Rosen Shingle Creek

Rosen Shingle Creek is not just a hotel; it’s a self-contained resort destination located on a sprawling 255-acre property. Owned by prominent Orlando hotelier Harris Rosen, it’s renowned for its extensive meeting facilities, championship golf, and multitude of on-site amenities. While it’s not owned by a major chain like Hilton or Marriott, it operates at a luxury level and is a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection.

Its location is a key differentiator: it’s situated on Universal Boulevard, situated between the Universal Orlando Resort and the Orlando International Airport (MCO), offering easier access to both than many Disney-area resorts.

Key Features & Highlights

• Massive Scale & Grand Style: The resort is inspired by Florida’s pioneering history and features a grand, Mediterranean Revival style. The lobby is vast and impressive, setting the tone for the entire property.

• Prime Golf Course: This is a major draw. The resort features an 18-hole, championship-grade golf course designed by Arnold Palmer Design Company. It’s consistently ranked among the top courses in Florida and hosts professional tournaments.

• Exceptional Amenities:

  • Multiple Pools: A large, zero-entry resort pool with a waterfall, a separate lap pool, and cabana rentals.

  • Creek Beach: A 1.5-acre sandy lagoon with volleyball courts.

  • World-Class Spa: The 13,000-square-foot Spa at Shingle Creek offers a full menu of treatments.

  • Massive Fitness Center: A huge, 24/7 fitness center with a wide variety of equipment.

  • Outdoor Activities: Includes a nature trail, biking, jogging paths, and even a falconry program.

• Dining & Entertainment: With 14 restaurants and lounges, you never need to leave. Options range from quick-service to upscale steakhouse (**
  A Land Remembered
  ** is a renowned AAA Four-Diamond award winner).

• Meeting & Convention Space: This is one of the largest convention hotels in the Southeast U.S., with over 450,000 square feet of meeting space. It’s a hub for large conferences, trade shows, and conventions.

• Location & Transportation:

  • Proximity to Universal Orlando: ~5-10 minute drive (complementary shuttle service is provided).

  • Proximity to SeaWorld: ~10 minute drive.

  • Proximity to Walt Disney World: ~15-20 minute drive.

  • Proximity to Airport (MCO): ~15 minute drive.

  • The I-Ride Trolley has a stop at the hotel, providing an inexpensive way to get to International Drive attractions.

Pros vs. Cons

Who Is This Resort Best For?

• Convention & Business Travelers: It’s arguably one of the best hotels in Orlando for this purpose.

• Golf Enthusiasts: The course is a premier reason to stay here.

• Travelers Who Prefer Resort Amenities: Those who plan to spend significant time at the pool, spa, or dining and want a break from the parks.

• Groups & Families Seeking Space: The vast property offers room to spread out.

• Universal Orlando Visitors: Its proximity and free shuttle make it a strong luxury contender for a Universal-focused trip.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

• Die-Hard Disney Fans: If being immersed in the Disney “magic” 24/7 is the goal, a Disney-owned resort would be more suitable.

• Budget-Conscious Travelers: The room rates, dining, and resort fee place it in the luxury price category.

• Those Wanting Walkable Park Access: It does not have the walking-distance access to parks that hotels like Universal’s Premier resorts or Disney’s BoardWalk area hotels offer.

• Travelers Seeking a Quaint, Intimate Vibe: The sheer size and convention focus mean it’s always bustling.

Comparison to Other Orlando Resorts

• vs. a Disney Deluxe Resort (e.g., Grand Floridian): Rosen Shingle Creek offers similar luxury and amenities (great pools, dining, rooms) at a often lower price point, but it lacks the Disney theming, Disney transportation, and perks like Early Theme Park Entry.

• vs. A Universal Premier Hotel (e.g., Portofino Bay): Shingle Creek is a comparable luxury product but without the exclusive Universal benefit of free Express Unlimited passes. Its free shuttle is good, but it can’t beat the walking distance or water taxi access of Universal’s own hotels.

• vs. A Marriott/Hilton (e.g., Orlando Bonnet Creek): Shingle Creek is more self-contained and offers a wider array of unique amenities (golf, falconry, more dining) than many chain-affiliated resorts.

Final Verdict

Rosen Shingle Creek is a premier, self-sufficient resort destination that excels in golf, conventions, and luxury amenities. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want a high-end resort experience with fantastic dining and activities, especially if their trip is focused on Universal Orlando or a major conference.

However, for a trip centered entirely on Walt Disney World, the lack of included transportation and Disney theming might make a Disney-owned resort or a hotel in the Bonnet Creek area more convenient. It’s a fantastic property, but its fit depends entirely on your vacation priorities.