Where it All Began: The Early Days of Hills at Prestonwood
Nestled in the heart of West Plano, the Hills at Prestonwood neighborhood holds a special place in the tapestry of North Texas. With gently rolling landscapes, stately homes, and a vibrant community spirit, this enclave tells a unique story that reflects Plano’s growth over the past few decades.
While the city’s roots stretch back to the late 1800s, the Hills at Prestonwood’s more recent genesis represents the suburban boom that characterized Plano in the 1980s and 1990s. As major employers moved headquarters to Plano and families flocked to the area for its top-tier schools and open spaces, visionary developers set their sights on a stretch of rolling prairie land just west of Preston Road. With the goal of building more than just houses, these developers designed a community that would integrate mature landscaping, golf courses, and accessible amenities—qualities that define the neighborhood to this day.
The Story Behind the Name
The name “Hills at Prestonwood” pays homage to both the natural topography and its connection to the larger Prestonwood community—a neighboring development named after the iconic Preston Road. As longtime residents know, the “Hills” part of the name refers to the gentle rises and scenic views, which are rare treasures in North Texas. These undulating lawns and tree-lined avenues, such as Club House Drive, Country Club Drive, and Glen Eagles Drive, create the comforting landscape that so many families have fallen in love with over the years.
Key Milestones in Neighborhood History
Just as the city of Plano transformed from a sleepy agricultural town to a bustling suburban hub, so too did the Hills at Prestonwood evolve with the times. Several key developments have shaped the character and reputation of the area:
- The Opening of The Clubs of Prestonwood – The Hills: The establishment of this prestigious golf club in the early 1980s spurred residential development in the surrounding area. With its lush fairways, walking trails, and a welcoming clubhouse on Club House Drive, the club quickly became the social center of the neighborhood.
- Residential Boom in the 1980s and 1990s: As Plano gained recognition for its award-winning schools and economic opportunities, the Hills at Prestonwood became a sought-after address. Custom homes with distinctive brick facades and elegant landscaping began to line its winding streets, attracting families seeking both luxury and community.
- Annexation and School Growth: Integration into the Plano Independent School District helped the neighborhood flourish, with popular institutions such as Hebron High School, Arbor Creek Middle School, and Prince of Peace Catholic School serving local families.
- Community Involvement and Beautification Projects: Over the years, the Hills at Prestonwood Homeowners Association has launched numerous beautification projects, adding mature oak trees, updated signage, and decorative lighting along roads such as Glen Eagles Drive and Trophy Club Drive.
Landmarks and Notable Buildings
A stroll through the Hills at Prestonwood reveals both natural beauty and architectural highlights. Some of the area’s most notable landmarks include:
- The Clubs of Prestonwood – The Hills Golf Course: A signature feature, the golf club is not just for golfers. Residents gather here for events, brunches, holiday celebrations, and spectacular sunset views over the fairways.
- Prestonwood Baptist Church Satellite Campus: Though the main campus is further south, the satellite campus played a pivotal role in creating a tight-knit sense of faith and community for residents in the 1990s and early 2000s.
- Arbor Hills Nature Preserve (Nearby): While technically just outside the neighborhood boundaries, this expansive park provides a natural playground for residents. Walking and biking trails connect the Hills at Prestonwood with Arbor Hills, offering breathtaking escapes into Texas wilderness just minutes from home.
Community Spirit and Ongoing Evolution
Ask any longtime resident what sets the Hills at Prestonwood apart, and the answer always circles back to a sense of belonging. From neighborhood Fourth of July parades on Trophy Club Drive to monthly yard-of-the-month contests organized by the HOA, the community spirit runs deep.
Over the years, the demographic makeup has evolved. What started as a draw for established families has blossomed into a diverse neighborhood welcoming young professionals, retirees, and families alike. Original homeowners often share stories of block parties held under the canopy of mature pecan trees, while new arrivals bring fresh energy and creative landscaping that celebrates Texas native plants.
The neighborhood’s convenient location—just minutes from major employers in Legacy West and the Shops at Willow Bend—adds to its appeal. Residents are never far from upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and cultural attractions, but they know they can return home to quiet streets and familiar faces.
Why the Hills at Prestonwood Remains Special
If you wander through the Hills at Prestonwood today, it’s not uncommon to see neighbors catching up on their porches, kids riding bikes down Glen Eagles Drive, or friends gathering at the Club for a round of golf. It’s a rare mix of old and new—a place where traditions matter, but growth and change are celebrated.
The lush common areas and well-maintained homes offer visual reminders of the care residents have invested. Decades after the first brick was laid, the neighborhood remains a beloved refuge in busy North Texas.
Newcomers are always welcome, and longtime residents are eager to share their insider tips—like the best spot for sunset views on the west side of Club House Drive or the quiet walking path hidden behind the golf course. In the Hills at Prestonwood, every street feels like an invitation to slow down, appreciate your surroundings, and build lasting memories.
Whether you’re captivated by its history or looking for the perfect place to put down roots, the Hills at Prestonwood continues to stand tall as one of Plano’s most cherished neighborhoods.