Hotel renovations are integrating some pretty interesting themes these days.
Here are five of the most exciting US renovations that should be on your radar this year.
Warwick Denver
Originally built as the Governor’s Court—which housed the first and only Playboy Club in Colorado—the Warwick Denver debuted a renovation that plays off the building’s tongue-and-cheek history. Finalized in mid-January, the property’s 216 rooms now feature playful cover artwork from the famous magazine as well as mid-century modern furniture that pays homage to the Hugh Hefner glory days. More than 10,000 sf of meeting space, a rooftop outdoor heated pool and sun deck rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and snow-capped mountains, and Randolph’s Restaurant & Bar set the stage for some interesting meeting themes.
MGM Grand Las Vegas
MGM Grand Las Vegas broke ground on its new conference center last year, planning to add 250,000 sf of meeting space for a total of more than 850,000 sf by the end of this year. Highlights of the $130 million expansion include a 5,500-sf outdoor courtyard, 49,000-sf ballroom and the entire 2nd floor’s dedication to “Stay Well Meetings,” dubbed the industry’s first wellness-focused meetings offering.
Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza
Some of the world’s most esteemed leaders, diplomats and heads of state have hunkered down at Millennium Hilton New York One UN Plaza, adjacent to the United Nations headquarters in New York City. The property officially joined the Hilton network last August after completing a phased $68 million renovation. The 439-room property’s distinct architecture remains intact while its 7,500 sf of meeting space features abundant natural light, beckoning dignitaries to meet and collaborate while also being just a hum away from the Broadway Theatre District.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney is bringing the magic to its hotel scene with a number of new builds (Star Wars Hotel anyone?) and renovations. As of late, the biggest news is an expansion of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, which will bring a new 15-story tower, adding 500 rooms to the popular Southwestern-themed resort. Rooftop dining overlooking Lago Dorado will ensure a memorable group event experience.
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
A property-wide renovation of the 1,200-room Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile will nudge the property into the zone of artful sophistication. Its 90,000 sf of meeting space will get a complete refresh by the end of February and will be highlighted by new tech-y event hubs and guest rooms will be renovated by April, featuring flat-screen TVs, plush bedding and sleek bathroom fixtures. You can practically smell the cotton candy wafting through the air from Navy Pier and Millennium Park, the Field Museum of Natural History, Wrigley Field and Shedd Aquarium are also nearby.
