Redland - San Antonio, TX

In the early 2000s, the area encompassing Redland Ridge began to develop and construction slowly took shape. As the city began to expand, similar neighborhoods were built as well as a handful of churches and a private school. The beauty of the surrounding area has been preserved by limiting the amount of man-made structures.

Redland Ridge is a quiet, residential area. However, you do not have to travel far to find restaurants and nightlife venues.

Made famous by its recognition on the Food Network for serving outstanding puffy tacos, La Hacienda de los Barrios is just down the street from Redland Ridge. The vibrant atmosphere and flavorful aromas of the restaurant will draw you right in. Try the restaurant's signature dish: puffy tacos filled with shredded chicken, guacamole and beans, complemented by a crisp, airy shell.

Whether you are an avid fan of Cajun food or just looking to expand your palate, Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen will win you over. The decor transports diners to the distinct experience of a visit to the heart of New Orleans. Find all of your favorite dishes here, such as freshly prepared shrimp etoufee and hearty jambalaya. The spices and rich flavors of the classic gumbo are sure to please.

The area also caters to a range of preferences on the spectrum of nightlife experiences. Beer lovers should head straight for the Hoppy Monk, which features 99 different beers on tap. Sample a variety of bottled beers, or try a red from the extensive wine list. Order the bar's famous wings to enjoy with your beer. New York Bar has a more relaxed atmosphere; while still modern and stylish, the bar features a broader range of people and more affordable drink prices.

If you're looking for a completely casual environment, head over to the Angry Elephant. Known for having the laid-back appeal of a typical sports bar, it serves as a great spot to catch a game or appreciate live music from local bands.

The San Antonio area primarily relies on cars for transportation, and Redland Ridge is no different. Residents can often be found strolling through the neighborhood, but access to anything outside of its boundaries requires a car. Public parking is easy to come by and free, but there is no readily accessible means of public transportation in the general vicinity and the neighborhood does not have a dedicated bicycle lane. However, the light trickle of traffic makes the streets relatively safe for pedestrians and bikers. Two major highways located nearby will lead you through most of the city.

Not too far from the reaches of Redland Ridge, many locals enjoy two of San Antonio's largest and most popular parks. Stone Oak Park provides a safe and clean recreational haven. The walking trails and exercise equipment attract a very active community. Children will enjoy the playground and dogs on leashes are welcome.

McAllister Park also includes the aforementioned amenities and adds access to baseball and soccer fields. Canine lovers will appreciate the large off-leash dog park. Other features include extensive bike trails and picnic areas. The park also hosts free classes as part of San Antonio's Fitness in the Park initiative. Classes include popular workouts such as Zumba and CrossFit.

The cost of living in the Redland Ridge neighborhood is higher than average compared to the rest of San Antonio. There are no bus stops within a reasonable distance. On the positive side, driving is a bit cheaper than elsewhere, since gas prices in this area are 13 percent lower than the national average. The cost of rent for a one-bedroom residence is approximately $850, and you'll find that the price of a pint of beer at the local bar is approximately $6.

Residents of Redland Ridge can easily find several shopping centers without having to venture far from their neighborhood. Northwoods and The Village at Stone Oak provide an excellent variety of higher-end shops and businesses. Even in the small strip center directly across the highway, you can find local businesses such as Simply Chic Fashions. The boutique's selection includes moderately priced clothing and accessories for women of all ages. Next door you can find a large variety of beading supplies at Mica Jewelry and Beads. The store even puts on workshops for the creatively inclined.

You will find trips to the grocery store to be pleasant and convenient with two H-E-B locations and a Sprouts, Costco and Wal-Mart all in the neighboring areas. The Market at Stone Oak H-E-B offers a visually stimulating backdrop, and the store has a remarkable wine and beer selection along with choice cuts of meat and fresh bread. The Sprouts farmers market is nearby in the Legacy Shopping Center, providing a perfect resource for any health nut. Every weekend, the market supplies access to local farmers and artisans.