West Norwalk - Norwalk, CT

Originally incorporated as a town in 1651, Norwalk has had an illustrious history, including British invasions during the Revolutionary War and a prosperous oyster industry during the late 19th century that dubbed the area as "Oyster Town." After Norwalk was incorporated and consolidated into a city in 1913, residential neighborhoods, including West Norwalk (incorporated in 1947), began to emerge and continuously thrive.

Museums around West Norwalk include National Registered Historical Landmarks, such as the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, a 62-room mansion reflecting one of the most distinguished examples of Second Empire-style architecture in the United States. The museum hosts annual events and programs to educate the public about the Victorian era.

Norwalk also cherishes its art scene and hosts the annual Norwalk Arts Festival, a two-day festival to celebrate local artists and their contributions to the city's culture.

Featured on the Food Network, Valencia's Luncheria, a popular Latin American restaurant on Main Street in Norwalk, prides itself in serving exceptional Venezuelan fare in a casual environment. Diners rave about the reasonably priced empanadas, which come with a variety of creative fillings, such as chipotle pork and chicken tamarillo. Although Valencia's is usually mobbed with hungry customers, lines go very quickly due to the effective service.

Esteemed as being one of the best Greek restaurants in Fairfield County, Pontos Taverna gives you the closest opportunity of tasting authentic Greek cuisine outside of the island itself. Considered the "Hidden Gem of Norwalk" due to its modest, unassuming location, Pontos Taverna has been a local favorite since 2011 and has yet to disappoint. Using only the freshest ingredients, some popular dishes include the xtapodi, grilled octopus imported from the Mediterranean and served crisp and smothered in lemon, garlic and olive oil. The soulvaki platters prove to be generous and affordable, all including orzo, pita bread and the restaurant's renowned tzatziki. Diners recommend you bring a group and eat "family style" to get a well-rounded taste of all this establishment has to offer.

Getting around West Norwalk proves easy and accessible from any part of the neighborhood. Most residents prefer to commute by car, as the neighborhood sits conveniently wedged between Meritt Parkway and Route 95.

Other popular modes of transportation include the Metro-North Railroad Station in South Norwalk and the Norwalk Transit District, the city's public bus system. There exist various cab companies throughout the city, which are only a phone call away when needed.

Expect to find many public parking lots throughout the city, with options for hourly, daily or monthly rates. The neighborhood of West Norwalk proves walkable, but if you're looking to venture out into the main city, a car or public transportation remain the only ways to go.

As with any major city, bicycling is allowed but could be potentially dangerous in certain high-traffic areas. Always use caution, and be wary of your surroundings.

The city of Norwalk remains pleasantly adorned with an assortment of parks in the area, each with their own unique characteristics. Cranberry Park encompasses 227 acres with wood-lined trails, a golf course and dog-friendly areas. Gallahar Mansion prominently stands within the park, a 1930 Tudor-revival mansion used often for weddings and other special occasions.

Mathews Park, Norwalk's most popular park, serves as Norwalk's hotbed for history and culture, housing two museums on the property, an art center and a historic cemetery. Additionally, the park features a playground, tennis courts and picnic areas, making it a great destination to spend an entire afternoon.

Living in the West Norwalk area remains more expensive than most neighborhoods around Connecticut, averaging 16.2 percent higher than the state's average cost of living. Traveling to the city center proves quick and affordable, costing under $2 per ride on the Norwalk Transit District.

The average rental price for a one-bedroom apartment in the neighborhood is $1,891, which sits 95.4 percent higher than other neighborhoods in Connecticut. Gas prices in the area cost 11.1 percent higher than the national average.

Shopping around West Norwalk remains diverse and can satisfy any type of shopping trip, from picking up a gallon of milk to finding the perfect wetsuit for your next scuba diving adventure. For a quick trip to the grocery store, ShopRite sits right around the corner. If you like to buy in bulk, Costco proves to be the place to go.

In addition to the array of chain stores surrounding the area, West Norwalk contains many specialty stores and boutiques to peak your interest. UTOPIA acts as Norwalk's most popular skate shop, helping customers with their skateboarding needs since 1975. In addition to skateboarding equipment, the shop also sells body jewelry and various tobacco products. If you feel creative, stop by Beadworks, a bead store that caters to both professional and aspiring jewelry makers. This place offers classes on jewelry making and parties for children. The staff proves attentive and knowledgeable, happy to answer any questions.

Nearby Westport houses the Westport Farmers Market, a year-round farmers market originally developed by Hollywood icon Paul Newman. Every Saturday, local vendors sell their produce and other handmade goods. It has been a local hot spot since its inception.