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 due 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. Sports Illustrated Resorts' portfolio is expected to include college venues, high-end golf destinations, chic beach clubs, eco-adventure lodges and large-format resorts.
ADMI Inc. and Experiential Ventures Hospitality LLC, in partnership with Authentic Brands Group, are helping to develop the new properties.
"Sports Illustrated Resorts' mission 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 participatory, and Sports Illustrated Resorts will create the ultimate immersive experiences for guests across the various hospitality categories and destinations we plan to enter."
This is not ADMI Inc.'s first major project for Central Florida. According to the company's website, other projects include things for Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando and Disney's Typhoon Lagoon.
Each Sports Illustrated Resort will include 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 carts, zip lines,slingshots, sports fields and a resort-style swimming pool.
"We are thrilled 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."
Along with Orlando, resorts are also being planned for areas throughout the United States and in Hawaii.