South Redlands - Redlands, CA

Redlands' origin stretches back to 1881 before its incorporation in 1888, and citrus groves made up the core of its economy during its early days. With numerous wealthy landowners and millionaires building their Victorian mansions in South Redlands, the town soon earned the nickname "The City of Beautiful Homes." Although its economic focus has shifted, South Redlands maintains its historic charm with a collection of turn-of-the-century homes and public buildings that have been carefully preserved.

For a taste of local history, take a tour of the Kimberly Crest House and Gardens, an 1897 Victorian home with Italian-style gardens. Other local historic sites include the Asistencia, part of the Mission of San Gabriel, and the Lincoln Memorial Shrine, a museum filled with artifacts, manuscripts and diaries commemorating the president's life. Don't miss annual events such as the Redlands International Bicycle Classic and the Christmas Parade in downtown to meet the community.

South Redlands residents head downtown to explore a diverse culinary arts scene hidden behind old-fashioned restaurant fronts. Explore a surprisingly modern selection of eateries from around the globe that serve everything from French and Italian to Vietnamese and Mexican cuisine. You also have a few hometown cafés with American staples like burgers and traditional breakfast options. Wherever you choose to spend your lunch hour, this culinary community makes you feel right at home as you dig into a fresh crepe or a plate of chicken tandoori.

Head to Crepes of Wrath for a savory meal or a sweet treat wrapped in a thin French pancake and cooked to order. If you crave something sweet, opt for the blueberry crepe batter with sweet cream and cinnamon. For a filling and healthy lunch, try the tomato and spinach crepe. Also look for seasonal options such as the Thanksgiving crepe filled with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and hot gravy.

Walk into the trendy Watercress Vietnamese Bistro to find classic fillers such as pho alongside upscale options that include lemon grass-coconut soup with shrimp. Don't miss out on the coconut-fried bananas in coconut rum caramel sauce, a house specialty. Finish off your meal with a tall glass of Thai tea for a deluxe dining experience that keeps you coming back for more.

At Naan Cafe, locals enjoy authentic Indian cuisine served in a casual fast-food atmosphere. Eat your fill of the fresh garlic naan, and choose from favorites such as chicken tikka masala. Naan Cafe also has plenty of entrées for vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free visitors. Don't forget to try the restaurant's smooth, fresh mango lassi to cool down your spicy curry.

Whether you're watching a concert at Redlands Bowl or going to a movie in downtown Redlands, South Redlands provides easy access to some of the city's finest nighttime entertainment. Locals head to Vault Martini Bar & Grill for live music and DJs. Try out its specialty drinks such as the Captain Crunch, and stop by on Tuesday for some of the cheapest rail drinks in the Inland Empire.

Hop on Interstate 10 just north of the neighborhood near downtown Redlands for a quick drive to San Bernardino. While driving around the neighborhood, enjoy free street parking even in the busiest retail clusters. For a trip to the nearby San Bernardino International Airport, ditch the car and call Uber or a Redlands Taxi for a quick pick-up.

Take advantage of the Omnitrans bus system for a cheap ride to nearby cities, but keep in mind that most stops service the northern part of the neighborhood near downtown. Hop on the Metrolink train in nearby San Bernardino for access to Los Angeles and Orange County. If you don't feel like driving, take your trusty bike down the dedicated bike lanes on major roads such as Brookside and Cajon, or cruise alongside cars on the sleepy neighborhood streets. Although South Redlands makes for a pleasant walk, most amenities concentrate in the downtown area of Redlands.

Each of South Redlands' beautiful public parks tells a story, ranging from the Lincoln Memorial Shrine at Smiley Park to the old Victorian homes watching over Prospect Park. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet picnic on the grass or check out the local library, head to Smiley Park to enjoy your next day off. Check out the park's Redlands Bowl for free summer concerts, and don't miss the annual Festival of Arts.

Head to Prospect Park to enjoy a morning jog along a street of old Victorian mansions such as the Kimberly Crest House, and venture into the park to discover landscaped walking trails. The park also maintains a beautiful amphitheatre that hosts the Redlands Theatre Festival. Get your tickets early before they sell out. If you're looking for a place to walk your canine friend, head to the dog park near Reservoir Canyon.

South Redlands' upscale housing areas place its cost of living above average for the San Bernardino area. A few apartment buildings lie along the neighborhood's streets with an average rent of $966 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Whether you're taking the bus to downtown Redlands for a day of shopping or heading out to San Bernardino, expect to pay $1.75 for a one-way trip. South Redlands residents generally pay 11 percent above the national average for gas, and a beer at a local bar normally costs $4 to $5.

Residential developments make up the majority of South Redlands, so most residents head north for a day of shopping in downtown Redlands. Explore a host of eclectic local shops selling everything from snowboarding gear and comics to antiques and the latest fashions. The old-fashioned storefronts create a small-town retail experience, but the shops feature the diversity of a big city with options for both bargain hunting and picking up high-end jewelry.

Stop into Nectar to get a trendy top, felt hat or floral-print dress with a vintage touch. Before shopping, explore the store's online boutique for the option to have sales items from one of the other locations shipped to the Redlands Nectar. After stocking up on affordable fashions, take your receipt to nearby DenM for a same-day discount.

Head to Redlands Galleria to discover three stories of antique displays strewn across a quirky patterned carpet. From ancient Roman coins to vintage furniture from the 20th century, this beloved antique mall has something for every collector at great prices. Be sure to check out the sales booths for hidden treasures to decorate your new apartment.

Stop by Albertson's to pick up all your grocery staples, or check out Gerrard's Market to find some gourmet cheese and wine. Don't miss the Saturday Farmers' Market on Redlands Boulevard between Fifth Street and Sixth Street to buy organic produce from local growers.