DOCTOR PHILLIPS,  FLORIDA

Doctor Phillips, Florida is  a place name that almost all Orlando citizens recognize, but many people in the rest of Florida have never heard of. 

Only a generation ago, Doctor Phillips was a lonely outpost among the orange groves southwest of Orlando at the intersection of Sand Lake Road with Apopka-Vineland Road.

The area is named for Dr. Philip Phillips, an early big-time Central Florida citrus grower.  Dr. Phillips was born in 1874 and died in 1959. 

Doctor Philip Phillips

He had a medical degree from Columbia University, and at one point owned more than 5,000 acres of citrus groves around Orlando. 

Dr. Phillips developed many successful techniques for the processing and packaging of orange juice.

His thousands of acres of groves stretched across nine Central Florida counties.

His land in the area now known as Doctor Phillips extended from Conroy Road on the north to the south end of the Sand Lake Chain of Lakes. 

His holdings included what is now Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Country Club,  Orange Tree,  Sand Lake Hills and Turkey Lake.

After he sold his groves in 1953, he became a benevolent philanthropist. His donations are still enjoyed and appreciated by Orlando area residents.

Crop Dusting in Doctor Phillips, Florida

When construction began on Walt Disney World in the late 1960s, the area around Doctor Phillips was still orange groves and wetlands.  

During the construction of Walt Disney World, a group of Disney workers labored in Doctor Phillips's old citrus packing plant fastening the artificial leaves onto the artificial limbs of the Swiss Family Robinson tree.

Doctor Phillips, Florida Packing Plant View to North

That was about the only game in town back then.  It was a clever use of a large building that was no longer being used.

Now the unincorporated area around Doctor Phillips is as big as many Florida cities, with a population of about 10,000. 

It is on the edge of Universal Studios Florida, and enjoys quick access via Sand Lake Road to I-4 and International Drive.

It is a modern place, with beautiful shopping malls, plenty of great restaurants and is surrounded by upscale residential communities.

The entire area from Apopka-Vineland Road east to I-4 is now called "Restaurant Row" by locals.

The sprawling upscale neighborhoods in this area have no trouble supporting their local Whole Foods and Trader Joes along with the familiar Publix brand.

If you are visiting Orlando, you can stay at Dr. Phillips's house in the historic downtown area. It is now a bed and breakfast inn.

You can also enjoy a performance at the nearby Doctor Phillips Center for the Performing Arts that opened in downtown Orlando in 2014.

THINGS TO DO IN DOCTOR PHILLIPS, FLORIDA

Universal Studios Florida, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, (407) 363-8000. Just a short drive from Doctor Phillips, Universal Studios is an absolute must-visit for all movie and thrill ride enthusiasts. With numerous, immersive movie-themed rides and attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you'll be swept away into a world of cinematic splendor.

Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, (407) 939-5277. An iconic vacation destination, Walt Disney World Resort is less than 15 miles from Doctor Phillips. You and your family can explore the magic of its four unique theme parks, shop and dine at Disney Springs and even play a few rounds of golf at their PGA Tour-designed courses.

Doctor P. Phillips Community Park, 8249 Buenavista Woods Blvd, Orlando, FL 32836, (407) 254-9038. This park is our favorite picnic spot and an ideal place to relax, with amenities like a splash pad, dog park, sports fields, and nature trails. There are many things to do or simply sit back and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather.

Sand Lake Road, Doctor Phillips, FL 32836. Known as "Restaurant Row," Sand Lake Road is a stretch full of diverse eating options, from local eateries to high-end dining. With its variety of good restaurants, you'll enjoy a culinary adventure without leaving Doctor Phillips.

Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7524 Doctor Phillips Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, (833) 800-4343. A shopping center with a friendly neighborhood atmosphere, Dr. Phillips Marketplace offers a variety of shops, cafes, and services you'd want for a simple, laid-back day of retail therapy.

Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge, 9000 Bay Hill Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, (888) 422-9445. For golf lovers, this world-renowned club is an absolute must-play. It offers a challenging course, top quality amenities, and outstanding service. Remember to reserve your tee times well in advance!

Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, (407) 685-9800. Frequented by both locals and travelers, this state-of-the-art convention center hosts trade shows, conventions, and concerts. Check their online calendar for interesting happenings during your visit.

The Wheel at ICON Park, 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819, (407) 601-7907. Just outside of Doctor Phillips, The Wheel offers unbeatable views of downtown Orlando, pristine lakes, and, on clear days, even the coast! The 400-foot tall Ferris wheel is a must for sightseers.

Lake Tibet, Doctor Phillips, FL 32836. As one of the largest lakes in the Butler Chain of Lakes, Lake Tibet is known for boating, fishing, and typical Floridian water activities. Rent a paddleboard or pontoon boat and have fun under the warm Florida sun.

FilmSlam at Enzian Theater, 1300 Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751, (407) 629-0054. Just a short drive from Doctor Phillips is the Enzian Theater, which hosts FilmSlam, an indie film contest. It's a must for cultured cinema fans who appreciate independent creators.