Highlands Ranch, Colorado, isn’t just another suburb on the outskirts of Denver; it’s an unincorporated community and a place brimming with unexpected stories. From its rich history dating back to the 19th century to modern-day attractions, this community, with its diverse population, is full of surprises.
Whether you’re intrigued by its natural beauty, interested in exploring its cultural heritage, or just looking for unique places to visit, Highlands Ranch has something for everyone.
Read on to discover five surprising facts about Highlands Ranch.
Key Takeaways
- Highlands Ranch’s innovative community planning, such as school considerations, ensures a balanced, sustainable environment for its population, highlighting the importance of thoughtful urban development in the area.
- The abundance of parks and trails in Highlands Ranch offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, emphasizing the community’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle among its population of all ages, including school area.
- With its low crime rates, Highlands Ranch stands out as a safe community, reassuring potential residents about the security and well-being of the area.
- The diverse dining options in Highlands Ranch cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, showcasing the cultural variety and inclusivity of the community.
- The strong sense of community in Highlands Ranch is a testament to the area’s welcoming atmosphere and the active involvement of its residents in local affairs, making it more than just a place to live but a place to belong.
1. Unique community planning
Highlands Ranch is considered a model of unique community planning. The vision for this unincorporated community began with The Mission Viejo Company in 1978, focusing on a structured layout that included major streets, schools, and recreational facilities right from the start. This foresight ensured a balanced development, blending residential areas seamlessly with essential community services, allocating land for a high school, and dedicating a percent of the area to green spaces.
In 1997, Shea Properties took over, marking a new era of expansion and infrastructure enhancement. Their efforts further enriched Highlands Ranch by adding modern amenities while maintaining the charm of the region’s natural beauty and historical landmarks like the Highlands Ranch Mansion.
2. Abundant parks and trails
Highlands Ranch boasts an impressive network of parks and trails that serve as a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 2,000 acres of open space, this area within the Front Range Urban Corridor offers a plethora of activities designed to promote a healthy lifestyle among its residents. The community’s dedication is evident in the well-maintained condition of these green spaces, ensuring they remain pristine and inviting on this land.
Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities on land. From hiking and biking trails that traverse scenic landscapes to playgrounds and sports fields suitable for all ages, there’s no shortage of recreational opportunities. This commitment to outdoor recreation on land underscores the community’s value on health, wellness, and accessibility.
3. Low crime rates
Highlands Ranch, Colorado, stands out for its remarkably low crime rates, making it one of the safest places to live in the United States. The area’s crime rates are significantly below the national average, a testament to the effectiveness of local law enforcement and community efforts. With a well-established community policing strategy and active neighborhood watch programs, Highlands Ranch has fostered a strong sense of security among its residents.
The median income in Highlands Ranch is above the state average, contributing to a stable economy and low unemployment rates. This economic stability plays a crucial role in maintaining low crime levels, as areas with higher median incomes often experience fewer crimes. Moreover, the population density is balanced, ensuring that law enforcement can effectively monitor and respond to incidents.
Residents frequently share positive testimonials about their experiences living in Highlands Ranch. They highlight not only the safety of their neighborhoods but also the camaraderie among neighbors that enhances their sense of security. These personal stories reinforce the community’s reputation as a secure and welcoming place for families and individuals alike.
4. Diverse dining options
Highlands Ranch boasts an impressive array of diverse dining options that cater to every palate, making it a culinary destination in its own right. From cozy local eateries dishing out Colorado specialties to restaurants offering flavors from around the globe, the variety is both surprising and delightful.
Popular dining spots range from authentic Italian bistros to vibrant Mexican cantinas, alongside Asian fusion restaurants that blend traditional and modern tastes. Hidden gems in Highlands Ranch include quaint cafes serving farm-to-table fare and specialty shops with unique offerings like artisanal cheeses and handcrafted chocolates.
This eclectic dining scene reflects the community’s diversity and openness to different culinary experiences. It serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, who come together to enjoy meals that span cultures and continents.
5. Strong sense of community
Highlands Ranch stands out for its strong sense of community. Annual events, including the town’s anniversary celebrations and various community festivals, play a crucial role in knitting the fabric of this vibrant community. These gatherings are not just social events but milestones that mark the collective life of the town, creating lasting memories and a sense of belonging among residents.
Local organizations, clubs, and groups further cement this sense of unity by bringing together people with shared interests or causes. From book clubs to sports teams, these entities offer avenues for connection and camaraderie.
The community’s strength truly shines through during times of need. Highlands Ranch has shown remarkable solidarity in response to tragic events or natural disasters. Examples abound of neighbors supporting each other, showcasing the resilience and unity that defines this Colorado town. Such acts of kindness and mutual support underscore the deep-rooted community spirit that makes Highlands Ranch a special place to live.
Things You Didn’t Know About Highlands Ranch
Highlands Ranch, Colorado, isn’t just another suburb on the map; it’s a vibrant community that thrives on meticulous planning, outdoor adventures, safety, culinary diversity, and a tight-knit vibe. Residents here enjoy the fruits of smart urban design, where parks and trails encourage active lifestyles, and low crime rates ensure peace of mind. The variety of dining options reflects the community’s cultural richness, offering tastes from around the globe right at their doorstep. Above all, a strong sense of belonging fosters connections that turn neighbors into friends and houses into homes.
For those intrigued by what makes Highlands Ranch stand out, it’s clear that this community offers more than meets the eye. It’s a testament to what thoughtful development and an engaged community can achieve together. Whether you’re considering a visit or contemplating making Highlands Ranch your new home base, there’s no denying it’s a place full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Dive deeper into its charm and see for yourself why residents wouldn’t want to call anywhere else home.
