University Park began as a group of homes nestled around the Southern Methodist University, which was founded in 1915. By 1945, with the combined effort of residents and the city's government, University Park had become one of the most prestigious locations in the area.

In the July 2004 issue of D Magazine, University Park was ranked the #1 suburb in the Dallas area. To determine the ranking, the editors took into consideration education, housing, safety, ambience and property taxes.

Both University Park and Highland Park share the highly acclaimed Highland Park Independent School District. The Park Cities' residents are a few short minutes away from all the big-city culture and recreation that Dallas has to offer, and the Dallas/Fort Worth area is expected to lead the nation in employment growth for the next several years, creating nearly 500,000 jobs.

Mild temperatures and plenty of land make golf a major recreation activity in this part of Texas. In the Dallas area alone there are 20 public and private courses, some with surrounding residential communities. Water sports are also popular throughout the area lakes. Residents of the Park Cities enjoy professional sports at its highest level via the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers and the Texas Motor Speedway.

Highland Park Village is host to the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, Wine and Food Festivals, Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides and other community celebrations. The populace can easily access culture and nightlife in Dallas as well. With attractions such as the Dallas Zoo, Museum of Natural History, Museum of Art and the Dallas Opera and Symphony, locals enjoy a wide range of entertainment and activities. Southern Methodist University’s excellent programs in the arts and humanities provide additional cultural opportunities right in the University Park neighborhood. Even though an abundance of fine dining options in the Village and Snider Plaza are available, Dallas also offers some of the best restaurants in the country.