Expert Connection
Dallas

Hillcrest Forest, Dallas Neighborhood

Hillcrest Forest offers a peaceful neighborhood with a quiet atmosphere rarely disturbed by street noise. Its convenient location provides easy access to nearby parks and public green spaces, enhancing outdoor recreation options. A variety of dining establishments and coffee shops are scattered throughout the area, providing ample choices for meals and social gatherings. The neighborhood supports bicycle transportation, complemented by nearby highways for efficient travel by car. Most housing consists of single detached homes alongside some duplexes, featuring three or more bedrooms built around the early 1970s. Essential services like primary schools and pharmacies are often found within a short distance.

No matter what type of character home buyers prefer in a neighborhood, Hillcrest Forest is a reasonably good option. Even though the atmosphere is not the most lively in this area with the nightlife venues in nearby neighborhoods, it is sometimes difficult to find a place to grab a drink since they are generally located within a short distance. Most areas in Hillcrest Forest are very quiet, as noise from the streets and other parts of the city is rarely an issue. It is very easy to access parks from the majority of locations within the neighborhood, since reaching one from most properties is very easy and there are a few green spaces nearby for residents to visit.

Highlights of Hillcrest Forest

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

🌳 Northaven Trail

A scenic multi-use path running along Northaven Road, the Northaven Trail offers residents and visitors access to walking, biking, and jogging through a greenbelt that connects pockets of nature within Hillcrest Forest and links to other neighborhoods in North Dallas.

🏫 Arthur Kramer Elementary School

Located on Northaven Road, Arthur Kramer Elementary is a highly regarded public school and a cornerstone of the Hillcrest Forest community, known for its diverse student body and strong academic programs that draw families to the neighborhood.

🍽️ Hillcrest Village Shopping Center

Situated at the intersection of Hillcrest Road and Arapaho Road, this shopping center features a vibrant array of local restaurants, cafes, and shops, serving as a popular neighborhood destination for dining and gathering.

🛒 Preston Royal Village

Just a short drive from the heart of Hillcrest Forest, Preston Royal Village is a beloved local shopping area with a mix of boutique stores, essential services, and specialty grocers, making it a convenient stop for neighborhood residents.

🚴 Royal Park

Tucked in the heart of Hillcrest Forest off Royal Lane, Royal Park provides a peaceful spot with open green space, a playground, and direct access to the Northaven Trail, making it a central hub for outdoor recreation and community events.

Hillcrest Forest

This October in Hillcrest Forest

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

October 1–November 1, 2026

NorthPark Pumpkin Patch

NorthPark Center, CenterPark • Various dates and times; see event schedule

This free seasonal attraction is especially convenient for Hillcrest Forest residents, with pumpkins, photo opportunities, storytimes, live music, movies, family photos, and food pop-ups. It offers an easy nearby outing for families, and proceeds from the wishing well and fountain support Community Partners of Dallas.

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September 25–October 18, 2026

State Fair of Texas

Fair Park • Monday–Thursday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 10:00 AM–10:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM

A classic Dallas fall tradition within a reasonable drive of Hillcrest Forest, the State Fair combines rides, food, livestock, live entertainment, exhibits, and family attractions. Residents can make it a full-day outing or return for different experiences, including concerts, shows, agricultural displays, and seasonal fair favorites.

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October 2, 2026

Pumpkins and Pints

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden • 6:00 PM–9:00 PM

This adults-oriented evening at the Dallas Arboretum pairs the popular Harvest Hues pumpkin displays with craft beer, wine, and food trucks. It is a nearby East Dallas option for Hillcrest Forest residents seeking a festive date night or relaxed seasonal outing in a beautiful outdoor setting.

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October 3, 2026

Latinidad Festival 2026

Strauss Square, AT&T Performing Arts Center • 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

This free, family-friendly downtown festival gives Hillcrest Forest residents an accessible way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through mariachi, Latin dance, salsa, merengue, cumbia, bachata, food vendors, and a Latin-owned business marketplace. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy a lively evening in the Arts District.

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October 24, 2026

Oktoberfest Dallas

Flag Pole Hill

Located just north of White Rock Lake, Oktoberfest Dallas is particularly appealing to Hillcrest Forest residents looking for a close-to-home outdoor festival. The family-friendly event features local bands, German-inspired food and beer, children’s activities, and shaded seating, making it suitable for a neighborhood-style weekend outing.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Hillcrest Forest

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Hillcrest Forest

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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