Dec 05, 2024

15 New and Renovated Properties Set to Impress Groups in 2025

 

The U.S. hotel construction pipeline continues to surge to new highs. Lodging Econometrics analysts forecast there will be 779 U.S. hotel openings in 2025 alone, and even more properties are undergoing renovations. But which ones should meeting planners be most excited about?

We put together a list of 15 newly opened, soon-to-open or renovated hotels that check all the boxes, from boutique properties, historic reimaginations and family-friendly resorts to convention center meccas, sustainable game-changers and more. 

Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center

 

Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center

  • Opening: Spring 2025
  • Location: Chula Vista, California
  • Guest Rooms: 1,600, including 89 suites
  • Meeting Space: Over 477,000 square feet, including four ballrooms, 67 breakout rooms, 135,000 square feet of outdoor event lawns and terraces, and 140,000 square feet of carpeted exhibit space
  • Noteworthy: Purpose-built for bringing people together with unimpeded views spanning the San Diego Bay to the Pacific Ocean

“Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center is truly a game-changer for meetings and events on the West Coast. With over 477,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space, we’re offering planners a venue that’s as versatile as it is breathtaking,” said Russell Mitchell, director of sales and marketing. “What sets us apart isn’t just the scale or the sophistication of our facilities—though they are unparalleled—it’s the entire experience. Whether you’re hosting a corporate retreat, a conference or a special celebration, we’re here to make every moment together extraordinary.”

Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina

 

Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina

  • Opened: October 31, 2024
  • Location: San Diego
  • Guest Rooms: 1,053, with 717 newly renovated in the Marina Tower
  • Meeting Space: 132,367 square feet, including 53 meeting rooms
  • Noteworthy: Unparalleled bay views and a sparkling marina just 15 minutes from the San Diego Convention Center

“The Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina offers a one-of-a-kind waterfront setting with beautiful views and easy access to everything the city has to offer, making it a perfect spot for meetings and events,” said John Rovie, director of sales and marketing. “With our fresh renovations, updated meeting spaces, modern tech and a stylish new look, the hotel is more ready than ever to help create seamless and memorable experiences for everyone involved.”

Hotel Renegade

 

Hotel Renegade

  • Opened: May 28, 2024
  • Location: Boise, Idaho
  • Guest Rooms: 122
  • Meeting Space: 5,100 square feet, including seven private rooms and a rooftop ballroom
  • Noteworthy: Bold and unconventional, blending creativity with practicality

“The opening of Hotel Renegade is a game-changer for Boise’s meetings and events scene,” said Jussi Santa, general manager. “We’re excited to offer a fresh, creative space that combines rustic charm with modern luxury and top-of-the-line amenities.”

[Related: New Boise Boutique Refines and Reimagines Rustic]

The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas

 

The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas

  • Opened: January 23, 2024
  • Location: Irving, Texas
  • Guest Rooms: 427
  • Meeting Space: 79,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: Conveniently located minutes from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

“The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas is a beautifully remastered resort spanning 400 acres of plush Texas landscape, while remaining easily accessible to the whole of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex,” said Tod Morrow, general manager. “We offer event planners and their attendees the perfect balance between work and play. Connect with your colleagues on the fairways of TPC Las Colinas, unwind after a day of meetings at our newly renovated spa or enjoy a bite and a cocktail poolside. Our property offers a wide array of amenities and diversions to enchant guests time and time again.”

[Want to experience The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas yourself? Join us for Meetings Today LIVE! National!

Hotel Bardo Savannah

 

Hotel Bardo Savannah

  • Opened: February 12, 2024
  • Location: Savannah, Georgia
  • Guest Rooms: 149
  • Meeting Space: 18,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: The Carriage House, an event space which opens to its own event lawn, pays homage to the former mansion’s original use as a private home in the late 1800s and has its own street-side entrance

“Hotel Bardo Savannah is equal parts urban resort and private clubhouse—a high-design social hub where the adventurous feel at home. Our ethos celebrates unexpected combinations with something new to discover at every turn,” said Jess Berkin, chief brand officer, LEFT LANE. “The two-acre property offers both intimate and expansive spaces for dedicated, focused meetings and larger social gatherings with an opportunity to integrate amenities and programming across the experience—from mindfulness sessions and conversation-starting breaks to private fitness and cooking classes. Events at Hotel Bardo have an ‘off-campus’ feel without guests ever needing to step out of our doors.”

OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark

 

OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark

  • Opening: Spring 2025
  • Location: Oklahoma City
  • Guest Rooms: 404
  • Meeting Space: Approximately 27,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: The accessibility of everything at your fingertips

"OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark represents a transformative addition to Oklahoma City's meetings and events landscape,” said Stacey Lucas, director of sales and catering. “What sets us apart is our ability to seamlessly blend world-class conference facilities with extraordinary entertainment options that simply aren't available anywhere else in the region. With our three outdoor event spaces capable of hosting up to 3,000 attendees, combined with our 100,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, 13 unique dining outlets and more, we're creating an environment where business and leisure converge."

Black Desert Resort

 

Black Desert Resort

  • Opening: Spring 2025
  • Location: Ivins, Utah
  • Guest Rooms: 791
  • Meeting Space: 45,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: Perched within the vast desert ecosystem, among the sandstone cliffs and petrified dunes of the iconic Greater Zion area

“Set amidst the vermillion sandstone cliffs and striking black lava beds of Greater Zion, Black Desert Resort is poised to become Utah’s largest resort and a one-of-a-kind destination for groups of all sizes,” said Kate Brown, VP of sales and marketing. “Boasting expansive ballrooms, flexible indoor-outdoor event spaces, scenic terraces and easy access to nearby landmarks such as Snow Canyon and Zion National Park, Black Desert Resort provides a unique retreat and an unforgettable blend of luxury and adventure. Whether seeking an intimate gathering amidst ancient lava fields or a grand conference with breathtaking views, Black Desert Resort’s personalized planning services will ensure every detail is taken care of from start to finish.”

Hotel del Coronado

 

Hotel del Coronado

  • Opened: August 2024
  • Location: San Diego
  • Guest Rooms: 938
  • Meeting Space: 25,605 square feet
  • Noteworthy: A National Historic Landmark built in 1888

“The Del has been a timeless destination for over 135 years, and the completion of The Victorian neighborhood and the Crown and Coronet Rooms is rooted in a deep respect for The Del’s legacy, much like our larger restoration commitment,” said Rob Harper, head of real estate asset management Americas at Blackstone. “We are proud of our investment and the thoughtful work undertaken to revitalize the Victorian building to ensure it is enjoyed by generations of guests to come.”

[Related: 8 New Hotels Transforming Meetings and Events in 2024]

Populus. Credit: Yoshihiro Makino.

 

Populus

  • Opened: October 15, 2024
  • Location: Denver
  • Guest Rooms: 265
  • Meeting Space: 3,135 square feet
  • Noteworthy: The nation’s first carbon-positive hotel committed to reconnecting guests to nature

“At Populus, we’ve created a space where work and relaxation come together effortlessly,” said George Prine, general manager. “Our flexible, inspired meeting spaces offer stunning views of Denver and the Rockies, making them perfect for everything from intimate meetings to larger gatherings or cocktail parties. Plus, the downtown location puts your team within easy reach of Denver’s best attractions. With top-tier amenities, comfortable guest rooms and an unmatched commitment to sustainability, Populus offers companies a unique, eco-conscious experience that goes beyond just a place to stay. It’s a place where ideas flow, connections happen and every stay contributes to a positive environmental impact.”

Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center

 

Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center

  • Opened: January 2024
  • Location: Atlanta
  • Guest Rooms: 976 rooms and 70 suites
  • Meeting Space: 100,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: Located steps away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena

“Signia by Hilton Atlanta is more than just a luxury property—it’s a destination for those who expect extraordinary service, premium amenities and a seamless blend of sophistication and convenience,” said Teri Agosta, general manager. “We’ve redefined what’s possible for meetings and events by providing an inspiring environment that transforms gatherings into extraordinary experiences that are both memorable and impactful.”

Arlo Washington DC

 

Arlo Washington DC

  • Opened: November 18, 2024
  • Location: Washington, D.C.
  • Guest Rooms: 445
  • Meeting Space: 4,287 square feet
  • Noteworthy: Iconic roots and contemporary ease, located in the heart of Downtown D.C. with the best of the city at your fingertips

“We are thrilled to bring Arlo Hotels to Washington, D.C., a city known for its vibrant culture, diverse backdrop and rich history,” said Olev Pavlov, CEO of Quadrum Global. “Expanding our footprint to the nation’s capital is an exciting milestone for the Arlo brand, and we look forward to welcoming groups and event attendees to stay and enjoy all that the hotel has to offer, including our rooftop, restaurant, events and the genuine sense of community that defines every Arlo hotel.”

Caesars New Orleans. Credit: Caesars Entertainment.

 

Caesars New Orleans

  • Opened: October 22, 2024
  • Location: New Orleans
  • Guest Rooms: 790 guest rooms and suites
  • Meeting Space: 20,932 square feet
  • Noteworthy: Magnificent meeting experience in an AAA Four-Diamond hotel in the heart of America’s most festive city

"We are beyond excited to introduce Caesars New Orleans,” said Kelly Gleeson Smith, VP of sales, Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events. “We take great pride in our 20-year history in New Orleans, and this reinvestment is a testament to our continued commitment to this historic city and all the richness of offerings it provides our industry.”

[Related: Caesars Virginia Casino Resort Set to Open Later This Year]

Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort

 

Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort

  • Opened: November 2024
  • Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
  • Guest Rooms: 496
  • Meeting Space: 90,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: Dining concepts heralded by celebrity chef Richard Blais 

“Bringing the Grand Hyatt experience to Arizona for the first time, our newly renovated and rebranded resort embodies the free spirit of the American Southwest and the warmth of its desert surroundings,” said Lance Marrin, general manager. “Our hotel offers nearly 500 updated accommodations and 90,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor function space, complemented by six elevated dining experiences, expanded pool and cabana offerings, and a refreshed spa. Our revitalized grand Arizona ballroom is set to debut in early 2025 and will be doubled in size post-renovation, making our resort a gold standard for meetings and events in the region. Groups looking for sweeping views, outdoor adventure and tranquil relaxation have found their destination.”

AT&T Hotel and Conference Center

 

AT&T Hotel and Conference Center

  • Opening: Summer 2025
  • Location: Austin, Texas
  • Guest Rooms: 297
  • Meeting Space: More than 85,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: University resources at your fingertips through a partnership with Texas Executive Education at The University of Texas

“This is the University of Texas; change starts here. It’s about evolving our space to better serve our guests while honoring our connection to the university and Austin’s unique culture,” said Alison Berg, general manager. “We’re excited to provide an elevated experience that blends tradition and innovation.”

The Bellevue. Credit: The Bellevue.

 

The Bellevue

  • Opened: November 1, 2024, with a season of debuts throughout 2025
  • Location: Philadelphia
  • Guest Rooms: 184 and 39 suites
  • Meeting Space: More than 30,000 square feet
  • Noteworthy: A 120-year-old historic property and timeless adoration of Philadelphia

"The Bellevue, a national historic landmark and Philadelphia icon, is situated in the heart of Center City along the Avenue of the Arts, surrounded by theaters, historical sites, restaurants and vibrant nightlife,” said Tom Peters, director of sales. “With a history of excellence dating back to 1904, nearly everyone has a story about our building, from weddings and galas to proms, first dates and chance encounters with celebrities. A nearly yearlong renovation has meticulously restored and reimagined the grandeur and opulence of The Bellevue. Boasting over 30,000 square feet of event space, our property includes a Grand Ballroom reminiscent of Beauty & The Beast. Each space is unique, featuring historic rooms, vaulted ceilings and windows that enhance the ambiance for meetings, large events or intimate gatherings. The rich history becomes an integral part of every attendee’s experience."

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