North Heights - Loveland, OH

The North Heights neighborhood resides in Loveland, Ohio, a city with a history dating back to 1795, when Colonel Thomas Paxton became the first settler in the area. In 1848, Paxton's son-in-law purchased an additional 189 acres of land in the neighboring Clermont and Warren counties and Loveland was born. Spanning the counties of Hamilton, Clermont and Warren, Loveland established a railroad in 1853, followed by the construction of a bridge over the Little Miami River in 1872. In 1876, Loveland became officially incorporated as a village and remains one of Ohio's most beloved communities.

The Loveland Arts Council hosts a variety of events such as the Loveland Arts Show, featuring works of artists throughout the tri-state area, as well as Paint the Town, a week-long event featuring arts, crafts and demonstrations. The Greater Loveland Historical Society Museum features historical educational programs and exhibits that honor Ohio's early pioneers.

When residents of the North Heights community are looking to enjoy a tasty meal or a fun night out, they don't have to travel far, as several popular eateries and nightspots reside just a short trip away on and around Loveland Madeira Road and West Loveland Avenue.

For a light lunch served in a charming dining room, stop by Tano Bistro on West Loveland Avenue. Located in historic downtown Loveland, Tano Bistro features an eclectic menu, outdoor patio seating and some of the friendliest service in town. If you're in the mood for a sandwich, regular patrons suggest the salmon cake sliders, a melt-in-your mouth combination of fresh salmon cakes topped with dill micro greens, asparagus and provolone cheese. Tano's grilled cheese also rates high with regulars, as this three-cheese delight served with tomato basil soup makes for the perfect comfort meal.

If you've got a taste for authentic Chinese fare, locals recommend The Little Shanghai on Loveland Madeira Road, conveniently located in the Shoppers Haven shopping center. With a vast menu of classic and signature dishes, carry-out service and a welcoming dining room, this popular neighborhood restaurant definitely has its share of repeat patrons. For starters, insiders suggest the chicken Shanghai, a melt-in-your-mouth appetizer of deep fried, marinated chicken nuggets wrapped in bacon. If you've got a spicy appetite, Little Shanghai highly recommends the "Dragon and Phoenix," a super-hot serving of spicy jumbo white shrimp, served with a side of General Tso's chicken.

For healthy vegetarian food, pay a visit to The Veg Head on Loveland Madeira Road. This locally owned establishment features a wide variety of vegetarian favorites and utilizes a separate grill for meat and chicken. Regulars suggest the curry hummus wrap, a mind-blowing combination of fresh hummus, curry, rice and ranch dressing, wrapped in a whole grain tortilla.

If you're searching for the perfect spot to enjoy a tangy margarita on a relaxing patio, check out El Picante on Loveland Madeira Road. Locals rave over El Picante's welcoming cantina atmosphere, cheap margaritas and house specialty entrees such as shrimp chimichangas and mole de pollo. Whether you're looking to indulge in a few drinks with some tasty chips and salsa or have a craving for a hearty Mexican meal, El Picante's got you covered.

While driving tends to be the most commonly utilized form of transportation in the North Heights community, residents also enjoy walking and riding bikes, as the sidewalks are safe for pedestrians and the streets in the residential and downtown areas of Loveland provide secure turf for cyclists who adhere to Loveland's traffic rules. Loveland cyclists also have access to over 70 miles of biking trails that travel along the Little Miami River and approximately 12 miles of bike lanes throughout Cincinnati.

Residents don't usually hail taxis within the local neighborhoods, however, transportation can easily be arranged through application-based services such as Lyft and Uber. Individuals in need of a ride can also book taxi service through A & A Taxi of Loveland. Residents can park on designated residential streets for free, but must only park within the specified time limits posted on the street parking signs. Drivers can also utilize paid parking garages and meters when visiting downtown Loveland.

The Southwest Ohio/Cincinnati Metro Transit Authority does not serve the city of Loveland and buses completely bypass the area, however, local residents who wish to utilize public transportation can board buses in the neighboring township of Milford, located in Clermont County. Commuters can connect to the Interstate 275 freeway via the Loveland/Indian Hill exit, allowing for swift and easy traveling out of the city.

Residents of the North Heights community live in close proximity to a variety of outdoor parks that are free to enter and provide amenities such as nature trails, picnic tables, sports courts and more, provided by the City of Loveland.

If you're looking to enjoy a day of sports and exercise, check out Lever Park on West Loveland Avenue. This scenic park provides visitors with tennis courts, basketball courts, ball fields and a skate park.

Families enjoy spending the day together at Symmes Township park, as this ample 61-acre park provides a wide variety of amenities. Whether you're looking to enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's three picnic shelters or watch your little ones blow off steam on the playground, Symmes Township has something for everyone. Additional amenities include basketball courts, volleyball courts, walking trails and a seasonal dog run.

The City of Loveland hosts several annual events throughout the year that honor the city's strong sense of community and tight-knit spirit. Every May, residents enjoy attending Loveland's annual Memorial Day celebration, as well as the city's annual Planting Day. Fourth of July in Loveland isn't complete without the annual Firecracker Festival, followed by the annual Homecoming parade in October and Christmas in Loveland each December.

The cost of living in the North Heights neighborhood falls approximately 24 percent lower than the city average and approximately 26 percent lower than the state, with residents paying average rental rates of $540 per month for one-bedroom rentals. While Southwest Ohio/Cincinnati Transit buses do not serve Loveland, riders who board in neighboring Milford Township pay between $1.75 and $4.25 for one-way trips within the city of Cincinnati and outside of the city limits. Locals pay between $3 and $6 for beers in neighborhood pubs, however, prices can vary at establishments that promote drink specials. Gas prices in North Heights/Loveland exceed the national average by approximately 4 percent.

North Heights residents appreciate living near a wide selection of grocery stores and specialty shops, as many popular establishments reside just minutes away, conveniently located on and around Loveland Madeira Road.

For groceries, local shoppers suggest Kroger Market and Ron's Market, both on Loveland Madeira Road. If you're looking for fresh, locally farmed fruits and vegetables, Bloom and Berries Farm Market on the same road has everything you could want and more. The farmers market runs through the summer and features a wide selection of berries, fruits, vegetables and flowers. During the fall months, Bloom and Berries features a pumpkin patch, hay rides and a family friendly corn maze.

While there aren't any high-end retailers or luxury shops within the immediate community, Loveland houses several specialty shops featuring gifts, crafts, music and more.

If you're looking for a unique gift, stop by Pizazz Studio on West Loveland Avenue. This whimsical gift shop features one-of-a-kind candles, jewelry and personalized gifts. Pizazz Studio also provides crafting workshops for adults and kids.

Searching for your favorite tunes on vinyl? Check out Plaid Room Records on Karl Brown Way. Located in historic downtown Loveland, this blast-from-the-past record shop features new and used albums, cassette tapes and a wide selection of turntables.

When shopping for affordable merchandise such as housewares and apparel, locals suggest taking a short, seven-mile drive into Cincinnati and visiting Steinmart and T.J. Maxx, both located along Montgomery Road. Additional retailers in the area include J.C. Penney and Kohl's, so it's definitely worth the trip.