West Shore/Mechanicsburg - Mechanicsburg, PA

Mechanicsburg’s history intertwines with that of the West Shore’s in many ways. However, the borough gained recognition when it operated as a Union Army center during the Civil War. Eventually, the community bloomed most after the second World War and saw development of many buildings and facilities used today. Locals interested in catching a glimpse of the borough’s past head to the Mechanicsburg Museum Association, where several historic buildings and articles have been preserved. Because of the railroad history and military involvement in the community, history buffs enjoy the borough more than residents looking for a unique art scene. However, the neighborhood still offers plenty to see with the Metropolis Collective gallery and Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg bringing art and live performances to the area. During summer, locals flock to the annual Jubilee Day, a huge street fair serving up food, games, arts and crafts, retail items and carnival rides.

Similar to other amenities in Mechanicsburg, the best local eateries are scattered throughout town, rather than being clustered together on a single block or street. For breakfast or brunch, stop in Diener's, a small bistro catering to hungry patrons until 1 p.m. This beloved breakfast nook serves what many consider the best pancakes in town, as well as decadent delights like cinnamon bun French toast. Those looking for a more savory option won't be disappointed by fluffy omelets studded with ingredients like crispy bacon and spinach leaves. Diener's cozy environment makes comfort food like the chipped beef on toast all the more enticing.

Residents looking for unique flavor later in the day often choose Hellenic Kouzina on Main Street. Aside from sweet masterpieces such as cannolis or baklava cheesecake, the lunch and dinner menus are excellent. For traditional plates, locals suggest the Aegean Sea Bass or meaty gyros, lighter fare like the chicken kabobs and house-dressed Greek salad are also worth trying. If you're just in the mood for a bite, don't miss the appetizers: this family business serves up delicious pita bread with melted goat cheese on top to sate your snack cravings.

Although it's a bit of a drive from major nearby cities, Mechanicsburg has an exciting nightlife all its own. Though late night hangouts are mainly comprised of small bars and pool halls, the Mechanicsburg Club on Heinz Street offers dinner, Thursday night bingo, and friendly conversation. A membership ensures that the crowd remains familiar and local, and patrons praise the inexpensive drinks and delicious food specials. Nearby, on Allen Street, Snapper's Bar & Grill awaits hungry friends and families with a full bar and excellent filet mignon.

Encompassing roughly 3 miles of land, Mechanicsburg provides limited transportation options. This rings particularly true since no rail lines and few bus routes service the borough. Locals looking to public transportation depend on Routes 81, B, and M to navigate the borough and its surrounding areas. Even so, 92 percent of residents primarily use cars for their transportation needs and daily commutes. Accessible parking options help ease the high number of automobiles in Mechanicsburg.

Calling ahead for a taxi or renting temporary wheels becomes necessary for errands outside the borough since a commute to the city takes nearly 2 hours. Access the Pennsylvania Turnpike to start towards the city by heading south on York Street. Locally, residents who prefer to walk take to the streets since most roads have sidewalks. Cyclists stick to areas south of Trindle Road, since many roads have designated lanes or are considered biker-friendly. York Street and the residential nook north of Schoolside Drive also see bikers on a regular basis.

Residents fill days off and sunny afternoons with trips to two parks. Adventure Park on Lambs Gap Road is a free, family-friendly space combining a large playground with padded turf for a safe location for kids to run wild. Joggers appreciate the fitness trail and exercise-centered locations. However, the Adventure Park is not very pet friendly, so residents with furry friends head to Koser Park to stretch their legs around the perimeter. Inside, facilities for various sports exist, as well as picnic tables and small stretches of open grass. For a second playground option, visit Koser Park, which is also free and houses multiple athletic fields. Because of limited space, most parks in the are do not host large events or programs, aside from organized sports and activities that fit under pavilions.

Living in the cozy borough with excellent schools and housing options is extremely affordable compared to Philadelphia’s average. At six percent lower than the city’s average, locals encounter more affordable prices for all standard goods and services, such as groceries and utilities. Though the majority of residents choose to own, renters encounter moderately affordable prices. A standard apartment averages $760 a month, though a standard one-bedroom can be found for only $650. Additionally, gas prices in the borough hover about 10 percent higher than the national average. Aside from housing and increased fuel costs, the prices in Mechanicsburg are exceptionally fair, especially since locals can enjoy a liter of beer for less than $6.

As a small borough so far from the city and its consumer influence, retail offerings in Mechanicsburg are sparse. Locals, though, will tell you that driving as little as five miles can open a door to significantly more options. The most concentrated retail section straddles Trindle Road at the intersection of Market Street. Big-name retailers dominated the primary offerings in the borough, though a few small shops manage to hold their own.

Making Sense Quality Consignment brings trendy consignment items to locals through color-coordinated displays. Frequent shoppers appreciate the deals and low prices, and consider this shop high-end consignment. Similarly, K. Marie and Company caters to fashion-minded clients. The boutique carries an assortment of jewelry, shoes and gifts tailored to women of great taste. Aside from department stores, locals also head to specialty shops for niche hobbies and services, such as Joseph James Jewelers, The Potomac Bead Company and the popular comic book store Comix Connection on Carlisle Pike. For a one-stop shop in the form of a mall, check out Camp Hill or Harrisburg.

Grab groceries from chain food stores such as Wegmans or Giant, or divide up your shopping list and collect unique items from the several specialty stores in the area. Locals frequent the Gross-sery on Cheryl Avenue for bulk buys and frozen favorites. The Bombay Bazaar tops grocery venues due to an overwhelming selection of spices, condiments, snacks, and hard-to-find items with an Indian influence.

Locals interested in a farmers market environment head to Paulus Farm Market on York Street for the best of local products and hands-on activities. The mini-zoo and children's activities turn this into a go-to destination rather than just a shopping trip. To find the best used goods at the fairest prices, venture out of Mechanicsburg to nearby Carlisle and visit Bedford Street Antiques. Housed within a converted church, this antique shop features an abundance of impeccably kept vintage furniture, clothing and collectibles. Because the store carries so many items, locals recommend spending as much time as you have available in the store to give yourself the chance to discover a special item that you might not notice upon first glance.