Visit Highland Park Village

Highland Park Village
#20 of 100 things to do in Dallas

Highland Park, Texas, an affluent enclave just north of downtown Dallas, is home to a truly legendary shopping destination: Highland Park Village. More than just a mall, it is a National Historic Landmark  and the first self-contained shopping center in America . Since opening its doors in 1931, this open-air village has been a beacon of luxury, elegance, and timeless style.

Designed by architects Marion F. Fooshee and James B. Cheek, who drew inspiration from Barcelona, Seville, and Mexico, the Village’s Mediterranean-style architecture creates a sophisticated, European-inspired atmosphere . Today, it remains one of the premier luxury retail destinations in the country, home to over 30 high-end boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, and an exclusive theater .

Whether you are a dedicated fashionista, a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, this guide provides everything you need to know for a memorable visit.

Key Details at a Glance:

• Address: 47 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205 

• Phone: (214) 443-5959

• Official Website: https://hpvillage.com

• Status: Open-air shopping center, National Historic Landmark 

• Admission: Free to enter and explore 

Hours of Operation

The Village’s shops and restaurants operate on their own schedules, but the general store hours are as follows:

Note: Restaurant hours vary; some are open later for dinner. It is always recommended to check the official website for a full directory and specific business hours .

A Walk Through History

Highland Park Village is not just a shopping destination; it’s a piece of American history. It was designed to be a community’s town square at a time when the automobile was becoming the dominant mode of transport .

• First of Its Kind: It is recognized by the National Park Service as the first self-contained, planned shopping center in the United States .

• National Historic Landmark: The Village was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2000 . This prestigious status acknowledges its significance in American commercial architecture.

• Architectural Tour: The stunning Mission/Spanish Revival architecture is a major draw. Walking through the village feels like stepping into a beautifully preserved European plaza .

A Shopper’s Paradise: Top Boutiques and Brands

Highland Park Village is famous for its curated collection of the world’s most prestigious brands. You can find flagship stores and Texas exclusives from designer labels including :

• Chanel

• Christian Dior

• Hermès

• Gucci

• Prada

• Louis Vuitton

• Cartier

• Harry Winston

• Van Cleef & Arpels

• Valentino

• Tom Ford

• Rolex

• Jimmy Choo

Specialty Experiences: For unique finds, visit the Beretta Gallery, one of only four in the world, offering high-end outdoor gear , or the new, two-story Richard Mille boutique, the largest in the U.S., featuring a race car simulator and private screening room . Men can experience bespoke tailoring at Brioni .

Culinary Delights: Top Dining Options

The dining scene at Highland Park Village is as impressive as its retail, offering a variety of exquisite culinary experiences.

For Adults: Fine Dining & Elegant Evenings

• Café Pacific: A Dallas institution for over 35 years, this is a top choice for fresh, classic seafood and a sophisticated atmosphere .

• Bistro 31: Features a menu with French, Italian, and Spanish influences, making it a perfect spot for a chic lunch or dinner .

• Mi Cocina: A popular spot for traditional Tex-Mex cuisine and a legendary Mambo Taxi (a frozen margarita) .

• Lounge 31: An elegant spot for a cocktail or nightcap .

For Families: Sweet Treats & Casual Bites

• Bird Bakery: A favorite for the whole family, offering scratch-made, fresh-baked goods daily, including award-winning cupcakes and pies. It’s the perfect stop for a sweet treat after exploring .

• Royal Blue Grocery: A great stop for a quick breakfast item, coffee, or picnic supplies .

• Dior Café: While high-end, this chic cafe offers a unique and stylish experience for a light bite or afternoon coffee, which can be a fun experience for older children and teens .

Services and Amenities

Highland Park Village goes above and beyond to provide a seamless and luxurious experience for its guests .

• Personal Shoppers: Complimentary personal shopping and styling services are available.

• Chauffeured Car Service: A complimentary car service can transport you within the village.

• Valet Parking: Multiple stores offer complimentary valet parking.

• Tax-Free Shopping: International visitors can get a Texas sales tax refund at the on-site TaxFree Shopping office .

• Accessibility: The property is wheelchair accessible, and there is accessible parking available .

Activities for Adults & Children

👨‍🖥️ For Adults: Window Shopping & People Watching

1. Luxury Window Shopping: Even if you don’t plan to buy, strolling through the village and admiring the high-end fashion and luxury cars is an experience in itself .

2. People Watching: The upscale clientele and sophisticated atmosphere make it a prime spot for observing Dallas’s elite .

3. Historic Architecture Tour: Take a self-guided tour to admire the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and learn about the history of this National Historic Landmark .

4. Highland Park Village Theatre: Catch a movie in this historic, beautifully designed Art Deco theater, which has been a village landmark since 1935 .

👧 For Children & Families: A Day in the Village

1. Holiday Magic: During the Christmas season, the village transforms into a winter wonderland with over 1.5 million choreographed lights that come on at 5:45 PM . The annual lighting celebration includes photos with Santa, face painting, and carolers .

2. Bird Bakery: A must-visit for kids to pick out a giant, delicious cupcake .

3. Juice Bar: A healthy morning stop for fresh-squeezed juices and smoothies that kids will love .

4. LOCAL Pop-up Market: On select dates, a seasonal artisan market offers local foods, live entertainment, and kid-friendly activities .

Parking & Getting There

🚗 Driving & Parking

Highland Park Village is located at the southwest corner of Mockingbird Lane and Preston Road . There are 1,106 parking spaces available, but parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during the holiday season .

• Tip: Arrive early, be patient, or consider using the complimentary valet parking offered by many stores . You can also park in the surrounding neighborhood streets .

🚆 Public Transportation

• DART: The Village is accessible via DART Bus Route 237 .

Tips for Your Visit

1. Dress to Impress: The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated. Many visitors enjoy dressing up to match the vibe, even for just a walk around .

2. Restroom Note: A notable drawback mentioned by some visitors is the reported absence of public restrooms in the common areas . Plan accordingly and use facilities in the restaurants you visit.

3. Check Hours: Because store and restaurant hours can vary, especially on holidays, it’s always wise to check the official website or contact a specific business directly .

4. Plan for the Holidays: The Christmas season is spectacular but also the busiest time. If you visit during this time, plan for heavy traffic and difficult parking, and be prepared to enjoy the magical light display .

5. Budget-Friendly Window Shopping: Don’t be intimidated by the luxury stores. The village is a beautiful, free-to-explore destination, and window shopping is a perfectly acceptable and enjoyable activity .

Stay Connected:

Follow Highland Park Village to stay updated on new store openings, special events, and holiday announcements.

• Official Website: https://hpvillage.com

• Facebook: Highland Park Village

• Instagram: @hpvillage

If you have any experience with this place, please share it with us in the comments below!

Highland Park Village, Highland Park, Dallas County, Texas, 75205, Statele Unite ale Americii