Umstead - Raleigh, NC

The Umstead neighborhood of Raleigh was originally inhabited by local Native American tribes and filled with American bison, elk, bobcats and many other large predators. Around the time Raleigh became the state capital in the late 1780s, farmers began clearing the land and trying their hand at cultivating crops. Poor farming practices quickly depleted the land, which was taken over by the government in the 1930s and turned into a recreational area. Over the coming decades, North Carolina continued to acquire thousands of acres and add on to the William B. Umstead Park.

Eventually, the Raleigh/Durham International Airport was built nearby and the surrounding areas began to develop in order to accommodate new residents in their relocation to the neighborhood. The Umstead neighborhood was just one such area to be born out of this building boom.

While Umstead remains largely residential, locals live within a short drive of the North Carolina Museum of Art.

The Brier Creek Commons shopping center sits just north of the intersection of I-540 and Glenwood Avenue and features a long list of popular chain restaurants and upscale dining options. Take the family out for burgers and milkshakes at the nearby Red Robin location, or enjoy a few slices of pizza at Brixx Wood Fired Pizza. Indulge in a unique dining experience at the Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse, where authentic dishes are plated in the traditional style. Skewered and fire-roasted meats are sliced and served right at the table while sides and appetizers sit at separate bars. Each meal comes with several courses, so be prepared for a big meal. The classy and sophisticated dining room completes the experience and makes this restaurants a perfect date night destination. The Angus Barn sits just south of I-540 and has the distinct honor of being the only 4-star restaurant in the city. The award-winning location specializes in perfectly cooked steaks made with only the best cuts of meat and served with garlic mashed potatoes and a variety of sides. Locals head to the local Carolina Ale House to grab a cold pint of beer and cheer on the local teams. This popular hangout has been styled after traditional English Pubs and provides a relaxing place to socialize and enjoy the local ambiance. For more entertainment options, residents can catch a movie at the Regal Cinemas to catch all of the latest films or head to downtown Raleigh listen to live music, visit museums or catch the latest show at the Duke Energy Center for Performing Arts open year round.

Drivers have by far the easiest time traveling the Umstead neighborhood. Residents can easily access I-540 to head east into Durham and the Research Triangle Park or take Glenwood south into downtown Raleigh. Ample parking throughout commercial and residential areas provides drivers with plenty of convenient places to park.

Passengers looking to use the public transportation system will have to head to the Brier Creek Commons shopping center to find the closest bus stops that provide regular routes. You can safely walk and bike the subdivision streets, but getting around using the main streets can be more dangerous.

Residents can also call ahead to schedule a cab ride or locate a nearby Uber driver.

Umstead residents live just few minutes from the Glenwood entrance to the William B. Umstead State Park. Visitors can use the park for free and enjoy a wide range of activities. The park houses miles of hiking and biking trails, and some sections allow for horseback riding. Several lakes provide space for fishing, canoeing and other water sports. Camping enthusiasts can also rent sites throughout the year for a small fee. Bring along the dog so that the entire family can enjoy a day outdoors.

Families can also visit the local Strickland Road Neighborhood Park, which features a large playground with plenty of equipment for children and benches for parents to relax and socialize. Athletes can also take advantage of the open spaces and multi-purpose fields to play ultimate Frisbee or a variety of other games.

While the overall cost of living in Umstead remains relatively affordable, housing prices do run well above other sections of the city. A one-bedroom apartment rents for $930 per month on average. Catching a bus costs $1.50 each way, and gas prices trend 10 percent below national averages. Visit a local bar, and pay $4 for a pint of beer.

The Brier Creek Commons shopping center serves as the area's premier shopping district. Target, Pier 1, T.J. Maxx and many other popular retail chains have locations in this center. Versona, a women's clothing boutique, also has a store nearby. This upscale shop carries a wide range of clothing and accessory options. It features classic pieces such as well-tailored blazers and the latest trends so that shoppers can update their wardrobe and add some flare to traditional outfits. Shoppers and sports enthusiasts can head south on Glenwood Avenue to visit The Bicycle Chain and stock up on affordable bike accessories and gadgets. This locally owned shop specializes in high-performance road bikes, mountain bikes and hybrid models. Expert staff members can answer any questions and help shoppers get matched up with the perfect products to fit all their needs. Locals stock up on groceries at the Walmart Supercenter, Lowes Foods and Earth Fare, which specializes in organic products. State Farmers' Market is another options for fresh, local produce.