West Oklahoma City - Oklahoma City, OK

In 1889, the federal government declared a "land run" in the area. Homesteaders sensed opportunity, and the area grew exponentially between 1890 and 1900, with population rates surpassing the former territorial capitol Guthrie by the time it was admitted to the Union in 1907. The discovery of oil in the vicinity further fueled the city's growth, and the addition of Interstate 35W solidified its position as a commercial hub. The 1990s ushered in another major population growth, this one centering around Asian and Latino households taking root in Outer Central Oklahoma City.

Given the proximity to the center of the city, no museums exist within the area. However, residents can travel mere minutes to downtown to get their fill of arts and culture. The annual Festival of the Arts held in Festival Plaza features original artwork for sale by some of the nation's finest artists.

Independent restaurants span Northwest 39 expressway, the central nightlife location of Outer Oklahoma City. Reflecting the neighborhood's diversity, the eateries span the gamut of ethnic food as well as American-style favorites.

For a taste of the Mediterranean, swing by ZamZam Grill and Hookah Bar. The restaurant serves healthy meals such as hummus plates and gyro wraps. If you would rather treat yourself, sample a stuffed falafel. Deep fried and stuffed with a spicy mix of meat and veggies, the dish will leave you wanting more. Situated next to the restaurant, the hookah bar offers over 30 flavors of tobacco for patrons to try. Select one, and then head out to the serene patio to puff and people watch.

When in the mood for Mexican, head over to San Marcos. Locals swear by the flavorful enchiladas here. Vegetarians appreciate the option to choose spinach or cheese instead of a protein, and the massive portion allows you to split with a friend, so you can try as many as you can handle. Wash down your meal with a Corona or frozen margarita.

The variety of barbecue restaurants here may leave you feeling torn, but look no farther than Swadley's Bar-B-Q. Order the ribs, and select one of the four tangy home-made sauces. Served with a side of okra or corn, these fall-off-the-bone ribs satisfy all your comfort food cravings.

Locals like to cut a rug at Russell's Lounge inside the Marriott hotel. The live music venue features local performers of all genres, and the large dance floor entices even the wallflowers. Russell's has a full bar to help you work up a little liquid courage.

Residents of the neighborhood rely heavily on their cars. Highway 66 cuts through the neighborhood, crossing Highway 77 and connecting drivers to Interstate 35W. The Interstate contains more lanes than cities of a similar population, so drivers rarely have to battle traffic. Local businesses provide free parking to patrons, so parking fees don't cause problems. If you prefer to take a cab, call to reserve one. Taxi and Uber drivers don't troll the streets of this residential area.

Oklahoma's public transportation system, Metro Transit bus line, provides several stops within the area. The buses all go through downtown, so you may need to transfer to reach your final destination. The area contains a few bike lanes, but more prevalent "bike route" signs issue warnings to drivers. Cyclists in the neighborhood prefer to skip the headache and instead head to a local park or lake to bike. A lack of sidewalks and industrial portions of the area make it unsuitable for walking.

Several serene parks service the neighborhood. Whether you want to unwind with a quiet picnic lunch or take a long hike, a variety of activities encourage patrons to enjoy the great outdoors. The free parks allow dogs and feature areas for your children.

Plan to spend an entire day at the crown jewel of the area parks, Stinchcomb Wildlife Reserve. Equally popular with families and exercise enthusiasts, the 1,000-acre park provides something for everyone. Hike the dirt paths through sycamore and oak trees, and be sure to keep an eye out for the many types of birds that make this area home. You can canoe or kayak on the attached lake, and even bring your tackle box and fish off the boat. In April, the park hosts its annual clean-up event. Volunteers remove litter and help maintain the park. The park provides a free dinner after the day's work.

For a more relaxing day, visit nearby Dolese Youth Park. Throw some Frisbees on the disc golf course or bring a team for some competition on the baseball diamonds. The park features looped biking and jogging trails around a small fishing pond.

A significantly lower cost of living compared to the city's average attracts families to Outer Central Oklahoma City. You can find a one-bedroom apartment rental for an average of $497. Easily accessible public transportation to downtown Oklahoma City costs $1.75 for a one-way ticket. The cost of gas runs a wallet-friendly 28 percent less than the national average. The price of beer at a local pub runs under $4, and you can find even cheaper specials during happy hour.

The shopping hub off the Northwest 39 Expressway features popular chain stores like OfficeMax, PetSmart, and RadioShack. Locals also hunt for bargains at various locally-owned shops sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.

Music enthusiasts should check out 39th Street Pawn. The store has a vast selection of used musical instruments, particularly guitars, at an affordable price. Thrift store junkies enjoy swinging by Rink Gallery. You may have to dig for treasure, but the result gives you great value at a better price. Locals particularly enjoy salvaging antique items, including doors, stained-glass windows, and lighting fixtures. Browse the racks for unique gifts such as vintage posters and lunchboxes, and you might even find a thing or two for yourself.

If shopping fueled your appetite, head over to Travel by Taste Deli and Market. The deli is famous for its freshly-made feta cheese that pairs well with just about any meal. The pre-made kabobs and hummus provide an easy dinner fix, or take home some of the rich Persian stew.

The Farmers Public Market is held in downtown Oklahoma City. With this farmers market less than 10 miles away, you'll enjoy venturing into town to visit this historic and impressive building, constructed in 1928. The farmers market is located on the main floor, while the upstairs is used for concerts and events. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to locally-produced honey, produce, baked goods, and more, you'll find antiques, handcrafted items, cut flowers, and a variety of other treasures.