A colorful heritage established in a deeply-rooted history anchors the new and exciting developments of this affluent neighborhood

Absolutely brimming with vitality, the rapidly emerging neighborhood of College Park marries its rich history with booming development. College Park is distinct from other Orlando neighborhoods and boasts picturesque views of the city’s skyline in tandem with a locally-oriented slew of convivial gastropubs and niche boutiques.

The quaint, brick-lined streets named after prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Princeton, and Yale are responsible for this neighborhood’s nomenclature, but College Park has been an alluring residential area since the late 19th century. Modern College Park is on the cusp of several new major developments, including the much-anticipated, multi-use Packing District sponsored by Dr. Phillips Charities.

College Park houses a great deal of architectural diversity. Among the residential real estate offerings, buyers will find anything from mid-century bungalows and contemporary Craftsmen new-builds, to historic Victorian estates perched next to the idyllic greens of the Dubsdread Golf Course. The neighborhood is also known for its 20th-century cottages, and well-appointed homes featuring lakefront views.

What to Love

• Just 15 minutes from Downtown Orlando and 30 minutes from resorts like Disney World
• Outdoor and water activities thanks to several lakes within the community
• Conveniently bounded by I-4, ideal for commuters

Local Lifestyle

Residents and visitors alike tend to congregate in lively Downtown College Park, also known as the Edgewater Drive district. Here, boutiques, vivacious restaurants, and hip bars are all within easy walking distance. The area has a natural vibe, too, due to its abundance of green spaces and towering oaks.

Dining, Entertainment, Shopping

While much of the shopping in College Park is limited to upscale boutiques, the neighborhood borders Downtown Orlando and puts residents minutes away from premier shopping. The Mall At Millenia, for instance, is just 15 minutes away and carries dozens of high-end brands like Versace, Jimmy Choo, Coach, and Gucci.

Dining is the real star of the show in College Park, and there’s no shortage of bustling restaurants in the neighborhood. At Ollie’s Public House, satisfying pub fare and a buzzy atmosphere make diners feel part of the local culture. Built for multifaceted needs, The Monroe is an effortlessly cool hang-out spot that’s a part coffee shop, part restaurant, and part cocktail lounge.

Those craving something a little more international in flavor will want to try Armando’s, a divine Italian restaurant bursting with crave-worthy dishes. For award-winning cuisine in a commanding venue, there’s The Tap Room at Dubsdread, tucked inside a gorgeous historic building by the golf course.

Things to Do

College Park has a bounty of ways to enjoy each and every day, whether that means spending time in the great outdoors or planning your perfect wedding day at venues like The Acre Orlando. Here, opulence, whimsy, and nature combine to form a one-of-a-kind event setting certain to make the occasion memorable.

When locals want to get fresh air, they’re able to hit up any one of the neighborhood’s many parks, including Lake Ivanhoe Park. The 125-acre Lake Ivanhoe itself is most popular for its water sports activities and fishing, and the shoreside park has playground amenities for the kids. Alternatively, there’s Albert Park, an urban greenspace situated right in the middle of College Park’s busiest commercial stretch — Edgewater Drive.

Edgewater Drive is additionally the site of the popular JazzFest, an annual celebration of multiple music genres. The event features three separate stages for ongoing performances, as well as enticing fare from food truck vendors. For a quieter, yet still social experience, Dubsdread Golf Course provides its pristine 18-hole course and scenic views.

Schools

College Park is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:

• Rollins College, an exceptional, private liberal arts university founded in 1885, offering graduate and undergraduate studies.
• Full Sail University, a notable private university offering graduate and undergraduate degrees centered around the arts and entertainment.
• Orlando Gifted Academy, 2-6, highly rated public elementary ranked among the top 50 in the state

Location