Things to Do in Highland Park

Highland Park sits quietly in Azerbaijan's landscape, a place that feels both distinctly Azerbaijani and somehow separate from the country's larger urban centers. The area gets its name from its elevated position, which gives you those sweeping views that make you understand why someone decided to build here in the first place. You'll find it's the kind of place where traditional architecture meets more modern developments, though thankfully the newer stuff tends to respect the older aesthetic. The community here has managed to maintain a slower pace than you might expect, with tree-lined streets and small parks scattered throughout the residential areas. What's particularly interesting is how Highland Park has developed its own micro-culture - the local cafes serve a mix of traditional Azerbaijani tea culture and more contemporary coffee house vibes, and you'll often find families gathering in the evening for those long, leisurely conversations that seem to be disappearing elsewhere.

The dining scene in Highland Park is refreshingly authentic and unpretentious. You'll find several family-run restaurants serving traditional Azerbaijani dishes, often prepared using recipes that have been in families for generations. The tea houses serve light meals alongside their excellent tea service, and there are a few cafes that offer a modern take on local cuisine. Don't miss trying the local preserves and honey, which are often homemade by residents. Portions tend to be generous and prices reasonable, reflecting the local rather than tourist-focused nature of most establishments.

Spring and early fall are probably your best bet for Highland Park, when the weather is mild enough for comfortable walking but the gardens and surrounding landscape are at their most attractive. Summer can get quite warm, especially during midday, though the elevation does provide some relief compared to lower areas. Winter isn't unpleasant, but some of the outdoor activities become less appealing. If you're interested in the gardens specifically, late spring offers the most impressive displays of flowers and greenery.