Elizabeth - Charlotte, NC

This community, established in 1907, remains the only neighborhood in Charlotte named after a woman. The initial site of Elizabeth College (named for the benefactor of the college's wife) and later the home to the first public park in Charlotte, the community has made its mark on local history. Elizabeth College eventually moved, and Presbyterian Hospital took over its campus.

This neighborhood still oozes with historic Southern charm but with a busier and more modernized atmosphere. The city's hospital and medical complex have expanded into the area, and the residents have become more diverse, making the neighborhood one of the most fun and funky little pockets of Charlotte. Artsy, contemporary, historical and professional all at once, Elizabeth represents a cross-section of the population of the city.

The food and dining experiences here are as funky, varied and culturally diverse as the neighborhood itself. Viva Chicken, a Peruvian place with a menu sure to blow you away, offers friendly and prompt services as well as prices that are extremely reasonable. Try the quinoa-stuffed avocado if you are in the mood for something fresh, tasty and healthy.

If you're looking for something a little less light and a whole lot less vegetarian, check out Bang Bang Burgers on 7th Street, and sample the best burgers in the whole 'hood. Bang Bang Burgers has all the classics, including a good old fashioned cheeseburger, but you can also vary it up with unique menu items, such as the cheeseburger egg roll. Considering the huge portions served here, the reasonable prices make for quite a value.

Visit Lupie's Cafe on Monroe Road for some good ol' southern food. Try the roasted pork and macaroni and cheese when you're looking for a wholesome meal. From the exterior, Lupie's looks like an old timers' cafe that has been around for years. Sit down in the dining room to be greeted by excellent, friendly wait staff and reasonable menu prices.

As for brunch, you can't find one better in the area than Jackalope Jack's Restaurant and Bar, which serves Southern classics such as biscuits and gravy as well as fully loaded "garbage plates." Any local is quick to tell you these calorie-packed meals serve as the perfect medicine after a night of drinking.

With restaurants, shops, and even a hospital all within an easy walk from one another, getting from around Elizabeth on foot proves to be a snap. The city also runs a bus system as well as a light rail (CATS) that runs through the heart of Elizabeth. The light rail, in particular, has become a local favorite mode of transportation because of its affordability, efficiency and ability to get residents almost anywhere within the city with ease. There are many taxis and other ways of hitching a ride, such as Uber or Lyft. The central location of this community makes it easy to get everywhere, even the airport. With Charlotte Douglas International Airport only about 20 minutes away, you can jump on a plane at any time.

Being so green and strikingly attractive, Elizabeth itself might be mistaken for a park in parts. This community houses the first public park in Charlotte, Independence Park. This beautiful park remains just as lovely today as it was when first built in the early 1900s. As you stroll through the rose gardens or stand under the stone shelter, you feel transported back in time. Those who wish to be active will have no problem finding something to do here, as plenty of recreational options exist in the form of tennis courts, a baseball field, basketball courts, volleyball courts and walking trails. Kids won't want to miss the reflecting pond or playground.

Neither the most expensive nor the most affordable neighborhood in the city, Elizabeth houses mostly middle class residents, including young professionals and new families. Beautifully renovated historic homes can cost a bit more than many budgets may be able to handle. However, very affordable options abound as well. The median rent in this area will run you about $1,000 per month. Small houses can be purchased for $500,000.

Gas prices are above the national average, but the ease of walking around the neighborhood helps to make up for that fact. The bars and restaurants here tend to be more high-end (even most pubs are gastro-pubs) so the prices for food and drinks tend to be higher than you might find elsewhere. A great example would be Philosopher's Stone where most entrées price under $15.

Elizabeth bursts with culture, shopping, dining and more. Intriguing storefronts, delicious restaurants and charming renovated historic buildings dot the sides of Elizabeth Street.

Heroes Aren't Hard to Find may just be the perfect place to shop for comic books and graphic novels, both new and used. Perhaps the most popular comic book store in town, this fun shop sells their products in a family-friendly atmosphere. If comic books are not your cup of tea, stop into Baskets of Yarn, a hidden gem on the backside of a building. A great place for both avid and novice knitters looking for supplies, this establishment even offers classes in addition to selling a wide variety of yarns and other tools.

For groceries, you will find plenty of chain options, including Harris Teeter and Trader Joe's. Numerous locally owned food stores exist as well, such as Pasta and Provisions, which specializes in delicious Italian specialties. Try their fresh pastas, breads and other delightful delicacies for a taste of something truly authentic.