The master plan for the community was approved in 1979 which included 13,000 acres approved for open space, parks, trails, and community facilities. Convenience is one of the trademark features of Highlands Ranch. Recreation, shopping, and dining are within 5 minutes to most residences. Two recreation centers offer pools, gyms, meeting rooms, and tennis courts. Park Meadows Mall, with four large department stores and over 100 specialty stores, is an exciting place to shop and dine.
Restaurants abound within the community from ethnic to home style.
In addition to convenience, Highlands ranch has been designed as a full service community. Health care is also within arms reach including medical offices, specialty facilities, and hospitals. The community also features many groups, organizations, and churches. Services abound in Highlands Ranch and becoming a part of the community is as easy as a phone call. Highlands Ranch also offers various communities within the community.