Orlando's Luxe Suburb Is A Chic Retreat With Gated Estates, Golf, And Gourmet Dining

A destination's popularity overwhelming locals and changing its identity has earned its own verb: "Disneyification". People like to blame the mouse. While Orlando does, sometimes, get pegged as one of America's most "disappointing" tourist destinations, it also offers incredible things to do besides visiting Disney World. Within that Mickey-less oasis lies Doctor Phillips, a luxe suburb with gated estates, golf, and gourmet dining that offers a chic retreat 20 minutes outside of downtown Orlando. But first, let's address that jarring name.

The area's moniker comes from Dr. Phillip Phillips, a leading light in the citrus business. The "doctor" comes from an actual medical degree, though he may have been better suited for treating oranges. Phillips changed the orange juice game in the early 20th century while becoming, as some claim, the world's biggest citrus farmer. He eventually sold much of his holdings to Minute Maid, while developers bought the chunk of land that became the luxurious Orlando outpost that bears his name. It wasn't always a collection of high-end homes, luxe retail, and fine dining, though.

The neighborhood boomed over the last three decades, benefiting from its relatively recent creation, which kept growth and infrastructure investment aligned. Its position close to lakes and an interstate put it in a Goldilocks zone, close enough to Orlando's three-headed hydra of SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, and Disney World to enjoy the destinations, but separate enough to avoid its crowds. The resulting enclave of 12,500 residents today offers a wealthy mix of high-end retail, gourmet options, and natural beauty worthy of a side trip or two during your next Orlando vacation.

This being Florida, you'd be hard-pressed to drive several miles without seeing a golf course. Doctor Phillips seems to have prescribed golf as well, as the neighborhood is full of 18-hole delights. The Orange Tree Golf Club offers a privately-owned paradise of challenging greens and worthwhile vistas. The area's crown jewel, though, is Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club and Lodge, which is only seven minutes outside of town. The legendary golfer once declared it "the best golf course in Florida," according to the Bay Hill Club. Palmer then promptly bought it, shaping it into a prime destination for golf lovers around the world. Any true golf fanatic within driving distance of the course should make a detour and have a round on "The King's" sacred grounds.

Gourmet dining can be found on Sand Lake Road, the epicenter of Doctor Phillips's foodie culture, offering an eclectic mix of cuisine without compromising on excellence. The list of potential places to chow down can feel overwhelming, and many of the options have good reviews. So, let geography be your guide. Head to the Chima Steakhouse for a South American-style protein overload. If you're looking to get your fingers greasy, stop at bartaco, which serves all your taco favorites, rice bowls, and cocktails. For a bit of well-rated Southern comfort food and a spooky ambiance, stop by Voodoo Bayou. Its wood-fired fare, including signature redfish, comes with bourbon au jus, though you can't go wrong with gumbo. Ever.

Those within driving distance of Orlando can visit Doctor Phillips by car. The rest can hop aboard a flight to the nearest major travel hub, Orlando International Airport, which is about 20 minutes away. While there, enjoy pizza, pasta, and waffles at the world's largest McDonald's. Yes, you read that right.

First-time visitors to Doctor Phillips will notice the overwhelming amount of organized communities within its borders. The relative affluence of residents (the median income is about $101,000) and the neighborhood's prime location, good schools, and quiet surroundings make it a big draw for both young families and retirees. It also, however, makes accommodations within the neighborhood rare (save for the odd Airbnb). Fortunately, it's Orlando, and the city has 130,000 hotel rooms ready to welcome you any time. If you want an all-encompassing experience, stop at the Evermore Resort for tropical beaches, pristine lagoons, and lush waterfalls. Try to avoid visiting during hurricane season, though, between June and December.