Mill Run - Hilliard, OH

Mill Run developed rapidly in the 1960s as a result of the growth of industry in Columbus and in the surrounding areas. Like much of the residential development on the outskirts of the city, Mill Run originally served as farmland. The neighborhood rests near the Scioto River, where mills once commonly ground wheat, giving its name historical precedent. Many Mill Run residents commute to Columbus, while others work locally in healthcare, education or the service industry. Like most suburban neighborhoods in and around Columbus, the area exemplifies a Midwestern attitude and has a work and family oriented culture. Mill Run’s arts scene includes United Art and Education, which provides arts and crafts for the community. The community hosts an annual marathon as well. Residents often head into Columbus for festivals and enjoy attending the occasional sporting event.

For such a small neighborhood, Mill Run has a vibrant social scene. The Movie Tavern serves as a popular place to relax and have a meal. You can have a beer with a couple of friends or enjoy a film and take a pleasant walk afterwards. Gallo's Kitchen and Bar on Nottingham Road serves tasty Italian and Cajun food. The special pumpkin habanero wings go highly recommended. If you're in the mood for something different, check out Daruma Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi on Ridge Mill Drive. Their hibachi certainly comes recommended.

For a little more nightlife activity, residents typically make a foray into the city with a short lift from Uber or a designated driver. Columbus features hundreds of great bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Many of these loom in the arena district around University Campus. Ugly Tuna Saloona on North High Street hosts a giant circular bar, ample tables and a dance floor. Meanwhile, establishments in the ‘Short North' tend to keep a low key atmosphere. These establishments host simple bars with pool tables and classic radio hits, like Brothers Drake Meadery and Bar on 5th Avenue.

Bands that come through Columbus often play at the Ohio Theatre or Newport Music Hall, while smaller venues typically host the local bands. Sports fans may want to attend a Columbus Bluejackets hockey game or see the Columbus Crew compete. Aside from this, the Ohio Stadium offers an epic venue for football for Ohio State University fans.

Mill Run sits about 15 minutes of driving time from the center of the city, however, during rush hour this time can double. The community borders I-270, a major city thoroughfare, making transportation easy. Most residents rely on their cars to get around. However, the bus system managed by COTA provides reliable service as well. It costs $2 for a one-way trip, $25 weekly and $65 monthly.

Taxis seldom look for passengers in the neighborhood so make sure to call ahead, but Uber provides services in the area. Mill Run features plenty of residential parking. Parking garages downtown offer spaces which generally cost around $5, but these disappear quickly during big sporting events. Local bike trails connect to neighboring communities, serving as great ways to get some exercise, and neighborhood streets are safe for bikers as well. Community streets are lined with sidewalks, making walking around the neighborhood very easy.

At the center of the community rests a small a pond, and Duranceaux Park and Crigs Park are located nearby. The latter runs along the bank of the Scioto River, where residents often enjoy picnics during sunny days. Joggers frequent this park in the morning, and kids often join their parents on family picnics. Leashed dogs are welcomed at all neighborhood parks, so feel free to bring your favorite pooch with you.

Families often come out to enjoy the many festivals held in area parks, including the jazz festival, the Greek festival and the ribs festival. In fact, Columbus holds a festival nearly every single weekend, and the massively popular Ohio State Fair takes place every summer. Schiller Park downtown has a large placid pond and an outdoor theatre where plays are shown at inexpensive rates. The arboretum here houses hundreds of rare and beautiful plants. Joggers and speed walkers hurry along these manicured paths to enjoy an incredible view while getting in their daily workouts.

Living in Mill Run costs about the city average. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment rests around $900. Public transportation costs $2 for a one-way ticket on a bus. A beer at the local pub costs about $4, but this gets more expensive at fancier establishments. Eating-out costs about $10. Gas prices in Mill Run trend around nine percent below the national average.

Shopping in the community of Mill Run is limited, but easy transportation allows the residents to enjoy the eclectic variety of downtown Columbus.

For necessities and groceries, Market at Mill Run serves as the major local shopping center. A local Target store serves the community as well. A farmers market in the Short North sells community produce, including fresh vegetables, fruits, and eggs.

Traditional chain grocers such as Aldi and Kroger are located just a short drive outside of the neighborhood.

Downtown, residents often shop in the "Short North" district. The Polaris Fashion Center sits 20 minutes driving time away, and further down I-270 rests the giant Easton Mall. See a movie here to take a break from shopping. For boutique goods, the Short North offers great selection. Small shops such as Homage, Tiger Tree, and What the Rock can help you cultivate your clothing style.