Pinewood - Miami, FL

Before the 1920s, Pinewood was a neighborhood in Miami. During the Great Depression, the City of Miami decided to retire its power over Pinewood. Control shifted to Miami-Dade County, and Pinewood became an unincorporated section in that county and remains the same today. Being such a small section of Miami-Dade, no big cultural shifts have occurred over the years.

Although no museums rest directly in Pinewood, several are just minutes away. The Perez Art Museum Miami celebrates fine arts through exquisite contemporary pieces. The exhibits change regularly, so there is always something new to see. Admission is free every second Saturday in the month. Locals also enjoy spending time at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, which consists of an enormous mansion decorated with Eurpoean antiques. The outdoor gardens will take your breath away.

Many annual events occur in Miami, such as the SEED Food and Wine Festival, and Miami Spice.

Although no restaurants or pubs lie in the immediate Pinewood neighborhood, several dining options surround the area. When craving some tasty BBQ, head to Smokey Trails BBQ for the freshest meats, seafood, side dishes and breads. Locals come back time and time again for the brisket and homemade BBQ. The venue is a mobile-based business that travels to your site or event. You can also swing by and grab a carryout. In the mood for some authentic Caribbean and Vegan food? Head to Konata's Restaurant for a few yatties, which are delectable veggie patties. The quinoa, yellow yam, bean stew and vegan cutlets make awesome meal choices. For authentic Italian food, locals dine at NiDo Caffe. The lasagna, steak tartare, asparagus risotto and artichoke soufflé are appetizing choices that customers love.

Although there is little nightlife in Pinewood itself, bars, pubs, dance clubs, wine bars and music venues prove exist in great numbers in neighboring towns and cities, especially in downtown Miami. For a low-key dive bar, locals enjoy spending time at Billy's Pub Too. Play a game of ping pong, challenge your friend to some pool or throw some darts at the dartboard. With affordable drink prices, free popcorn and friendly service, regulars appreciate this small-town pub.

Seventy-six percent of people in Pinewood prefer to drive their own vehicles, as streets are safe and parking does not cost much. Easy access to I-95 provides commuters with a hassle-free ride to Miami. For the 13 percent that take public transportation, a total of four Amtrak train stations lie within 30 miles of the city center, making public transportation in the area easily accessible. The Miami-Dade Transit system also serves the area, connecting several cities in South Florida. Hailing a cab won't be much of a problem, and Uber serves much of the South Florida area. When possible, locals enjoy walking and biking to their destinations; bike trails and sidewalks make biking safe for cyclists.

The neighborhood does not have any parks, but many lie just outside Pinewood. When looking to enjoy the great outdoors by biking, hiking, rafting and kayaking, the people of Miami flock to Oleta River State Park. Visitors take advantage of the free biking and hiking trails. Others enjoy water activities such as paddle-boarding and canoeing. Take in the breathtaking views and appreciate all nature has to offer at this wonderful park. If you want to have a picnic in the shade, pavilion rentals are available as well. Visitors also take part in the kayaking, biking and hiking events that occur year-round.

Margaret Pace Park is an awesome place to enjoy a family day outdoors. Don't forget to bring the pooch along, as pets are welcome. Participate in a game of basketball, volleyball, tennis or soccer. Enjoy a jog or walk on the circular trails. You'll find several people doing yoga as well. Feel free to join in on the fun while getting in a little exercise.

Families dwell in Pinewood for its affordable cost of living, which ranks 11 percent less than Miami's average. Renters spend approximately $700 per month to rent a one-bedroom residence. Gas costs 4 percent greater than the national average, and a beer at a local pub sets you back $9. When utilizing public transportation, the Miami-Dade Transit system's Metrobus costs $2.25 for a one-way ticket.

Major shopping areas, high-end stores and boutiques are just miles away from Pinewood. Shoppers in Miami take advantage of Bal Harbour Shops, which houses high-end stores such as Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Prada and Saks Fifth Avenue.

From reasonably priced chain stores, such as Forever 21 and JC Penney, to middle-ground goods found at Macy's and higher-end shops, such as Louis Vuitton and Nordstrom, Aventura Mall has it all.

When you want to shop for women's clothing at a local specialty store, head to RDo Women's Wear Boutique. With awesome work, going-out and casual clothing on the racks, every woman can find the perfect outfit for any event. In Style Boutique has an excellent selection of men's and women's clothing and accessories. Find both traditional and trendy clothes at reasonable prices. Shoppers in the Miami area also frequent My Best Friend's Closet Boutique for cocktail dresses, gowns, shoes, swimwear and casual clothes. While shopping, sip on a complimentary glass of champagne, and nibble on a cupcake.

Head right outside of Pinewood to Laurenzo's Italian Specialty Food Market for fresh produce at excellent prices. Find unique items such as escarole, lychee and dried speciality mushrooms imported from Italy. The local vendors at Upper East Side Farmers Market sell only the freshest produce and the best exotic fruits, such as dragon fruit, longans and passion fruit.

Chain grocery stores in the surrounding area include Publix and Whole Foods Market.