Rosen Inn International

One of the many budget-friendly hotels lining International Drive, the Rosen Inn attracts families in town to visit Orlando’s kid-friendly attractions such as Disney World and Universal Studios. A motel-style property, rooms have exterior entrances along outdoor hallways, and the grounds are not particularly lush or expansive; nonetheless, they are kept clean and orderly, and the hotel has all the requisite features one would expect of a mid-range hotel geared towards families. A game room, a small gift shop, and laundry facilities can all be accessed from the quiet lobby, which features several areas of comfortable seating.

The Rosen Inn sits on International Drive, Orlando’s main thoroughfare, lined by plenty of restaurants and shops. Some of Orlando’s smaller attractions - such as Titanic the Experience and Gator Golf and Adventure Park - are less than a 15-minute walk away. Free hotel shuttles leave several times daily for nearby attractions that include Sea World, Aquatica, Wet ‘n Wild, and a local golf course - though reservations are required in advance.Disney World is slightly further away, but is still only about a 10-minute drive. The hotel provides transportation to Disney World and other Disney theme parks, but this service requires an additional fee.

The Rosen Inn is a motel-style property, and rooms are entered from outdoor hallways, which means a high level of noise for some.Rooms are generous in size and offer large work desks, large flat-screen TVs, large closets, and large bathrooms with hairdryers and spacious countertops. While microwaves and mini-fridges are nice extras, it’s odd that they, too, can be found in the bathrooms (toilets and showers, however, have separate doors for additional privacy). Rooms also come with irons and ironing boards, laptop-sized safes, coffee makers, beds with pillowtop mattresses, and free Wi-Fi.In contrast to the modern amenities, the room decor is plain and not particularly stylish. A simple red-and-yellow color scheme and somewhat flimsy wooden accents throughout make for an outdated look. And furnishings in some rooms show signs of wear and tear.

Features at the Rosen Inn do not go above and beyond, but they are nonetheless extensive for a budget property. Most have families in mind; the well-maintained pool deck includes a children’s pool and a nearby playground, and there’s a small game room and guest-use laundry room.Parents and business travelers may also appreciate the fitness center. Although a bit cramped, it features modern cardio and weight-training machines, and there is also a small business center (read: two computers) so guests can surf the net, albeit at a charge. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.For dining, guests can enjoy an extensive breakfast buffet with hot and cold items such as eggs, bacon, waffles, yogurt, and cereal at the on-site cafe. A buffet is also served for dinner, and children under nine eat free with a paying adult (limit to one child per adult). The cafe also serves some made-to-order items such as pizzas and burgers.A 24-hour deli offers sandwiches and snacks as well, and guests can purchase select grocery items here. There is also a cocktail sports lounge that opens every evening.The hotel provides free parking and even has a charging station for electric vehicles. While a free shuttle brings guests to Sea World, Aquatica, Wet ‘n Wild, and a nearby golf course, it requires reservations. And a separate shuttle to Disney's theme parks costs an additional fee.