Highland Village, TX
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sport and Local Athletics
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Highland Village is an upscale residential suburb in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, situated on the shores of Lewisville Lake, known for its parks, trails, and family-friendly atmosphere.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The official name of the city is Highland Village. It is a city in Denton County, Texas, United States . It is not a county seat but is an incorporated municipality within the county. Highland Village is a principal part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, one of the largest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S., known for its diverse economy, major league sports, and cultural attractions .
Date of Foundation and Age
Highland Village was officially incorporated as a city on February 14, 1963 . As of 2026, the city is 63 years old. The city's growth was significantly spurred by the opening of the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, transforming it from a small community into a thriving suburb .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
The city is located at the geographic coordinates 33.0897° N, 97.0615° W . Highland Village is situated on the south side of the western branch of Lewisville Lake, approximately 10 miles southeast of Denton and 20 miles northwest of Dallas . The elevation in the city is around 548 feet (167 meters) above sea level . It is a classic example of a suburban, lakeside community .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Highland Village is primarily an upscale residential community and a suburb within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex . Its economy is locally driven by retail and services, with The Shops at Highland Village serving as a major commercial hub featuring high-end boutiques, national retailers, and diverse dining options . The city also functions as a residential base for professionals working in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Highland Village was 15,899 . By 2021, the population was estimated at 15,952 . The city is classified as a small city. It is characterized as a predominantly white (78.56% non-Hispanic white) and affluent community, with a significant increase in population since its incorporation .
City's "Visiting Card"
Highland Village offers a peaceful, upscale suburban lifestyle with a strong connection to nature. Its main draws are the extensive recreational opportunities on Lewisville Lake, a network of well-maintained parks and trails, and a charming, modern town center for shopping and dining, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a retreat near the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex .
Geography
Water Bodies
- Lewisville Lake: This expansive reservoir of over 29,000 acres is the dominant geographic feature of Highland Village, with the city located on its southern shore . It is a major recreational hub for the region, famous for boating, fishing (bass and catfish), jet skiing, paddleboarding, and swimming . The lake was formed by the Lewisville Dam, constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and completed in 1955 .
Parks and Recreation Areas
Highland Village is home to several notable parks that leverage its lakeside location:
- Highland Station Park: A key community park featuring a 2.5-mile trail with scenic views of Lake Lewisville. It also includes a large playground, a basketball court, a sand volleyball court, and a splash pad. It is the site of the Annual Highland Village Balloon Festival .
- Pilot Knoll Park: Located along the shores of Lake Lewisville, this park is ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. It offers miles of trails, picnic areas with grills, and camping facilities, making it a favorite for overnight outdoor experiences .
- Unity Park: A vibrant community space with walking trails, modern playgrounds, open fields for picnics and sports, and shaded areas. It serves as a venue for community events like outdoor movie nights and seasonal festivals .
- Copperas Branch Park: Another local park offering hiking and biking trails and access to the lake, contributing to the city's extensive park system .
- Highland Village Historical Park: This park offers a unique blend of history and recreation. It features restored 19th-century buildings, including an Old Town Hall and a museum, providing a glimpse into the area's past as a farming community .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Highland Village has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) according to the Köppen climate classification . The area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters . It is located in a region known as "Tornado Alley," meaning it can experience occasional thunderstorms and tornadoes .
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
The city experiences a wide range of temperatures. The warmest period is typically July and August, with average daily maximum temperatures reaching around 35-37°C (95-99°F) and minimums around 24-25°C (75-77°F) . The coldest month is January, with average maximum temperatures of 13-14°C (55-58°F) and average minimums dropping to around 1-3°C (34-37°F) . The overall average annual temperature is about 19°C (66°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
The average annual rainfall in Highland Village is approximately 918mm to 1176mm (36 to 46 inches) . The wettest month is May, with significant precipitation averaging around 152mm, while the driest month is July . Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, though spring months tend to be the wettest . Snowfall is rare and light, with an annual average of only 9mm (0 inches), occurring mostly in January and February . Humidity levels are relatively high, especially in summer, averaging around 78% .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November): These seasons are considered the best time to visit Highland Village. The weather is mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, picnics, and lake recreation. The parks are less crowded, and many community events and festivals take place during these months .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are very hot and humid, with peak temperatures in July and August often exceeding 35°C (95°F). This is the peak season for water sports on Lake Lewisville, but visitors should be prepared for the intense heat .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are mild and cool, with occasional cold snaps. While outdoor activities are still possible, it is the least popular time for tourism, though it offers a quiet retreat .
Landmarks and Attractions
Highland Village Historical Park
This park is a charming destination dedicated to preserving local history. It is famous for its collection of restored 19th-century buildings that showcase the architecture and heritage of the area's early farming community. Key structures include the Old Town Hall and the Highland Village Museum. The park also features walking trails, picnic areas, and hosts community events and educational programs throughout the year .
The Shops at Highland Village
Opened in 2006, this is the city's premier retail and lifestyle center. Spanning over 300,000 square feet, it is known for its upscale, open-air setting with beautifully landscaped grounds. It features a unique mix of high-end fashion boutiques, popular national retailers, a diverse array of dining options, and art installations. It serves as a social hub, hosting community events and festivals .
Pilot Knoll Park
A serene and picturesque destination on the shores of Lake Lewisville, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It is famous among nature lovers and birdwatchers for its diverse wildlife and stunning lake views. The park features several miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing access, picnic areas, and camping facilities, allowing visitors to experience nature overnight .
Highland Station Park
This park is a major draw for its spectacular 2.5-mile trail that offers panoramic views of Lake Lewisville. It is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and outdoor events. The park is also home to the Annual Highland Village Balloon Festival and features a large playground, a splash pad, and sports courts, making it a central gathering place for the community .
Unity Park
A vibrant community space designed to foster connection and inclusivity. It is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, with modern playgrounds, walking trails, open fields for picnics and sports, and shaded gathering areas. It regularly hosts community events such as outdoor movie nights and seasonal festivals, strengthening the city's sense of community .
Transport
Nearest Airports
Highland Village does not have a commercial airport of its own. The primary airport serving the area is:
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): One of the busiest airports in the world, located approximately 20-25 miles south of Highland Village. It is a major hub for American Airlines and offers flights to virtually all domestic and international destinations. It is accessible via car on highways like I-35E and TX-121 .
- Dallas Love Field (DAL): Another major airport, located about 20 miles south, serving as a hub for Southwest Airlines and offering numerous domestic flights .
Public Transportation
Highland Village is a member of the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) , which provides public transit options .
- DCTA A-train: This commuter rail line has a station in the city, the Highland Village/Lewisville Lake station, which opened in 2011. The A-train connects Highland Village to Denton to the north and Carrollton to the south, where riders can connect to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system for access to downtown Dallas .
- GoZone On-Demand: DCTA also provides GoZone, an on-demand rideshare service in partnership with Via, which offers flexible transportation within Highland Village and connects to the A-train and other DCTA services .
- Commuter Express: Coach bus service is also available, connecting Highland Village to Denton and downtown Dallas .
Main Highways and Roads
Highland Village is well-connected by road, primarily via FM 407 and is located near Interstate 35E, a major interstate highway that runs from Denton through Dallas and south to Waco . This provides direct automobile access to the entire Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Ride-sharing and Taxis
Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Highland Village, offering an alternative to personal cars and taxis for getting around the city and to nearby destinations .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Highland Village, while a modern suburb, is situated in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, an area renowned for its rich Tex-Mex culinary heritage. The local dining scene reflects this tradition, offering residents and visitors a taste of the region's most beloved flavors.
Tex-Mex Classics and Sizzling Fajitas
The most iconic culinary style in Highland Village is undoubtedly Tex-Mex, with local restaurants serving up classic dishes that define the genre. A standout example is mesquite-grilled fajitas, a dish that has become synonymous with Texas dining. These sizzling platters, often featuring steak or chicken, are a favorite among locals . One reviewer enthusiastically noted, "The best steak fajitas!!!" when describing their meal at a popular local establishment . The preparation involves grilling marinated meats over mesquite wood, which imparts a distinct, smoky flavor that is the hallmark of authentic Texas fajitas. Served with a side of warm tortillas, grilled onions, and bell peppers, this dish is more than a meal; it's a participatory experience central to the region's food culture.
Essential Accompaniments: Chips, Salsa, and Queso
No exploration of Highland Village's cuisine would be complete without mentioning the foundational elements of any Tex-Mex meal: fresh salsa and creamy queso. A complimentary basket of chips and salsa is a time-honored tradition in local restaurants, a practice that visitors and residents alike have come to love . The quality of this simple starter is often used as a benchmark for the entire meal. Alongside salsa, queso—a smooth, melted cheese sauce, often spiked with green chiles or other ingredients—is an indispensable part of the local culinary landscape. Patrons frequently praise its quality, with one comment highlighting a particular order as "the best queso you have done!!!" .
Classic Enchiladas and Margaritas
Beyond fajitas and dips, the local Tex-Mex repertoire is deep and satisfying. Enchiladas, corn tortillas rolled around a filling and covered in a savory chili sauce and cheese, are a staple menu item . They represent the comforting, hearty core of the cuisine. To accompany these flavorful dishes, locals and visitors alike turn to a quintessential Texas beverage: the Margarita . Whether frozen or on the rocks, this iconic cocktail, made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, is the perfect complement to the bold and spicy flavors of Tex-Mex food, rounding out the essential culinary experience in Highland Village .
Sport and Local Athletics
Highland Village offers a variety of recreational sports facilities and is home to active youth athletic associations, fostering a strong community spirit through sports. While it does not have major professional sports franchises within its city limits, its location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex places it within easy reach of world-class professional sports.
Community Sports Facilities and Youth Athletics
The city maintains several parks that serve as hubs for local sports and recreation. Key facilities include:
- Doubletree Ranch Park: This park is a central location for local sports activities, hosting meetings for the Highland Village Area Baseball and Softball Association (HVABSA) in its "Big Red Barn" facility . It provides essential green space for the community.
- Brazos Park: Equipped with a baseball practice field and a flag football field, Brazos Park caters specifically to youth interested in these popular American sports .
- Highland Village Tennis Center: For tennis enthusiasts, this dedicated facility offers courts for recreation and play .
The Highland Village Area Baseball and Softball Association (HVABSA) is a prominent organization in the city. It organizes youth leagues and has seen its teams achieve notable success. For instance, the 14U Storm - Miljas team went undefeated (5-0) in a tournament to win a championship, and the 12U Storm - French team competed against over 100 teams from across the USA at the prestigious Dreams Park in Cooperstown, New York, advancing to the "Sweet 16" bracket . This level of achievement highlights the strength and dedication within the local youth sports community.
Proximity to Major League Sports
For residents seeking professional sports, the nearby cities of Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth offer a full slate of major league teams. Highland Village's location provides convenient access to this vibrant professional sports scene:
| Sport | Team Name | Home City | Stadium/ Arena |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Football (NFL) | Dallas Cowboys | Arlington | AT&T Stadium |
| Baseball (MLB) | Texas Rangers | Arlington | Globe Life Field |
| Basketball (NBA) | Dallas Mavericks | Dallas | American Airlines Center |
| Ice Hockey (NHL) | Dallas Stars | Dallas | American Airlines Center |
| Soccer (MLS) | FC Dallas | Frisco | Toyota Stadium |
This proximity means that Highland Village residents are just a short drive from experiencing the excitement of top-tier professional sports, from the iconic Dallas Cowboys to the championship-winning Texas Rangers and Dallas Stars.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Highland Village itself is a primarily residential community and does not host its own university or college campuses . However, its strategic location in the northern part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex places it within a short driving distance of numerous prestigious and major institutions of higher education. The nearest major university is the University of North Texas, located just about 10 miles away in Denton .
Major Universities Near Highland Village
The area surrounding Highland Village offers a diverse range of higher education options, from large public research universities to smaller private colleges. Here are some of the most prominent:
- University of North Texas (UNT) : Located in Denton, approximately 10 miles from Highland Village, UNT is a public research university and one of the largest in the state, with over 47,000 students. It is highly regarded for its programs in music, business, and the arts .
- Texas Woman's University (TWU) : Also situated in Denton, about 10 miles away, TWU is a public university known for its strong programs in nursing, health sciences, and education. It has a significant enrollment of over 15,000 students .
- The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) : Located in Richardson, about 19 miles from Highland Village, UTD is a rapidly rising public research university, particularly famous for its computer science, engineering, and business programs. It is ranked as the #3 Best Public University in Texas .
- Southern Methodist University (SMU) : Situated in University Park, Dallas, approximately 23 miles away, SMU is a prestigious private university with nationally recognized programs in business, law, and the arts. It is ranked #3 among the best colleges in Texas and has a highly competitive admissions process .
- University of Dallas : Located in Irving, about 19 miles away, this private Catholic university is known for its strong liberal arts core and is ranked #8 among the best private colleges in Texas .
- The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) : About 25 miles from Highland Village, UTA is a large public research university with a strong focus on engineering, nursing, and business, enrolling nearly 44,000 students .
Community Colleges and Local Schools
In addition to four-year universities, several community colleges serve the Highland Village area, offering two-year degrees and workforce training. Brookhaven College and North Lake College are among the closest, both located within about 16-17 miles and featuring open admission policies . The Collin County Community College District also has a large presence in the region .
Within Highland Village itself, the educational focus is on primary and secondary schooling. The city is served by the Lewisville Independent School District and historically has had three elementary schools and one middle school located within its boundaries, catering to the educational needs of its families .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Highland Village offers convenient access to primary and family healthcare services for its residents. For more specialized medical care and major hospital systems, the city's location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex provides easy access to a vast network of world-class medical institutions in nearby cities.
Local Medical Clinics in Highland Village
For routine medical care, family medicine, and internal medicine needs, residents have local options right in the community.
- Texas Health Family Care: Located at 2012 FM 407 Ste 100, this facility provides family medicine services, including adult-gerontology acute care. The clinic is staffed by a team of physicians and physician assistants, making it a convenient option for primary care .
- Southern Horizon Healthcare: Situated at 2280 Highland Village Rd, Ste 100, this practice specializes in internal medicine, offering comprehensive care for adults .
Proximity to Major Medical Centers and Specialized Care
While Highland Village provides for basic healthcare needs, residents have access to numerous nationally recognized hospitals and specialized medical centers within a short drive. These nearby cities in the Metroplex are home to advanced medical technology and specialized treatment:
- Dallas: Home to renowned institutions such as UT Southwestern Medical Center, one of the country's leading academic medical centers, famous for its research and specialized care in nearly every medical field, including cancer, cardiology, and neurology. Baylor University Medical Center is another major facility, part of the Baylor Scott & White Health system, the largest non-profit healthcare system in Texas.
- Fort Worth: Offers major medical campuses like Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, known for its cardiac and vascular care, and Cook Children's Medical Center, a premier facility dedicated entirely to pediatric care, drawing families from across the region.
- Denton: As the nearest major city, Denton provides several hospital options, including Medical City Denton, which offers a range of services from emergency care to cardiac catheterization and is part of the large Medical City Healthcare network.
This proximity to advanced medical infrastructure ensures that while Highland Village offers convenient local clinics, its residents are never far from some of the finest specialized and emergency medical care available in the state and the nation.