Pine Hill, NJ

The Borough of Pine Hill established itself in 1929 and was aptly named because of its hilly topography and the array of pine trees in the area. Most of the pine barrens are protected by environmental protection laws, so this area won't ever grow into a huge suburban sprawl. Pine Hill takes environmentalism very seriously and prides itself on having one of the strongest recycling programs in the country.

At one point in its history, many Leni Lenape Indians resided in the area. You might even find an arrowhead or two while out gardening in the yard.

The home of one of the area's earliest settlers, Isaac Tomlinson, still stands in Pine Hill. The county purchased the Federalist style house in 2000 in the hopes of restoring it as living history. Once a large homestead comprising several acres, the Tomlinson house stands on a small plot with a family cemetery nearby.

Pine Hill holds its own against its more populous neighbors in terms of food options. Parilla La Fogata, an authentic family-owned and operated casual establishment has severd the area for years. Enjoy the Spanish music as you dine on huge portions of authentic Mexican fare. The inexpensive menu offers traditional items including tacos and quesadillas as well as Mexican-inspired sandwiches. One tip: The restaurant only takes cash, so stop by the ATM.

For eat-in or take-out, Pine Hill Pizza and Grill hails as a town favorite. The home of the Original Tarantini Panzarotti — deep-fried special dough filled with mozzarella and other fillings. Pine Hill Pizza and Grill also has some of the best pizza in South Jersey. Fast delivery and good prices make this the perfect joint for quick dinners after a hectic work day.

For a more exclusive night out, become a member at the Trump National Golf Club, and try the club's exquisite meals. The golf club also features an international wine list. Though you have to be a member or a guest, the club also hosts occasional open nights to try entrees made fresh by top chefs. Come at sunset to enjoy the marvelous view of the city though wall-length windows while you dine.

South Jersey prides itself in its local taverns and low-key nightlife, so most locals enjoy imbibing at local bar on Friday and Saturday nights. Try Lucky Tavern on Erial Road for inexpensive brews from an impressive local beer list. Here you'll find friendly, laid-back bartenders. Another option just up the road is Pine Hill Tavern, which plays local cover bands on the weekends, often with no cover charge.

For something different, you can always head into Center City, Philadelphia, to dance, or venture down to Atlantic City, and try your luck at the craps table. Both beckon from a short drive away, or you can ride on the PATCO, which makes Pine Hill a convenient location for those who occasionally seek rowdier nightlife.

Most residents in the Pine Hill area own cars as driving remains the most convenient option. However, New Jersey Transit offers the 403 bus line, which carries residents to stops between Camden and Turnersville.

The Lindenwald PATCO High-Speed Line station sits only a short drive away, so residents can get to Philadelphia or other New Jersey towns within minutes. You can easily find cabs at the Lindenwald station, though in most areas you will need to call a cab to pick you up. The easiest way to get to New York City is from Trenton, where a NJ Transit train will whisk you to the Big Apple in less than 90 minutes.

The neighborhood is walkable and bikeable with many wooded trails. Not all the major highways have bike lanes, so use caution.

Fitness buffs will love Pine Hill. Besides the city's running trails, check out the Charlie Bowden Recreation Complex and its numerous soccer and football fields. There are also several walking trails, and dogs are welcome on-leash. Many runners also utilize Overbrook High School's track on nights and weekends.

To tire your young ones out, bring them to one of the town's many playgrounds, including the West Fifth Avenue Playground for infants on up to children aged 12. The playground has safe equipment such as swings and see-saws as well as grassy areas for play.

The area is quite economically diverse: million dollar homes nestle in the same neighborhood as lower-rent apartment buildings, so the cost of living in Pine Hill varies greatly. The average rent for a one-bedroom rests at $748 per month.

The pub culture keeps beer costs low, and at most places you can find a brew for under $5. Gas prices in Pine Hill average at 15 percent lower than the national average.

Residents can drive to the PATCO Lindenwald Station, and catch a train to Philadelphia for only $3 one-way.

Grocery stores are easy to come by in the area with a Save-a-Lot, Aldi, and ShopRite within a few miles. New Jersey grows some of the best produce in the county, so many locals prefer to peruse the farmers markets. In the winter, head to nearby town Berlin to the Berlin Farmers Market. The market also runs a flea market as well as an Amish stand with fresh pastries and goods from Lancaster County. Deptford Mall remains a favorite retail shopping hub about 8 miles away, and features many major chain retailers. Many of the local businesses in the Pine Hill area have been in operation for years. Pine Hill Hardware has been in business for over 50 years and holds all your hardware and home improvement needs. In addition, the owner and his son do window instillation. Established in 1985, Heart of Gold Jewelers is another long-standing Pine Hill business. Owners Sam and Stacy Rizzo are well known for their friendliness and will work to find you the just the right piece. They also repair watches on site.