Wynnedale Spring Hill - Indianapolis, IN

The Spring Hill community was incorporated in 1927, and both Spring Hill and Wynnedale came under the governance of Indianapolis as part of the Unigov initiative in 1970. Wealthy families began populating the area throughout the 20th century, maintaining the area's natural beauty by keeping and planting trees on the area's expansive lots.

Living in Wynnedale or Spring Hill places you just blocks away from the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which features a rich collection of classic and ancient art from various cultures. The neighborhoods also rest near the fairgrounds, home of the state fair and host to annual events such as Oranje, an affordable art and music festival for the masses.

Travel a short distance south of Wynnedale and Spring Hill to discover a diverse dining scene that includes cheap barbecue joints, authentic Mexican restaurants, upscale bistros and Vietnamese cafes. The area has little in terms of nightlife, leading most locals to explore the thriving bar and club scene downtown. You can always grab a drink at a nearby bar like Melody Inn, a hot spot for local musicians, featuring live music events such as Punk Rock Night, comedy nights and folk music celebrations. Grab a cheap pint at the beer garden while chatting with neighbors.

Stop by Hank's Smoked Briskets to pick up a tender beef brisket with a side of baked beans and mac and cheese, and stroll over to Bertha Ross Park for a relaxing picnic. This carry-out only restaurant serves up a rack of ribs that falls right off the bone, while the brisket and pork-topped baked potato satisfies even the biggest appetite. Be sure to order a slice of sugar cream pie for a sweet end to a filling meal.

Located in the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the IMA Café creates a modern dining environment with its open layout, natural light and view of the museum fountain. Dine on health-conscious favorites like the Oldfield orchards salad topped with grilled chicken while you work on your laptop using the facility's free WiFi. Try a cup of the signature tomato soup along with an avocado turkey burger for a satisfying lunch you can feel good about.

For authentic Mexican eats at affordable prices, swing by Guatelinda. Get ready for chicken tacos piled high with fresh cilantro and chopped onion, and don't forget to order a cold glass of horchata. Guatelinda serves up some of the best pupusas and sopes this side of Indianapolis, and ordering individual dishes from the a la carte menu keeps your money in your wallet.

Living in Wynnedale or Spring Hill may give you the sensation of living in the country, but commuting to work is a snap with easy access to Interstate 65 and an average 12-minute drive into downtown. Some free street parking lines the neighborhood roads, but most residents park in their driveways. If you need a quick ride to the store, feel free to give Uber or Horsepower Taxi a call.

The IndyGo buses have no stops in either Wynnedale or Spring Hill, so the majority of locals get around by car. For a greener alternative, take your trusty bicycle down the bike-friendly roads. Keep in mind that the area's lack of amenities makes it difficult to run errands by bike or on foot.

When you want to relax after a long week, kick back at one of the beautiful public parks in the area. Wynnedale and Spring Hill have no public parks of their own, but you find Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres just across the river. Located adjacent to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, this green space hosts temporary art exhibits and a 35-acre lake among woods and meadows.

Take advantage of the park's free admission to go for a quiet picnic, walk your dog on his leash or watch your kids play on the interactive artwork. This park also hosts three-season public tours on Saturdays, and you can park your bike on the bike rack after cruising down the Central Canal Trail.

The cost of living in Wynnedale and Spring Hill hovers a good deal above Indianapolis' average. Renting a one-bedroom home here costs you around $829, compared to an average rental rate of $659 for Indianapolis. When you fill your tank, expect to pay around 13 percent below the national average for gas. Going out for a pint of beer at one of the nearby bars and pubs costs you $5 to $6.

Maintaining its natural atmosphere, the Wynnedale and Spring Hill area has very few shopping opportunities or amenities within its boundaries. However, a short trip down to 38th Street or Lafayette Road brings you to an eclectic mix of discount shops, charming boutiques, grocery stores and bicycle repair shops. If you seek more high-end shopping opportunities, take a short drive into downtown.

When you need a Santa outfit to surprise your kids during the holidays or a top-notch Halloween costume, stop by Costumes by Margie to browse one of the city's biggest collections of costume outfits, accessories, wigs and makeup. Find some fake teeth for your vampire costume, an ostrich feather for your 1920s look or a last-minute fox mask for your next costume party. If you're looking for a budget-friendly dress-up option, this shop also has some high-quality costumes for rent.

Step into the world of Indian high fashion at Sai's Boutique & Gifts, a beautiful local shop with a huge selection of stylish saris for every occasion. This little shop stocks traditional outfits in every color palette, from splashes of neon color to laid-back, earthy shades. Buy an ornate clutch with intricate stitched designs for a classy touch to your wardrobe, or purchase an authentic Indian bracelet or necklace to complement an evening gown.

For regular grocery shopping, stop by the nearby Walmart Supercenter for meal-time basics, or pick up some exotic ingredients from Saraga International Grocery. When you're craving local produce, take a short drive to the sprawling Indianapolis City Market.