Preserve South - Columbus, OH

The Preserve South neighborhood was once part of the military district set aside by the U.S. Government as a form of payment to Revolutionary War soldiers. Although each soldier received a title to 100 acres, many of them sold to investment groups. Land that didn't get claimed went up for sale in 1812 at $2 an acre, creating a rush for cheap, fertile ground.

People fleeing the devastation of the Civil War sought refuge in the area, as did citizens looking for work on the farms during the Great Depression.

The Gahanna Historical Museum and the Ealy House Museum provide the only museums in the immediate neighborhood. Locals look forward to The New Albany Classic Invitational Grand Prix each September, which combines a major thoroughbred dressage event with live concerts, rides, food booths and vendors. Proceeds from the event support The Center for Family Safety and Healing.

As part of the Cameron Mitchell restaurant empire, the Barn sits just a short jaunt from Preserve South on the east side of State Route 62. It provides a fine-dining experience that serves American food, specializing in large cuts of beef, smoked meats and seafood. With its own on-site smokehouse and bakery, The Barn's diners enjoy prime, aged beef in traditional cuts. Smokehouse favorites include St. Louis ribs, brisket and a double-cut pork chop slow-cooked in layers of applewood smoke. In honor of its Kentucky neighbors, The Barn features a drink menu with 23 different bourbons, not to mention different whiskies and ryes.

For a simpler menu, local diners head to New Albany for a visit to Ella, where the motto reads "eat local, love art." Starters here include Ella-vated potato chips, accompanied by cheese fondue with scallion-and-bacon relish. For an entree, try the mac 'n' cheese, complete with sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, bacon and spinach. Add a pile of short ribs to the meal for an additional cost. The herb-grilled chicken breast comes with gorgonzola polenta, dried fig and a green salad. Freshly made ice cream and desserts round out the meal.

For a friendly drink, a game of corn hole and some live music, head to The Goat in the heart of the Preserve South. The Goat provides an entire entertainment experience in a relaxed setting within walking distance from the Preserve Crossing condo community. The cozy atmosphere, unique events and good food make this a popular place for Preserve South residents to gather after work and on the weekend. Happy hour features low-price flatbread pizzas, cocktails and craft beer.

If you're in the mood for live music, stop by Turtle Creek Tavern on North Hamilton Road. This friendly spot, which attracts a laid-back crowd, hosts a regular lineup of live local bands. Check out your favorite team on one of the 17 flat-screen TVs, or spend a pleasant evening playing Keno, pinball or pool. With the bar's 18 draft beers and large selection of bottled beers, you are sure to find the perfect beverage for a night of revelry.

The Central Ohio Transit Authority provides bus transportation in the entire Columbus area. A door-to-door service serves disabled riders. You cannot hail a cab in Preserve South, but several Columbus cab companies respond in a reasonable time to phone requests. Public parking in the area remains plentiful and free.

Lyft and Uber provide ride-sharing services, but there may be a wait depending on the time of day. Although no bike paths exist in the immediate neighborhood, the streets don't usually have much traffic, making for a peaceful bike ride. Bike trails do run all around the neighborhood, including all the way to New Albany. The area has wide sidewalks that make for a pleasant stroll, but walking does not prove an efficient option for running errands.

Blendon Woods Park provides 653 acres of recreation and solitude just a short jaunt from Preserve South. This major metro park has everything from disc golf, ice skating and cross-country skiing to the restful experience provided by the large Walden Waterfowl Refuge, home to ducks and other types of birds. Two shelters provide bird watchers a spot for viewing in all types of weather. Blendon Woods Park allows free admission, and its vast size allows people to find a quiet spot for a picnic or just to relax. Blendon welcomes pets on a leash. The first snowfall of the year draws area children who take advantage of a low hill for sledding fun.

Residents of Preserve South find a slightly lower cost of living than the rest of the nation. Public transportation provides a trip to downtown Columbus for $2, and a one-bedroom apartment rents for a little more than $900 a month.

The cost of a domestic beer at a local pub goes for about $4, and gas costs about 3 percent less than the national average.

Celebrate Local on Townsfair Way is the go-to place for locally sourced products. A massive collection of home goods, food, beverages and jewelry is housed under the roof this amazing shopping mall. On your first visit, give yourself at least two hours to peruse the natural skincare, organic pet treats, Ohio pride clothing and novelty gifts.

For special fashions and accessories just for kids, head over to Belles & Beaux children's boutique on North Hamilton Road. With everything from bedazzled onesies to hair accessories for the modern princess, Belles & Beaux provides the latest looks for trendy children.

Easton Town Center, located just west of Preserve South, houses a shopping mall with high-end retailers, specialty stores and special events. Its stores include American Girl, Eddie Bauer, Jos. A. Bank, Louis Vuitton, Saks Off 5th, and Lululemon, giving area shoppers plenty of choices to shop for fashionable clothing. The LEGO Store, Fuzziwig's Candy Factory and Build-A-Bear Workshop keep the kids entertained, and an AMC dine-in theatre gives mom and dad a date-night getaway that includes dinner and a show.

Close to Easton Town Center, Easton Farmers' Market hosts local farmers selling fresh produce and dairy products during the summer months. This open-air market is a hub of activity every Thursday evening during the summer, with vendors selling crafts and homemade items. Giant Eagle, Kroger and Trader Joe's are the places to shop for groceries year-round and are just within a short drive of Preserve South.