Updated May 6, 2025

Team bonding experiences can be just the thing your team needs to propel their collaboration to new heights.  

If you cringe at the term “team-bonding” (because you may think of corny forced activity), then read on as we share the tons of unique experiences that can reshape that thought process.  

Additionally, team building can boost productivity, according to Indeed. It can also improve communication between employees. If your team works remotely, these activities provide a low-pressure way for everyone to meet in person. 

Is your company headed to Central Florida for a convention, meeting, or staff retreat?  

Treat your employees to one of these fun team-building experiences they won’t dread. 

An Escape Room 

If you’ve never done an escape room, doing one with your team may bring out new skills and knacks for puzzles you never even knew you had.  

This game combines time management, role delegation, and trust in your fellow team as everyone works together to accomplish a goal.

This is perfect for team building and when the pressure is on, you’ll be able to see your team work together as they try to escape.  

There are tons of options to pick from.

The Escape Game is located on International Drive and offers seven immersive rooms with varying skill levels. They are a top-rated escape room in the area and make accommodating large parties a breeze.  

Day of Volunteering 

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a hot topic in the business world. 

Studies suggest that CSR is essential for keeping both customers and employees. While you’re in Orlando, have your staff volunteer on the clock for a cause that’s important to your company. 

Your team will love the chance to help others while deepening their relationships with each other. 

Perhaps your employees could volunteer at a food bank or create memories for critically-ill children and their families. 

There are lots of ways to make a difference in Orlando. If your company’s big on the environment, plan a park clean-up or a volunteer day at the Central Florida Zoo.  If your company works with a national nonprofit, see if they have a chapter in Orlando. 

Hands on Orlando can help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity for your team. 

Improv Classes 

Unpredictable and collaborative, improv theater is an entertaining way to bring a team closer. 

For improv to work, participants need to go along with, and build upon, their teammates’ ideas. This rule is known as “Yes, and…” and it encourages active listening and open-mindedness. 

Improv also improves public speaking skills. Being silly in front of each other is great for building trust and team bonding. 

SAK Comedy Lab is a comedy club in downtown Orlando that hosts improv classes and shows with professional comedians. Among SAK Comedy Lab’s alumni is one of the biggest names in improv, Orlando native Wayne Brady.

SAK staff also have decades of experience guiding companies through hilarious team-building activities. 

Past clients have included the Orlando Magic and Walt Disney World. 

Painting with a Twist 

Allow your team to show off their creativity and unwind with a painting party.

This is a unique way to build upon relationships as you all attempt to recreate the same image while sipping on wine.  

For teams who like to get a little silly and laugh, this painting activity is great! The Painting with a Twist in the Universal area is perfect for hosting this team bonding experience.  

They provide all the painting materials and there is alcohol for purchase, so all you need to do is book your team. There is no creative skill required, just encourage your team to try their best and have fun.   

Plus, everyone will be able to take their painting home. To make things more interesting, host a competition and have everyone vote on their favorite painting. Include prizes for an incentive your team will love.  

Golfing Together  

If you want to make sure your company’s teamwork is up to par, have everyone meet you on the green. 

Golfing promotes healthy competition. Seasoned putters can learn to be mentors by coaching first-timers. Treating your employees to a fun game in a beautiful place also helps boost employee morale and motivation. 

If you’re looking for the perfect golf course for your team, look no further than Shingle Creek Golf Club. 

Our par 72 championship course was named the area’s best golf course by Golf Orlando Florida in 2023. The golf club is located at Rosen Shingle Creek, a stunning luxury hotel on 255 acres of pristine land. Your team can also enjoy a scenic nature trail and award-winning restaurants. 

As one of Orlando’s top convention hotels, we know how to put on an unforgettable corporate team-building event. 

Reach out to learn about our custom golf tournaments, perfect for team bonding.

Details like cart plates and announcements will make your employees feel like PGA pros. We also have a golf academy, where your staff can build their skills after undergoing a swing analysis. 

By Gabriela Lobo
March 13, 2024 (Updated May 6, 2025)

Let’s start by assuming you will be attending one of the hundreds of conferences and seminars in Orlando this year but you’re not exactly sure what to have on your packing list.

If the assumption is true for you, read on. 

Below we outline exactly how to balance wanting to dress to impress vs. dressing for the actual weather.  

Some suggestions will seem commonsense such as packing at least two pairs of comfortable walking shoes and layering outfits. Other suggestions might not seem so obvious, such as always carrying a travel-sized deodorant.  

Footwear  

Ladies, while high heels always elevate an outfit and are the perfect accessory to give off girl boss energy, we recommend only packing one pair, preferably your most comfortable one.  

Pack a lower pair with a chunky heel and ankle support that won’t squish your toes. This is the safest option for the amount of walking you will most definitely do in Orlando.

You can wear dressier shoes for evenings or cocktail parties, but you won’t want to be tied to them all day.  

Be sure to bring at least two pairs of walking shoes so you can switch between them. This avoids identical pain points from wearing just one pair.  

Men, we suggest you save your finest dress shoes for evening and/or important events and dress shoes that feel like sneakers for the rest of the day. 

Base Clothes 

If you’re attending a summer conference, knowing what to pack can be confusing.

June, July, and August are the hottest months in Florida. Creating an outfit with breathable clothes that make learning and networking a breeze.  

Avoid tight-fitting clothing as to not feel too restricted or make you feel self-conscious of anything as you meet tons of new people. 

Instead, opt for clothes that make you feel both confident and comfortable in any environment. In the summer, pack light-colored and airy fabrics to avoid feeling overheated due to heat. 

Layers 

The weather in Central Florida can be extremely unpredictable, so to be safe, we recommend packing light jackets and a trusty raincoat. Layers can also be helpful when switching to indoor and outdoor events constantly.  

Your peers will be jealous and impressed when they see how prepared you are.  

Daily Bag 

We highly suggest bringing a handy bag full of essentials to keep on hand. You can find a professional and stylish one that’ll feel like a lifesaver when you need it.  

Here are a couple items necessary to stay fashionably cool in Florida:  

• Travel-size deodorant  
• Travel-size perfume or cologne 
• Travel-size lotion 
• Emergency nail kit  
• Essential medicines (prescriptions, over-the-counter pain relievers, etc.) 
• Sunscreen 
• Small pack of tissues  
• Gum  
• Hand sanitizer  
• Small umbrella  
• Sunglasses  
• Portable phone charger 
• SPF Chapstick 
• Travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste  
• Hair ties 
• Travel-size first-aid kit  
• Extra pair of socks (for if you get caught in the rain) 
• Electrolyte powder drink packets  
• Small snacks
   

Orlando’s Top Convention Hotel, Rosen Shingle Creek, Is Packed with Options 

When packing for your convention, feel confident that Rosen Shingle Creek has you covered.

If you missed an item such as a toothbrush or toothpaste, we can assist. Our 24-hour marketplace sells many items we suggest carrying in your daily bag.  

If you find yourself short an outfit for an event, check out DJ’s Boutique or our Pro Golf Store on site for the latest in resort-wear fashion.

In need of an outfit appropriate for a gala? Within a short rideshare drive, you’ll find world-class shopping at the Premium Outlets on International Drive or Mall at Millenia about 15 minutes from Rosen Shingle Creek. 

When you stay at Rosen Shingle Creek for a conference, event, or just a vacation getaway, you’ll have everything you need nearby.

(Updated May 5, 2025)

If you’re going to be in The City Beautiful on Sunday, February 8, 2026, there are tons of sports bars around that will tune in to the Super Bowl on their TVs.

Below are five that we love, only 25 minutes or less away from Rosen Shingle Creek. 

Headwaters Lounge and Tobias Burgers & Brews 

If you’re at the resort but don’t want to watch the game alone in your room, you have two choices of sports bars where you can order beer and be one of the millions tuning in.  

Head down to Headwaters for wings, beer, and American football. This intimate setting is great for making new friends rooting for your team or taunting fans of the opposing team.  

You can also make your way to Tobias for a larger menu and more seating.

Enjoy a gourmet burger with a side of touchdowns and field goals. This central location will bring more foot traffic and can lead to a rowdier viewing experience.  

NBC Sports Grill & Brew 

This large and modern sports bar is located at Universal CityWalk on your way towards Universal Studios Florida.  

There are huge TVs on the exterior playing sports highlights; it’ll be hard to miss. They offer nearly 100 screens scattered throughout the space. This location is sure to be busy on Super Bowl night so if you’re looking for lively crowds, this is the place for you.  

Rosen Shingle Creek is a Universal Partner Hotel, which means we offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from Universal Orlando Resort.  

City Works Eatery & Pour House 

For all the craft brew lovers, you can indulge in the game with one of City Works’ 17 extra-large HDTVs while sipping on a local Florida beer.  

There are over 90 local and global beers on tap with a menu filled with classic American foods. While this bar may get busy, there is tons of indoor seating as well as a large outdoor patio.

You can find this restaurant on the West Side of Disney Springs near Cirque du Soleil.  

American Social 

If you’re looking to be surrounded by other sports fans who love to be social, this is the spot for you.  

You’ll find modern American comfort food, craft cocktails, and tons of beers.

Located only 12 minutes away from Rosen Shingle Creek, this crowd is usually a good mix of locals and visitors, making the American Social experience even better.  

World of Beer  

Ice cold beer, larger than life portions, and the two best teams in the country going head-to-head on giant TV screens. Find all this and 100s of beers from around the world at the aptly named, World of Beer.  

The O-town location is located only 11 minutes from the hotel and if you’re looking for an even busier location, the downtown location is 21 minutes away.   

Touchdown at Rosen Shingle Creek 

In 2025, a record-breaking 127.7 million people tuned in to watch the Philadelphia Eagles win the big game.

Are you going to be one of the millions watching this year? Perhaps at one of the great Orlando sports bars?

Guarantee a win when you book at room at the luxurious Rosen Shingle Creek.   

Check out our vlog we did about Headwater’s Lounge!

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A post shared by Rosen Shingle Creek (@rosenshinglecreek)

(Updated May 2, 2025)

It’s time to stock your tackle box. National Fishing & Boating Week is almost here.

Every angler’s favorite holiday occurs during the first full week of June. In 2025, that’s June 3 – 11.

Orlando boasts over 60,000 acres of fresh water within city limits. You’ll also find gorgeous lakes, streams, and springs in the suburbs.

Plus, Orlando is about an hour from the Atlantic Ocean and 2 hours from the Gulf of Mexico.

As a result, you’re sure to find a Central Florida fishing spot that floats your boat.

Here are 10 perfect places to cast a line during your Orlando vacation, plus other helpful tips.

First, a Word on Florida Fishing Licenses

Breaking Florida’s fishing regulations could leave you reeling from heavy fines.

Before hitting the water, familiarize yourself with state rules and check if you need a license. Out-of-state licenses are not valid in the Sunshine State. But visitors can get short-term licenses that start at $17 for three days.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) determines when licenses are and aren’t needed.

Browsing the FWC website, you’ll see that licenses are not required during free fishing days.

These days take place a few times a year, including during the beginning and end of Fishing & Boating Week.

On June 7 – 8, 2025, you can go saltwater fishing without a license. June 14 – 15, 2025 are free freshwater days. All other regulations still apply.

Where to Get Fishing Gear in Orlando

Perhaps you have a fishing rod that you’re attached to. Go ahead and bring it to Orlando: the TSA allows passengers to bring poles and most fishing gear onto planes.

Just make sure sharp items like spear guns and fillet knives go in your checked bag.

Those that still need gear have a few options.

Many chartered boats and some municipal piers rent out equipment.

There are also services like Rent This Rod, which will ship gear to anywhere in the U.S. You can keep your rental for up to 2 weeks.

Lastly, you could pick up what you need at Bass Pro Shops or Orlando Outfitters and then bring it home with you.

Best Fishing in Orlando

Now that you know where to get your gear and understand Florida’s regulations, it’s time to decide where to fish in Orlando. In no particular order, we recommend:

1.     Lake Tohopekaliga

The city of Kissimmee sits on the shore of Lake Tohopekaliga, also known as Lake Toho.

The 22,700-acre lake is lush with aquatic vegetation, making it a great habitat for bass. While fishing in Lake Toho, you may also catch species like bluegill, redear sunfish, and crappies.

Kissimmee Lakefront Park and Brinson Park both have fishing piers on Lake Toho, as well as picnic pavilions with grills if you’re up for a fish feast.

2.     Conway Chain of Lakes

In southeast Orlando, a short drive from the airport, you’ll find the scenic Conway Chain of Lakes.

The chain is comprised of four lakes, their shores lined with stunning palmettos and stately oak trees.

The lakes are so beautiful that lucky locals have built their homes all around them.

Since the Conway Chain of Lakes is surrounded by private properties, your best bet is to charter a boat for the day. Then, get ready to reel in largemouth bass, shad, bream, and catfish.

End your day with a visit to Fish on Fire, the only Orlando restaurant that will cook your catch.

3.     Bill Frederick Park

With its peaceful lakeshore and gorgeous trails, it’s hard to believe that Bill Frederick Park is minutes away from the bustle of Universal Orlando Resort.

During Fishing & Boating Week, trade your wizard wand for a fishing pole and see for yourself.

In addition to a pier over Turkey Lake, the park offers early-morning boat rentals from Thursday – Sunday. It costs $31.95 for a 4-hour rental.

You’ll need to have the boat back by 11 a.m. But you can keep your adventure going by enjoying the park’s picnic pavilions, playgrounds, volleyball court, and swimming pool.

Admission to Bill Frederick Park costs $5 per car.

4.     Little Big Econ State Forest

For some of the best river fishing around, head to Little Big Econ State Forest, northeast of Orlando.

The state forest spans 10,000 acres along the Econlockhatchee River. This blackwater river is home to species like bluegill, sunfish, and catfish.

When you need a break from fishing, take a walk down one of the on-site walking trails, and look out for native Florida wildlife like alligators, gopher tortoises, and roseate spoonbills.

5.     Starke Lake

According to Bass Online, Starke Lake in the northwestern suburb of Ocoee is one of Orlando’s most angler-friendly lakes.

Venturing around the adjacent Lakefront Park, it’s easy to see why.

Starke Lake’s banks have been decked out in fish-friendly landscaping, including brush piles that attract droves of fish.

The park also sports an ADA-compliant pier with feeders that dispense fish food twice a day. Thanks to these features, bass are abundant.

The park also features picnic pavilions and a paved walking path.

6.     Walt Disney World

When you think “boat ride” and “Disney,” you probably think of “it’s a small world” or Jungle Cruise.

But did you know that the theme park also offers private fishing excursions?

An expert angler will take you and up to four other guests on a catch-and-release bass fishing adventure. Pricing varies based on your group’s size and the boat you select.

Best of all, all fishing gear is provided.

Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance by calling (407) 939-FISH.

7.     Space Coast

Now, we’ll look at a couple of saltwater fishing options within 2 hours of Orlando.

The closest beaches to Orlando are along the Space Coast, about a 50-minute drive.

It is along this shoreline that Fineline Fishing Charters operates its saltwater fishing tours. Fineline’s experienced captains offer everything from offshore reef angling to casual lagoon tours.

Depending on which trip you choose, you might find speckled trout, cobia, tarpon, or snappers — and maybe even some sharks.

Fineline’s tours include all the gear you need. When the excursion’s over, the captain will even clean your fish for you, free of charge.

The Space Coast features many cook-your-catch restaurants, including Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Bar.

8.     New Smyrna Beach

North of the Space Coast lies the town of New Smyrna Beach.

The Atlantic coast beach town is known for its big shark population, which attracts shark researchers from all over. Thanks to the courageous captains at NSB Shark Hunters, you can lend these scientists a hand.

NSB Shark Hunters specializes in catch, tag, and release shark fishing excursions.

The tags help scientists track local populations of species like bull, hammerhead, and tiger sharks.

The tour company offers shoreside and offshore experiences.

In addition to obtaining a license, those staying shoreside must complete an FWC course about shark fishing.

No matter what excursion you choose, all equipment is provided.

9.     Clearwater

Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches are a little further than those on the Atlantic.

But the sparkling blue water, soft white sand, and excellent saltwater fishing make the trip worth it.

The Bait House operates a tack shop and restaurant on Clearwater Bay. You can rent gear from them and head to the pier or charter a boat trip.

When you’re done, return to the Bait House and have your catch cooked.

The Gulf Coast is incredibly biodiverse and is home to snook, tarpon, mackerel, hogfish, massive goliath grouper, and other marine life.

Unfortunately, invasive lionfish pose a huge threat to these native species.

Certified scuba divers visiting Florida can do their part by booking a spearfishing lesson with 2 Shea Charters.

The day starts with a speargun lesson, at which point your instructor will join you on your dive. In addition to lionfish, you might catch species like gag grouper and hogfish.

Lionfish have venomous fins and need to be handled with care. Don’t worry — your instructor will be there to help you clean any that you catch.

10.  Rosen Shingle Creek

As this post shows, there are plenty of fantastic fishing spots within driving distance of Orlando.

But if you choose the right Orlando hotel, you can cast your line without getting behind the wheel.

With its tropical landscaping and nature trails, Rosen Shingle Creek is a natural choice for anyone who loves outdoor recreation.

Since we have an on-site fishing dock, anglers who stay with us are in for a special treat. Reservations are required for our seasonal fishing offerings.

And when the time comes to venture out, our location off the Beachline Expressway makes it easy to get to other top Orlando fishing spots.