OST-South Union - Houston, TX Area Guide

Considered one of Houston's Super Neighborhoods, the Old Spanish Trail-South Union area consists of several historical landmarks and neighborhoods commemorating leaders. As more homes were built in the area and more people began to settle, there was a rapid increase in the number of businesses and restaurants being established.

The neighborhood does not boast any museums but it happens to be only a few blocks away from the Museum District. Residents can walk or ride a bike to The Museum of Natural Science or The Fine Arts Museum.

Events such as the Martin Luther King, Jr. parade and Juneteenth celebrations bring the community together.

The neighborhood consists of mostly casual eateries, and it is necessary to travel outside of the city limits to enjoy a fancy restaurant or have a fine dining experience. Several fast-food chains can be found along Old Spanish Trail and a few on the opposite side of 288. The neighborhood does have plenty of culinary choices, including Chinese and Mexican.

Locals rave about the fresh seafood selections at Louisiana Fish House on Griggs Road, which is open daily for lunch and dinner. Get there early to avoid a long wait. Start with the fried oysters or the gumbo. Complete your meal with a fried shrimp plate or the blackened Mahi Mahi. The huge portions along with the reasonable prices make it a great option for diners.

Enjoy a trip to Asia as you delight in the cuisine at Yiin's Oriental Wok. Known for the fried rice and egg rolls, the location serves patrons who return often for the great service and food. This place serves more than Asian cuisine, however. American favorites , such as hot wings and burgers, lie alongside Chinese classics on the menu. This charming establishment has great service and a tranquil atmosphere. Stop in any day except Tuesday, when the location is closed.

Best Soul Food in Town wants you to know what you're getting when you order here. Locals agree with the restaurant's self-assessment, raving over the incredibly tender oxtails, the green beans and the cornbread. Friendly service, generous portions and daily specials keep folks coming back for more.

People travel to this neighborhood from all over the city to enjoy the happening nightlife. Find several bars and dance clubs, guaranteeing a good time. Unwind at On the Rocks while you watch the game, and don't be surprised when the owner comes over to greet you. Locals go to H&H Sports Bar to watch the latest sporting events and shoot some pool. Find people hanging out and enjoying the live band along with a cocktail on Tuesday nights and dancing the night away on other days. Open seven days a week, Club Remix has specialty nights to keep patrons on their feet, grooving to the tunes blasting through the speakers.

Residents of this inner-city neighborhood love their cars. Most residents drive to get around and ample parking can be found throughout. When you can't find a nearby lot, parking on the street delivers the next best option. When an event or large activity happens to be going on nearby, some locations charge fees, but these tend to remain under $5.

For those without a car, getting around the area does not pose a problem. Metro bus routes 087, 052, 062 and 060 provide service throughout the city. Travel to prime destinations such as downtown, the Medical Center and East Houston via this public transit service. Stops can be found on Old Spanish Trail, Yellowstone and Scott.

Instead of public transit, Uber and cab service can be arranged. Use the mobile app to schedule and Uber pick up and a cab provider would have to be searched. Cabs do not linger in the neighborhood, making hailing one difficult.

A bicycle lane on Yellowstone provides cyclist with a safe traveling route. However, cyclists may feel safer sharing the sidewalks with pedestrians as no other lanes service the area. Ample sidewalks line the streets, providing safe options for walkers and cyclists alike.

Both Zollie Scales Park and Yellowstone Park can be considered kid friendly. The lack of fees make them a great option for those seeking to have a fun day in the sun or a picnic. The open space make them great locations to host events as well. Zollie Scales Park features a tennis court for those seeking to burn off some calories.

Neither of the parks have trails or dog parks, but furry friends are permitted on leashes. The local parks do not host recurring annual events, though private activities are common.

With the cost of living coming in about three percent less than the Houston average, residents enjoy a slightly lower cost of living overall. With the midpoint for rent at a one apartment of $735, the lower costs make living in the area an attractive option for those wishing to reside within the loop and remain in the city, close to premier locations.

A ride via Metro to downtown costs $1.25. Because Metro travels all over Houston, after a few transfers, the costs can increase if the destination is not a direct route. Purchase a day pass for $6 for unlimited transfers for 24 hours.

When visiting the local bars, don't expect to pay for than $4 for a beer, depending on the quality and brand of the brew. Though gas prices are about 5 percent less than the national average, drivers still have to pay a little more than those in the suburbs.

Though not many shopping options can be found in this neighborhood, the area is home to the Palm Center, which was one of the first shopping malls in Houston. Stores appear sporadically throughout the neighborhood. Several discount stores make up the neighborhood but a few specialty stores can be found.

DAV Thrift Store does more than offer vintage clothing and accessories. Choose from discounted selections such as gently used and restored furniture as well as other household items. This community gem has been in the same location for over 30 years. Its emphasis on serving and helping veterans makes this store even more special.

Beauty Empire has is also a long-time resident of the neighborhood. Stop in, and find all of your beauty needs such as hair accessories and maintenance needs. Beauty Empire sells clothing and hair extensions as well. Guys can find specialty items.

H-E-B and Kroger both service the neighborhood. Sunshine's Vegetarian and Health Food Store serves to educate local residents on the benefits of healthy eating. The store offers classes and recipes to assist locals in developing a health lifestyle. The neighborhood contains no farmers markets.