If you’re considering a move to Baton Rouge and have Highland Road on your shortlist, you’re on the right track. Highland Road isn’t just a street—it’s a rich slice of the city’s culture, history, and everyday life that attracts families, professionals, and students alike. Living here means experiencing some of the best Baton Rouge has to offer in terms of scenery, convenience, and community spirit.
The Community Vibe
Nestled along the curving path of Highland Road, the neighborhood boasts an eclectic, laid-back atmosphere. Here, you’ll find a mix of long-time residents and new arrivals, all united by a love for the area’s charm and easy pace. There’s a certain friendliness—neighbors wave from their porches and many take time to chat during walks or while gardening. Residents host get-togethers and you’re likely to bump into familiar faces at neighborhood staples like Highland Coffees, especially closer to the LSU campus end of Highland.
Types of Housing
One of Highland Road’s most appealing features is the diversity in housing. The architecture is as varied as its residents:
- Historic Homes: Classic Southern cottages and sprawling estates dot the older stretches, particularly near Magnolia Woods and Stratford Avenue.
- Modern Builds: Newer construction and renovated properties are available, especially near Kenilworth Parkway and the LSU end.
- Apartment Living: Closer to the LSU campus, you’ll find student-oriented apartments and small condos perfect for young professionals or students looking to be halfway between campus and downtown.
- Family-Friendly Residences: Neighborhoods like Woodgate and Pollard Estates offer larger lots and quiet, shaded streets.
Walkability
Highland Road isn’t a classic “walker’s paradise,” but it’s one of the more pedestrian-friendly corridors in Baton Rouge. Sidewalks line much of the road, and leafy trees provide much-needed shade during hot Louisiana summers. It’s not unusual to see runners, cyclists, and families with strollers, especially during weekends. Proximity to BREC’s Highland Road Park and the LSU lakes makes it easy to trade car time for leisurely strolls or morning jogs.
- Favorite walking routes include the stretch from Lee Drive to Staring Lane, or along Highland Road Park’s internal trails.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are especially drawn to Highland Road for its strong school options and kid-friendly amenities:
- Public Schools: The neighborhood is zoned for top-performing public schools like Highland Elementary and Woodlawn High School, depending on your address.
- Private and Magnet Options: St. Aloysius and Episcopal School of Baton Rouge are beloved institutions just off Highland.
- Kid-Friendly Activities: The area has easy access to youth sports leagues, art classes, and reliable daycare centers. The main branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library is conveniently nearby.
Families appreciate the sense of safety, the stable property values, and the supportive network of parents and caregivers, especially around Perkins Road and Kenilworth Parkway intersections.
Parks, Green Spaces, and Outdoor Living
Outdoor lovers flock to Highland Road for its plentiful greenspace:
- Highland Road Park and Observatory: This 144-acre park is a local treasure for hiking, disc golf, playgrounds, and even astronomy nights. The observation deck offers stargazing programs that are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- LSU Lakes: Located just north of the neighborhood, perfect for kayaking, jogging, or relaxing picnics.
- Burbank Soccer Complex: Just a short drive away, ideal for youth athletes and weekend tournaments.
The gentle hills along Highland Road are a rare treat in mostly flat Baton Rouge, offering scenic drives and beautiful backyards shaded by mature live oaks.
Safety
Safety is a major concern for any family or single resident, and Highland Road fares well in this department. The neighborhood enjoys relatively low crime rates compared to other parts of the city. Residents credit the active neighborhood associations and the visible Baton Rouge Police patrols, especially near schools and parks. Neighbors tend to look out for one another, and community Facebook groups are quick to share alerts or lost-and-found notices.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Highland Road effectively connects you to the best of Baton Rouge:
- Downtown: Just a 10- to 15-minute drive, putting you close to government offices, law firms, museums, and entertainment hotspots. I-10 access at Perkins or Dalrymple makes commuting a breeze.
- LSU: Whether you work or study at Louisiana State University, you’re never far away. This is a big draw for academics, students, and university staff.
- Healthcare: The neighborhood is close to Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center and Baton Rouge General, providing convenient commutes for healthcare professionals.
Running errands is easy too—with Perkins Rowe and Willow Grove shopping centers both within 10 minutes, offering groceries, boutiques, gyms, and restaurants.
What Residents Love Most
Talk to any longtime Highland Road resident, and common themes always emerge:
- Natural Beauty: The grand live oaks, flowering azaleas, and gently sloping lawns create some of the city’s most beautiful scenery.
- Sense of History: Much of the area predates the city’s postwar suburbs, so there’s a tangible sense of heritage and local pride.
- Community Events: The neighborhood rallies together for annual holiday parades, yard sales on streets like Kenilworth Parkway, and even neighborhood crawfish boils.
- Friendly Pace: Life here feels less hurried, a big selling point for anyone looking to escape the grind yet stay connected to city amenities.
Final Advice: Is Highland Road Right for You?
For those searching for a neighborhood with character, greenery, and a true Baton Rouge vibe, Highland Road should be high on your list. While it’s not the cheapest area in town, residents overwhelmingly say it’s worth the investment for the quality of life, central location, and strong sense of community.
If you prioritize walkability, good schools, and a peaceful atmosphere without sacrificing easy access to downtown and major employers, Highland Road might just feel like home.