Expert Connection
Dothan

Highlands, Dothan Neighborhood

Dothan, Alabama offers a tranquil and calm atmosphere with predominantly single detached homes, characterized by two and three bedroom residences built around the early 1980s. The area features convenient access to daily necessities, including around 40 grocery stores and over 200 diverse restaurants, providing excellent dining options. Educational opportunities include both public and private schools at elementary and secondary levels, with primary schools located near most residences. Although transportation by car is common, parking is easily accessible throughout the area. This postal city stands out as a peaceful community with solid amenities and a relaxed environment suitable for various preferences.

People who prefer a slower-paced environment will enjoy Dothan. The noise levels in Dothan are especially low, as the streets tend to be very peaceful.

Highlights of Highlands

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Highlands Elementary School Park

This leafy green space beside Highlands Elementary offers walking paths, shaded picnic areas, and a playground, making it a favorite recreational spot for families living in the neighborhood.

🏫 Highlands Elementary School

Known for its strong community involvement and highly-rated academic programs, this school is a cornerstone of the neighborhood and draws families seeking quality education within walking distance of their homes.

🍽️ Shady Lane Strip

Located along Shady Lane and its surrounding intersections, this cozy strip features local dining favorites ranging from casual grills to bakeries, giving residents diverse options for quick bites and weekend dinners.

🛒 Highlands Shopping Center

Conveniently situated off Westgate Parkway, this established shopping plaza is home to grocery chains, specialty shops, and everyday essentials, serving as a retail and social hub for Highlands residents.

🚴 Westgate Trailhead

The Westgate Trailhead, just on the western border of the neighborhood, connects locals to miles of paved trails perfect for running, biking, or strolling through scenic wooded stretches and community greenways.

A Dothan Neighborhood

This October in Highlands

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

October 10, 2026

The October Reset

Eastgate Park • 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

This wellness social gives Highlands and Dothan residents an easy Saturday-morning outing close to home, with movement classes, recovery activities, food, vendors, and community connection. It is a good fit for adults who want an active, social way to enjoy one of Dothan’s parks while supporting a local charitable cause.

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October 17, 2026

Fall Farm Day at Landmark Park

Landmark Park • 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Families from Highlands can experience a distinctly Wiregrass fall tradition without leaving Dothan. The event features peanut-harvest demonstrations, cane grinding, syrup making, wagon rides, music, food, antique farm equipment, and a quilt show, making it especially appealing for children and anyone interested in local agricultural history.

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October 17, 2026

The Pumpkin Patch: A Family Art Festival

Wiregrass Museum of Art • 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

This free downtown Dothan festival is a convenient family activity for Highlands residents, combining hands-on art stations, a pumpkin-themed setting, gallery activities, artist demonstrations, costumes, and refreshments. Children can make artwork to take home while adults enjoy the museum and a relaxed community atmosphere.

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October 24, 2026

Boo Fest

Porter Park Events Plaza • 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Boo Fest offers a highly accessible Halloween outing in downtown Dothan, with booth-to-booth trick-or-treating, a kids’ costume contest, crafts, face painting, inflatables, a climbing wall, food trucks, and local vendors. It is a strong choice for Highlands families looking for a free or low-cost daytime celebration.

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October 24, 2026

Zombie Chase 5K

Dothan Recreation Center • 7:30 AM–10:30 AM

Residents who enjoy fitness, costumes, or unusual community races can start Halloween weekend with this chip-timed 5K. Participants may run from zombies or register as zombies themselves, while proceeds benefit local causes including Dothan Special Olympics, making it both playful and community-minded.

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Through October 2026

Scarecrows in the Gardens Exhibition

Dothan Area Botanical Gardens • 9:00 AM–6:00 PM

This month-long outdoor display is an easy, flexible activity for Highlands residents because visitors can explore it on their own schedule throughout October. Handmade scarecrows created by local businesses, schools, clubs, and organizations fill the gardens, offering a festive walk, photo opportunities, and a gentle seasonal outing.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Highlands

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Highlands

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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