Philippe Park covers 122 acres of land in Safety Harbor, Florida. It is the oldest park in Pinellas County and offers visitors the opportunity to relax, walk along one mile of shoreline, visit historic sites within the park and picnic.
Where is Philippe Park?
Philippe Park is situated in the city of Safety Harbor in Pinellas County, Florida. Its address is 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor, Florida and the zip code is 34695.
History of Philippe Park
Philippe Park was acquired by the Pinellas County authorities in 1948. The 122 acres of land had once been part of the estate of Count Odet Philippe. He has been credited with introducing the cultivation of citrus fruit – particularly grapefruit – to Florida. Some of his original citrus trees still grow in the park.
Odet Philippe arrived in the Tampa Bay area in 1842 and purchased 160 acres of land. Philippe was the first European to settle in Pinellas County. He was a very successful businessman who planted citrus groves on his new land resulting in Florida becoming a major producer of citrus fruit as others followed his example. Philippe also brought cigar making to the Tampa Bay area. He died in 1869 and is buried somewhere in the park, although no-one knows exactly where.
The area that included Philippe Park was once home to the Tocabaga Indians. At one place in the park they gathered to feast and celebrate special occasions. They ate many oysters and clams that they had gathered from the teeming waters of Tampa Bay. You can still see the discarded shells piled up to form Indian Mound.
Since 1948 the park has been developed as an important leisure amenity in Pinellas County. Picnic shelters and playgrounds have been provided throughout the park along with a range of other amenities.
Opening hours for Philippe Park
Philippe Park is open every day from 7am to 8.30pm. Currently there are Covid-19 restrictions in place. These require visitors to maintain a distance of 6 feet from other visitors.
Are dogs allowed in Philippe Park?
Yes! Dogs are welcomed to Philippe Park but they must be kept on a leash. Dogs who like to run into the sea will love the opportunities along the shoreline. The park provides water fountains not just for humans but for dogs too. If your dog finds the Florida sunshine too hot, then Philippe Park provides shady areas under ancient oak trees.
What are the parking options at Philippe Park?
It is possible to reserve parking at Philippe Park. There are 6 areas designated for car parking throughout the park. Otherwise you can park on nearby streets but there are restrictions.
The Boat Launch Ramp has its own parking lot. There are parking lots of 30 vehicles. The charge for using this parking site is $6 for a car with trailer, $5 without a trailer. These charges apply each day.
What can you do in Philippe Park?
There is a wide range of activities available in Philippe Park. When the sun is shining and the temperature is rising it is great to just sit under the trees in the shade and watch the world go by. Strolling is pleasant as much of the park is shaded by ancient oak trees.
There are 9 picnic shelters scattered throughout the park. One, shelter number 3, is available on a first come first served basis. There is no fee for using this shelter. All the others need to be reserved and a fee is chargeable. Shelter number 2 has electricity fitted, but none of the others do. There are also open picnic tables placed at various points through the park. These are available without a reservation. There are also 4 restrooms at points through the park – although two are only open at weekends and public holidays.
There are horseshoe pits close to all the picnic shelters. There is also a volleyball site, a softball field and two kid’s playgrounds. One, the Ropes and Rocks Adventure Playground offers the thrills of rock-climbing.
Indian Mound is an ancient mound created by the Tocabaga Indians. It incorporates the shells from their discarded oysters and clams. Climb up to the top of the mound for a superb view across Tampa Bay. The mound is one of the last reminders of the native Tocabaga in the area. The Tocabaga used it as a temple mound and so it has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
The Boat Launch Ramp is open daily from 7am to dusk. The daily charges are given above. The boat ramp is situated at the northern end of the park.
Fishing is another activity that can be enjoyed in the park. A saltwater fishing license may be required. Ask at the Information Kiosk before settling to a day’s fishing.
The park is a safe environment for biking, especially for kids. There are no difficult routes or any rough terrain to conquer.
It is worth noting that Philippe Park does not have a beach suitable for a family day out. The waterside is mostly walkway or grass leading down to the edge of the water. There are one or two areas of sand but they are small.
Birds are plentiful in the park and you will hear and see them as you stroll among the trees.
What is there to do nearby?
1. Safety Harbor Marina Park and Fishing Pier.
Here you will find a long pier which gives greats opportunities for fishing and strolling. For the more adventurous there are jet-ski rentals too.
2. Safety Harbor Museum and Cultural Center.
Situated at 329 Bayshore Boulevard, the Safety Harbor Museum is well worth a visit. Among the items on display are some interesting Native American artifacts.
3. Harbor Food Tours.
If you fancy a walking tour that devotes plenty of time to food then take one of the Harbor Food Tours on offer. While walking you will learn something of Safety Harbor’s history and it’s gastronomic scene. You can eat as you walk!
4. Safety Harbor Ghost Tours.
A ghost tour is just one of the tours you can take in the company of an experienced guide. There is a history tour that tells you all about the history of the city of Safety Harbor and the characters who lived here.
The ghost tour will highlight spooky parts of the city with their ghoulish stories.
5. Crooked Thumb Brewery
If you enjoy a beer in a relaxed atmosphere, then take time to visit Crooked Thumb Brewery. Open from 4pm to 10pm Monday to Friday and longer at the weekends. Catch them at 555 10th Avenue S, Safety Harbor. Events with live music are arranged from time to time.
6. Whimzey Bowling Ball House.
Have you ever wondered what 800 bowling balls all in one place would look like? If so, go along to 1206 3rd Street N in Safety Harbor and prepare to be amazed. A fantastical over-the-top house and gardens that will delight both you and your children.
Summary
Philippe Park is a relaxing open space in Safety Harbor where you can stroll, picnic, fish or just relax and listen to the birds. It is a great place to take your kids and give them some freedom to run and play. If you are staying in Pinellas County take some time to visit Philippe Park. And what’s better, after a long day at the park, then coming home to your own private oasis at the Eiko’s Beach House. With your own heated pool, hot tub and direct access to the beach, there isn’t a vacation home that can compete.