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Highland Park

Highland Park, New Jersey, United States

Highland Park, located in central New Jersey, is a charming and vibrant town that offers a mix of historical significance and modern amenities. This diverse community is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful parks,…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Highland Park.

Top Hotels in Highland Park

Top Flights to Highland Park

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Highland Park.

Tours

Rutgers Gardens Tour

Stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens at Rutgers University, featuring diverse plant collections.

Shopping

The Bridge Street Shops

A variety of boutique shops and local businesses offering unique shopping experiences in downtown Highland Park.

Outdoor

Donaldson Park Exploration

Explore the scenic Donaldson Park along the Raritan River with its picnic areas, walking trails, and beautiful views.

Johnson Park Visit

A large park offering a zoo, playgrounds, and sports facilities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Highland Park.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

14,000

Average weather

Highland Park

Jan

2°-6°

Feb

4°-4°

Mar

10°0°

Apr

16°5°

May

22°11°

Jun

27°16°

Jul

30°19°

Aug

29°18°

Sep

24°14°

Oct

17°8°

Nov

9°2°

Dec

3°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Highland Park.

What people love

Highland Park, located in New Jersey, offers several benefits for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Highland Park include:

Proximity to New York City: Highland Park is conveniently located near New York City, making it a great base for exploring the Big Apple while enjoying a quieter, suburban setting.
Cultural Diversity: Highland Park is known for its diverse community, offering a wide range of cultural experiences, dining options, and events that showcase different traditions and backgrounds.
Parks and Natural Beauty: The town boasts several parks and green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Historic Architecture: Highland Park features a mix of historic and modern architecture, with charming neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and well-preserved buildings that offer a glimpse into the area's past.
Vibrant Arts Scene: The town has a thriving arts community, with galleries, studios, and local events that showcase the talents of local artists and performers.
Family-Friendly Environment: Highland Park is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and recreational activities suitable for all ages.

Overall, traveling to Highland Park can offer a unique blend of urban conveniences and suburban charm, making it a desirable destination for visitors seeking a diverse and welcoming community.

What to know

Highland Park, located in New Jersey, United States, is generally considered a safe and pleasant town to visit. However, like any destination, there are potential cons to traveling to Highland Park. Some possible drawbacks include:

Limited public transportation: Highland Park is a small town and may have limited access to public transportation options. Travelers may find it challenging to get around without a car.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Highland Park is a quiet residential town, and it may not offer as many nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may find the town lacking in this aspect.
Limited dining options: While Highland Park has some restaurants and eateries, the dining scene may be limited compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a diverse range of culinary experiences may find the options in Highland Park to be somewhat restricted.
Seasonal weather variations: New Jersey experiences seasonal weather changes, with cold winters and hot summers. Travelers should be prepared for weather fluctuations and pack accordingly based on the time of year they plan to visit Highland Park.
Potential for traffic congestion: Like many towns in New Jersey, Highland Park may experience traffic congestion during peak travel times. Travelers should plan their routes and schedules accordingly to avoid delays.

Overall, while Highland Park is a charming town with many positive attributes, visitors should be aware of these potential cons when planning their trip.

Highland Park, New Jersey, has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Here is an overview of its historical development, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

17th Century: The area that is now Highland Park was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. European settlers began arriving in the late 1600s, primarily of Dutch and English descent.
18th Century: The land belonged to settlers who farmed and traded. It was part of Piscataway Township and later, the area became known as part of Raritan Township.

Development and Incorporation

19th Century: The construction of the Albany Street Bridge in 1892 was a significant factor in the development of Highland Park, as it connected the area to New Brunswick across the Raritan River.
1905: Highland Park officially became an independent borough, separating from Raritan Township (now Edison Township).

20th Century Growth

Early 1900s: Highland Park developed as a residential suburb, with a growing Jewish community contributing to its cultural and communal life.
1940s-1950s: Post World War II, Highland Park saw increased residential development and a population boom, as well as the establishment of various community institutions.

Historical Figures

Albert Einstein: While not a resident, Albert Einstein frequently visited Highland Park, staying with friends and colleagues associated with Rutgers University.
Joachim Prinz: A notable rabbi and civil rights leader, Prinz was influential in the Jewish community in Highland Park.

Landmarks and Institutions

Reformed Church of Highland Park: Established in 1890, this church is a longstanding community institution.
Highland Park High School: The local high school has been an important part of the community since its establishment.
Rutgers University: Although technically located in New Brunswick, Rutgers has heavily influenced the area, with many faculty and students residing in Highland Park.

Modern Era

Highland Park is known for its diverse community, active civic life, and numerous community events. It has a reputation for being progressive and inclusive.

This high-level overview highlights some of the key aspects of Highland Park's history and community. The borough's proximity to New Brunswick and Rutgers University has continuously influenced its development and character.