Ward 2 Tucson, AZ

Ward 2 sits within the city of Tucson, founded by Hugh O'Conor, a Mexican military governor. When the United States made the Gadsden Purchase in 1854, the country acquired the city. Tucson saw gradual growth starting around 1900, and has long been one of Arizona's largest cities, along with Phoenix. Both cities experienced rapid growth in the early 2000s.

The Tucson Desert Art Museum sits a short drive away on East Tanque Verde Road. It has an annual holiday market, and it participates in downtown Tucson's annual Meet Yourself folklife festival.

You'll find several popular Mexican restaurants along East Speedway Boulevard when you're craving south-of-the-border cuisine.

Head to El Molinito for generous portions, affordable prices, and a lively party atmosphere. Make sure you don't get too full from the delicious chips and salsa you get to start, as it's worth saving room for the shredded beef tacos. Wash it down with one of El Molinito's margaritas, which are strong enough that you may only need one.

El Potosino provides quick service and stays open around the clock, giving you a convenient option for any late-night Mexican food cravings. The carne asada burritos stand out as a highlight of the extensive menu; don't forget to add plenty of red sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

If you're looking for Italian food, take Pantano Road a short drive north to Wrightstown Road and check out Lasagna and More. As you'd expect, this restaurant specializes in lasagna, and you can either eat there, get your food to go, or have it delivered. You can feel good about what you're putting in your body when you eat here, as the lasagna is organic.

For a local late-night option, Frank's Sports Grill & Bar sits on the intersection of Speedway Boulevard and Pantano Road, featuring all-American food and several fun drink specials. Be careful with the grill's FrankenBurger Challenge, though, as it can test the limits of your appetite. If you're in the mood for live music, try the Canyon's Crown, near Club Crest Estates, on a weekend.

While most residents use cars as their primary means of transportation, walking and biking can also work for this neighborhood, particularly for short errands.

Expect to spend plenty of time on surface streets, as it can take 25 to 30 minutes to reach Interstate 10. However, the neighborhood's close proximity to downtown Tucson ensures that you can access almost anything you need driving on just those surface streets. You can park on the street in this neighborhood, but double-check for any restriction signs first.

Sun Tran buses service Ward 2, with routes 4, 37, and 201X all going through the neighborhood. Taxis and ride-share companies, such as Uber, are also available.

You can reach certain amenities on foot, or you can save yourself time by opting for a bike. The neighborhood's high-quality bike lanes and relatively flat surface make it ideal for rides.

Udall Park, home to the impressive Morris K. Udall Regional Center, lies adjacent to the neighborhood and serves as the closest available park.

Make sure you bring the kids and the dogs to Udall Park, as it includes a playground, all kinds of sports fields, and even an off-leash dog park to let man's best friend run free. You can visit the park free of charge, but certain activities at the recreation center charge a fee. Udall Park offers adult sports classes for a fun way to stay active, as well as senior activities throughout the day.

Reid Park Zoo in downtown Tucson provides several animal exhibits along with camel rides, a wildlife carousel, and a giraffe encounter. Several events are held in the zoo, including special workshops, Brew at the Zoo, ZOOcson, and the Family Festival.

Ward 2 has a lower cost of living than the Tucson average, with housing representing the most significant difference. A one-bedroom apartment in Ward 2 typically rents for about $555.

A Metro ride to the city center costs $1.50 for a one-way ticket, and gas prices come in around 12 percent lower than the national average. A pint at the local pub usually costs about $3 or $4.

Those who have caught the sewing bug should feel right at home inside the Quilter's Market, which packs a collection of bright fabrics with exciting patterns. The shop keeps things interesting with plenty of classes and events. It separates classes by skill level, so you can find a challenging and fun class whether you're just starting out or you've been at it for years. Events provide an opportunity to come work on a project and socialize in a friendly environment.

If you have a green thumb, make sure to stop by Mesquite Valley Growers. The store's tropical house feels like a paradise, stocked full of strong, reasonably-priced plants. Mesquite Valley Growers boasts a knowledgeable, helpful staff who can provide you with as much assistance as you need.

Grocery options include a Fry's Food & Drug within walking distance, and a Wal-Mart only a short drive down Speedway. The Santa Fe Square Farmers Market takes place near Club Crest Estates every Sunday morning.