Highlands-Fall River

Historic roots are evident in this residential corner just north of Fall River, Massachusetts. Highlands-Fall River is a neighborhood that boasts all the conveniences of city living, including walkability to amenities, without the hubbub of the city.

Sidewalks along the neighborhood’s narrow roads hug trimmed hedges and manicured lawns with picket fences, giving way to the slew of older homes clustered neatly on smaller lots. Classic architecture gives Highlands-Fall River a quaint and traditional feel. “Victorian-style homes are typical here, many with their original details,” says local Realtor Lindsey Bshara-Leviss, who has over 28 years of real estate experience in the area. Dutch colonial revival styles have distinct gambrel roofs and smaller Cape Cods don dormer windows and charming details. Even multi-family houses and new builds with Queen Anne influences feature classic exteriors that blend with the established symmetrical styles. A two-block portion of the neighborhood received recognition as the Highlands Local Historic District to preserve and promote its historic architectural properties. The median price for real estate in Highlands-Fall River hovers around $420,000; find a $325,000 883-square-foot cottage, a 1907 historic Dutch colonial nestled on a quarter-acre of gardens for $500,000 or newer construction with a pool in the Highland Farms subdivision for $735,000. “Highlands-Fall River is still one of the last affordable areas south of Boston, especially for properties above the hills with water views and historic value,” Bshara-Leviss says.

Fall River Public Schools serves students here. Kids may start their education at Spencer Borden Elementary School, which has a B-minus overall rating on Niche. Sixth through eighth graders attend C-rated Morton Middle School and continue to BMC Durfee High School. With a B overall grade, Durfee High ranked thirteenth in best public high schools in Bristol County by Niche. Students here can apply to the school’s thriving career and tech education program that includes culinary arts, engineering and construction. The school also offers dual enrollment and early college programs in conjunction with Bristol Community College, which has a Fall River campus.

North Park is one of the main recreational hotspots in Highlands-Fall River and features a playground and ice rink. Skateboarders hone their skills at the skatepark, and games are often afoot at the park’s basketball courts. At the Driscoll Arena, folks of all ages can participate in skating lessons, figure skating, hockey leagues and open skate times. Residents also visit the Taunton River for events and recreational opportunities like boating and fishing. Boat races in the summer, a holiday celebration in the winter, and the Portuguese Feast in South Park, which Bshara-Leviss says pulls people from all over the state, are all events that bring people together along the waterfront and within the community.

Attractions, restaurants and an array of local boutiques and shops can be found in the downtown area of Fall River, where most of the city’s action happens. “Dining options are expanding, particularly along the water,” Bshara-Leviss says. “You’ll find a variety of ethnic choices, from Portuguese to Italian, new restaurants on the waterfront and more to come.” A local favorite is The Cove Restaurant and Marina, which serves Portuguese specialties and seafood dishes in an elegant setting overlooking the Taunton River.

Historic attractions downtown celebrate the city’s roots. “There’s quite a bit of history here,” Bshara-Leviss says, adding that it’s one of the aspects that draw residents and visitors alike. “The Battleship Cove and Museum is especially a big draw as a tourist destination.” Home to a preserved World War II battleship that houses a naval museum, the Cove is a historical landmark displaying the world’s most extensive collection of US naval ships.

“Highlands-Fall River has easy access to highways and proximity to beaches,” Bshara-Leviss says, adding that the train stations and development of the south coast rail is a major plus for the area. Fall River Expressway and Western Fall River Expressway run north and south, while Interstate 195 cuts across the city to connect residents to Providence, Rhode Island, in less than 30 minutes by car.

Written By

Christina von Claparede-Crola

Photography Contributed By

Alan Bates