Westchester - Charlotte, NC Area Guide

The area of Westchester sits in the Salisbury District, a judicial/military district within the heart of North Carolina. The area, originally home to European settlers and Native Americans in the mid-1700s, began to thrive as a trade region along the path known as the Great Wagon Road. As the area expanded, it served as a major stop for travelers headed west, and gold scavenging provided wealth and opportunity to the region.

Residents can travel to the city proper just minutes away to indulge in arts and culture. Mint Museum Uptown features art exhibits from historic to modern and conservative to exotic. Other nearby museums such as Levine Museum of the New South and ImaginOn for children provide fun for the whole family.

When dining out in Westchester, you have plenty to choose from whether you fancy American, Mexican, or traditional Southern fare. Most of the establishments are smaller locally-owned restaurants with more known large chain restaurants nearby as well.

For an authentic Mexican plate, look no further than Miguel's. Miguel's exudes authenticity from the moment you lay eyes on the small rustic building. Continuing on to the inside, you may feel as if you just set foot in a friend's house in an exotic location. Order traditional Mexican entrées as well as American food classics paired with cold drinks from the bar, all at more-than-reasonable prices. If you are looking to savor one of the local favorites, choose the delectable sizzling fajitas or the rich and delicious mole.

For a more upscale dining experience, Heirloom prides itself on being one of the best farm-to-fork establishments in town, billing itself as serving locally sourced and globally inspired food. If you truly want to get the experience of the always-changing menu, try the tasting plate, which gives you a variety of the most popular and freshest items being served at that very moment including vegetables, fresh seafood, tender meats and even dessert.

For relaxed nightlife, Westchester residents attend one of the many sports bars, dance halls and dive bars in the neighborhood. When they want a more livelier night-on-the-town, locals flock to nearby Charlotte. Head to Coyote Joe’s for a night out with Southern flair. The authentic country dance hall features live music, libations, corn hole, pool tables, bull-riding and of course dance floors to show off your moves. Be prepared to pay a cover charge for your night full of adventure.

You can easily travel the neighborhood of Westchester by automobile, walking, biking or public transit. The neighborhood provides safe, clean sidewalks, making it easy to walk or bike. Still, the primary mode of transportation is private automobile as many residents commute to work. Popular services such as cabs and Uber are also readily available. While you'll find plenty of free parking in the neighborhood, parking in the city proper can be harder to come by and may also carry a hefty fee.

Alternate modes of transportation include the LYNX rapid transit service that travels throughout the south. The Charlotte Douglas International Airport serves as the national hub for US Airways and is one of the largest airports in the United States.

Parks and outdoor recreation facilities are plentiful in the Westchester neighborhood and city of Charlotte. Enjoy activities such as sports, boating, fishing, hiking and hunting to the fullest at the area's wide-open spaces, parks, lakes, streams and countryside.

Freedom Park features paved trails for walking and biking, tennis and volleyball courts, sports fields, and playground equipment for children. The park regularly hosts events including musical performances, films and holiday gatherings. In addition, the park is dog-friendly, exercise-centric and has plenty of free parking.

Annual events allow the community to gather and bond in celebration. The Carolina Renaissance Festival brings in large crowds yearly. Other events include holiday festivals, music concerts and more.

The cost of living in the Westchester area is lower than that of the city of Charlotte. A one-bedroom apartment averages $512 per month.

Bus fare for a ride through the city runs $2.20, while gas in the area runs about 1 percent lower than the national average. On a night out on the town, you can expect to pay $4 to $5 for a pint of beer.

The diverse shopping scene in Westchester and the city of Charlotte varies from high-value to high-end, providing options for any budget and any taste.

Southpark Mall is a popular shopping destination, along with cute boutiques, antique shops and thrift stores. A fun and trendy women's boutique, Boris & Natasha, carries everything from apparel to shoes, sunglasses and even eclectic jewelry from local artists. The price range varies in the store from bargain to high-cost. With such a huge selection, patrons are sure to find something that fits their style and budget.

Another nearby boutique, Julie's, carries women's apparel, jewelry and accessories. The store's atmosphere feels fresh, clean and inviting. You can find everything from an outfit for a girl's night out, a stand-out outfit for date night or even a dress to wear at a wedding. The prices are reasonable, so you'll be able to pick up an entire ensemble and not break the bank.

Westchester residents buy their groceries from well-known stores such as Food Lion, Bi-Lo and Wal-Mart. For a healthier alternative, Trader Joe's carries most of the items you can find at traditional stores as well as healthy options including prepared foods, supplements and natural products.

The city of Charlotte houses several farmers markets to choose from including Atherton Mill and Market and the 7th Street Public Market. Whether you are going mid-week or on the weekend, you can find a farmers market to browse. The markets carry the traditional produce, fresh meats and cheeses, plants and flowers, and even a variety of specialty items.