Philippe Park
Philippe Park is a historical site that overlooks Old Tampa Bay. The park is named for Odet Philippe, who claimed to be a surgeon for Napoleon. Philippe settled there in the 1830's and introduced the New World's first successful grapefruit trees. Before Philippe, the area was a significant Native American settlement. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, a sizable ancient ceremonial mound exists today. The park also features an excellent picnic area, playground and nature trail. This park is closed the day after Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Guest Reviews from Google
One of the most beautiful places in Tampa Bay, despite having lived in the region for more than 10 years, had remained undiscovered to me until recently. Although I often enjoy visiting the Ben T. Davis and Rocky Point areas, I had never explored this spot before. I visited on Father’s Day afternoon with my partner, our dogs, and my father-in-law. The place was peaceful, clean, and quiet, with only a few families and children enjoying the historical surroundings. After walking and taking in the natural beauty, I saw, for the first time, the area where a once-large mountain had stood. Though it is now much smaller due to hurricane damage many years ago, the view remains breathtaking—a perfect destination for those who love connecting with nature. The location offers opportunities for hiking, walking, and running, as well as a port where visitors can launch boats, jet skis, and another watercraft. I will definitely be returning soon.
Visited Philippe Park recently and it ended up being one of the most peaceful and memorable parks I’ve experienced in the Tampa Bay area. The park itself is beautiful — massive oak trees covered in Spanish moss, scenic waterfront views along Old Tampa Bay, and walking trails that make you feel completely disconnected from the city for a while. It has a very calm, natural atmosphere that is hard to find. The highlight of my visit was unexpectedly seeing an owl resting quietly in the trees near the trail. It honestly felt surreal. Being able to stop, listen to nature, and watch such a beautiful animal in its natural habitat made the entire experience unforgettable. You can tell this park still preserves a lot of Florida’s natural beauty and wildlife. The park is also very clean and well maintained. There are plenty of shaded areas, picnic spots, and places to just sit and enjoy the water. Whether you want to walk, relax, take photos, have a family picnic, or simply clear your mind, this place is perfect. If you visit around sunrise or sunset, the atmosphere becomes even more incredible. Between the wildlife, the giant trees, and the bay views, Philippe Park truly feels like one of the hidden gems of the area. I’ll definitely be coming back.
Waterfront walking trails w/ massive Oak trees w/ Spanish Moss, peaceful and we found a shaded unique play area to climb. It’s closer to the main entrance on the left driving in, we almost missed it as it’s set back a little and there’s no sign. We’ll definitely go back to explore more, saw bathrooms, plenty of picnic tables and even a paddle boarding rental. Bring bug spray, tons of them in the wild.🍃. Enjoy.
Nice park. The trees are mature and there is lots of shade. Please type of picnic tables too. There are playgrounds, multiple bathrooms, shelters and trails. Don't forget the Indian mound! We took some shrimp and the kids caught jack, ladyfish, catfishfish, trout and a blue crab. I really didnt think we would catch much of anything there so that was cool. We also saw a juvenile ray slowly swimming next to the edge which was really cool. Overall, great park to spend the day.
This is a very nice park with lots of great views and lots of shade. The best way to see this is to bicycle to and through the park. I traveled from Clearwater to the park via the Ream Wilson Trail and the views from the trail absolutely amazing. Florida is blessed with some of best bicycle trails that I have ever witnessed. The Duke Energy Trail has lots of beautiful curves and that in itself will keep you entertained while traveling on a bicycle. So if diversity is what you are after keep this points in mind
Standard Amenities
| Room | Square Feet | Theater | Classroom | Banquet | Reception |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 Picnic Shelters |
General Information
- Hours: 7 a.m. - dusk
- Pets on leash allowed
On-Site Facilities & Services
- Picnic Area
Park Activities
- Fishing
- Playground
Accessible Features
- Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
- Wheelchair Accessible Parking