North Avondale - Cincinnati, OH

North Avondale can trace its roots to the mid-1800s, when wealthy merchants began to buy parcels of land in the area for large homes and estates. The neighborhood continued to grow over the next several decades, and the city of Cincinnati annexed North Avondale in 1896. Public services like police and fire protection became more widespread after the city's annexation.

In the mid 1900s, many residents began to relocate to newer suburbs on the outskirts of the city, and the population of North Avondale began to change. Residents formed the North Avondale Neighborhood Association in 1960 to fight block-busting and promote intra-community relations. Thanks to these efforts, North Avondale remains a racially and economically diverse and stable neighborhood.

Though the neighborhood includes no museums, the community values the arts. The North Avondale Montessori school hosts several student music programs and art showings throughout the year.

North Avondale residents prefer quick and affordable dining options to more luxurious fare. If you're planning a swanky night out, head to other neighborhoods. For the best independent fast food options in the city, North Avondale has you covered. Richie's Fast Food Restaurant, a Cincinnati staple, offers traditional comfort food for the whole family. Dig into fried chicken, candied yams and cornbread. Order dinner for yourself, or take home a party platter to share at your next family event. Another Cincinnati fast food original, Hook Fish and Chicken serves fried chicken, fish and sandwiches from a walk-up window. Sample the jumbo shrimp, or give the gyro a try. Accompanied with fries and tartar sauce, these fast food classics attract locals and visitors alike. Nightlife in North Avondale is sparse and casual, but residents will find a few options for evening entertainment. Head over to Sonny's All Blues Cafe and Lounge for live entertainment most nights of the week. Sip on local brews while enjoying some of Cincinnati's best up-and-coming blues bands in this intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

Locals in North Avondale usually travel by car. While some areas are pedestrian-friendly, shopping centers and restaurants are more widely dispersed than in other areas. Residents can enjoy a walk through the tight-knit residential streets, but car or bus travel is necessary for running errands or a night out. Business and dining areas in North Avondale provide ample parking, with plenty of free lots and metered spaces along the street.

For cyclists, conditions throughout the neighborhood vary. The streets don't include bike lanes, and some busy areas can be challenging to negotiate. Less-trafficked, residential streets are the preferred choice for bikers.

When it comes to public transportation, Cincinnati's SORTA metro bus offers a variety of routes connecting North Avondale to nearly anywhere else in the city. If you're hoping to catch a cab, you won't usually be able to hail one right off the street. Plan to call ahead or use Uber ride-share service for a convenient ride home.

North Avondale includes several small parks that provide free recreation for the whole family. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, located on the former estate of Reverend Spencer Burton, offers a tranquil getaway in the center of the neighborhood. Walk your dog among tall trees, or enjoy an outdoor lunch at one of the park's picnic areas. Kids can enjoy the playground and green space areas. A few blocks away, residents can relax on a swing at Seasongood Square. Donated to the neighborhood by General Lewis Seasongood in the early 1900s, this park used to contain his homestead.

Residents take great pride in their community parks, and the neighborhood association sponsors an annual adopt-a-plot event. During this event, local volunteers work together to plant and maintain flower beds throughout the public parks.

For fitness buffs, North Avondale Recreation Center offers exercise programs and facilities for a low annual fee of $26. Residents can enjoy tennis, basketball or a relaxing trip to the steam room.

The cost of living in North Avondale is generally comparable to the city average. Renters can find a variety of residential options, ranging from affordable to luxurious. The average rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment is $485 per month.

Locals using public transportation enjoy the lowest metro fares in the city. A bus trip from North Avondale to downtown Cincinnati or surrounding areas costs $1.75. For drivers, gas prices usually reflect national averages. Dining and nightlife options in and around North Avondale are inexpensive, and locals can plan to pay $4 to $5 for a pint of beer at local pubs.

North Avondale does not include a wide variety of shopping options, but a larger selection is available just a short drive away. Neighboring communities of Northside and Norwood both have Kroger grocery stores. Walgreen's in North Avondale also provides quick and convenient grocery and pharmacy options.

For residents looking for fresh produce close to home, Gabriel's Place on Reading Road hosts a year-round farmers market. Stop by on Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. to browse locally grown foods, handmade gifts and baked goods.

If you're in need of computer repair or tech support, PC4U Repair and Networking in the center of North Avondale has you covered. Locals rave about the fast and convenient customer service at this small, independently owned shop.

For antique shoppers, ES Epstein Antiques can't be missed. This unique shop tucked away on a small residential street sells antiques for all tastes and budgets. Browse old furniture, house wares and more at this one-of-a-kind neighborhood boutique.