Rocky River, OH

For a city known for its old-world charm, it seems fitting that Rocky River began as an agricultural community and was incorporated as a small village in 1903. In early years, Native Americans traveled the river that is now a part of the Cleveland Metroparks System, filling the city with a rich story. It officially became a city in 1930, when it was reincorporated.

The area is now known for expansive mansions along the Lake and modern condominiums. This mix of older houses and new construction blends to give the area a best-of-both-worlds feel.

The city has also welcomed creative types who present their crafts at the various festivals held throughout the year. In some of the more affluent neighborhoods, the holidays are a special time for locals to visit house-to-house, admiring perfectly decorated Christmas trees while sipping wine and sampling cookies.

As the central restaurant location, it makes sense that Downtown River offers a variety of cuisine to fit every taste and budget. In the mood for something a little more sweet? Try Sweet Melissa, specializing in the ultimate westside brunch. Start your day with shrimp and grits or peanut butter pancakes washed down with a mimosa. The choices include vegan and gluten-free entrées. If you stop here, don’t forget to peruse the glass case full of specialty desserts to bring something sweet home.

Tucked away in a cozy strip of stores, Tartine Bistro. is a culinary hot spot. Once inside, the cozy cherry wood atmosphere and charming European vibe welcomes guests who end up being impressed by the Parisian offerings, such as baked brie with a vibrant fruit compote and a flavorful ratatouille filled with hearty vegetables as well as pesto. Lake Erie Creamery's award-winning goat cheese and a dizzying array of wine and beers are also featured, making Tartine Bistro a great choice for a midday pick-me-up or an elegant meal.

The BeachCliff Tavern is a down-to-earth restaurant that is known for freshly prepared dishes. Voted the best tavern in the area, BeachCliff Tavern features an extensive list of beers and the famous Rocky River burger, accompanied with mushrooms, bacon, Swiss and sour cream. You also can’t go wrong with their pizza or calzones made with fresh ingredients.

When it comes to nightlife, think sharing a bottle of wine or conversations over craft brews. Nightclubs and hole-in-the-wall bars are miles away.

It’s completely normal to see pedestrians walking or biking to their destination in Rocky River. Bike lanes and courteous drivers ensure that the ride is safe, and taking a stroll to a nearby diner or store is encouraged.

Cars are an obvious choice for commuters, with a trip to downtown Cleveland convenient via I-90. Freeways are easily accessible with both I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike reachable in less than 20 minutes. Cabs are not readily available in the area, so you must call ahead; however, Uber is always an option. Street and lot parking is available, sometimes free and at more posh venues for a small fee.

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority offers bus rides at various stops in Rocky River for locals who prefer to take public transportation.

Residents of Rocky River take pride in being active and enjoying the natural wonders that their city offers. Ten parks in the area offer everything from playgrounds to fishing and hiking. Two swimming pools, an indoor ice rink and courts for tennis and basketball allow for year round fun. Even the family dog has the opportunity to enjoy green space with the extensive Lakewood Dog Park where Fido can run free with the pack.

Bradstreet’s Landing is a popular spot for water lovers. A small pier provides areas for fishing, launching kayaks and watching people. Rocky River Park offers a great setting overlooking the lake, though no swimming is allowed. The park has picnic tables and grills that are perfect for special celebrations.

For an eye-opening outdoor adventure, visit Rocky River Nature Center where visitors can learn about the history of the area and its inhabitants through detailed exhibits. Outside, hikers can take in views of the 360-million-year-old shale cliffs by the river for a truly remarkable sight.

The cost of living in Rocky River is higher than the Cleveland average, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the area is $870, but living here is well worth the price for the area's atmosphere and dining options. Having a beer out can run as low as $3 for a happy-hour special on domestics to over $15 for a multifaceted glass of wine. Gas prices are about the same as the national average.

Just like its culinary options, shopping choices in the area are certainly not lacking. Beachcliff Market Square is consistently packed to the brim with shoppers perusing the aisles of chain retailers such as LOFT to quirky stationery stores.

Weddings are big business in this area, with a slew of shops for every facet of the special day imaginable. Bridal shops are part of the mix, of course, but so are specialty boutiques for mothers of the bride, such as Bella Bridesmaids, which is dedicated to your favorite ladies. Wedding or not, anyone can enjoy the floral shop, Fiori della Vita, which is known for its fresh assortment of local garden flowers.

Farmers Markets and high-end grocery stores, such as Heinen’s and Whole Foods Market, provide Rocky River residents with nutritious options.