Highland Park offers a calm neighborhood with predominantly single detached homes and a variety of housing sizes, including spacious options up to four or more bedrooms. Its quiet atmosphere is enhanced by generally low traffic noise levels, creating a peaceful environment for residents. Green spaces are conveniently accessible from many locations, providing natural areas to explore. The area features an easily reachable pharmacy for basic needs, and while grocery shopping typically requires a vehicle, primary and secondary schools are close by. Driving is straightforward with nearby highway access and ample parking, complemented by several bus lines with stops conveniently located around the neighborhood.
Home buyers who prefer a slower-paced atmosphere will enjoy Highland Park. This area is very quiet, as the streets are generally very peaceful. Lastly, most locations within the neighborhood have reasonably good access to green spaces, such as Highland Park, since there are a few of them close by for residents to explore.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
At the heart of the neighborhood, Highland Park itself is a welcoming urban green space with open fields, mature trees, a playground, splash pad, and picnic areas—making it a favorite gathering spot for families and community events along Leonard Street NE.
Located just south of Highland Park on Coit Avenue NE, this historic elementary school emphasizes arts integration and serves as a hub for neighborhood children and creative programs, fostering a strong sense of community for local families.
A beloved burger spot situated on Plainfield Avenue NE, The Choo Choo Grill is a classic diner with a train-themed ambiance and a reputation for hearty burgers, milkshakes, and old-school charm, popular with both locals and visitors.
Positioned conveniently at the intersection of Leonard Street NE and College Avenue NE, Family Fare offers essential grocery shopping and neighborhood convenience, serving as a key shopping resource for Highland Park residents.
The intersection of Leonard Street and Plainfield Avenue provides access points to the popular Fred Meijer White Pine Trail, allowing Highland Park residents easy entry for biking, running, and outdoor exploration that connects the neighborhood with greater Grand Rapids and beyond.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This internationally known art competition takes over venues, streets, galleries, and public spaces throughout downtown Grand Rapids. Highland Park residents can easily make a short trip for free art viewing, walking, food stops, and family-friendly discoveries before the event closes on October 6.
View event details →Meijer Gardens offers a seasonal fall experience with live music, harvest-inspired food and drinks, hands-on activities, and opportunities to explore the grounds. It is a convenient regional outing for Highland Park households seeking an autumn activity suitable for couples, families, and visiting relatives.
View event details →This evening museum event offers a close-to-home downtown experience for adults and older teens who enjoy history, unusual exhibits, and spooky seasonal entertainment. From Highland Park, residents can pair the program with dinner or a walk along the Grand River for a memorable October night.
View event details →The Fall Parade of Homes gives local residents a chance to tour new and remodeled houses, compare design ideas, and explore area neighborhoods. It can be a useful and enjoyable outing for Highland Park homeowners considering renovations, while children 12 and under receive free admission with an adult.
View event details →The Red Clay Strays bring a live concert atmosphere to downtown Grand Rapids, making this a convenient evening option for music fans living near Highland Park. Residents can enjoy a major touring act without leaving the city and combine the show with nearby restaurants, bars, or downtown entertainment.
View event details →The Grand Rapids Tattoo Festival offers art, live demonstrations, vendors, and a distinctive downtown convention experience. It is a short regional trip from Highland Park for adults interested in tattoo culture, visual art, and people-watching, with plenty of nearby dining and riverfront activities to extend the outing.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Highland Park
Local characteristics and demographics for Highland Park
