Highland Acres, Alexandria, LA

Highland Acres Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Highland Acres is a well-established, primarily residential neighborhood located in the southeastern quadrant of Alexandria, Louisiana. Bordered roughly by Masonic Drive to the north, Rapides Avenue to the south, and nestled between the major corridors of Macarthur Drive and Coliseum Boulevard, it offers a convenient location with a distinctly suburban feel. The neighborhood's development peaked in the mid-to-late 20th century, resulting in a streetscape of mature hardwood trees, spacious lots, and a quiet, settled character that appeals to families and long-term residents.

Its location provides excellent accessibility to the broader city's amenities. Residents enjoy a quick commute to the Alexandria Riverfront, the medical district around CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, and shopping centers along Macarthur. The neighborhood's name evokes its slightly elevated topography compared to other parts of the city, contributing to its drainage and aesthetic appeal. Highland Acres maintains a strong sense of community identity, known for its stability and traditional neighborhood values.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Highland Acres is predominantly composed of single-family homes built from the 1950s through the 1970s, with a mix of ranch-style houses, traditional cottages, and some larger two-story homes. Architectural styles are varied but generally reflect the mid-century American suburban aesthetic. Lot sizes are typically generous, providing ample yard space, which is a key selling point for the area. The neighborhood presents a high rate of homeownership, with rental properties being less common and often consisting of duplexes or smaller homes on the periphery.

Real estate in Highland Acres is considered stable and desirable within the Alexandria market. Price ranges are moderate to upper-moderate for the city, often starting in the low $200,000s and reaching into the $300,000s for larger, updated properties. Recent trends show steady demand, with homes often receiving updates and renovations while maintaining their original character. The neighborhood's established nature and lack of new construction contribute to a consistent, predictable real estate environment.

Schools & Education

Highland Acres is served by the Rapides Parish School District, with most students zoned for Julius Patrick Elementary School, Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School, and Bolton High School. Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet is a notable institution, offering a magnet curriculum that attracts students from across the parish with focuses on mathematics, science, and communications. This can add to the neighborhood's appeal for families seeking enhanced public school options.

In addition to these public schools, the neighborhood's central location provides relatively easy access to several private educational institutions in Alexandria, including Holy Savior Menard Central High School and St. Frances Cabrini School. Proximity to Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) and Central Louisiana Technical Community College also offers continuing education and cultural opportunities for residents of all ages.

Parks & Recreation

While Highland Acres itself is largely residential, it is surrounded by significant recreational amenities. The neighborhood is directly adjacent to the expansive Bringhurst Park, which features the historic Bringhurst Field (former home of the Alexandria Aces baseball team), walking paths, playgrounds, and open green spaces. Just to the west, across Macarthur Drive, lies the Alexandria Zoo, a major regional attraction and a beloved destination for families. The zoo's presence adds a unique recreational dimension to the area.

For golf enthusiasts, the OakWing Golf Club is situated just to the south of the neighborhood. Daily life also includes informal recreation on the neighborhood's own quiet streets and spacious yards. The proximity to the Rapides Parish Coliseum and Convention Center, located just north on Masonic Drive, provides a venue for larger events, concerts, and fairs, further enhancing the area's recreational offerings.

Local Dining & Shopping

Highland Acres residents benefit from exceptional convenience to Alexandria's major commercial corridors. The intersection of Macarthur Drive and Coliseum Boulevard, just minutes away, hosts a vast array of shopping and dining options. This includes the Alexandria Mall, numerous big-box retailers, and a dense concentration of national chain restaurants and fast-casual eateries. For everyday needs, major grocery stores like Kroger and Super 1 Foods are within a very short drive.

The neighborhood itself maintains a more low-key commercial presence, with a few local businesses and services sprinkled along its edges. For a more distinctive dining experience, residents often venture to nearby downtown Alexandria or the Jackson Street corridor for local favorites like Spirits Food & Friends, Huckleberry Brewing Company, or the iconic Tunk's Cypress Inn. This blend provides both everyday convenience and access to the city's unique culinary scene.

Who Lives Here

Highland Acres is characterized by a mix of long-term residents, who have raised families in the neighborhood over decades, and younger families or professionals drawn to its stability, space, and school options. The community vibe is one of quiet, neighborly familiarity, where people take pride in their well-kept homes and yards. It is a neighborhood where roots run deep, and a strong sense of place is evident.

The demographic tends to skew toward established households, including empty-nesters and mid-career professionals working in healthcare, education, management, and at nearby Fort Polk. The area is particularly attractive to those seeking a classic suburban lifestyle within the city limits—a place with room to breathe, mature trees, and a high degree of safety and convenience, all while being just a short drive from everything Alexandria has to offer.

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