South Lawrence - Lawrence, KS

The history of Lawrence is well-known by most who live in the area. From its early days as part of the Shawnee Indian Reservation to the rise of the Free State movement in Kansas, the history of the area can be seen throughout the city, both in the buildings as well as thousands of historical markers commemorating events in the area.

The South Lawrence area of Lawrence rose in popularity in the 1970s as the Flood Control Act of 1962 granted authorization to construct Clinton Lake, just southwest of the city. Although much newer than the original city to the northeast, the neighborhood stands a popular area for college students as well as non-students.

For music lovers, the Wakarusa Music and Camping Festival, a four-day concert event, happens every year in June at Clinton State Park, less than a mile away.

For a place to grab a bite or have a beer watching the big game, a drive down 23rd Street provides all the choices you need. Filled with all the fast-food favorites, pizza shops and breweries you'd expect in a college town, you'll find something that fits your needs.

For sports fans who don't like the traditional pub food found at many sports bars, Bigg's Barbecue might be the place for you. The menu contains a lot of the foods you expect to find at any local sports bar, but with a unique barbecue twist. Many come to Bigg's for the ribs and legendary pulled pork nachos, but locals know that Sunday marks the day Aunt T'Dot's fried chicken goes on special.

No college city lacks in pizza joints, and Lawrence proves no exception. Fat Freddy's Pizza and Wings has been providing area students and families fresh-made pizza and slow-cooked chicken wings since 2010, and its pizza can be delivered almost any time — day and night. Known for the constantly-changing menu, this joint serves a student favorite called the Wake 'N Bake breakfast pie, which features traditional crust with eggs, hash browns and gravy.

Plentiful night-life options populate this area. Breweries and sports pubs can be found east and west on 23rd Street.

It's common to see bicyclists all around Lawrence, and the trend continues in the South Lawrence area. Many in the area walk or bike to school or work, and pedestrians have no trouble finding most of what they need within a short walk from home.

The Lawrence Transit System operates 19 bus routes throughout the city, and a bus ride from South Lawrence to downtown takes about 30 minutes. Taxis prove rare in Lawrence, and anyone wanting to take one should arrange it well before their planned pick-up time. Uber doesn't offer service in Lawrence.

Highways can be easily accessed from the South Lawrence neighborhood. 23rd Street becomes Kansas Highway 10 to the east of the city and is one of the main routes between Lawrence and nearby Kansas City. Interstate 70 lies four miles north, serving as a primary route both east and west, although travelers using that highway must pay a toll.

The South Lawrence area lies directly east of one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Kansas, covering more than 35 square miles. Clinton Lake includes areas for boating, fishing and camping, and contains five parks. This park charges nothing for entry, but camping sites and boating both require a fee. An off-leash dog park, Mutt Run, also sits on the southern side of the lake.

If you want to spend a day on the links, the city operates Eagle Bend Golf Course, a challenging course with spectacular views of the nearby Wakarusa River from many of the holes. The course stands open to the public, and players just getting into the game can get lessons here year-round.

For those who like more vigorous activities, the city features many hiking and biking trails within easy reach of the area as well as 54 parks, each with its own amenities.

With an average monthly rent of $564, the South Lawrence area can be a little higher than many other neighborhoods in Lawrence, although the apartments in the area are generally much newer than those in the older parts of the city.

Buses don't charge University of Kansas students and employees, and bus fares run $1 for all others. Day passes and other unlimited-ride options provide discounts for anyone planning to use the bus system often. For those with their own vehicles, gas prices dip about 14 percent less than the national average.

On average, a beer at most of the local bars will set you back $5 although nearly every bar features happy hour specials and discounted drinks during any KU sporting events.

Shopping centers can be found within a few minutes walk from the South Lawrence area, with major retailers easy to find.

For those looking for good deals on lightly-used clothing, Lasting Impressions Consignment Boutique, serves as a starting point. Providing clothing for children and adults, you can find something that looks great at bargain prices.

Groceries and household items can be found locally at Target and Wal-Mart, both within walking distance of the South Lawrence neighborhood.