Orlando, which draws an astounding 75 million visitors annually, is unequivocally asserting itself as a leader in sustainable tourism. Orlando’s environmental responsibility is a top priority, and the U.N. recognizes it as a “model city” for its sustainability goals. It proudly holds Gold-level certification under LEED for Cities.
The city’s government and tourism offices spearhead remarkable initiatives in clean energy transitions, visionary transportation reforms, green building development, and waste reduction. Orlando International Airport has been lauded with prestigious awards for its eco-conscious measures, boasting three LEED-certified facilities. A prime example of innovation, the city’s electric bike and scooter share program has already facilitated an astonishing 2 million trips.
Not to be outdone, the colossal theme parks of Orlando are rising to the occasion. Walt Disney World, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030, has introduced impressive undertakings such as the iconic Mickey-shaped solar array near Epcot and an ambitious composting program. With a resolute carbon neutrality target by 2035, Universal has embraced floating solar energy installation and is on track to electrify its fleet of 21 tourist trams by 2025.
In this vibrant tapestry of environmentally conscious efforts, Orlando’s hotels and resorts fervently embrace their role in shaping a sustainable future. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Lodging Program, launched in 2004, has garnered significant voluntary participation. Over 60 hotels in the Orlando area have proudly achieved the program’s prestigious “palms” designation, signifying their commitment to waste reduction, recycling, water conservation, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and education.
According to Michael Hess, the city of Orlando’s director of sustainability, eco-conscious travelers now have an abundance of options when it comes to choosing a green-minded hotel or resort. With influential certification programs like Green Lodging and LEED, combined with impactful city programs and incentives, the hotel sector in Orlando is moving steadfastly towards a greener future.
Within a convenient 20-minute radius of attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, these five Orlando resorts have taken bold strides toward responsible hospitality. From solar-powered shuttles to on-site farms and nature preserves, these resorts embody eco-friendly excellence.
Aloft Hotel Orlando
The Aloft Hotel in downtown Orlando boasts an impressive LEED gold certification, awarded in 2015 by the prestigious U.S. Green Building Council. It is the only hotel in the city to achieve this remarkable accolade. Located in a modernist-style building that dates back to 1968 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the eight-story Aloft Hotel Orlando underwent a remarkable transformation in 2013, becoming an impressive example of adaptive reuse. The renovations included using eco-friendly construction materials and installing energy-efficient systems, such as a state-of-the-art solar field on the roof, which is set to provide a remarkable 15 percent of the hotel’s energy needs when activated next year.
Stepping inside, guests are greeted by 118 sleek and stylish rooms adorned with high ceilings and large picture windows, offering breathtaking views of the vibrant cityscape. A stay at this exceptional hotel also means embracing sustainable transportation options. The property provides EV charging stations, making it convenient for eco-conscious guests with electric vehicles. Additionally, visitors have easy access to nearby electric bike and scooter share stations, allowing them to explore the city in an environmentally friendly way.
The hotel’s unbeatable location puts guests within walking distance of many attractions. From the renowned Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, featuring a captivating array of ballet performances and Broadway-style shows, to the thrilling Amway Center, a world-class sports and concert arena that serves as home to the NBA’s Orlando Magic, visitors can revel in the city’s vibrant cultural scene. When night falls, downtown Orlando comes alive with its lively nightlife, offering many entertainment options for every taste.
Experience the epitome of sustainable luxury at the Aloft Hotel Orlando, where green living meets urban sophistication.
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Nestled within the expanse of over 500 acres, the magnificent Grande Lakes Orlando resort awaits. A masterpiece in hospitality, this development boasts two opulent hotels—the Ritz-Carlton Orlando with its 582 meticulously appointed rooms and the JW Marriott Orlando featuring an impressive 1,010 rooms. Recently renovated with a $110 million investment, both properties have been transformed into havens of luxury, exuding timeless elegance and tranquility.
The enchanting landscape of Grande Lakes Orlando stretches across 33 pristine acres, carefully preserved and embraced by serene wetlands. A natural sanctuary, the resort’s 18-hole golf course is an oasis home to a remarkable array of over 100 bird species. Recognized by Audubon International for its exceptional water conservation and wildlife habitat management practices, the course has been granted the prestigious distinction of being a certified sanctuary. Embark on expeditions guided by knowledgeable naturalists as they unveil the wonders of this exceptional ecosystem, allowing guests to witness captivating wildlife, from graceful deer to majestic bald eagles and even alligators.
Experience an array of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in this oasis’s captivating flora and fauna. Embark on breathtaking sunrise safaris, navigate through scenic mountain biking trails, or embark on kayak eco-tours. For a truly unforgettable encounter, delve into the ancient art of falconry or engage in catch-and-release fly-fishing amidst the serenity of the surroundings.
An awe-inspiring 7,000-square-foot working farm graces the resort, comprising fruit and vegetable gardens, an active apiary, and a charming chicken coop. This organic haven produces a remarkable 5,000 pounds of fresh produce annually, serving as a vital source for the resort’s 12 exceptional restaurants. Additionally, it supplies the luxurious 40,000-square-foot spa with abundant, nourishing herbs, golden honey, and precious minerals, ensuring an authentic and rejuvenating experience for every guest fortunate enough to indulge in its offerings.
Hilton Orlando
Hilton Orlando is an exceptional destination offering over 1,400 luxurious guest rooms and an impressive pool complex with a relaxing lazy river. Going beyond traditional hospitality, Hilton Orlando has made a solid commitment to environmental sustainability, taking significant strides to minimize its ecological footprint.
Embracing a forward-thinking approach, the hotel has implemented many initiatives to enhance energy efficiency, reduce water consumption, and manage waste more effectively. By the end of the decade, Hilton Orlando aims to cut emissions by an impressive 75 percent while reducing water usage and landfill waste by 50 percent. Such dedication to sustainability sets a new standard for environmentally conscious hospitality.
Food lovers will be delighted to indulge in the hotel’s seven dining outlets, each providing a unique culinary experience. Hilton Orlando has forged partnerships with local and organic farms, ensuring that a significant portion of the ingredients used in their restaurants come from sustainable sources. Additionally, the hotel has taken significant steps to eliminate single-use plastics, offering eco-friendly alternatives such as recycled coffee cups and to-go boxes.
Not stopping there, Hilton Orlando has taken exceptional measures to protect our oceans and marine life. Collaborating with the esteemed Surfrider Foundation, two of the hotel’s restaurants have achieved “ocean-friendly” certifications. These certifications recognize their commitment to reducing plastics and serving certified sustainable seafood, positively impacting our fragile marine ecosystems.
The hotel’s dedication to sustainability extends to its lush surroundings. The 26-acre grounds are adorned with native Florida landscaping, featuring a variety of local plants such as palms, Coontie, and Fakahatchee grass. To nurture this green oasis, Hilton Orlando utilizes reclaimed water from a nearby retention pond, conserving valuable resources and preserving the natural beauty of the area.
To further enhance the eco-conscious experience, Hilton Orlando offers convenient amenities for guests who wish to reduce their carbon footprint. Options include onsite electric and hybrid vehicle rentals from Hertz, complete with EV charging stations, as well as a complimentary theme park shuttle service, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of Orlando without relying on personal transportation.
Hilton Orlando sets an extraordinary example in sustainable hospitality, inviting guests to enjoy a luxurious stay while knowing that their experience aligns with environmentally responsible practices.
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Marriott’s Cypress Harbour Villas
Experience the unmatched luxury of Marriott’s Cypress Harbour Villas, an exceptional destination for discerning family travelers. This exquisite property boasts an impressive array of on-site amenities, including not one but three inviting pools, a delightful mini-golf course, and a rejuvenating spa.
Notably, it proudly holds the esteemed “four palms” designation, an accolade accorded to only six select properties in Florida. Such recognition comes from the prestigious Green Lodging Program, which recognizes Marriott’s Cypress Harbour Villas as a paragon of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
A testament to its commitment to eco-friendliness, the resort underwent comprehensive retrofits and renovations in 2010 to enhance energy efficiency, water conservation, and recycling initiatives. Its thoughtfully designed, contemporary-style, two-bedroom villas feature recycling bins, energy-saving LED lighting, state-of-the-art HVAC systems, and eco-friendly appliances. The inclusion of low-flow faucets and showerheads, as well as innovative sensors and timers for indoor and outdoor lighting, ensures minimal energy consumption.
Adding even more acclaim to its distinguished portfolio, Marriott’s Cypress Harbour Villas obtained certification from Audubon International’s renowned Green Lodging Program in 2013. This third-party verification further solidifies the resort’s commitment to sustainable practices. Enchanting guests with its lush landscaped areas adorned with breathtaking drought-tolerant plants, majestic oak trees, and a picturesque private lake with a charming boathouse, this haven beckons visitors to explore its wonders. Take leisurely strolls along the guided nature trails or embark on adventures using one of the complimentary loaner bikes provided.
Unveil a world of tranquility and eco-conscious luxury at Marriott’s Cypress Harbour Villas — an idyllic retreat that harmoniously blends opulence, nature, and responsible hospitality.
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Rosen Shingle Creek
Situated on 255 acres of picturesque landscape alongside serene Shingle Creek, the Rosen Shingle Creek is a Spanish revival–style marvel. Boasting an impressive 1,501 rooms, this grand destination offers a luxurious retreat. The spacious rooms exude elegance with exquisite wooden furnishings and oversized windows providing breathtaking views of the expansive grounds.
In its commitment to sustainability, Rosen Shingle Creek has received the prestigious “three palms” accolade from the Green Lodging Program. The hotel has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives, demonstrating its dedication to the environment. Plastic straws have been eliminated, and other single-use plastics have been significantly reduced. The hotel also uses recycled paper for all printed materials, minimizing its ecological footprint.
Behind the scenes, the hotel employs various innovative water and energy efficiency mechanisms. These systems, including automated irrigation, cooling, and heating systems, are monitored monthly to optimize performance and conserve resources.
One of the most remarkable features of Rosen Shingle Creek is its 9,500-square-foot on-site farm, launched in 2022. This farm produces many seasonal vegetables, herbs, and fruits used in the hotel’s two outstanding restaurants. Cala Bella, a Tuscany-inspired culinary haven, showcases the farm’s fresh produce in its delectable, farm-driven dishes. Picture yourself savoring roasted Korean summer squash, accompanied by curry leaf sweet potato puree and braised Lacinato kale. The hotel also has plans to introduce a composting program, further enhancing its sustainable practices. When it comes to transportation, Rosen Shingle Creek goes above and beyond to minimize its carbon footprint. Guests can use Universal Studios shuttles, which provide convenient and eco-friendly transportation to the famous theme park, a mere 10 to 15 minutes away. Additionally, the hotel offers solar-powered guest shuttles for on-property transportation, showcasing its commitment to renewable energy sources.
The staff at Rosen Shingle Creek is passionate about continuously improving its sustainability efforts. Guests are encouraged to share their eco-friendly suggestions through the “green suggestions” box, as the hotel is always eager to implement innovative ideas to further its environmental consciousness. Experience luxury with a clear conscience at Rosen Shingle Creek, where sustainable practices harmoniously coexist with extraordinary hospitality.
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