When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Highland Neighborhood Park
Why Highland Neighborhood Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Highland Neighborhood Park, located at the corner of Highland Drive and Horton Road in North Knoxville, offers a welcoming open space that makes it a perfect spot to meet up with friends and enjoy outdoor leisure. Spanning .88 acres, this neighborhood park is characterized by plenty of shady trees providing a cool refuge during warmer weather, encouraging visitors to relax, picnic, or simply linger. The park’s accessible location is easy to reach by car or public transit, including a bus stop (Route 24) just a minute's walk away, enhancing convenience for groups planning informal meetups. Operating from dawn to dusk, the park encourages a variety of daytime activities amid its natural surroundings while adhering to a respectful and peaceful environment supported by rules prohibiting alcohol, motorized vehicles, and open fires. This emphasis on safety and cleanliness, including leash requirements for pets and proper trash disposal, ensures the park remains an enjoyable and friendly space for all ages. Highland Neighborhood Park’s serene environment combined with its community-focused amenities make it a charming local gem for casual gatherings in Knoxville’s urban landscape.
Here's what people think of Highland Neighborhood Park
As of recent, Highland Neighborhood Park holds a 4.3-star rating based on 184 reviews.
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 184 reviews, Highland Neighborhood Park garners appreciation from many visitors who praise its tranquil and shaded green space. Positive reviews often highlight the park’s quiet atmosphere, well-kept grounds, and convenient location, making it ideal for peaceful walks, family outings, or meeting friends. Users appreciate the availability of shady trees for relaxing and the park's welcoming vibe as a clean and safe communal area. However, some negative reviews mention limited amenities and size, noting the park’s relatively small acreage and absence of extensive recreational facilities compared to larger parks. A few users express a desire for more structured activities or features. Nonetheless, these concerns tend to be balanced by the park's role as a neighborhood open space, supporting a casual and natural ambiance rather than busy entertainment. In conclusion, Highland Neighborhood Park is well-regarded for its peacefulness and greenery, serving locals as a convenient and pleasant neighborhood spot, with room for improvement in amenities as suggested by some visitors.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dee Frazier
Beautiful Park that has recently been redone. They have added a wide concrete trail that loops the entire park that's really fun to take. The tail loops back to a few picnic tables with a small grill and a water fountain. It's a nice place to go if you want to get a good walk in and enjoy nature. The parking lot has been also redone and is now fully paved with trees between the parking and the paved path. Good for baseball, walking, has a nice playground, and I think they are going to put the soccer field back.
Anna Ferrini
I appreciate that things have been redone, but while there are plentiful recycling and garbage bins as well as doggy bag stations and functioning water fountains, there's no public restroom at all. And then, watch out for ant hills, especially after it has rained! I just accidentally paused in one & got bitten today on a little grassy island in the parking lot & then spotted more closer to some picnic tables - 12.14.24.
Veronica Day
Not a lot of parking, no safe restrooms, and off leash dogs. Big field for kites and drones. Baseball field for practices, plenty of places to eat and sit. Toddlers play scape. Sandbox.
Laura Bauman
I like the park very well, and I walk around the park with my dog often. But I am always frustrated that the bleachers for the softball fields are not maintained. They are rusty and will ruin your clothes if you sit on them. The parks department has allowed trees to grow up between the bleachers and between the seats. But then they go out of their way and spend hundreds and if not thousands of dollars on trees that they planted, but don't maintain in parts of the park that no one uses. I personally replanted one of their new trees after a piece of heavy equipment ripped it out of the ground and left it laying in the sun. Additionally, there is gravel dumped in the middle of the softball field. The fences aren't maintained. The dugouts are overgrown. I guess I'm overrating this park by giving it four stars. A little TLC will go a long way to make this a more useful, safe and enjoyable park.
Cailin M.
What a cute little park. Shady, relatively clean - bit of trash here and there but nothing crazy. Bathrooms are port potties the one I went into smelled like bleach and wasn't frightening.
How to reach Highland Neighborhood Park
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Website: None
Why rally at Highland Neighborhood Park with your friends? This park offers an inviting, peaceful setting perfect for gathering and reconnecting with your social circle. Its quiet atmosphere and scenic open spaces provide a natural backdrop for meaningful conversations and enjoyable group activities. The lush shade of mature trees makes it comfortable even on warm days, encouraging long visits and relaxation. Besides the idyllic environment, the park's amenities cater well to social gatherings: plenty of seating, picnic tables, and BBQ grills allow you to effortlessly host meals outdoors. Plus, its convenient location and easy parking enhance accessibility for all members of your group. The prohibition of alcohol and motorized vehicles maintains a safe, family-friendly vibe, which makes it an ideal choice for all ages. Whether you're looking to celebrate a casual weekend meetup or host a memorable family reunion, Highland Neighborhood Park’s atmosphere and facilities create the perfect setting to rally your friends and make lasting memories.
What activities are available at Highland Neighborhood Park for group meetups?
Highland Neighborhood Park boasts a variety of activities to keep groups entertained and engaged. Walking or jogging along the well-maintained 0.3-mile trail provides a gentle workout or a chance for casual strolls together. For those seeking physical challenges, the park features four exercise stations strategically placed along the trail, offering convenient spots to stretch and strengthen muscles. The space-themed playground is a highlight for families with children, sparking imaginative play and active fun in a visually creative environment. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the sand volleyball court, which encourages friendly team competition and spirited group interaction. Additionally, the park includes horseshoe pits, a classic leisure activity that invites casual competition in a laid-back setting. Picnic areas equipped with tables and grills create focal points for sharing meals and socializing, while park benches and drinking fountains add to the convenience of longer visits. Also notable is the public art sculpture of an astronaut, which provides an inspiring conversation starter and adds cultural interest to your gathering. All these features combine to make Highland Neighborhood Park highly adaptable to different group interests and sizes.
Why is Highland Neighborhood Park perfect for hosting group meetups and social gatherings?
Highland Neighborhood Park’s design and amenities support seamless hosting of group events. The two spacious pavilions with picnic tables and grills enable larger groups to dine and relax together without the hassle of setting up portable equipment. These covered areas protect your gathering from unexpected weather changes, ensuring your plans stay intact. The park’s open layout fosters easy mingling, allowing friends and family to engage in multiple activities simultaneously or enjoy quieter spaces for small conversations. Accessibility is another strong suit, with ample street parking available nearby, minimizing logistical concerns for attendees. Importantly, the park’s family-friendly and safe atmosphere—enforced by park rules such as banning alcohol and motorized vehicles—helps maintain a pleasant environment, free from disruptions. The variety of available games and fitness options also encourages interactive fun, strengthening group bonds through shared experiences. Whether planning a casual barbecue, an active afternoon of sports, or a relaxing picnic under the trees, Highland Neighborhood Park’s mix of natural beauty and practical facilities makes it a top choice for memorable group meetups.
How accessible and convenient is Highland Neighborhood Park for visitors?
Highland Neighborhood Park is easily reachable and thoughtfully arranged to accommodate visitors smoothly. Its location on Colonist Park Drive provides straightforward street parking options directly adjacent to the park, which simplifies arrival and departure for all guests. The park is open from dawn to dusk, giving you flexibility in scheduling your meetup at a time that suits your group best. With no entrance fees or complex reservation requirements for most facilities, it removes common barriers to spontaneous or last-minute gatherings. Drinking fountains and benches are distributed through the park, increasing comfort for visitors who wish to stay for extended periods. Furthermore, the quiet neighborhood setting contributes to a low-stress parking and arrival experience, unlike busy commercial areas. For those living nearby or coming from within the city, public transit options can also be considered, although the park’s primary access is by car. The absence of motorized vehicles within the park itself preserves a peaceful environment and ensures pedestrian safety, making Highland Neighborhood Park convenient and welcoming for visitors of all ages.
What rules should groups be aware of when using Highland Neighborhood Park?
Groups planning a meetup at Highland Neighborhood Park should be mindful of the park’s straightforward but important rules designed to keep the space safe and enjoyable for all users. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the park, which upholds a family-friendly and respectful atmosphere. Open fires or campfires are not allowed, so grilling is restricted to the designated areas with provided grills, which helps prevent fire hazards. Motorized vehicles and equestrian activities inside the park are banned to protect the walking paths and open spaces and ensure safety for walkers and children. All pets must be kept on a leash at all times, promoting responsible pet ownership and a comfortable environment for everyone. Visitors are encouraged to dispose of all trash properly using the park’s receptacles to maintain cleanliness and preserve the park’s natural beauty. Familiarity with these rules helps groups plan accordingly and enjoy their time without interruption, contributing to a responsible and considerate community spirit.
What makes the playground and outdoor art at Highland Neighborhood Park special for gatherings?
The playground at Highland Neighborhood Park is uniquely themed around space exploration, making it a standout feature for families with children in your group. This imaginative design sparks creativity and curiosity, providing children with a fun environment that goes beyond traditional playground equipment. It’s an engaging spot that encourages physical activity as well as social play, allowing kids to develop friendships while adults socialize nearby. Adjacent to the playground, a striking public art sculpture of an astronaut adds cultural interest and a distinctive landmark within the park. This art piece serves as a fascinating talking point and even a popular backdrop for photos during your meetup. The integration of art and play enhances the park’s overall ambiance, making it not just a place for recreation but also an inspiring venue that enriches the gathering experience. These features invite both active fun and aesthetic appreciation, accommodating varied interests within your group.
How does the park support fitness and active play for groups?
For groups interested in health and wellness, Highland Neighborhood Park offers several fitness opportunities that blend exercise with outdoor enjoyment. The 0.3-mile walking/jogging trail is ideal for those who want to stay active together, whether at a leisurely pace or a more vigorous jog. Along the trail, four exercise stations provide areas for targeted workouts, such as strength training or stretching exercises, encouraging fitness in a communal setting. Sports facilities include a sand volleyball court, perfect for organizing friendly matches that foster teamwork and competitive spirit among friends or family. Horseshoe pits offer a more relaxed but still physically engaging activity that appeals to visitors of all ages and skill levels. Together, these options create a versatile fitness environment that motivates groups to move, have fun, and share the benefits of physical activity amid nature. This combination of exercise and social interaction supports both well-being and community bonding.
What dining and picnic options does Highland Neighborhood Park offer for groups?
Highland Neighborhood Park is well-equipped to support group picnics and outdoor dining, featuring two pavilions equipped with picnic tables and grills. These pavilions offer covered spaces that protect from sun or rain, making them ideal for hosting meals regardless of weather conditions. The picnic tables provide ample seating for larger groups, giving everyone a comfortable place to eat and relax together. Grills allow you to prepare freshly cooked food onsite, which enhances the communal feel of your gathering and lets guests enjoy a barbecue experience. In addition to the pavilion areas, several smaller picnic spots scattered throughout the park offer flexibility for groups who prefer a more casual or intimate setting. Nearby drinking fountains ensure convenient access to water, helping guests stay refreshed. The overall setup encourages lengthy visits with shared meals as the centerpiece, facilitating social connection and enjoyment in an appealing outdoor environment.
How do the natural surroundings enhance the group experience at Highland Neighborhood Park?
The natural elements of Highland Neighborhood Park significantly enrich the experience for groups spending time there. The mature trees provide generous shade, creating a cool, inviting atmosphere even on warm days, which encourages guests to linger and socialize comfortably. Open grassy areas offer plenty of space for informal games, relaxation, or setting up additional picnic blankets away from the main pavilions. The quiet neighborhood backdrop reduces noise pollution, enabling peaceful conversation and a refuge from urban hustle. Thoughtfully placed benches present convenient rest stops for guests of varying ages and energy levels. Furthermore, the presence of public art harmonizes nature with culture, offering both visual and intellectual stimulation amid the green setting. These natural surroundings combine to create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation, enjoyment, and meaningful connection, making Highland Neighborhood Park a preferred spot for groups looking to assemble in a refreshing outdoor environment.