Ming Ave, Southgate

Ming Ave is a really busy shopping area in Bakersfield. I always watch a movie at the Edwards 14 and it's a little ghetto, but it's something to do on the weekend. You can also get something to eat at Johnny Rockets or stop by Jamba Juice and Starbucks. It's a typical shopping plaza with a few banks and restaurants. I think there's a Blockbuster in that area too. The other side of Ming Ave runs next to the country club.

On the west side of Ming there is the wonderful Marketplace, home of the nicer/newer Edwards Movie Cineplex. The Marketplace is the main hang out for the teens of Bakersfield on Friday nights. It seems like parents just drop their kids off and hope for the best. There's a Von's, Applebee's, Tahoe Joe's, a couple of fast-food chains, Starbucks, and local retailers. My favorite, locally-owned Japanese grill restaurant, Wasabi Express is located here as well as Bakersfield best book store, Russo's. The Marketplace also has some nice family oriented events and sometimes live music. It's Bakersfield's River Park (Fresno), but much smaller.

On the east side of Ming is Bakersfield biggest mall, Valley Plaza, which has the second nicest/newest movie theater. Also a huge teen hangout, but very family friendly too.

Ming Avenue is also one of the main east / west arteries, until they finish the 58 extension (2025?).

As far as living conditions go, I imaging living on Ming as being similar to living on Stockdale. There's quite a bit of traffic, but you're close to things. I don't think it would be that great to live directly on the street, but a couple of blocks off would be great.