ORLANDO, FL – Sports Illustrated is diving into the travel industry.
The company is in the process of developing a new premium resort brand that will offer a range of experiences for tourists, families, and sports fans.
The first Sports Illustrated Resort property is set to be unveiled this year in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. A resort in Orlando is scheduled to open in 2024.
At this time, it is unclear where the resort will be built in Orlando, but the company said the hotels will be located on or near college campuses and will reflect the legacy of those schools. The Sports Illustrated Resorts portfolio is expected to include college campuses, high-end golf destinations, chic beach clubs, eco-friendly adventure lodges, and large-scale resorts.
ADMI Inc. and Experiential Ventures Hospitality LLC, in partnership with Authentic Brands Group, are helping to develop the new properties.
“The mission of Sports Illustrated Resorts is to provide a vibrant and interactive experience,” said Joseph Cellura, President of ADMI Inc., and Christopher Schroeder, CEO of Experiential Ventures Hospitality LLC.
“People are looking for experiences that allow them to be more active and engaged, and Sports Illustrated Resorts will create cutting-edge, immersive experiences for guests across the various hospitality categories and destinations we plan to enter.”
This isn't ADMI Inc.'s first major project in Central Florida. According to the company's website, other projects include work for the Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, and Disney's Typhoon Lagoon.
Each Sports Illustrated Resort will feature a range of attractions, from live action sports and entertainment to fine dining, wellness, and relaxation. Illustrative images of the Orlando resort appear to showgo-karts, zip lines,a slingshot ride, sports fields, and a resort-style pool.
“We’re excited to expand Sports Illustrated in such an exciting and interactive way, engaging travelers, families, and sports fans like never before,” said Dan Dienst, Executive Vice President of ABG.
“ADMI’s vision for Sports Illustrated Resorts is to create a portfolio of immersive lifestyle properties that will become travel destinations for individuals and families seeking active vacation experiences.”
In addition to Orlando, resorts are also being planned for locations throughout the United States and in Hawaii.