Rosen Hotels & Resorts in Orlando Announces The Elimination of Plastic Straws by January 2019

ORLANDO (August 14, 2018) – Rosen Hotels & Resorts announces today that it will eliminate the use of plastic straws in its more than 26 restaurants and in-room dining at its nine hotels, all located in Orlando, by January 2019.

Effective immediately, plastic straws will be provided only upon request to guests of the hotel restaurants. The company will transition to using eco-friendly paper straws as early as this fall.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts joins the pledge with Florida Green Lodging through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to “skip the straw” and estimates it will eliminate the use of 2,900,888 plastic straws annually. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 500 million plastic straws are used in the U.S. daily, enough to fill 125 school buses.

“As a continued effort within our sustainability programs, we have taken the pledge to eliminate the use of plastic straws,” said Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ founder and owner Harris Rosen. “We will continue to look at all areas where we can potentially improve upon or remove all plastics from our environment to do our part to combat this rising global crisis. At times, this may cost more than the alternative. However, we do this because it’s the right thing to do.”

DeeDee Baggitt, Director of Engineering & Facilities, Rosen Hotels & Resorts, and who is the steward of the company’s sustainable initiatives adds “We are actively evaluating our plastic usage, looking for eco-friendly options that are as effective as the current products.”

Rosen Hotels & Resorts is a dedicated leader of environmental practices in the hospitality industry. The company’s three convention hotels were the first in Central Florida and in the state to receive the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Green Lodging Two Palm designation in 2007 and Three Palm designation in 2009 for remarkable conservation practices. In 2009, owner Harris Rosen received the Legacy Award, Sustainable Florida’s highest honor.

In 2012, the company built its first LEED Certified building, the 12,000 square-foot Rosen Medical Center, a Place for Healing and Wellness. In 2015, the company’s three convention hotels – Rosen Shingle Creek, Rosen Centre and Rosen Plaza – earned the coveted APEX Award, the meetings industry’s first standards designation of environmentally sustainable meetings, created in a partnership of the Convention Industry Council (CIC) and ASTM International.

For more information, visit RosenHotels.com and RosenGreenMeetings.com.

Stay All Day at Rosen Shingle Creek

By Kate Cohen
Updated May 6, 2025

There is so much to explore in Orlando. But sometimes, you end up staying somewhere so special that you don’t have to leave the place to have a truly Central Florida adventure.  

 

An exterior shot of Rosen Shingle Creek at sunset with a blue and pink sky and towering palm trees.

 

Rosen Shingle Creek is one of those rare, special places. 

From historic foods to natural expanses, Rosen Shingle Creek has so much to offer that guests often relax, play, and work without ever leaving.

Sure, the hotel has an ideal location for exploring Orlando, but you may choose to make the most of your time in the comfort of our facilities. 

With lodging, dining, golf, spa services, pools, tennis/basketball and volleyball courts, and over 255 acres of natural beauty, the hotel is a self-contained escape for travelers.

It’s no wonder the Northstar Meeting Group named Rosen Shingle Creek as its prestigious Stella award winner for the Southeast’s best golf resort in 2017. 

Here’s why you may want to consider “staying in” while you visit. 

 

A Doorway to Nature at Rosen Shingle Creek 

While Rosen Shingle Creek is filled with modern amenities, it also provides access to Old Florida nature. 

 

A peek through the vines at a sprawling, lush garden: Emma's Creekside Farm at Rosen Shingle Creek.

 

The hotel’s backdrop is the Shingle Creek waterway, one of the headwaters of the state’s scenic Everglades.

Guests yearning to explore the outdoors can take advantage of the nature trail accessible from our hotel. Meander amid towering grasses, graceful trees draped in moss trees, dramatic pine trees, and blooming flowers.  

Keep your eyes open for native wildlife; unique native birds are easy to spot from this trail.

While you’re wandering outdoors, be sure to stop by Emma’s Creekside Farm. This 9,500 square foot garden grows a variety of produce ultimately used for farm-to-table dishes in some of Rosen Shingle Creek restaurants. 

 

World-Class Dining 

 

A white plate with pasta, a dark plate with salad, and a dark plate with a chocolate dessert on a marble tabletop.

 

Rosen Shingle Creek is home to thirteen dining establishments including in room dining. You can satisfy a craving for anything from Mexican to sushi to delicious, juicy burgers.  

Start your day with a beautiful array of breakfast and brunch items at Cafe Osceola.

Enjoy freshly made challah French toast, pancakes, and eggs benedict fresh from the griddle, as well as menu items like bagels with smoked salmon, sizzling applewood bacon and sausage links, and fluffy omelets with your choice of fillings. 

For more casual dining throughout your day, check out Tobias Burgers and Brews for flavorful flatbreads, handcrafted specialty burgers, and fresh salads that fulfill your cravings and your appetite.

Mi Casa Tequila Taqueria is the perfect place to grab a refreshing margarita paired with freshly made guacamole or flavor-packed entrees like burritos, quesadillas, and of course, incredible tacos.  

 

A plate with steak fajitas topped with guacamole next to a smaller plate with dishes of salsa and guacamole.

 

For an unforgettable dinner, treat yourself to a meal at one of Shingle Creek’s two award-winning restaurants: A Land Remembered and Cala Bella.

A Land Remembered is a legendary Orlando steakhouse serving up Linz Heritage Angus steaks, as well as fresh seafood and other innovative takes on steakhouse classics.  

Cala Bella’s menu is refined Italian fare infused with rustic Mediterranean flavors. You’ll find signature dishes like Charred Octopus, a succulent HertaBerkSchwein Farms Pork Chop, and handmade pasta dishes like Oxtail Fettuccine.  

Whatever you’re craving, you won’t have to leave Rosen Shingle Creek for an incredible, satisfying meal or treat.  

 

Golf Games and Education 

 

A Shingle Creek Golf Club golf ball sits on a wooden tee in grass.

 

Our beautiful, handcrafted golf course was designed by the esteemed Arnold Palmer Design Company. 18 holes are surrounded by undulating fairways, dense pines and oaks, and beautiful natural wildlife preserves.  

Whether you’re looking to play a round or work on your swing, Shingle Creek Golf Course is the place to be. 

Our tee times include amenities like range balls, a golf cart, and a GPS system to keep you on track.

On-course beverage and delivery services ensure you don’t have to miss a beat when it comes to staying hydrated and relaxed during your game.  

The Shingle Creek Golf Academy is home to a dedicated team of instructors who want to help you improve your game. From individual lessons to golf club fittings, they tailor their time with you to guarantee you see a difference in how you play.  

Our practice facilities include a 70,000 square-foot driving range and over 15,000 square feet of practice areas, including the largest practice putting greens in Orlando.  

When it’s time to refuel, you won’t have to go far. Stop by The Clubhouse Grille or Par Take Cafe for a delicious meal or snack.  

Spa Essentials 

 

A woman in a brown silk robe reading a magazine with her feet in a whirlpool in front of a beige tiled wall.

 

Life’s too short to spend your days thinking you need an excuse to spend a day at the spa.  

At The Spa at Rosen Shingle Creek, you can indulge in a variety of specialty treatments that will let you revel in relaxation.  

We all carry stress differently in our bodies. A massage treatment can help alleviate tension and relieve muscles of stiffness and discomfort.  

Our Creekside Signature Massage uses revitalizing oils, deep heat, and flowing massage to improve circulation and muscle flexibility.

Other massages from our menu utilize natural elements like Himalayan salt stones and CBD oils for an even more soothing experience.  

Relaxation and invigoration go hand in hand. Our body treatments are the perfect way to show your body a little extra love.  

For example, the Island Escape rejuvenates skin with a coconut sugar exfoliation, followed by a silky, hydrating coconut milk and honey body mask. A scalp and full body massage will take you to a state of transcendent relaxation.  

Our manicure/pedicure services take nail care to the next level.  

Getting ready for a photoshoot or just need a little glam before you leave the spa? Our hair salon is home to a dedicated staff of stylists who can help you with any of your cut, color, and styling needs.  

Browse our full menu of spa treatments to find the one that your body is craving.  

 

Spend the Day by the Pool 

At Rosen Shingle Creek, you can spend the day lying poolside at one of our four – yes, four – heated pools. 

 

A pink ombre cocktail and a mint and lemon-infused cocktail on a wicker surface beside a sparkling pool.

 

We have a lap pool, a zero-entry family pool, a kiddie wading pool, and a beautiful cabana pool.

Swim and splash the day away with friends, get in some good exercise with laps, or lounge in peace beneath a private shady cabana, it’s easy to spend a day soaking in the sun.  

As you relax and unwind, grab a signature poolside cocktail and a bite to eat from Cat-tails Pool Bar & Grille.

You’ll experience true relaxation with a drink in your hand, watching the sun shimmer on the blue sparkling pool water beneath swaying palm trees.  

 

Make Rosen Shingle Creek Your Destination for a Staycation 

 

An exterior shot of Rosen Shingle Creek through the boughs of a palm tree.

 

When you stay at Rosen Shingle Creek, you can always do just that – stay! Enjoy premium services, dining, and so much more at our AAA Four Diamond Hotel.  

Our beautiful accommodations, friendly staff, and spectacular facilities are ready to welcome you to Rosen Shingle Creek for the stay of a lifetime.  

Hurricane Michael — Rosen Hotels & Resorts Orlando Special Distress Rates

Rosen Hotels & Resorts is opening the doors of its nine Orlando-area hotels with special distress rates for those affected by Hurricane Michael. The company is working diligently to assist evacuees seeking a safe home away from home. Guests may call 866-337-6736.

Free Wifi and Pet-Friendly, with no additional pet fee with the Distress Rate.

$59/night*

  • Rosen Inn International, 7600 International Dr., Orlando
  • Rosen Inn closest to Universal, 6327 International Dr., Orlando
  • Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, 9000 International Dr., Orlando
  • Midpointe Hotel, 9922 Hawaiian Court, Orlando
  • Clarion Inn & Suites at International Drive, 9956 Hawaiian Court, Orlando
  • Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista, 8442 Palm Parkway, Lake Buena Vista

To book, call (866) 33-ROSEN (1-866-337-6736)
www.orlandohotels4less.com/hurricane

Guests booking the Hurricane Michael distress rate at one of the six leisure hotels listed above may add an additional $10/night to receive two adult breakfast buffets daily. This rate includes the Kids Eat Free Program, where children 9 years and younger eat free when accompanied by an adult purchasing the buffet. Breakfast package must be confirmed at time of booking.

$79/night*

Rosen Plaza, 9700 International Drive, Orlando
To book, call (800) 627-8258
www.rosenplaza.com

Rosen Centre, 9840 International Drive, Orlando
To book, call (800) 204-7234
www.rosencentre.com

Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando
To book, call (866) 996-6338
www.rosenshinglecreek.com

*All guestroom rates are subject to applicable taxes, are not applicable for groups or with any other promotions or offers and are based on availability. Guestroom rates are offered to evacuees of Hurricane Michael exclusively and will remain in effect until such time that the storm is no longer a threat. Rosen Hotels & Resorts may assess a fee should the hotels determine a guestroom has sustained damage as a result of a pet staying in the room.

Biggest Discounts of the Year Start Friday, Nov. 23

Save Big with Black Friday Deals on Luxurious Stays And Affordable Getaways at Orlando’s Rosen Hotels & Resorts

ORLANDO (Nov. 16, 2018) – Visitors to the world’s No. 1 vacation destination can enjoy unbeatable Black Friday discounts for stays at some of the best-known hotels in Orlando, Rosen Hotels & Resorts announced today.

With world-class properties encompassing close to 6,700 guestrooms and close to a half-century of service, Rosen Hotels is the largest privately-held hotel company in Central Florida. Beginning Friday, Nov. 23 (Black Friday) and continuing through Monday, Nov. 26 (Cyber Monday), Orlando visitors can snag terrific deals at select Rosen Hotels within the city’s famous International Drive area and Disney Springs.

Rosen Shingle Creek

The AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel is offering five nights for the price of four, based on availability, for stays in November and December 2018 and September 2019.

Rosen’s most luxurious property features an 18-hole golf course designed by the world-renowned Arnold Palmer Design Company, a full-service spa and state-of-the-art fitness center, a serene nature trail, four sparkling pools and separate tennis, basketball and sand volleyball courts.

Located just minutes from Orlando International Airport and the world’s most popular theme parks, Rosen Shingle Creek boasts 1,501 elegant guestrooms with sweeping views of the magnificent grounds. Its 15 restaurants and lounges include two AAA Four Diamond venues – A Land Remembered steakhouse and Cala Bella Italian bistro – as well as elaborate buffets, poolside dining, sushi, Mexican food and the new Tobias Burgers & Brews, featuring specialty burgers, local craft beers and fine bourbons. Time your stay to indulge in one of our elaborate holiday buffets on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Time your stay to indulge in one of the hotel’s elaborate Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day holiday buffets.

For information and reservations, visit RosenShingleCreek.com or call toll-free 866-996-9939.

The Spa at Shingle Creek

On Thursday, Nov. 22 and Friday, Nov. 23 only, The Spa will offer 35 percent off retail purchases, not including spa services or gift cards.

With great passion, ten percent of each Beauty of Hope Candle purchased will be donated to a nonprofit organization working every day to combat sex trafficking while providing healing and restoration to survivors.

For information and reservations, visit SpaatShingleCreek.com or call toll-free 866-996-9939.

Rosen Centre and Rosen Plaza

Located in the heart of International Drive’s famous collection of unique attractions and connected to the Orange County Convention Center, the two luxury hotels are offering five nights for the price of four, based on availability, for stays in November and December 2018, and August and September 2019.

Sophisticated and stunning, the 24-story Rosen Centre Hotel features upscale leisure amenities, an exclusive VIP concierge lounge and 1,334 newly enhanced contemporary guestrooms with 50-inch flat screen TVs. On-site benefits include The Spa at Rosen Centre, a sparkling Olympic size outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and nine dining and lounging options.

Rosen Plaza features 800 boutique-inspired guestrooms, including 36 suites, which offer exceptional, 180-degree views of Orlando. Guests enjoy elegant décor, luxury shopping, a state-of-the-art fitness center, business center, swimming pool, whirlpool spa and the sleek 3NINE entertainment venue with scheduled entertainment.

For Rosen Centre information and reservations, visit RosenCentre.com or call toll-free 800-204-7234. For Rosen Plaza information and reservations, visit RosenPlaza.com or call toll-free 800-627-8258.

Rosen Inn | Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando | Rosen Inn International | Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista

Families seeking affordable quality in the middle of Orlando’s liveliest place to play can stay for just $69.99 per night (plus tax). Included at no extra charge is a breakfast buffet for two adults and two children; kids 5 and under eat free! These four hotels also offer free parking.

Subject to availability and black-out dates, this incredible rate is available for stays at each of the four hotels from Nov. 23, 2018 through Dec. 23, 2019. Some restrictions apply.

To book, visit OrlandoHotels4Less.com/VOBF or call toll-free 877-224-5377 and ask for the Visit Orlando Black Friday/Cyber Monday special rate (rate code: VOBF).

The Rosen Difference

Rosen guests always enjoy free guestroom Wi-Fi and never pay a resort fee. Complimentary, scheduled shuttles are available to select major theme parks and shopping (see individual hotel for schedules and parks; advance reservations required). And guestrooms are stocked with all of the comforts of home including mini refrigerators, hair dryers and state-of-the-art RFID locking systems. Each hotel has on-site dining, lively lounges and late night convenience stores, featuring sundries, snacks and beverages of all kinds.

To take advantage of the Black Friday hotel offers, guests must book between Nov. 23-26, 2018. Rates are based on availability and black-out dates apply. Offers cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion and are not applicable for group or citywide business.

For more information about Rosen Hotels & Resorts, visit RosenHotels.com.

University of Florida and UF Health announce $12 million gift from Orlando business leader to launch brain tumor research initiative

The Harris Rosen Foundation investment supports a multipartner collaboration focused on leading-edge brain tumor immunotherapy

ORLANDO — The University of Florida has received a $12 million gift from Orlando hotel magnate Harris Rosen and The Harris Rosen Foundation to advance innovative brain tumor immunotherapy research and care at UF Health and to launch an unprecedented partnership for the development of novel brain tumor treatments.

The Rosen gift is the cornerstone of a $100 million fundraising commitment to support the ReMission Alliance Against Brain Tumors, a groundbreaking, collaborative initiative led by UF that will unite world-leading neuro-oncology physicians and scientists in dynamic research and clinical trials.

The gift was announced Friday, Feb. 22, before the inaugural ReMission Summit for Brain Tumors at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando. The UF-organized Summit brings together more than 100 experts in neuro-oncology, tumor immunology, genetics, artificial intelligence, neuroimaging and bioinformatics to form an elite research community focused on achieving transformative outcomes for patients with brain tumors over the next decade. The ReMission Summit also serves as the public forum for the debut of the ReMission Alliance, a multi-institutional research collaborative focused on the advancement of novel immunotherapies for adult and pediatric brain cancer.

“I am extremely grateful that Harris Rosen and his family share our vision to make a transformative impact on outcomes for patients with brain tumors,” said Duane Mitchell, M.D., Ph.D., co-director of UF’s Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy and director of the ReMission Alliance. “Their support of our research, patient care initiatives and the ReMission Alliance will allow us to leverage the power of the immune system to combat invasive brain cancers to dramatically improve the lives of brain tumor patients, here at UF and abroad.”

The ReMission Alliance’s work builds on the success and growth of UF’s Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy and collaborative research partnerships fostered over several years by Mitchell and his colleagues. Over the past five years, the center has undergone dramatic growth and established itself as a leader for brain tumor treatment and research. Along with William Friedman, M.D., co-director of the Preston A. Wells Jr. Center, Mitchell and his team will support several bold research projects and clinical trials coordinated with principal partners from among the world’s best research institutes and hospitals.

“Thanks to the generosity and support of Harris Rosen and his family, we are able to pursue research breakthroughs that result in real change,” UF President Kent Fuchs said. “I am confident that, together, we can advance the work necessary to provide extraordinary outcomes for patients suffering from malignant brain tumors and improve their survival rates and quality of life. The ReMission Alliance embodies UF’s commitment to the greater good.”

This work — to organize multidisciplinary, collaborative research efforts among groups of skilled researchers and physicians — resonated deeply with Harris Rosen. His son, Adam, who received care at UF Health, died in November after a prolonged fight with brain cancer. Harris was impressed by the UF Health clinical team’s professionalism, skill and commitment to making Adam and his family as comfortable as possible.

“It was obvious how dedicated they are to improving the quality of life for their patients,” Rosen said. “The team at UF is already doing extraordinary work, and the Alliance will enhance their progress and improve outcomes for patients well beyond Florida. A collaboration like this is difficult and lofty, but my family and I support this vision to rewrite the story of brain cancer.”
The Rosen gift will bolster ongoing research efforts at UF Health and provide vital seed funding for the ReMission Alliance. The suite that houses the UF Health Neuromedicine practice at the UF Health Neuromedicine Hospital and the neuro-oncology laboratories within UF’s Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute will be named in honor of Adam Michael Rosen. This investment by the Rosen family adds considerably to the UF Health Cancer Center’s growing resources to combat deadly malignant diseases. Mitchell serves as co-leader of the UFHCC Cancer Therapeutics and Host Response, or CTHR, program.

“Programs like the CTHR bring researchers from numerous UF colleges, departments, centers and institutes together, working in tandem to advance the development of new cancer therapies for resistant cancers,” said Jonathan D. Licht, M.D., director of the UFHCC. “Initiatives at the Cancer Center have become a centerpiece of UF Health’s overall research portfolio, which includes approximately $200 million per year in NIH funding and totals $450 million in sponsored program expenditures.”

David Nelson, M.D., UF’s interim senior vice president for health affairs, added his appreciation for the Harris Rosen Foundation gift.

“This contribution to the groundbreaking work and collaboration that our team at UF Health is undertaking is a significant vote of confidence that our efforts will make a profound impact on the people and communities we serve,” Nelson said. “Our physicians and researchers are fueling scientific discovery while developing new, promising pathways for patient care. Through the collaboration that this gift catalyzes, our impact will be even greater.”

These transformative commitments demonstrate how UF, as one of just a handful of global comprehensive universities, is positioned to leverage its research expertise and academic excellence to create lasting impact in the health care field and address major societal challenges.

Harris Rosen is the founder, president and chief operating officer of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. His company owns eight hotels and resorts in Central Florida, including the 1,501-room, AAA Four Diamond Rosen Shingle Creek.