Mockingbird Hills - Omaha, NE

Originally a rural area utilized primarily for cattle ranching, the Mockingbird Hills neighborhood began to develop in the 1880s. The growth in stockyard operations and meat packing industry caused immigrants to flock to the area in hopes of finding work. This onslaught of workers and families resulted in a diverse population with people coming from both Eastern and Western Europe. This also brought many sects of religious institutions. With Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, All Holy Spirit Greek Orthodox Church, and Community Bible Church all still providing a place of worship to the actively religious community.

The area continued to develop through the mid- 20th century; a time period when many of the homes were constructed and many of these still provide housing for the now primarily residential area. The Mockingbird Community Center serves as a hub for the community, annually hosting a special Valentine's Day swimming event.

As a low key neighborhood it should come as no surprise that the restaurants and pubs have an equally relaxed feel and atmosphere. Most restaurants and businesses run along busy L street.

Buffalo Company, an Omaha favorite, will satisfy even the biggest mid-western appetite. Serving up wings, subs, pizza and sides the menu has something for everyone. The wings come in both Buffalo and dry-rubbed style, with nearly 10 different sauce options. For carb lovers trying to keep things less sticky, the buffalo chicken sandwich is a favorite.

For an entertaining meal, look no further than Korea King. The ethnic eatery serves up a variety of authentic dishes. The Bulgogi entree, a date-night favorite, comes with a flame-heated hot plate that allows guests to cook dinner at the table. Bulgogi, a marinated meat-based dish, comes with seasonable veggies, sauces and kimchi.

From grunge bands on a Friday night to 80s cover bands, The 21st Saloon provides plenty of night time entertainment, tasty drinks and a relaxed atmosphere to get together with friends or just to get out of the house. On Thursdays they feature Blues tunes and bring in regional and national artists on a regular basis.

If you need a stiff cocktail after a long week The Getaway Lounge will fill up your cup. With a jukebox, pool table and flat screen televisions on every wall, this bar will quickly become your neighborhood favorite. With many regulars coming in to watch games, blow off steam or get together with friends, you will always find someone to chat with and share a drink.

With wide sidewalks and properly maintained streets, families frequently walk and bike around the neighborhood during warm, sunny months. The streets do not have bike lanes despite their wide construction. During the summer months when the days are long and hot, families can be seen walking around the neighborhood; in the fall and spring, locals typically walk home from school or work. During the snowy and cold winter months, people are more inclined to drive.

Mockingbird Hill can easily access Downtown Omaha, Council Bluffs and Millard Airport. Intersecting with L-Street, Highways 92 and 85, and major thorough way South 96th Street, the neighborhood has direct pathways to major academic institutions, business hubs and recreational activities.

The primarily residential area has plenty of free parking options with many businesses providing parking lots. Like most suburban areas, hailing a cab can be difficult. If you need a cab, be sure to call ahead to order transportation. The app-driven car service, Uber, also services the neighborhood. A variety of bus lines run by Omaha Metro service the area.

The small neighborhood houses two large parks; Mockingbird Hill Park and Mockingbird Heights Park. Mockingbird Hill, the larger of the two, has large rolling fields with lush greenery and large trees providing scenery and shade. With a row of homes bordering one edge of the park, the park is sought after for its beautiful views, lush greenery and access to the Big Papillion Creek. With ample space in these fields, running the dog or getting in an outdoor workout is quite convenient. Adjacent to the babbling brook lives the Mockingbird Hills Community Center. The community center serves as a hub for families, youth, adults and seniors for fitness and recreational activities. The city-run center has a swimming pool, provides classes and facilitates sports leagues. Toddlers can take gym classes or intro to ballet. Tae Kwon Do, Pilates and cardio classes also fill the list of class options. For teens looking to join the workforce, lifeguard certification classes are offered seasonally.

Surrounded by homes, Mockingbird Heights Park has become the dream backyard for those lucky enough to have a house bordering the publicly maintained park. With rolling fields and deeply rooted trees, the park provides a beautiful backdrop or varied terrain for self-motivated exercise. The park does not have any fields or paved paths for running. Neither park hosts an annual event or festival.

Mockingbird Hills draws in families due to the affordable prices and desire to stretch their dollar. With such close proximity to the heart of the city, the cost of living comes in below other major pockets of Omaha. This low-cost pocket neighborhood can easily access the downtown area. With bus fare costing just $1.25, those looking to reduce their carbon footprint can easily head to dinner or go shopping. On average, a one-bedroom apartment will rent for $607 a month. At The Getaway Lounge a Miller Light will only cost you $2. Fueling up in the neighborhood also comes in below the national average with a tank of gas costing 10-percent less than the national average.

The small, pocket neighborhood does not have any boutique shops or chain stores for errands or groceries. Residents must drive to neighboring neighborhoods for groceries, clothing or basic necessities.

Bergman Jewelers has been in business since 1888 just north of Mockingbird Hills. The local business specializes in fine jewelry, offering custom designs and carrying vintage pieces. From engagement rings to pearl earrings they have something for everyone.

Just a short walk south of Mockingbird Heights Park, you can pick up a gift basket or some natural beauty products at It's All About Bees. The boutique shop carries natural honey, candles and body care products.

Just a five minute drive from the heart of Mockingbird Hills, Hy-Vee Market has a fully-stocked grocery department in addition to a pharmacy. The facility also has an on site bakery, salad and sushi bars.