Meaning that, everything you needed was within walking distance.

For example, I grew up in a neighborhood where, within 7 blocks, there was a grocery store, elementary school, park with playground, church, two small department stores, a gas station and mechanic, train station, corner store, and a few small restaurants. All within walking distance. We barely had to drive anywhere.

What were your experiences with such places? Did you enjoy it? Find it too confining? Did you know everyone in the neighborhood? Was that good or bad?