O Henry Oaks - Greensboro, NC Area Guide

Established in 1806 as the Guilford county seat, Greensboro remains a city with a rich combination of history and Southern culture. O Henry Oaks takes its name from famed short story writer and Greensboro native O. Henry. Neighbors here enjoy the racially balanced vibe of their community and a convenient proximity to downtown. North Buffalo Creek winds its way around and through the area, adding a sense of earthy relaxation to the neighborhood. In the upper northwest corner of O Henry Oaks, a plane tail permanently dive bombs into the front yard of a local home — a reminder that art can be found here in unexpected places. O Henry Oaks' residents also enjoy the multitude of art and history to be found at the Greensboro Historical Museum, and the Greensboro Science Center provides another local spot for learning and discovery.

O Henry Oaks bursts with an array of delightful dining and nightlife options. 1618 Wine Lounge, with its plentiful libations and tapas-style menu, provides patrons an upscale atmosphere with a casual vibe. The crispy oysters here are phenomenal and make for a wonderful accompaniment to the crumbled goat cheese pomme frites served up with cinnamon ketchup and butternut squash aioli. Velvety vanilla cheesecake stands wonderfully alone or as an after-dinner treat. With an extensive wine list and over 50 craft and specialty beers, the folks at 1618 make sure you enjoy yourself, and they'll even let you take a few bottles home.

Local favorite M’Coul’s Public House provides a relaxed pub experience with a twist. Enjoy a pleasant mix of Irish and American fare, including a juicy corned beef Philly or traditional bangers and mash. M'Coul's also features a nice selection of beers, cocktails and tasty offerings for vegetarians.

Late night, hop over to Greene Street Club for dancing, DJs and live shows ranging from metal to hip hop. This popular venue maintains three floors for getting your groove on, plus roof access when it's time to cool off. Swing by on Friday nights for the club's weekly urban dance party.

O Henry Oaks remains a pleasure to navigate, whether by car, bicycle or foot. Greensboro Transit Authority provides convenient bus routes seven days a week, utilizing energy-saving diesel electric hybrid vehicles.

With Interstates 85, 40 and 73 easily accessible, commute time to downtown Greensboro for O Henry Oaks residents averages just around 20 minutes. Car services such as Uber and taxi cabs remain available options here, however most locals find traveling by car, bus or bike to be the best way to get around.

Greensboro and O Henry Oaks provide a wonderful array of green space and outdoor enjoyment for area residents. Locals experience the beauty and expansiveness of Greensboro Country Park, with its well-maintained grounds, paddle boat-approved pond and playground. Greensboro Science Center is here, which includes a zoo and aquarium, as is Bark Park, the only official fenced-in, off-leash Greensboro area designed specifically for your canine friends. The park remains free and open to the public, with a small fee required for entrance to the science center.

Lake Jeanette, a man-made lake built in the 1940s, and the Lake Jeanette Swim and Tennis Club provide year-round activities for members, such as tennis and swim lessons, a toddler playground and picnic area. Fees vary.

Annual events in Greensboro include music and food festivals, a literary conference and a Fourth of July celebration and run/walk.

All in all, O Henry Oaks houses an abundance of wonderful amenities and a low cost of living. Rent costs approximately 20 percent less in the O Henry Oaks neighborhood than in downtown Greensboro; a one bedroom goes for a mere $485. A beer averages between $4 to $6, and gas runs just a few cents more than the national average. Bus fare here costs $1.50 for an adult fare or $4 for unlimited day pass, and $.75 for students, seniors and those with disabilities.

When it's time to stock the pantry, O Henry Oaks provides convenient options, such as large retailers Food Lion and Harris Teeter and more specialized favorites Earth Fare and The Fresh Market for natural and organic goodies. Sam’s Old Fashion Meat & Seafood Market stands as a local butcher shop with everything from prime rib to frogs' legs. A short drive west brings you to Piedmont Triad Farmers Market; open daily, the market remains a favorite among locals.

The Village at Golden Gate — or Golden Gate Shopping Center, as it's commonly called — features an antique shop and The Green Bean coffee house, along with groceries, a movie theater, tax preparation, clothing stores, office supplies, furniture and restaurants. Some would say this place has a little something for everyone.

For fair trade and handmade crafts, take a visit to Just Be boutique. Locally owned and filled with creative wares, this is your spot for unique jewelry, apparel, home decor and gifts.