The Highlands neighborhood in Louisville, Kentucky, sits just east of downtown, stretching along Bardstown Road and Baxter Avenue. This vibrant area combines historic charm with urban convenience, creating one of Louisville’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Known for its eclectic mix of local businesses, restaurants, and distinctive architecture, the Highlands has developed a reputation as Louisville’s hip, walkable core. While beloved by many residents for its character and amenities, it’s not without challenges including traffic congestion and higher costs compared to other Louisville neighborhoods.
Is Highlands safe?
The Highlands generally maintains a better safety record than some other Louisville neighborhoods. Bardstown Road, the main commercial corridor, sees occasional property crime like car break-ins, particularly on weekends when the bar scene is busiest.
Cherokee Triangle and the areas closer to Cave Hill Cemetery tend to experience fewer incidents than sections near Broadway. Residents often note that street lighting varies considerably between blocks.
The community maintains an active neighborhood watch program, and Louisville Metro Police maintain a visible presence, especially during weekend evenings when the restaurant and bar scene draws crowds.
Like many urban neighborhoods, common sense precautions are recommended, particularly at night around the busier commercial sections.
Is Highlands a nice place to live for families?
The Highlands attracts a diverse mix of residents, including many families drawn to its character and amenities. The neighborhood offers good educational options, green spaces, and a strong sense of community.
Schools
Families in the Highlands have access to several well-regarded public schools. The J. Graham Brown School, serving K-12 students, consistently ranks among Louisville’s top educational institutions with its progressive curriculum and diverse student body.
Bloom Elementary provides solid educational foundations with strong parent involvement, while Audubon Traditional Elementary offers a structured learning environment with emphasis on core academics.
For older students, duPont Manual High School, though not directly in the Highlands, is accessible and stands as one of Kentucky’s premier public high schools, offering specialized programs including a nationally recognized journalism department.
The area also boasts several private school options, giving families more educational choices than typically found in other Louisville neighborhoods.
Family Activities
Cherokee Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, provides 409 acres of green space with playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas. The park hosts community events throughout the year and serves as the neighborhood’s outdoor living room.
The Mid-City Mall offers family-friendly entertainment options, while the nearby Louisville Zoo and Science Center make for easy weekend outings.
The neighborhood’s walkable nature means families can stroll to ice cream shops, bookstores, and casual restaurants, creating a true community feel that’s increasingly rare in American cities.
Is Highlands expensive?
The Highlands commands premium prices compared to most Louisville neighborhoods, reflecting its desirability and amenities. Housing costs vary significantly between the micro-neighborhoods within the Highlands.
Cherokee Triangle represents the highest end of the market, with historic homes often selling around $465,000. Many of these properties feature distinctive architectural details and spacious lots.
Tyler Park offers slightly more accessible pricing at around $385,000, while still providing the Highlands lifestyle and character.
For those seeking more affordable options while staying close to the Highlands amenities, nearby Germantown, Shelby Park (around $190,000), and Smoketown (approximately $170,000) offer more budget-friendly alternatives with improving amenities.
The rental market in the Highlands is robust, with most residents renting rather than owning. Average monthly rents hover around $1,200, noticeably higher than Louisville’s overall average. Competition for rentals can be fierce, especially for units in well-maintained historic buildings or modern apartments with parking.
Housing stock ranges from historic Victorian homes to mid-century apartments and newer infill developments, providing diverse options but at a premium price point.
What transport links are there?
While the Highlands scores highly for walkability, public transportation options remain somewhat limited compared to larger cities. TARC bus routes 17, 23, and 40 serve the neighborhood, connecting to downtown and other areas of Louisville.
Bardstown Road can become congested during rush hour and weekend evenings, though side streets offer alternatives for residents familiar with the area.
The neighborhood’s central location means downtown Louisville is typically a 10-minute drive, while accessing the Watterson Expressway (I-264) takes about 5-10 minutes depending on your starting point.
Many residents appreciate being able to walk to restaurants, coffee shops, and basic services, reducing dependence on cars for daily needs.
Bike lanes exist on some streets, though the network remains incomplete. The city has plans to improve cycling infrastructure throughout the neighborhood.
What amenities are available in Highlands?
The Highlands boasts an impressive array of amenities, particularly for dining and nightlife. Bardstown Road and Baxter Avenue form the commercial spine with locally-owned businesses dominating the landscape.
Restaurant options span from casual to upscale. Local favorites include The Café, serving comfort food in a converted warehouse, and Gralehaus, offering creative breakfast and lunch in a cozy setting. Chain options like Chipotle and Raising Cane’s provide familiar alternatives.
The neighborhood is known for its vibrant bar scene, with Neat Bourbon Bar exemplifying the craft cocktail movement that has taken root in the area.
For groceries, ValuMarket in Mid-City Mall serves as the neighborhood’s primary supermarket, while several convenience stores like Shelby Mart provide quick shopping options.
The Highlands maintains essential services including a post office, pharmacy, and medical offices. Fitness enthusiasts can choose from multiple gyms and yoga studios scattered throughout the area.
The Louisville Free Public Library’s Highlands-Shelby Park branch provides community programming and resources, while pet owners appreciate having multiple veterinary options nearby.
The neighborhood’s greatest amenity might be its walkable nature, with most residents able to access restaurants, shops, and services without relying on a car.
What is the surrounding outdoor area like?
The crown jewel of Highlands outdoor spaces is undoubtedly Cherokee Park, part of Louisville’s historic Olmsted Parks system. The park features a 2.4-mile scenic loop, popular with joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers.
Smaller green spaces like Rubel Park and Patterson Playground offer neighborhood gathering spots and play areas for families with young children.
German-Paristown Park and Irish Hill Park provide additional green space options at the edges of the neighborhood.
The Ohio River is just a short drive away, offering waterfront parks and the Louisville Loop trail system for more extensive outdoor recreation.
Urban gardens have sprouted throughout the neighborhood, reflecting residents’ interest in sustainability and community building.
So, what’s the verdict?
The Highlands delivers a distinctive urban experience that’s rare in mid-sized American cities. Its combination of historic architecture, walkable commercial districts, and community character create an appealing lifestyle for those who prioritize these qualities and can afford the premium prices. While it faces challenges including traffic congestion and higher costs, the neighborhood continues to attract residents seeking a vibrant, connected community within Louisville.
What are the alternatives?
Germantown and Schnitzelburg offer similar historic character with more affordable housing and an emerging restaurant scene, though with fewer amenities within walking distance.
Crescent Hill provides comparable walkability and charm, often with slightly larger lots and homes, at similar price points to the Highlands.
NuLu (East Market District) offers urban living with newer housing stock and an arts focus, particularly appealing to those working downtown.
St. Matthews provides more suburban conveniences including larger shopping centers while still maintaining reasonable proximity to downtown Louisville.
