By Kate Cohen
February 3, 2026
Orlando’s reputation for theme parks is world-renowned. Every year, millions of visitors make their way to The City Beautiful to enjoy themed entertainment, roller coasters, and fantasy.
But Orlando is so much more than what many tourists encounter.
The city is full of authentic, enriching, and adventurous experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural and culinary discoveries.
If you visit Orlando with an open mind, you never know what beautiful memories you may make along the way.
As part of Rosen Hotels & Resorts, Rosen Shingle Creek has deep roots in Orlando’s tourism and hospitality industry, as well as the greater Central Florida region.
That’s why we’re experts in things to do in the “real” Orlando beyond theme parks and tourist traps.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to explore the authentic side of our favorite city.
Key Takeaways
- Explore Orlando’s Natural Beauty
- Orlando’s Thriving Arts & Culture Scene
- Eat Your Way Through Orlando’s Foodie Neighborhoods
- Shop like a Local
- Explore Orlando’s History and Hidden Gems
- Nightlife and Entertainment that Locals Love
- Outdoor Recreation at Rosen Shingle Creek
- Choose Rosen Shingle Creek for Exploring the “Real Orlando”
Explore Orlando’s Natural Beauty
If you come to Orlando expecting only theme parks and development, you’re sure to miss out on some of Central Florida’s most captivating wildlife.
For example, take Wekiwa Springs State Park. This beautiful ecosystem is home to Wekiwa Spring, where you can swim in natural crystal-clear water that’s a consistent 72 degrees year-round. It’s also the perfect spot for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Downtown Orlando has its fair share of skyscrapers and city buildings, but at its center is the beautiful Lake Eola. This gentle body of water is home to the iconic Lake Eola Fountain, as well as a popular 0.9-mile walking path that encircles the lake.
While you’re visiting Lake Eola Park, rent a swan-shaped paddle boat, take in a concert, or walk leisurely among gardens and sculptures for a beautiful day outdoors.
Orlando’s wetlands are ideal for birders and animal enthusiasts. The Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive is a self-guided automotive trail open on weekends and major holidays. Enjoy a leisurely two-hour drive where you might spot wild creatures like alligators, otters, bobcats, and over 280 different species of birds.
During your stay at Rosen Shingle Creek, make time to explore the Shingle Creek Trail. This scenic, partially paved path is accessible from a trailhead on hotel property. You’ll discover beautiful vistas, local Floridian flora, and of course, plenty of native wildlife.
Orlando’s Thriving Arts & Culture Scene
Orlando is known for its exciting arts and culture scene.
A city that thrives on creativity and innovation, it’s home to a variety of museums, performance venues, and festivals.
If you’re looking to take in some visual art, check out the Orlando Museum of Art or the Mennello Museum of American Art, both of which are located within Loch Haven Park.
Also in Loch Haven Park are Orlando Family Stage and Orlando Shakes, two premier theatre venues producing moving, playful, and heartfelt live performances for audiences of all ages.
Downtown, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue with several breathtaking performance spaces. Here, you can catch everything from an intimate jazz performance to a spectacular Broadway touring production.
To experience incredible art in Orlando without the cost of admission, it’s always a fun idea to take yourself on a self-guided tour of the city’s colorful murals and street art.
Eat Your Way Through Orlando’s Foodie Neighborhoods
There’s no shortage of franchise and chain restaurants in Orlando, especially in the more “touristy” parts of town.
However, real Central Florida foodies know that the best flavors in the city can be found in some of Orlando’s unique neighborhoods.
Mills 50 is a trendy area that’s home to chic restaurants like TORI TORI, Hawkers Asian Street Food, and Lamp & Shade Craft Kitchen and Cocktails.
Winter Park is a great spot for upscale and diverse dining. For a memorably delicious meal, check out restaurants like The Ravenous Pig, AVA MediterrAegean, Briarpatch, and Hillstone.
In Ivanhoe Village, you’ll find a variety of gastropubs and breweries including Santiago’s Bodega, Better Than Sex Dessert Restaurant, Gnarly Barley, and Thrive Cocktail Lounge & Eatery.
Another neighborhood worth exploring is Audubon Park. Check out East End Market, where you’ll find the Michelin recommended DOMU, vegan Winter Park Biscuit Company, and the Gideon’s Bakehouse flagship location. Across the street is the original Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream shop, perfect for a special scooped treat.
Staying at Rosen Shingle Creek and looking for a delicious meal a little closer to your hotel room? Try one of our 12 onsite dining options.
Visit our legacy steakhouse, A Land Remembered, or opt for modern Italian fare with a farm-to-table twist at Cala Bella. Enjoy upscale burgers and bar food at Tobias Burgers & Brews and fresh Mexican food at Mi Casa Tequila Taqueria. These and other options await you throughout your stay.
Shop Like a Local
There is no shortage of shopping in Orlando.
Kitschy souvenir shops and outlet malls serve a purpose, but if you’re looking to avoid the touristy side of the area, check out these retail retreats instead.
Park Ave in Winter Park is lined with boutiques and a handful of name brand stores like lululemon and Williams Sonoma. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a gift or treat yourself to something special.
Winter Garden has similar historic charm and boutique vibes, ideal for a day of leisurely shopping and strolling.
While it does attract a fair number of tourists, Disney Springs is another great option for shopping, especially if you’re looking for unique Disney-inspired souvenirs or high-end brands. This massive complex offers a dose of Disney magic alongside stores like Anthropologie, American Threads, Lilly Pulitzer, and a variety of playful gift shops.
Explore Orlando’s History & Hidden Gems
Looking to learn a little more about the history of Orlando?
Check out the Orange County Regional History Center, a wonderful community resource with exhibits that showcase the region’s diverse peoples and communities. As a Smithsonian affiliate, the History Center also features limited-run exhibitions on everything from the Civil War to The Muppets.
The Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture is a look into the city’s African American heritage. Once a hotel, the building now displays art, artifacts, and information about the Civil Rights movement in Central Florida and beyond.
Another historic hidden gem in Orlando is Leu Gardens, a botanical oasis with historic roots. Explore over 50 acres of lush gardens and the historic Leu House Museum for an afternoon of natural beauty and vintage charm.
Nightlife & Entertainment that Locals Love
Orlando’s nightlife scene is vibrant and entertaining. While there is plenty to enjoy along International Drive after dark, you’ll often find locals lingering and imbibing at other establishments around the city.
For live music, check out hotspots like The Phoenix Jazz Club, with its sophisticated and historic vibes and local musicians performing every Thursday through Saturday starting at 10 p.m. Located in the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Judson’s Live hosts incredible performers from around the world while combining “atmosphere, acoustics, and culinary excellence.”
On the second floor of East End Market is The Neighbors, a playful cocktail bar serving cleverly crafted drinks and tasty flatbread pizzas with live music on weekdays.
If comedy is more your thing, check out SAK Comedy Lab, Orlando’s premier improv comedy club. Grab a beer or a glass of wine and get ready to laugh along with some of Orlando’s funniest people.
Central Florida is also home to a variety of breweries that are perfect for spending the evening sipping on local beers. RockPit Brewing & Distilling is a rustic and welcoming family-owned brewery serving a large menu of house-made beer and spirits.
In downtown Winter Garden, Plant St. Market is home to Crooked Can Brewing Company, known for their small batch and seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year.
More of a wine drinker? Check out The Wine Room on Park Ave in Winter Park, where you can swipe your pre-paid card at self-serve machines pouring wines from around the world. Enjoy your vino with charcuterie plates and small bites.
Outdoor Recreation at Rosen Shingle Creek
Looking to spend some time outdoors in the beautiful Florida sunshine? Rosen Shingle Creek is home to a variety of outdoor recreation amenities and activities for our guests.
Spend the day golfing on our championship course, Shingle Creek Golf Club, designed by the esteemed Arnold Palmer Design Company.
Break a sweat at our sleek (indoor) fitness studio with beautiful scenic views, or enjoy a game of tennis, pickleball, or beach volleyball on one of our courts.
Rosen Shingle Creek is home to four stunning seasonally heated swimming pools, including a lap pool, zero-entry family pool, a cabana pool, and a kiddie wading pool. Two hot tubs and poolside amenities (including Cat-Tails Pool Bar & Grille) take your poolside leisure to the next level.
Choose Rosen Shingle Creek for Exploring the “Real Orlando”
Orlando is so much more than theme parks and tourist traps. When you stay at Rosen Shingle Creek, you’ll get to experience an entirely different side of The City Beautiful.
The hotel’s convenient location is close to International Drive and only a short ride from Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, Mills 50, Winter Garden, and many of Orlando’s other popular neighborhoods.
However, despite its central locale, Rosen Shingle Creek’s surrounding lush wildlife, sprawling golf course, and beautiful landscaping give the hotel a secluded feeling, removed from the hustle and bustle of Orlando’s busy entertainment district.
During your stay, enjoy resort-style amenities including our luxurious onsite spa, The Spa at Shingle Creek.
Get to know the real Orlando the next time you vacation at Rosen Shingle Creek.
