Even more new offerings in the Sunshine State
The Sunshine state has many exciting things in store for the New Year; from the long-awaited Universal Epic Universe opening at Universal to Amtrak’s new ‘The Floridian’ train route, taking passengers from Chicago to Miami. Florida continues welcoming all and having something to offer for all tastes.
New and Improved Attractions
Dolly Parton’s Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show
Panama City Beach - Spring 2025
Country music icon Dolly Parton is bringing swashbuckling fun to Panama City Beach’s Pier Park with a captivating new attraction. Opening in Spring 2025, the immersive dinner show will feature epic pirate battles and spectacular stunts inside a sprawling 60,000-square-foot theatre, with two full-sized pirate ships and an indoor lagoon. Families can enjoy a four-course feast and action-packed entertainment with songs written by Dolly, enchanting mermaids, tropical birds, playful sea lions and more.
Opening of Universal Epic Universe
Universal Orlando Resort - May 22, 2025
In 2025, Universal Orlando Resort will unveil its next gamechanger for theme park entertainment with the debut of its most ambitious theme park yet: Universal Epic Universe. Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences that come together to create an unforgettable adventure that is nothing short of epic.
Tampa - TBC 2025
The Florida Aquarium is currently undergoing a $45 million expansion—the largest in its history. In 2025, guests can enjoy the opening of the second phase of the project, which includes a new tide pool touch experience. The space features an expansive touch experience that triples the size of the current exhibit, a new tide pool water feature, and aquatic lounge where guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of this new experience.
SEA LIFE Florida Resort Opening at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Winter Haven - Spring 2025: Discover the amazing wonders of the underwater world at SEA LIFE Florida Resort, an all-new aquarium opening this Fall 2024 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Here, at this family-friendly aquarium, guests will marvel at a diverse range of marine life, interact with captivating exhibits, and embark on a voyage of oceanic exploration, ending in the ultimate final seascape - the Theme Park Under the Sea!
Florida Keys Eco-Experience Trail
Florida Keys - Winter 2024
The Monroe County Tourist Development Council is launching a Florida Keys Eco-Experience Trail pass in December, featuring nearly 50 free geo-tagged, bookable experiences such as visiting Keys eco-attractions, taking a backcountry kayak tour or exploring the island chain’s wildlife refuges and state parks. Activities promote engagement with the Keys' sustainability initiatives. Trail participants can discover unique nature tours, wildlife centers and refuges, coral restoration opportunities and fishing, diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Key West - Early 2025
The Key West Wildlife Center is unveiling a new elevated lime-green avian clinic and a welcome centre, both targeted for completion in early 2025, within the 7-acre Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park at 1801 White St. near Atlantic Boulevard. The clinic is to offer therapy baths and digital X-rays to better serve native and injured wildlife. The new $2.4 million facility is to feature a dedicated treatment area with additional interior space for patient care, more exterior space for rehabilitation and protected space for education and outreach.
The Naples Pier Due to Reopen in 2025
Napes - Late 2025
Beloved local icon, the Naples Pier, is slated to re-open in late 2025. The newest renderings include a revamped design built to withstand any potential future storms with structural improvements, but also leisure features such as two shaded areas for concession stands, 16 benches for optimal Gulf viewing, and enhanced ADA accessibility. Dusk at the Naples Pier is a past-time tradition.
The Protect Center Whale & Dolphin Hospital
Islamorada - TBC 2024
The Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder rescue group is targeting a 2024 opening of The Protect Center Whale & Dolphin Hospital as South Florida's only teaching veterinary hospital treating injured whales, bottlenose dolphins and other marine mammals. The new facility is to include a 40-foot-diameter pool for long-term marine mammal rehabilitation, an educational classroom and a 3,000-square-foot marine wildlife conservation–themed museum.
New Hotels, Resorts and RV Parks
Flagler Beach - April 2025
Compass by Margaritaville, an upscale, island-style boutique hotel, will open in Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches in early 2025. The three-story, 84,000 square foot hotel will sit in the heart of downtown Flagler Beach with easy access to shopping, dining and the area’s iconic coquina sand beach. The Compass by Margaritaville property will include 100 guest rooms, an onsite restaurant with rooftop bar, a grab-and-go provisions section, an outdoor pool experience with tiki bar, fitness centre, meeting space and more.
Now Open - Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront
Daytona Beach - Opened October 2024
The Renaissance by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront offers modern hotel accommodations with private balconies, high-end seafood restaurant, state-of-the art design, multi-floor parking garage with valet parking services, infinity pool, oceanfront ballroom with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, and outdoor event space.
Clearwater - Early 2025
Situated on Clearwater’s Beach Walk promenade, the brand-new Opal Sol is an airy and inviting sanctuary that mixes calming ocean-inspired decor with modern luxury. So close to the gulf that it feels like you could reach out and touch it, the hotel has everything guests could ask for in a Florida beach resort, including four restaurant outlets, a full–service luxury Opal Spa, three pools, and direct access to the white sand beach.
Stay and Play Cabins at the Sebring International Golf Resort
Sebring - TBC 2024
Opening in 2024, approximately 25 solar powered, premium cabins will overlook the gorgeous 12-hole par-three course. Known as the Resort Cabins, they will be popular with golfers and include a personal golf cart for the duration of the stay. The second set of cabins, the Race Cabins, are located adjacent to the Sebring International Raceway. T
Universal Orlando Resort - Orlando - TBC 2025
Enter a divine escape with dazzling views of Universal Epic Universe. Beautiful details of celestial patterns and constellations adorn the hotel with an elegant Mediterranean-inspired feel.
Universal Orlando Resort - Orlando - January 2025
Inspired by the infinite vastness of the unknown universe, where galaxies spiral ever outward and unknown worlds revolve around unnamed stars, Universal Stella Nova Resort, opening January 21, 2025, is where you’ll take off for amazing adventures at Universal Orlando Resort.Universal Stella Nova Resort will be located at the future site of the new Universal Epic Universe theme park, which will open at a later date in 2025.
Universal Orlando Resort - Orlando - February 2025
Universal Terra Luna Resort represents another world in Universal Orlando Resort accommodations. Inspired by the thrill of exploring the unknown and pushing the limits of discovery, it opens February 25, 2025 . This resort is much more than your launchpad into amazing adventures at the parks; it’s also your landing zone for relaxation and recharging between the fun. Or anytime during your visit when you just want to relax by the pool or maybe take a quick nap.
Now Open - Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences
West Palm Beach - Opened August 2024
Amrit Ocean Resort is an oceanfront resort designed to provide an immersive wellness experience. With more than 300 feet of pristine beaches, relax and enjoy the soothing sound of the waves lapping the shore in a unique place where Eastern principles meet Western luxury. Embark on your journey towards mindful living and a personal path of greater physical & mental well-being.
Now Open - citizenM Miami South Beach
Miami - Opened August 2024
Searching for a hotel in Miami’s South Beach? This property is located on Lincoln Road, known for its vibrant art and shopping scene. A free trolley stops outside, offering easy access to nearby attractions such as Española Way and Ocean Drive. Lummus Park, ideal for an oceanside sunrise, is just one mile away. For days spent close to the hotel, guests can enjoy the rooftop pool, a great option for Miami’s 284 days of sunshine.
Miami - TBC late 2024
The 295-room Collins Park Hotel, an adaptive reuse of a collection of historic buildings within the Museum Historic District, is expected to open in the later this year. The Collins Park Hotel was designed to be an original, elevated space on the iconic Ocean Drive strip. A refreshing departure from Miami Beach's Art Deco landscape, this unique design concept blends hues of coastal Cartagena with streamlined architectural details in order to bring an international flair to Ocean Drive.
Miami - December 2024
With the goal of putting “wellness within reach,” EVEN Hotel Sweetwater – Doral is scheduled to open in December 2024. The hotel will allow guests to restore, rejuvenate and maintain their personal routines while away from home, offering diverse fitness amenities – ranging from yoga mats to Peloton bikes to a state-of-the-art running studio – along with access to healthy meals, snacks and beverages from the new EVEN Kitchen & Bar and adjacent 24/Market 7.
Naples Beach Club, Four Seasons Resort
Naples - 2025
With the original location spanning 75 years and an unwavering commitment to honouring the original Watkins legacy and embracing Naples’ cultural heritage, The Athens Group has envisioned a redevelopment plan that continues the property’s hospitality tradition and improves the resort’s golf course and beach bar, while thoughtfully planning the future of this special place for generations to come. As part of Athens’ redevelopment of this storied property, the resort will be renamed the Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons Resort, opening in 2025.
Naples - TBC 2024
Coming soon, a hotel boasting 160 luxurious rooms with world-class amenities designed to ensure utmost comfort. But it's not just about what's inside the room. Outside, it will offer unmatched scenic views and a truly immersive experience. A stay at the Perry Hotel Naples will be more than just a getaway. It's an opportunity to reconnect with nature, explore new and exciting experiences, and truly relax in luxury.
Reopening - Sundial Beach Resort & Spa
Sanibel - TBC 2024
Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is now taking reservations for stays beginning Autumn 2024 for week-long bookings in the resort’s two- and three-bedroom unit types. In addition to previously offered recreational activities, Sundial has added bocce ball and four new pickleball courts for a total of sixteen plexi-cushion courts. Voted the Best Full Service Resort on Sanibel and Captiva Islands for nine years running, Sundial has also added a new restaurant, Beach Bites, and will be expanding Shima Japanese Steakhouse which will feature additional seating and a sushi bar overlooking the pool area.
Islamorada - Autumn 2024
Three Waters Resort & Marina, a Tribute Portfolio Resort in the Florida Keys, will open its doors in Autumn 2024. This new upscale resort will elevate the guest experience and become the crown jewel for the Islamorada Resort Collection, which also includes the beloved Amara Cay Resort and La Siesta Resort & Villas. Offering an energising escape in the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” Three Waters Resort & Marina spans 15 acres of oceanfront property and will feature 214 chic, island-inspired guest rooms, nine distinct new dining concepts, and a wide variety of authentic and upscale experiences for guests to discover.
Miami - January 2025
Just steps from the beach and the famed Lincoln Road shopping scene, the stylish Thompson Miami Beach boasts an iconic exterior conceptualised by French architect Rudy Ricciotti that serves as a beacon for tastemakers. Settle into one of our 147 luxe rooms offering elevated amenities and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking area attractions, including Soundscape Park.
Florida Keys - TBC 2024
Coming soon, Valhalla Island Resort will follow in the footsteps of Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri, which offers an award-winning concept that defines the nature-based hospitality market. Construction began in 2022, and The Valhalla Island Resort will open in 2024.
Anniversaries and Celebrations
Pensacola - TBC 2025
In 2025, the Saenger Theatre and the Pensacola Opera combined will celebrate 100 years of the performing arts in Pensacola. Pensacola is the only beachfront destination in Northwest Florida with The Big 5 – which includes the Pensacola Opera, the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, Ballet Pensacola, the historic Saenger Theatre, and the accredited Pensacola Museum of Art, all positioned within Pensacola’s historic downtown core where there’s something for every kind of cultured traveller.
The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club's Centennial
St. Pete - January 2025
The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, known for its pink and proper exterior, recently underwent major renovations and will be celebrating its centennial milestone in January 2025. Located in the heart of Downtown St. Pete, The Vinoy stands as a testament to timeless elegance and historic allure, welcoming guests into a world of classic charm and refined ambiance. The Vinoy’s 100 years of sun-drenched hospitality reflects their never-ending quest to deliver thoughtfully curated and inspiring experiences.
New Restaurants
St. Pete - late 2024
Hi Hospitality Group has been working on transforming the nearly 28,000-square-foot space at 551 Central Avenue, formerly the Dome Grill. The highly anticipated venue will feature a variety of cuisines, price points, experiences and live events that will offer the community endless possibilities within the space. The five-story Central Hall Food Park is expected to debut in late 2024.
Sarasota - Late 2024
Ocean Prime Sarasota is scheduled to open in late 2024, boasting more than 9,500 square feet of space spread across two stories, with outdoor terraces on each floor. The restaurant will include over 350 seats, two bats and two private dining rooms. The restaurant will be located in the heart of The Quay Sarasota, an all-new 14-acre waterfront destination in the Sarasota Arts & Culture District that merges the scenic waterfront marina setting with luxury residences, upscale shopping and premier culinary experiences.
Palm Beach - Late 2024
Tutto Mare, a Mediterranean concept from Tutto il Giorno restaurant group, will open this year at The Royal Poinciana Plaza as Palm Beach's first and only coastal restaurant. Tutto Mare will offer delicious cuisine and an unforgettable experience for customers, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the water to align with the original vision of an open-air coastal restaurant.
Transportation News
The Floridian by Amtrak
Chicago to Miami - November 10, 2024
Amtrak has introduced a new route called "The Floridian," which provides direct daily service between Chicago and Miami. The route merges two iconic trains, the Capitol Limited and the Silver Star, offering a scenic journey with stops in cities like Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa. The inaugural trip is set for November 10th, 2024.
Passengers in Coach Class enjoy spacious, reclining seats, while those in First Class can upgrade to private rooms such as Roomettes or Bedrooms, which include amenities like showers, a personal attendant, and complimentary dining. The train’s dining car offers chef-prepared meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and First Class customers receive priority boarding and lounge access. The introduction of The Floridian coincides with New York’s East River Tunnel Rehabilitation Project, combining these two trains to optimise service during this period.
London - Orlando: New Delta Air Lines Route
October 28, 2024
Delta Air Lines is to launch flights from London Heathrow to Orlando in Florida for the start of the 2024-25 winter schedule. Orlando will become Delta’s eight US destination served direct from London this winter, with flights operating four times per week from 28 October. It will also be the airline’s first non-stop route between the UK and Florida.
Brightline to add new stop in Stuart Brightline - Stuart Station
Stuart, Martin County - 2026
Brightline just announced Stuart, in Martin County, will be the next station connecting cities like Miami and Orlando.
Miami - 2025
One of the most anticipated projects is the all-new South Dade Rapid Transit Project, which broke ground in June of 2021 and is projected to be completed by 2025. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route extends approximately 20 miles, and connects numerous municipalities from the South Dadeland Metrorail Station, including Homestead and Florida City.
Sports News
Jacksonville - 2025
121 Financial Ballpark, home of the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp minor league baseball team, is set to be ready to open for the start of the 2025 season after their 31.8 million dollar renovation plan. The improvements include a larger video board, an enhanced club space, a new multilevel building in right field and front porch at centre field to greet guests.
Brooksville - Late 2024
Cabot Citrus Farms, Cabot’s first American property in its diverse collection of world-class golf. Located in the central-west region of Florida, Cabot Citrus Farms is set across 1,200-acres of pristine natural beauty. It features two revitalised 18-hole golf courses, one 9-hole course, an 11-hole par-3 course, a new clubhouse and an unparalleled practice facility. In addition to golf, the property will offer luxury accommodations, real estate, food and beverage offerings, and amenities.
Miami - Winter 2024
These innovative floating courts will move around Miami, offering you the chance to play paddle in different parts of the city while enjoying panoramic water views. Imagine docking your boat at the court's edge and stepping straight into the action!
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About VISIT FLORIDA
VISIT FLORIDA is the Sunshine State’s official tourism marketing corporation and travel planning resource for visitors across the globe. As Florida’s No. 1 industry, tourism was responsible for welcoming over 122 million visitors in 2021, an increase of 54 percent from 2020. VISIT FLORIDA promotes tourism through sales, advertising, promotions, public relations and visitor services programs, and serves more than 13,000 travel industry partners throughout the state. To learn more about VISIT FLORIDA, follow @FloridaTourism on Facebook and Twitter, or go to https://www.visitflorida.org/. For inspiration in the Sunshine State follow @VISITFLORIDA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit www.visitflorida.com. For media resources, visit www.visitfloridamedia.com.
About Vox International
VoX International is a Canadian-owned destination marketing firm based in Toronto, Canada with offices in Vancouver and Montreal, providing Canadian representation nationally. VoX is a full-service sale, marketing, event planning and public relations agency led by a team of high profile, knowledgeable travel industry executives. Recognized as a marketplace leader, VoX offers a wide range of support within the North American meeting, incentive, events, and hospitality and leisure tourism sectors. VoX’s passion for providing personal, innovative and results driven solutions are key factors for driving the company’s reputation for success.
Media Contact:
Shahfreen Elavia
Senior Public Relations Manager
VISIT FLORIDA – Canada
shahfreen@voxinternational.com
416-935-1896 ext. 242