Melrose Manors - Fort Lauderdale, FL

As a neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale, Melrose Manors has a hand in its abundant history. Much of the vicinity consisted of undeveloped land until the 20th century. After the Florida land boom in the 1920s, real estate emerged, creating the many neighborhoods found today. Although the 1926 Miami Hurricane, the Great Depression in the 1930s and the 1947 Fort Lauderdale Hurricane disturbed the area, the city got back on its feet in the 1950s, becoming a top vacation location for spring breakers.

The Museum of Discovery and Science hosts the annual Bank of American Wine and Culinary Celebration featuring foods from over 30 of South Florida's most tasty restaurants paired with superb wine choices. Check out the arts scene at the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale. Traveling exhibits and magnificent paintings attract guests looking to appreciate the works of talented artists.

Six blocks south of Melrose Manors sits Flanigan's Seafood Bar and Grill. Regulars rave about the grilled dolphin and the chicken teriyaki sandwich along with the Philly cheesesteak. Large portions at reasonable prices please customers.

Wings and More Restaurant serves exactly what its name suggests. Flavorful wings accompanied by curly fries attract customers to this establishment. Try the fried mushroom poppers with horseradish sauce and mozzarella sticks, which make great appetizer options. Slug down an ice-cold brew to wash the wings and fried food down.

For exceptional Cuban cuisine, head to Don Arturo Restaurant. Regulars recommend the snapper fillet and the pork chunks. Wash your meal down with a yummy mojito made with 20-year-old Dictator Rum.

Several nightlife options surround the area. Tap 42 Bar & Kitchen specializes in craft beers and juicy burgers. Check out the daily rotating beer list. J's Bar acts as the neighborhood hangout with a diverse crowd of friendly faces. For awesome specials and two-for-one drinks, swing by during the daily Happy Hour. The Historic Downtowner saloon makes a great place for private parties and America's Backyard has a party atmosphere including a spacious lounge. Residents can also head out for a play at Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

Over 70 percent of residents opt to drive their own vehicles when traveling about the vicinity. Free street parking and quick access to Interstate 95 allows commuters to move about with ease. For those who prefer public transportation, the Broward County Transit bus runs routes connecting Melrose Manors to neighboring areas. Call ahead for a cab, or schedule a ride with Uber if you need to reach a destination in a hurry. Head to the bike paths and trails when cycling or walking as streets are not always safe for pedestrians.

Nearby Esplanade Park adjoins to a riverwalk area and houses a small stage for several events held throughout the year. With its waterfront setting and unbelievable scenery, the park attracts adults who enjoy some fresh air while taking a stroll or going for a jog. The parks hosts the annual New Times International Beerfest, which showcases more than 225 beers found world wide along with live entertainment and appetizing food.

Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium houses a 20,000-seat stadium, which hosts various events and concerts. Bring the children to the kid-friendly water park also located on the grounds. The covered picnic spaces make great spots for lunch outdoors, and the nature trail allows guests to get some exercise by walking or biking. Fees apply to stadium events and water park admission.

Snyder Park: Bark Park serves as the perfect spot to allow your pooch to get some fresh air and exercise. Dogs can roam freely and cool off at the kiddie pools and hoses directly on the property.

The cost of living in Melrose Manors checks in at 12 percent less than the Fort Lauderdale average. Renters spend $829 per month to dwell in a one-bedroom residence. When moving about the area via public transportation, a one-way fare on the Broward County Transit bus costs $1.75, but plan on paying 4 percent more than the national average on gas. When heading out to a local bar for a beer, the average price sets residents back $9; however, dive bars and other venues typically run specials and happy hour prices.

About five miles away from Melrose Manors lies Westfield Broward Mall. Find chain stores such as Macy's, Dillard's, and JCPenney along with stores like Express, Hollister, and Guess. Higher-end stores can be found in nearby Fort Lauderdale and downtown Miami.

Local boutiques surround the area and make excellent shopping options for those who want to support local businesses and stray away from chain stores. Etiquette Boutique in Fort Lauderdale specializes in women's clothing. Browse around and find party dresses, casual wear, cute tops and accessories such as scarves, necklaces, earrings and bangle bracelets.

Lilac and Lilies Boutique showcases women's trendy designer items available for all budgets. Find more that 50 designers on the shelves such as Kendra Scott and Jennifer Zeuner along with Veronica M. Parker and Blank NYC. Head to Shop 603 for unique swimwear, designer jeans and men's and women's sportswear. The shop also sells fragrances and accessories.

Residents favor shopping at farmers markets for fresh produce and other food items. Marando Farms sells fruits and vegetables as well as dairy products and meats. The market remains open daily. Living Green Fresh Market in Oakland Park has exceptional produce and homemade hummus. The market also sells fresh smoothies and made-to-order sandwiches. For those who prefer a supermarket shopping experience, Publix, Comet Food Market and Jojo Food Market all lie in close proximity to Melrose Manors.