Clients who are looking for homes and also have children seem to always put "close to a park" or "within walking distance to _______" high on their list. It's important for parents of this generation to be able to take life slowly when they choose to by taking a stroll to the park or getting out of the house without getting into the car. I think it's our desire to go back to the days when our parents (or grandparents) walked to school and church (in the snow, of course) or when we were allowed to ride our bikes around the neighborhood (without having to bring a cell phone in case of an emergency). I've put together a list of neighborhoods and the parks nearby and another list of 'hoods with markets, restaurants, or shops nearby. Hopefully the list will help you narrow in on which 'hood offers the most for you and your family: