South Shore Harbour - League City, TX

South Shore Harbour, a planned resort-style neighborhood, is part of League City. League City's original settler, George W. Butler, arrived from Louisiana in the late 1800s. With the development of the railways, the area began to take shape. Rising real estate prices drove families from Galveston to League City in the 2000s. The Butler Longhorn Museum features a unique collection of western art, primarily from local artists. The museum tells the story of the iconic breed of Texas Longhorn cattle native to the area. Admission for the museum is $12 for adults.

Children go back in history in a one-room schoolhouse at the West Bay Common School Children's Museum. Kids can browse an exhibit of buildings and artifacts and even experience school lessons typical of 1898.

Those willing to drive a short distance can visit the San Jacinto Battlefield where Sam Houston and fellow Texans avenged their slain brethren at the Alamo. In just eighteen minutes the outnumbered revolutionaries seized Santa Anna's encampment, killing half of the Mexican troops while only loosing nine of their own. The arts scene in South Shore Harbour typically revolves around Texan history and music. Annual music events include the Texas Music Festival & Village Fair and Boogie, Blues & Brews.

Characterized by locally owned restaurants serving a variety of cuisines including Asian, Peruvian, American, and Mexican, dining in South Shore Harbour provides you with both familiar and exotic cuisine options.

For a healthy homestyle meal, try Partners in Paleo. Friendly and knowledgeable staff combined with reasonable prices for high-quality food are what brings the locals into this establishment. Traditional Paleo fare with a southern twist is served, and the menu is always rotating to keep things fresh and exciting.

Opus Bistro, only minutes away from the famous Kemah Boardwalk, serves the finest American and seafood cuisine, evident by the huge crowd that frequents the restaurant. The establishment is quite plain on the outside; however, the decor inside is warm and inviting and there is even a nice view of the lake. The dining experience continues to please as you're seated and given a menu with an extensive wine and cocktail list that is second to none. Try the shrimp and scallop victoria and don't pass up the infamous chocolate martini.

South Shore Harbour is unique in that it is an elegant gated community with everything to offer its residents without even exiting the neighborhood. The area is perfect for walking or biking because there are plenty of sidewalks and boardwalks. Residents also travel via personal automobile and use services such as cabs and public transportation. One-way bus fare throughout the city is $2, but parking is plentiful and generally free if you choose to drive.

Located just minutes from I-45, South Shore Harbour locals can travel conveniently to Houston or Galveston. Bush Intercontinental Airport, located in Houston, features an underground train for connections and services most major airlines.

South Shore Harbour, located on the marina, features several small "pocket" parks for leisurely strolls and people-watching as well as a full luxury golf course. For fun for the whole family, visit Kemah Boardwalk which has tons of shops, restaurants, vendors and games. Entrance is free; however, there is a small charge for the games, rides and parking. There are no dog parks in town, but the area is pet-friendly.

The community holds several events throughout the year including a boat show, golf tournament, holiday celebrations and block parties.

Cost of living in the South Shore Harbour community is higher than average compared both to the city and to the nation. The average rental rate for a one-bedroom is $1,018.

Gas prices in the neighborhood are about 9 percent lower than the national average, while a bus ride through the city is $2. For a pint of beer at one of the local establishments, it will cost on average $5-6.

Shops in the area consist of large well-known chain stores and smaller boutiques and thrift shops. One of the main shopping areas is in Kemah, which has a variety of boutiques and eateries to stop into.

Mommie Chic and Me specializes in unique and hard to find gifts, clothing and merchandise for moms-to-be, babies and children. The boutique has bunches to choose from and even does monogramming. Prices are a bit high, but locate the sales room for a nice savings.

Grocery shopping is primarily done at large store chains such as Kroger, Walmart, H-E-B and Target. Randall's Super Market carries all the necessities and features a prime butcher station and quality produce. The prices are higher than average, but the selection is worth it.

The Farmers Market at Clear Lake Shores is held every Saturday morning and carries the typical fresh produce, prepared foods and flowers. Parking is abundant, and the market is perfect for the whole family.