Middle Creek - Colorado Springs, CO

In 1858, cries of "gold" throughout the Rocky Mountains kicked off the Colorado Gold Rush. Prospectors rushed to the area now referred to as the "Front Range," founding Colorado Springs and other cities.

During the 1900s, the military established a presence in Colorado Springs, and that continues to the present day thanks to the Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, and Peterson and Schriever Air Force Bases.

The area features history museums but for culture, locals drive to Manitou Springs for annual events such as coffin races or to browse through art shops and galleries.

If you feel hungry, restaurants sit scattered throughout the Middle Creek area. In addition to the chains you love, expect to find a few independently owned ethnic eateries and a handful of sports bars.

If you enjoy Asian fare, check out Happy Time Korean Restaurant. This place serves authentic Korean food, comparable to what you find in Seoul, such as spicy pork bulgogi, yu gae and buckwheat noodles. Order dinner and explore the exciting selection of small plates brought to your table, or chase a bargain with the affordable lunch menu.

For a tasty pizza, locals head to Borriello Brothers. This Colorado chain has your favorite toppings heaped on a range of pizza crusts including gluten-free options. You can also explore the appetizers ranging from garlic knots and mozzarella sticks to fried ravioli.

In the evening, Middle Creek residents frequent brew pubs or sports bars. If you want to catch the big game, check out the Back East Bar and Grill. This venue serves a comforting menu full of pub standards such as burgers and wings, and it offers live music on the weekends. When the Broncos, Avalanche or Nuggets aren't playing, join the patrons at this club for trivia or karaoke nights.

If you enjoy beer, the Colorado Mountain Brewery deserves to be on your list of evening entertainment options. This brew pub artfully creates small batches of beer made in classic styles. It also features Colorado elk, lamb and fish on the menu. For a hectic night of dancing at clubs, jump in the car and drive north. Although Colorado Springs does not have a wide range of clubs, you can dance to music ranging from country western to dubstep at clubs in Denver such as Charlie's Denver and The Church.

Middle Creek drivers have access to free parking spots all over their neighborhood and the rest of the Colorado Springs area. Commuters live near exits to Interstate 25, a freeway running through Colorado Springs or north to Denver.

Colorado Springs buses provided limited service to connect the area to the rest of the city. Most residents prefer to rely on cars to get around.

Although safe for walking, Middle Creek does not offer convenience for walkers. Bicyclists can ride on a number of paths through the city including the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail which runs along I-25, and they enjoy safety on the streets' bike lanes.

If you need a ride, cabs and Uber cars serve the area. Call for a pickup in advance.

For an amazing park experience, just outside of town, Middle Creek residents drive to Fox Run Regional Park. This large park hosts playground equipment, picnic shelters and even an off-leash doggie play area. If you want a workout, hike, bike or run through the paths of this park. For a special, check out the Renaissance Festival in Larkspur.

Living in Middle Creek costs more than the average cost of living in Colorado Springs. While the average renter in the Springs pays only $739 for a one-bedroom apartment, renters in Middle Creek pay an average of $892 per month for apartments of the same size.

Buying a pint of craft beer costs locals between $3 and $6. Area gas stations charge 18 percent less than the national average for a gallon of gas, and if you prefer public transit, you can ride the bus anywhere, all day long for only $4.

Middle Creek locals live close to great shopping at The Promenade Shops at Briargate. This outdoor area gives you the chance to stroll along beautiful sidewalks while window shopping at a number of upscale chains including J. Crew, LOFT and others. Find great gifts and fashions as you enjoy the sunny weather and the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

Locals in search of boutiques jump in the car and head to nearby Lillians. This small boutique carries a range of fashions with an emphasis on the vintage beanie. Keep your head warm and your style factor high with the options at this shop.

Other area boutiques such as Danelle's Bridal Boutique and the Something New Boutique carry gowns for brides-to-be. At Danelle's, shoppers can browse the racks for a range of bridal gowns as well as hundreds of prom dresses. At Something New, once you find your perfect gown, the shop plays the "Wedding March" just so you can be sure that everything feels right.

When hunger strikes, the area hosts a range of great chain grocery shops such as Whole Foods and King Soopers. For fresh local produce during the summer months, hit the farmers market held in the parking lot of the Shops at Briargate.