Want to Know More About Highland Park, Texas?

Highland Park, Texas, is a wealthy, residential town of approximately 8,500 residents. It is an independent municipality entirely surrounded by the city of Dallas. Known for its luxurious homes, beautiful parks, and top-ranked schools, Highland Park is considered one of the most prestigious and exclusive communities in the United States.

History

The history of Highland Park is a story of ambitious and meticulous urban planning, a story that sets it apart from the more organic growth of many other Dallas neighborhoods.

Early Development: The land was originally part of a large ranch and farm property. In 1906, a wealthy entrepreneur named John S. Armstrong purchased over 1,300 acres of land for a new residential development. He partnered with his sons-in-law, Edgar Flippen and Hugh Prather, to bring his vision to life. The name “Highland Park” was chosen because the land sits about 100 feet higher than downtown Dallas and because 20% of the land was dedicated to parks.

Wilbur David Cook’s Vision: Flippen and Prather hired Wilbur David Cook, a renowned landscape architect who had just finished planning Beverly Hills, California, to design the town. Cook’s plan was highly influential, focusing on tree-lined streets, generous parkland, and a harmonious layout that prioritized green spaces and a high quality of life. This master plan has guided the town’s development ever since, with strict zoning and deed restrictions designed to protect property values and maintain the town’s unique character.

Incorporation and Highland Park Village: The town of Highland Park was officially incorporated in 1913. As the town grew, its founders sought to create a central hub. In 1931, they opened Highland Park Village, a groundbreaking retail center. It is a National Historic Landmark, recognized as the first planned shopping center of its kind in the United States. Its unique Spanish Mediterranean architecture and upscale shops made it an instant success and a model for future shopping centers across the country.

The “Park Cities”: Highland Park’s growth was so successful that it inspired a similar residential community, University Park, to develop adjacent to it. Today, the two towns are often referred to as the “Park Cities,” sharing a world-renowned school district, Highland Park Independent School District (HPISD), and a reputation for affluence and strong community ties.

Modern Highland ParkToday,

Highland Park is known for:

Luxury Real Estate: The town’s housing stock is among the most expensive in the nation, with a mix of historic estates and newly constructed mansions. The median home value is well into the millions.Highland Park Village: This iconic shopping center remains a premier destination for luxury retail, fine dining, and unique boutiques.Highland Park Independent School District (HPISD): The school district, which also serves University Park, is consistently ranked as one of the best in Texas and the country.Parks and Recreation: The town’s commitment to green space is still evident, with beautiful parks like Lakeside Park and Flippen Park offering scenic views, walking paths, and a tranquil escape within the bustling city of Dallas.
Exclusivity: Highland Park operates its own police and fire departments, and it has a reputation for being a tight-knit community with a high degree of privacy and exclusivity. This has, however, also led to some historical controversy regarding its restrictive covenants and the struggle for racial inclusion.