Eastland - Columbus, OH

Eastland is a product of the vast suburban development that took place in the Columbus area during the 1960s, when the completion of the Interstate highway system through central Ohio combined with the relocation of numerous large corporations to the area spurred demand for housing options beyond what already existed in the city's downtown core.

Though a smattering of houses already resided in the area, including a few built before World War II, much of the residential construction in Eastland took place after the Eastland Mall opened its doors in 1968. This housing stock from the late 1960s and the 1970s continues to comprise a large portion of the residential offerings in the area.

Columbus features a robust arts scene and numerous museums. The Columbus Museum of Art is a short drive away in downtown Columbus and attracts Eastland residents with annual events such as its Think Outside the Brick exhibition.

The area around the Eastland Mall is home to both chain and local restaurants. No matter the craving - from Chinese or Italian to classic burgers and fries - Eastland residents rarely have to drive far to find an eatery that satisfies.

The China Phoenix sits directly across Interstate 270 from the mall and hits the spot when an empty belly begs to be filled with hearty portions of Chinese food. Regular diners recommend first whetting your appetite with one of the restaurant's many soups, such as the Chinese vegetable, and then moving on to an entrée such as beef and broccoli or beef with mushroom and onion. The China Phoenix also serves beer, wine and cocktails, and many locals find it a great place to catch an NFL game on Sunday afternoons.

Since 1952, Ange's Pizza has been serving up locally renowned pies along with subs, stromboli and pasta favorites such as spaghetti and lasagna. Diners enjoy sitting a spell in Ange's comfortable dining room and leisurely chowing down on a delectable meal. If they're just too comfortable on the couch to leave home, they call for a fast delivery, even late at night. Locals suggest trying one of the specialty pizzas, such as the bacon cheeseburger deluxe or the spicy Italian. If you're thinking pasta instead, be sure to ask for extra garlic bread on the side; most people can't eat only one piece.

For an authentic taste of old Mexico, locals head to El Tacoriendo on Refugee Road. Locally owned and operated, this charming local Mexican haunt always uses fresh ingredients and prepares meals using old-fashioned cooking methods designed to preserve flavor. Favorite menu items include classic tacos stuffed with beef, cilantro and cheese, chicken fajitas and stuffed burritos. The best margaritas in town occupy diners during the short wait for their entrées.

The expansive nightlife of downtown Columbus is only a few miles away, but many residents prefer to stay local and patronize one of the several dive bars dotting the Eastland neighborhood, such as Puckers, which features live music, billiards and daily happy-hour specials.

Low traffic and flat landscapes make Eastland's residential streets fairly pedestrian-friendly, but they do not have bike lanes. Most neighborhood residents drive to their destinations, a task made easier by Eastland's abundant free parking and convenient access to Interstates 70 and 270.

Residents can't hail a cab in Eastland, but they can arrange a pick up in advance. The ride-sharing service Uber also maintains a presence in Eastland and all over the Columbus metro area.

Public transportation in the neighborhood consists of a stop on the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) bus line. Residents use the public bus system as an inexpensive way to get downtown or to other points of interest in Columbus.

In the center of the Eastland neighborhood and adjacent to the Eastland Mall are three interconnected parks: Noe-Bixby Park, Catalpa Park and Nafzger Park. None feature exercise facilities, but all offer free parking and admission as well as plenty of green space, areas for picnicking and lush scenery. Neighborhood residents enjoy the outdoors with family, play catch with their kids, and toss tennis balls and Frisbees with their dogs in these parks.

The nearby Three Creeks Metro Park hosts several annual events for the whole family, including a 5K run followed by a massive egg hunt every Easter.

The cost of living in Eastland is much lower than the cost of living in the Columbus metro area. Residents pay an average of $493.59 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, about $2.50 for a beer in a local pub and $2 to get downtown on a COTA bus. Area gas prices are typically 13 percent lower than the national average.

Located in the center of the neighborhood, the Eastland Mall serves as the local shopping destination thanks to several big-box stores, high-end retailers and discount shops. However, many locals prefer to patronize the boutiques and specialty shops in the area.

Discount Furniture and Mattress Outlet features everything you need to outfit your new place. Shop for a dining set, new bed, sofa sets or end tables to make your apartment or house complete.

OTT Boutique features the best urban wear for Columbus residents, whether you want a trendy cap or stylish sportswear to show off your favorite team. Check out tons of colorful shoes on racks nestled among aisles of clothes.

Residents utilize the neighborhood Kroger for large grocery shopping trips. For unique international fare, the Eastland area has the Mecca International Market and the Gifted African Market. The Smith Farm Market carries fresh local produce, baked goods and flowers.