average, and grabbing a pint of beer at Hungry Tiger and other local pubs costs $6 to $7.

Maintaining its residential character, the Martin neighborhood has few shopping options along its forested streets. However, a short drive into downtown Manchester takes you to one of the city's most eclectic shopping scenes complete with hand-made furniture shops, bead stores, boutiques and antique shops with prices to fit every budget. Stroll down the traditional downtown-style retail strip for some serious window shopping. Browse a beautiful display of fine china, collectible dolls and vintage costume jewelry at Silk City Antiques and Decor. Purchase a vintage dresser, mirror or painting to add an air of mystery and elegance to your home, or pick up an antique table lamp to brighten up your bedroom. If you're on the hunt for a specific item, put your name on the shop's waiting list so the staff can notify you when something arrives. Explore a magical display of incense, tapestries and polished stones at Harvest Beads and Silver, a whimsical craft boutique that has been serving local beaders for decades. Choose from a nice selection of beading supplies, or pick up some ready-made jewelry such as shimmering silver chains. Head to Highland Park Market to pick up your weekly groceries, or find your meal-time staples at Desi Grocery. If you crave local fruits and veggies, check out the farmers market in downtown Manchester.