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Overview
Highland Acres is a small unincorporated community in Kent County, Delaware, situated a few miles southeast of Dover, the state capital. With a population of roughly 3,400 residents, it functions primarily as a residential area rather than a conventional tourist destination. Travelers tend to pass through or use it as a quiet, affordable base while visiting Dover and the broader central Delaware region.
The surrounding landscape is typical of the Delmarva Peninsula — flat, lightly wooded, and interspersed with farmland. The community sits within easy reach of Delaware's historic sites, state parks, and the Atlantic coast, making its location more notable than any single attraction within its boundaries.
Visitors who end up here are generally those seeking a low-key stay away from busier lodging corridors, or those with personal connections to the area. It is a functional, unpretentious place that rewards travelers interested in everyday small-town Delaware life.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Highland Acres is in the United States. For visa and entry requirements, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
What to Expect
Highland Acres has no significant commercial district, so plan to stock up on supplies, fuel, and dining options in Dover before arriving. Mobile coverage is generally reliable in the area, but verify your carrier's coverage map if you rely on data.
Practical Packing
- Comfortable walking or driving shoes — most errands and sightseeing require a car
- Layers in spring and autumn; summers can be humid
- Sunscreen if you plan to visit nearby beaches or parks
Getting There
By Car
Highland Acres is most conveniently reached by car. It lies just off U.S. Route 13, one of the primary north–south arteries of the Delmarva Peninsula, making it straightforward to reach from Wilmington (roughly 50 miles north) or from the Maryland border to the south.
By Air
The nearest commercial airport is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 80 miles to the north. Dover has a military airfield (Dover Air Force Base) that does not serve commercial passengers. Rental car pickup at PHL is the most practical option for reaching Highland Acres.
By Bus
Regional bus services connect Dover to other Delaware cities. Verify current routes, stops, and schedules with DART First State (Delaware's public transit authority) before travel, as Highland Acres itself may not have a dedicated stop.
Getting Around
A personal or rental vehicle is essentially required to get around Highland Acres and the surrounding area. The community is not walkable in a tourist sense, and dedicated cycling infrastructure is limited.
Dover, just a few minutes away by car, offers a broader range of services including gas stations, grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants. Rideshare availability (Uber, Lyft) exists in the Dover metro area but may be limited during off-peak hours — verify locally before relying on it.
Things to See & Do
Highland Acres itself has no major visitor attractions, but its central Delaware location puts several worthwhile destinations within a short drive.
Nearby Outdoor Recreation
- Killens Pond State Park (roughly 20 miles south) offers camping, a water park, fishing, and trails — verify operating seasons and fees on the Delaware State Parks website.
- The St. Jones River corridor near Dover provides wildlife observation and kayaking opportunities.
History and Culture
Dover's historic district, Delaware State Capitol, and the First State Heritage Park are all under 10 minutes by car. The Air Mobility Command Museum at Dover Air Force Base entrance area is a well-regarded free aviation museum — confirm access hours before visiting.
Seasonal Events
Dover hosts NASCAR races at Dover Motor Speedway seasonally, which draws large regional crowds. If your visit coincides with a race weekend, book accommodation well in advance and anticipate heavy traffic on Route 13.
Food & Drink
There are no restaurants or bars within Highland Acres itself. All dining options are in Dover or other nearby communities. Dover's Route 13 corridor has a full range of national chain restaurants, fast food, and some locally owned diners and casual eateries.
For grocery shopping and self-catering, several supermarkets operate in Dover. Delaware has no state sales tax, which applies to grocery purchases as well — a minor but appreciated perk for budget-conscious travelers.
If you are interested in local Delaware food culture, look for establishments serving blue crab dishes — a regional staple of the Delmarva Peninsula — particularly in summer months.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
For any emergency in the United States, dial 911. Kent County has hospital and emergency medical services centered in Dover; verify the nearest facility location upon arrival.
Taxes and Tipping
Delaware charges no state sales tax. Standard U.S. tipping practices apply at restaurants (15–20% for table service) and for other service workers.
Connectivity
Most major U.S. mobile carriers provide coverage in this area. Public Wi-Fi is available at Dover's library and some commercial establishments but not within Highland Acres proper.
Banking
ATMs and bank branches are available in Dover. Notify your bank of travel plans if coming from abroad to avoid card blocks.
Safety
Highland Acres is a quiet residential community with no particular safety concerns for visitors. Standard U.S. travel precautions apply: secure valuables in your vehicle out of sight, be aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas, and keep copies of important documents.
Traffic on Route 13 can be fast-moving; exercise caution when entering or exiting roadways. During Dover Motor Speedway event weekends, road congestion increases significantly throughout Kent County.
