Highland Indiana

About Highland, Lake County, Indiana

Highland, Indiana: A Jewel in the Lake County Crown!

Located in Lake County, Indiana and part of the metropolitan Chicagoland area, Highland is bordered by the towns of Hammond to its north, Schererville to its south, Griffith to its east and Munster to its west. Comprising Chicago as well as counties in Illinois' northwest corner , Wisconsin & Indiana's North Township alike - Chicagoland is one of 11 townships within Lake County. To learn more about this scenic town; click here!

Highland Indiana is home to a diversity of neighborhoods, among them: Arbor Hill, Boulevard Estates, Brantwood, Ellendale, Golfmoor, Highland Terrace Estates, Homestead , Hook's , Lakeside , Meadows , Pettit Park , Sandalwood Southridge , White Oak Estates (of Highland) Wicker Highlands & Wicker Park Manor (Frog Hollow). Explore these areas and find the perfect fit for you!

History Of Highland, Indiana

25 miles south of the Loop lies Lake County, which was founded by Ohioans Michael and Judith Johnson in 1847. Their son Rod found a flock frozen in the ice near Little Calumet River one winter, but he managed to use just his stick to harvest enough ducks that they could purchase 20 acres of land at $1.25 an acre under Congress's Swamp Land Act - as long as they agreed to drain it first! This became Highland, and gave them access to larger tracts of land nearby.

Aaron Hart & Plum Creek

Aaron Hart, a renowned book publisher from Philadelphia, obtained some property in Highland and crowned Plum Creek with the name of "Hart Ditch," leading it all the way to the Little Calumet.

John Clough & The Chicago & Atlantic Railroad

In the year 1883, The Chicago & Atlantic Railroad ventured through the area and mapped out miles of swampland. The official name given to it by railroad surveyors was "Highlands". John Clough had a large ownership stake in the land, so he was responsible for platting what we now know as Highland. Initially, this region went by Clough Postal Station when mail delivery began but eventually switched its title back to Highland due to the railroads' surveys.

Highland soon saw the arrival of Dutch settlers from Munster, bringing with them a wealth of cabbage to kick start its first industry: a kraut factory. The town was further bolstered by the establishment of an additional kraut factory, alongside cement block and brick manufacturing plants.

Wicker Memorial Park

During the early 1900s, many railroads passed through Highland, leading to an influx of residents and businesses. The city officially incorporated in 1910 with a population of 304 people. It was during this time that the Farmers and Merchants Bank opened its doors as well as volunteer fire brigades were established in 1914. To commemorate those who served during World War I, Wicker Park was transformed from pastureland into a memorial park led by President Calvin Coolidge himself at its dedication ceremony.

The Great Depression took a devastating toll on Highland, with the bank and lumberyard being obliterated. After World War II, however, there was an economic shift from agricultural to commercial that breathed new life into the town; along with this came a beautiful theater built as part of its revitalization efforts.

Highland Indiana Population

In the 1940s, Highland's population experienced a rapid growth, doubling in size. By 1960, it had skyrocketed from only 5,878 people to an astonishing 16,284! This influx of residents was largely due to citizens relocating from cities like Gary and Hammond during the 1950s suburban movement. In fact, this surge even caused neighboring city Hammond to consider annexing Highland by mid-decade!

Main Square Park

In 1972, a central fire station emerged as the beacon of safety for citizens. Two years later in 1975, a larger post office opened its doors and provided an easier process to receive mail. Finally in 1981, Main Square Park was unveiled with great fanfare and became a beloved gathering place for community members alike.

Downtown Highland IN

In 1980, Highland's population skyrocketed to 25,935. However, by the turn of the decade in 1990 it had decreased to 23,696 inhabitants; 93% of which were white people. Though there is a mini business zone with numerous businesses situated within its downtown area, most are located on Ridge Road and Indianapolis Boulevard respectively.

Things To Do In Highland Indiana: Recreational Activities In Highland, Indiana

Highland is a spectacular area with 198 acres of parkland to explore and fun activities for everyone. The Main Square serves as the epicenter of activity around the year, from New Year's Eve Fireworks in January to 12th Night Tree Burning at the end of December! Whether you come during summer or winter, Highland will surely mesmerize you with its endless possibilities and sources of joy!

When the weather is pleasant, Main Square Park in Highland welcomes you to be part of its lively community events; from Midweek Music & Market and Summer Theatre festivals, Fourth of July celebrations, Last Call for Summer Festival in August - all filled with delicious food and delightful crafts! Don't miss out on your chance to experience these festivities.

You won't want to miss the Annual Car Cruise in June or the Festival of Trail in October! Highland is home to Erie-Lackawanna Trail, a 70 acre landscape packed with activities like jogging, walking and people watching. If that isn't enough for you, visit Sheppard Park's modern skateboard park where you can have an adventure of your own.

Get fit and have a blast at the Lincoln Community Center in Highland Parks & Recreation! Whether it's fitness classes, youth or adult sports leagues, lifestyle arts and much more - they got you covered. Also make sure to witness the amazing performances by Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra often held in Monbeck Auditorium of Highland High School.

Top 7 Attractions In Highland, Indiana: Tourist Attractions In Highland, Lake County Indiana

1.) Wicker Memorial Park

Summers in Highland In are filled with splendid events, especially the Summer Concert Series at Wicker Memorial Park. Whether you're looking for a family campout, casino trip, cruise adventure or food truck festival - Wicker Park has it all!

8554 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 838-3420

Driving directions to Colby Dental

2.) White Rabbit Escape Room

White Rabbit Escape Room provides two exhilarating escape rooms that will put your critical thinking skills to the test and get your adrenaline pumping. Use these rooms for a thrilling time with family, friends or colleagues - perfect for bonding experiences!

9521 Indianapolis Blvd # F, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 250-4700

Driving directions to Colby Dental

3.) Brewfest

Since 2017, Brewfest has been an integral part of the Highland community! With self-pour beer and cider, complimentary popcorn, live music events outdoor seating areas and food trucks - it is an experience like no other. Come join in on the festivities and make memories that will last a lifetime at BrewFest!

8347 Kennedy Ave, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 513-8203

Driving directions to Colby Dental

4.) ESPA Day Spa & Wellness Center

ESPA is a female-founded spa and wellness center in the Highlands of Northwest Indiana. With an intense dedication to health, beauty, and relaxation, ESPA offers a tranquil atmosphere that promotes true balance for your body, mind, and spirit. Come experience restorative tranquility at ESPA!

2825 Jewett Ave, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 923-3772

Driving directions to Colby Dental

5.) Plaza Lanes

For over six decades, Plaza Lanes in Highland, Indiana has been the premier destination for fun-filled family entertainment. From its thrilling and competitive atmosphere to its top-notch customer service - there's something here for everyone! Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or an exciting day of competition, join us at Plaza Lanes where you'll find all that and more.

8101 Kennedy Ave, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 923-3800

Driving directions to Colby Dental

6.) America's Antique Mall Highland, Indiana

Make your way to Indiana and immerse yourself in their many events, or explore the extensive array of antiques, vintage pieces, and collectibles at one of the state's largest Antique Malls.

8311 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 237-2386

Driving directions to Colby Dental

7.) Lincoln Community Center

The Lincoln Center provides a dynamic recreational hub within the neighborhood, where families can come together and take part in sports activities as well as other programs. This place is more than just a recreational center; it's an essential source of pride and cohesion for its community.

2450 Lincoln St, Highland, IN 46322

(219) 838-0114

Driving directions to Colby Dental

Fun Facts About Highland Indiana

Highland is honored to receive the 2022 NWI Partners for Clean Air Award, a prestigious accolade that celebrates our commitment to protecting clean air in our community.
Highland, Indiana is the proud hometown of Ryan Grigson - executive with NFL's Cleveland Browns and former general manager of Indianapolis Colts.
Tom Homco, the esteemed NFL player formerly of the Los Angeles Rams, hails from Highland.
Eric Justin Toth, hailing from Highland, has replaced Osama bin Laden as the FBI's Most Wanted Fugitive..
Lake County is the second most populous county in Indiana, trailing only behind Marion County. In fact, it's populations surpasses that of all other 92 counties throughout the state!

Transportation In Highland, IN *

Although the Gary/Chicago International Airport lies closest to Highland, most of its residents and tourists prefer traveling from either O'Hare International Airport (ODR) or Chicago Midway International Airport.

Located just south of the Borman Expressway, Highland is easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. U.S Route 41 locally known as Indianapolis Boulevard serves as a primary north-south artery in this quaint town; with several other Interstates and US highways located within twenty miles or thirty-two kilometers from here.

The citizens of Highland are provided with the Erie Lackawanna Trail, an excellent rail trail which is great for cycling and multiple other uses. This path runs through town in a diagonal line, connecting it to Griffith and Crown Point in the southeast section. Additionally, this trail has been affectionately named by locals as the Crosstown Trail.

The trail follows the route of what used to be the Erie-Lackawanna and Baltimore and Ohio railroads, making it a great way for pedestrians to make their way from Chicago, Illinois in one direction all the way down to Crown Point in another. Additionally, those who take this path will also have access to Porter County via multiple other trails near Highland. Eventually through planned extensions, these connections will only become stronger!

*Source: Wikipedia

Education In Highland, Indiana

The School Town of Highland proudly hosts one of the largest public school systems, which includes 4 elementary schools, 1 middle school and Highland High School that was built in 1957. In October 2006 a gazebo located on the former Main School site was demolished but it has been replaced with an even grander structure as of 2007. Main Square Park, honoring the former school that occupied the area until 1977, is situated on this property along with its adjoining land. In addition to Main Square School's closure in '77, Lincoln Elementary became a community center during the early eighties while Orchard Park Elementary ceased services by 1981 and was revitalized as Calumet Baptist School by 1990.

List of schools – School Town of Highland

The city of Highland is home to three distinguished private schools, including Highland Christian School established in 1909 and situated on its current location since 1951. Additionally, Our Lady of Grace School was founded by the Diocese of Gary in 1954 while Bible Baptist School operates at Orchard Elementary former site.

*Source: Wikipedia

Highland Indiana FAQ

What is the Zip Code for Highland, Indiana (Lake County)?

The zip code of Highland, Indiana is 46322.

What County Is Highland Indiana In?

Highland is a town in Lake County, Indiana, United States.

Is Highland Indiana A Good Place To Live?

Absolutely! Living in Highland, a small Lake County town in Indiana, is an absolute delight due to its prime location near Chicago and the diverse array of activities available for residents. With Highland's proximity to one of the most vibrant cities worldwide, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after towns in Indiana.