Oxford, MI

In the early 1800s, the first surveyors to visit the area that eventually became Oxford reported that it was nothing but swampland and totally unfit for habitation or cultivation. In fact, it earned the nickname "The Barren Plains of Oxford." Despite this less than inviting reputation, the area was purchased in 1823 and settled by a trapper. Over the ensuing centuries, growth has been relatively slow, and residents seem to like it that way. This affluent neighborhood has a different pace of life than neighboring areas like Detroit and Flint.

Today, Oxford hosts many annual festivals that bring the community together. Each August the town hosts the Celebrate Oxford event that features a car show, arts and crafts, live music and food competition among the local residents. During the summer, the centrally located Centennial Park also has local bands and singers performing.

For a bite to eat, head to Lapeer Road, where you will have your choice of tasty American fare. The best and biggest burger in town can be found at Red Knapps. This family restaurant has a rustic feel that reflects the popularity of hunting in the area. Top your burger with the classic combination of pickles, onions and cheese and wash it all down with an ice-cold beer.

The Ox Bar and Grill sits just one block south and has a slightly more sophisticated take on typical American cuisine. For a sure bet, order one of the restaurants legendary pizzas with your choice of toppings or you might want to try the Michigan salad, which comes topped with chicken, walnuts and dried cherries. The Ox also serves as one of the main gathering place for locals looking to grab a drink and catch the game. The bar specializes in serving up brews from around the state of Michigan.

Other than the two main restaurants in town, the nightlife can be fairly low-key. A local, small movie theater shows the latest releases if you want to catch a film, or you can take the drive south into Detroit for a taste of the big city nightlife.

Because this small town is fairly rural and spread out, most residents simply drive. Free parking spots line the streets downtown, and conveniently located parking lots ensure easy access to downtown shops. While the area lacks a public transportation system, you may find it easy to travel by bike when the weather permits. The streets do not have bike lanes, but the sidewalks are a safe alternative, and the Polly Ann pedestrian trail runs through town and provides access to neighboring cities. If you don't have access to a car, you can always call a cab or use Uber to find a ride.

One of the best parts about living in Oxford has to be the access to lakes and outdoor spaces.The Polly Ann Trail used to be a railroad track, but was converted into over 14 miles of pedestrian friendly trails. It provides an ideal place to bike, walk the dog and just get out for some fresh air.

For a day of family fun, visit the expansive Seymour Lake Park which has a giant playground that includes a splash pad and all sorts of water features to help beat the heat during the summer months. Visitors can also take advantage of tennis courts, basketball courts and a large area dedicated to soccer fields. If a recreational league team has a game, chances are that the team will be playing at Seymour Lake Park. Perhaps best of all, these amenities are free to the public.

This park also hosts the annual Fourth of July celebration complete with carnival rides, fair food and spectacular fireworks.

While the cost of living in Oxford runs slightly higher than nearby areas, residents save when it comes to other staples. A one-bedroom apartment costs $645 per month and gas rusn 5 percent cheaper than the national average. Stop by the Ox for a beer, and pay just $3.50 a pint for domestic brews.

Oxford's main shopping area consists of two blocks of buildings located on Lapeer Road. All the stores are locally owned specialty stores that cater to specific clientele. For a new pair of cowboy boots, stop by the Covered Wagon Saddlery, which not only serves the large local community of horse enthusiasts but can also be a great place to find a gift. Pick up a pair of Minnetonka moccasin slippers to keep you warm through the long winter nights.

Treat the kids with a stop at the Funky Monkey Toys. This store specializes in fun, educational toys, so you can feel good about buying some new additions for the playroom or just spending an afternoon exploring what it has to offer.

Residents also have easy access to the Great Lakes Crossing Outlet, which features high-end stores in an outlet mall setting. Head there for some great bargains at favorites like The Gap and J. Crew Factory, and be sure to check out some of the unique, themed restaurants like the Rainforest Cafe. It even has amusement park level attractions, like Legoland Discovery Center and Sea Life Michigan Aquarium.

Residents head to the local Meijer for all their grocery needs. This full-service store has a pharmacy, deli and bakery and much more. It also has a great selection of great local Michigan produce, which is especially nice as the town has yet to establish a regular farmers market to serve residents.