Wythe - Hampton, VA

Settled in 1610, Olde Wythe makes up the part of the neighborhood closest to the shore and stands as the oldest English-speaking city in the US that has been continuously inhabited over the years. The neighborhood has seen numerous historic events including the Civil War Battle of the Ironclads that occurred just off its shore. However, widespread residential development only began in the 1900s with a network of streetcars serving Wythe through the 1950s.

The stately homes along the shoreline each tell a unique shoreline, and residents have a chance to walk through history at The Garden City Cultural and Historical Society housed in a restored home and garden that commemorates the area's African American and Native American history. You can also stop by the nearby Hampton History Museum to catch up on the city's heritage. Don't miss the neighborhood's annual events like the community yard sale and Fall Festival.

Wythe's humble dining scene has as few restaurants as you would expect in a residential area. However, you still find a few home-style BBQ joints and sandwich shops serving up all-American cuisine that reflects the area's rich colonial and industrial heritage. Residents discover these hidden gems scattered throughout the neighborhood for a cheap lunch, and most locals take a short drive downtown for a diverse nightlife scene.

Resting in the heart of Wythe, Philly Station draws in a loyal crowd with some of the best Philly cheese steaks in Hampton. Although the sandwich staples never disappoint, don't hesitate to try more exotic options like the bulgogi sub, a hot sandwich with heaps of Korean BBQ. The tiny dining room can get packed during the lunch hour, but you can always order takeout for a quick meal on the way to work.

Wythe residents have a special relationship with Vancosta's. This charming local pizzeria often hosts community events like gingerbread building. Stop in any time for a steaming bowl of French onion soup or a sizzling steak sub. Keep an eye out for pizza specials to feed a hungry crowd without emptying your wallet, and don't forget to sample the fresh-made desserts like baklava and carrot cake.

When the sun goes down, locals head downtown to Taphouse to choose from more than 35 rotating beers on tap and listen to some live music. While you sample your craft brew, fill your belly with grilled mako shark, home-style blackberry cobbler or a smokehouse burger piled with melted cheddar cheese and bacon.

Hop on Interstate 664 for a quick commute to work in downtown Hampton, or drive down US Highway 60 to get around the neighborhood. Enjoy plenty of free street parking throughout the neighborhood thanks to the Wythe's widespread layout. If you need a quick ride, give Uber or Yellow Cab a call for a pickup.

Hop on one of the Hampton Roads Transit buses at stops along the major roads, but keep in mind that most residents get around by car. For a greener alternative, make use of the bike lanes that run along Victoria Boulevard, or cruise down the other bike-friendly roads. If you choose to travel on foot, keep in mind that Wythe's scattered amenities make for a tiring trek.

Escape from the suburban sprawl to kick back in one of Wythe's public parks. A long common area hugging Chesapeake Avenue along the shoreline has plenty of benches facing the bay for some morning reflection and grass for walking your canine companion. Armstrong Park stands as a family favorite with its baseball field and big playground, but it gets crowded when the next-door elementary school gets out. If you just want to find some open green space for a picnic under the trees, stop by Robinson Park. This popular spot also hosts annual events like the 4th of July celebration and the Olde Wythe Art Festival

Wythe residents have the double advantage of living in one of the city's most desirable areas and enjoying an overall cost of living that falls a little below average for the Hampton metro area. Residents should expect to pay around $750 a month for a standard one-bedroom apartment. Taking the bus into downtown runs you about $1.75, and gas prices generally hover 3 percent below the national average. If you go out for a drink at one of the nearby bars, expect to pay around $6 to $7 for a glass of beer.

Wythe itself has a few convenience stores, furniture stores and auto shops. Take a short drive for an assortment of thriving retail scenes, from the upscale boutiques at Peninsula Town Center in Coliseum Central to the trendy shops in downtown and dozens of hidden gems scattered in between. Peddler's Village Mini Mall lies just west of the neighborhood for an assortment of jewelry, fashion and CD shops.

Head downtown to find Boutique She-She, a trendy shop voted Best of Hampton Roads in 2011 by Hampton Roads Magazine readers. This shop carries a great selection of boho-chic dresses and scarves with splashes of color, ornate jewelry and glitzy handbags.

For a beautiful flower arrangement and prompt delivery service, stop by Britt's Florist. This local gem provides exceptional customer service and has a huge selection of flowers to choose from. While exploring the Town Center, satisfy the artistic spirit in you with a visit to StarFlower Designs and Beads. Have a chat with the staff who share your beading passion while you browse a huge collection of stone and glass beads alongside wire and beading tools.

Neighborhood markets and convenience stores, including Pine Supermarket and 7-Eleven, stock all the staples needed for your weekly grocery run. Stop by Dean & Don's Farm Market to find local produce protected under a cute barnyard-style red roof, and don't forget to head downtown for the citywide farmers market.