Meadows - Indianapolis, IN

Though central Indiana has hosted a rich history of European settlers and Native American tribes, area's city history dates back to around 1950. What started as a suburban destination for families grew into a relatively dilapidated region with high crime rates. In 2009, the city announced plans to revitalize the Meadows, and the subsequent reinvestment in the area brought life to the neighborhood with many new facilities and businesses.

Only a mile away, rich cultural centers such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art and The Children's Museum of Indianapolis have exhibits and events aimed to please the whole family, in addition to a rolling list of exhibits to enjoy. While visitors may find catching a show or art exhibit difficult in the neighborhood, several local recording studios, such as So Serious Entertainment and Caboose Productions, keep the area musically grounded.

A huge selection of restaurants awaits residents of the Meadows neighborhood, regardless of what type of food they're craving. The Taco and Burrito Place wins raves from locals for its spicy salsa, amazing guacamole and incredible prices; fans describe it as an incredible taco truck that you can always find.

More Mexican food awaits you just down the street at Paco's Taqueria, which serves authentic Mexican food prepared fast and to order. Its small building makes it easy to walk up and eat outside or get something to go.

Julia's Homestyle cooks up sumptuous and savory meals, perfect for whenever you need good old-fashioned comfort food, but with a Caribbean twist. The back of the house is often creative and adventurous, so the menu is different nearly every day. Being a family run restaurant, their service is exceptional as they treat you like one of their own.

Less than a mile north of the neighborhood, a small district of lounges and bars, such as Marco's Restaurant and Lounge Bar and Pawn Shop Pub, draws in a crowd of satisfied guests every weekend.

Residents and visitors of the Meadows can choose almost any type of transportation they see fit in the moment. IndyGo, Indianapolis' public transit service, provides extensive coverage in the neighborhood, a perk of living close to downtown. The occasional cab can be found on the street, but travelers find calling ahead to be a safer bet. Uber also services the area.

Choosing to drive yourself often gives the most ease of movement throughout the area. The neighborhood sits right in the middle of Highway 52 to the east, Interstate 70 to the south and Interstate 65 to the west, with on-ramps just a couple miles away.

Limited biking lanes make cycling from place to place a possibility, but bikers and walkers often opt to drive at night. Pedestrians feel safer during the day, but with previously high crime rates, you should always be careful on foot or on bike.

Quite a bit of area revitalization has left a lot more green in the Meadows area, but for the true park experience you'll want to head south to Washington Park. Similar to other area parks, Washington Park can be accessed free of charge and welcomes the entire family. Designated areas welcome your furry companions as well.

Although neither Washington Park nor any of its neighboring parks, such as Beckwith Park and Oscar Charleston Park, have specific areas just for exercise buffs, you can certainly stay active in parks near the Meadows neighborhood. A disc golf course, small athletic courts and many open fields keep patrons active. Small annual events on various national holidays, as well as certain seasonal events, keep the parks busy.

Though usually in flux do to continuous redevelopment, prospective residents in the Meadows find the cost of living to be a bit lower than the city average. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment comes in at a very reasonable $505 per month, substantially lower than in several other Indianapolis neighborhoods.

Getting out of the neighborhood and throughout the city via public transportation won't break the bank, with the cost of a single bus ride at less than $2. Budget $4 if you wish to purchase a day pass, and seniors and minors receive half off of every fare IndyGo offers. Filling up your tank costs about 7 percent less than the national average price for gas. With a wide selection of local and neighborhood bars to choose from, you need not look very far at all if you want to get a beer for $2 to $3 dollars.

The Meadows is littered with all sorts of chain stores and locally-owned shops. DemKels Boutique keeps you decked out and feeling fabulous with nail care, fashion leggings, and hair products. The friendly staff loves to assist you to find the perfect color, cut, or accessory to bring your Friday-night outfit to the next level.

Most grocery shopping requires a drive to one of several chain grocers like nearby ALDI, Safeway, or Fresh Market. While no traditional farmers markets have set up shop in the neighborhood, a quick trip north yields a very modern alternative at Locally Grown Gardens.