Meadowlane - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln was settled in 1858, then known as Lancaster, and became the state capital when it's named was changed to honor the 16th U.S. president in 1867. The city boasts many major employers along with the state and local government. The Meadlowlane neighborhood grew to house employees of institutions such as the University of Nebraska and St. Elizabeth Medical Center and provide residents with an easy commute to downtown. This key location resulted in rapid home production in the 1930s and '40s, resulting in construction of many quaint Craftsman-style homes. With steady population growth and land to build on, development continued into the '60s. Since that time, development and construction has been minimal, ensuring that the neighborhood has kept its distinct aesthetic.

Meadowlane itself has very few businesses and does not have any museums or annual events, but residents head to downtown Lincoln for a hearty dose of arts and culture.

With homes and schools being the primary focus in the neighborhood, the number of restaurants and watering holes is limited. Without a central dining hub, families often pick up dinner on their way home from work or walk to the location closest to their home.

Lincoln favorite Honest Abe's Burgers and Freedom serves up some of the city's best burgers. They're not shy about claiming that either, with "the greatest burger ever" — an all-beef patty topped with bacon, American cheese and house sauce — having a prominent place on the menu. For something less traditional, try the gladiator, with salami, balsamic mayo, Parmesan and spinach for a fun Italian spin. When it comes to sides, the truffle fries can't be missed. The small joint with artwork representing its namesake president doesn't have many seats, so many patrons get their burgers to go.

For a coffee date or take-out pastries Le Quartier Baking Company satisfies with sweet treats and savory dishes. Large frothy lattes and croissant breakfast sandwiches make this a pleasant place to meet up with a friend or stop in after a morning run. On your way out the door, grab a fresh-baked loaf of bread or pan of cinnamon rolls.

When you want to slip out for a Saturday night drink or need a cold one after work, One More Bar sports a dive-bar atmosphere with a friendly staff and a variety of brews. The cash-only bar serves up cheap drinks, perfect for a Saturday afternoon watching the University of Nebraska's Cornhuskers play.

This primarily residential neighborhood has plenty of sidewalks and quiet streets for post-dinner strolls or walking to school. During warmer months, biking around the neighborhood for exercise or to commute to work remains easy. The area doesn't have bike lanes, but the low traffic makes it quite safe to ride a bike on the street. For drivers, free street parking is easy to find in the area.

The neighborhood, bordered by busy O Street and heavily trafficked North 84th Street, provides easy access Highway 34, Highway 6 and Interstate 80, all in less than 10 minutes. North 70th Street also runs through the middle of the neighborhood, which runs into downtown Lincoln and marks the fastest route to the state capital.

Hailing a cab can be quite challenging, so calling ahead and ordering a ride from local taxi services saves time and frustration when you a lift. Uber also services the area, providing a convenient transportation alternative.

Herbert Park, in the southeast corner of the neighborhood, has nearly 8 acres of sprawling land to facilitate outdoor activities. With a long and winding trail, you can jog, take the kids to ride bikes or take the dog for a run. Surrounded by wooded areas with some incline, it also makes for a scenic hiking area. The trail runs along a small, calm portion of Dead Man's Run, a major river that cuts through the area. The park also has a large play field for soccer or playing with the kids. With a large slide and monkey bars, the playground also keeps the kids entertained for hours. Picnic tables and a covered pavilion make the park great for parties and picnics as well. Despite the space for events, the neighborhood does play home to any annual events or festivals.

You'll almost always find serious athletes, outdoor enthusiasts and families running, biking and hiking along the Dead Man's Run trail. Stretching for 22 miles, this trail showcases the beautiful natural scenery of the region.

Meadowlane comes with a reasonable and attainable price tag. Bus fare from the neighborhood to downtown costs $1.75 each way. For a one-bedroom apartment, rent typically goes for about $570 a month. A pint of beer at a neighborhood pub costs around $3, and a tank of gas clocks in below the national average with a gallon, running seven percent less than the U.S. average.

Meadowlane houses a mixture of small shops that have been serving the neighborhood for decades and large chain retailers. At the Meadowlane Shopping Center, you'll find several shops and restaurants, including an ACE Hardware.

For a more traditional shopping experience, the Gateway Mall is also located within Meadowlane. Here you'll find departments stores like JCPenney and Dillard's as well as national chains like GameStop, Bath and Body Works, and Payless.

Selling everything from make-up to prescriptions, Lincoln Neighborhood Pharmacy has a small-town vibe reminiscent of days gone bye. The staff makes a point to get to know clients, often remembering regulars and building a repertoire that fosters community and confidence.

For day-to-day groceries, Aldi and Russ's Market service the area. Aldi carries wine, beer, spirits and name-brand and generic food products. Russ's Market sports a pharmacist, a florist and a wide variety of groceries. For specialty and organic items, Akins Natural Food Market carries seasonal and local produce.