Falling in Love with the Heights: A Local’s Perspective

Love Letter to the Heights written by Ali Barron

I love The Heights. My favorite question to receive when meeting someone new is “So, where do you live?”

There are so many aspects of The Heights to love, from the historic charm to the vibrant community, that give it a quirky sense of individuality set apart from other Houston neighborhoods.

But, to be transparent, my family and I have only been Heights residents for close to two years – having moved precisely 1.7 miles from neighboring Timbergrove. Here is what we have fallen in love with in our two years in this sought after neighborhood.

Vibrant Community - I dare you to talk a walk and not be greeted by your fellow neighbors!

Our family felt immediately welcomed by this tight-knit community who all boast a sense of pride for their home. I love the mix of decades long residents, diverse families and young professionals. There is an inclusive spirit and focus on community and I have jumped into being involved in the Houston Heights Association. Plus, the many celebrations that bring us all together - from White Linen Night and Lights in the Heights to Halloween trick-or-treating and the Holiday Home Tour.

Unique Dining & Shopping

You’ll find my family and I every other Sunday at the Heights

Mercantile Farmers Market. Or taking a stroll down 19th Street and stopping for a book at Good on Paper Books. Or walking to Angela’s Oven on Studewood for coffee and pastries (my daughter’s choice is a delicious chocolate croissant). Or enjoying all the offerings at Asch Building. As you can tell, I could go on and on. There is no shortage of boutique local businesses to explore.

Walkability, Parks & Trails

Being a native Houstonian, I don’t consider it a walkable city with its sprawling landscape. So, it’s nice coming home to The Heights, after sitting in traffic around the city, and walking to dinner or to the coffeeshop or to the park. We love hopping on the Heights Hike and Bike Trail to go play at Donovan Park or for a longer run to M-K-T.

Historic Charm

Despite being ever evolving, The Heights maintains its historic charm - from Victorian style homes and original bungalows to gorgeous tree-lined streets and character-filled architecture. The original part of our home was built in 1905 and I love the vintage touches (like transom windows that open above the doors) and the preservation of the front exterior. I find it so charming to see neighbors sitting on their porches and we love being part of such a vibrant and historic community.