11 Great Neighborhoods: College Park & Packing District

(ROBERTO GONZALEZ)

Like much of Central Florida, College Park started as citrus groves. In the late 1800s, local grower John Ericsson was officially the first person to call the area home, building a farmhouse on what is now Princeton Street. Thanks to the rise of the South Florida Railroad, other settlers followed suit, turning the quaint neighborhood centered on Edgewater Drive into the bustling community it is today. Even Beat Generation novelist Jack Kerouac was once a College Park resident; the house still stands and now serves as a nonprofit retreat for up-and-coming writers.

It’s easy to see why the picturesque, Old Florida neighborhood appeals to many residents. College Park has maintained its small-town charm, featuring an abundance of green space, towering oaks, and lake views. “It’s much more about the community than the geography,” says Ritsy Carpenter, an area resident for 57 years. “There’s a sense of thankfulness among everyone here. We know there are other great places to live in Central Florida, but the people who choose to live here so appreciate that they’re in College Park and believe it’s the best place.”

(ROBERTO GONZALEZ)

The sense of togetherness draws people in and makes it even harder to leave. “I say that I’m newer to the area, and I’ve been here 40 years, but in College Park, that’s new to the neighborhood,” explains Linda Dalton.

The Packing District, adjacent to College Park, will be a new community for the City of Orlando. The district’s master plan encourages community wellness through the development of a new regional park, and a network of pedestrian and bike trails. Boasting a new YMCA Family Center, Food Hall, and a mix of townhomes and multi-family homes, the Packing District is a great neighborhood in the making.

Heather Unger with ACME Florida

College Park maintains a smalltown feel in the middle of Downtown Orlando, boasting the best walkability in Central Florida. It’s known for its quaint bungalows and historic estates. However, due to the area’s popularity and ease of access, there are many new construction options but don’t expect to find your typical cookie-cutter home in College Park. Residents enjoy charming boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, and numerous parks and lakes. The district hosts multiple events throughout the year for residents to come together along The Drive, like the highly anticipated Jazzfest. Parents will be happy with the many schooling options, from top-rated public schools to numerous private schools. College Park continues to be a hub of growth, symbolizing the blending of the old with the new. The all-new Packing District was formed with a focus on health and wellness. The area will offer everything from commercial spaces to a food hall, Urban gardens, residential living spaces, and parks. Connected by a series of pedestrian and bike-friendly trails, the 32804 has something for everyone.

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