Otter Creek Crystal - Little Rock, AR

Otter Creek Crystal sits within the southwest region of Little Rock, the capital city of Arkansas. Named after a rock formation on the Arkansas River, the city began as a trading post, then incorporated as a city in 1831. The remote area saw a slow but steady growth in population from that point forward, with a boom occurring during the Reconstruction period. Today, the city has a diverse population, well-developed industries and opportunities to succeed for its residents.

The neighborhood doesn't have any museums or art galleries, but Little Rock has a couple of each, including the Museum of Discovery and the Arkansas Arts Center. The city has a variety of annual events, including a marathon and a film festival, but none of the events occur in Otter Creek Crystal.

Otter Creek Crystal features a mix of foods found across the globe, with restaurants mainly found on Stagecoach Road.

For fresh, authentic Mexican food, try Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant. Friendly service, low prices, a casual atmosphere and TVs make this restaurant an ideal choice for a fun family dinner. Las Palmas has an excellent white cheese sauce that accompanies certain meals, including the pollo asado.

If you want a quick Chinese meal, head over to China Wok. This diner keeps prices low and portions large, so you satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank. The spring roll and wonton soup stand out on the menu, but if you feel like getting some protein, order General Tso's chicken. With rice and veggies on the side, the meal provides all the nutrients needed for a healthy lunch.

The neighborhood doesn't have much as far as nightlife goes, but the surrounding areas have bars you can check out. If you don't mind a short drive, cruise down Interstate 30 to Rodney's Handlebar & Grill. This biker bar doubles as a motorcycle dealership, but those expecting a rough environment are in for a surprise. With a laid-back atmosphere, plenty of food choices and the occasional DJ, Rodney's gives you a place to have a drink and meet people.

Almost all residents of the neighborhood travel by car, as other travel methods tend to be very inconvenient. The area has quick freeway access, with Interstate 30 and Interstate 430 both a short drive east. Take Interstate 30 east to get to downtown or west for trips out of Little Rock. Interstate 430 runs north and south, bypassing downtown to avoid traffic. Feel free to park on the street in this neighborhood, just read the signs first.

Central Arkansas Transit Authority serves the city, with route 23 driving along Stagecoach Road and Otter Creek Road. With only one bus line traveling by the neighborhood, using public transportation requires careful planning. Taxis service Little Rock, but getting a pickup in Otter Creek Crystal tends to be difficult. Ride-share companies, such as Uber, do not operate in the area.

The distance residents have to travel for errands or commuting rules out walking as a transportation method, and many streets around the neighborhood lack bike lanes, making it difficult to get around on a bike.

Parks near this area focus on family-friendly activities, with an amusement park and a baseball park being the closest options. Neither park holds annual events, but others around the city do.

Big Rock Fun Park features plenty of fun outdoor options, including mini golf, go karts, bumper boats and batting cages. After a day in the sun, bring the family inside for some fun in the arcade. This amusement park has different deals Monday through Friday to bring the prices down, and you also get a deal if you bring a large group or schedule a birthday party. Fees vary depending on the activity.

Go just past the highways to spend a day at Little Oaks Park on Sardis Road. You can sign your child up for a baseball league or just come here free of charge to hang out and play on any open field. The park also has a couple pf pavilion areas, perfect for a family picnic. Since the park focuses on baseball, it doesn't welcome dogs.

Otter Creek Crystal carries a lower cost of living than the city average, with housing prices in particular being much more affordable than Little Rock's average. A one-bedroom apartment typically rents for about $565.

A Metro ride to the city center costs $1.35 for a one-way ticket, and gas prices come in around 4 percent lower than the national average. A pint at the local pub usually costs about $2.50.

The neighborhood's shopping scene consists of an eclectic blend of independent specialty shops and thrift stores.

Deal hunters should stop by New Life Thrift Store, which features low prices on gently used items. Featuring clothing, furniture and household items, this shop has everything you need to decorate a new apartment or just add an outfit to your wardrobe.

If you want to get into the vape craze, visit My Home Town Vapor. This shop features starter kits for novices to try, along with juices and mechanical mods for those with more experience. Come back frequently, as Home Town Vapor has a loyalty program that gives you store credit when you shop often.

For grocery shopping, residents have a few convenience stores nearby and a Walmart Supercenter a short drive away on Baseline Road. The neighborhood doesn't have a farmers market, but a couple can be found on the north side of the city.