SeaWorld is preparing to transform a significant portion of its underused land in Orlando into a dynamic blend of hospitality, recreation, and potential residential development. With a total land bank of 2,000 acres in Florida—of which 400 acres remain untouched—the company is looking to chart a new course that extends far beyond its traditional theme park offerings.
At the core of SeaWorld’s forward-thinking expansion is the planned development of two distinctive hotels, each with its own character, location advantages, and amenities.
The first project, tentatively dubbed a flagship hotel development, is designed to rise 15 stories high and feature over 500 rooms. What makes this property stand out is not just its scale, but its direct access to SeaWorld’s parks through a specially designed elevated walkway. Guests will enjoy stunning views of roller coasters, and the property will boast a rooftop bar, multiple pools, ballrooms, and large conference venues to cater to both leisure visitors and the corporate travel segment.
The second initiative is aimed at creating a more tranquil, nature-focused experience. Located on a 50-acre site near the park’s serene Discovery Cove, the six-story hotel will offer approximately 250 rooms, a modern restaurant and bar, wellness facilities, and dedicated event spaces. The site, currently used as a parking area, is being reimagined as a green and inviting resort escape, tailored to travelers seeking a quieter alternative close to marine wildlife experiences.
While the hotel plans are taking center stage, SeaWorld is also exploring a broader vision for its 400-acre property. In addition to hospitality, the company is actively reviewing ideas that could include:
Executives recognize the immense value of this prime real estate in one of the most tourism-centric regions in the world. With ownership of the land already secured, SeaWorld has maximum control over how the space evolves, ensuring flexibility in design, partnerships, and development phases.
Among the options being seriously evaluated is dedicated housing for team members. In a city where competition for tourism workers is intense, providing affordable, close-to-work accommodations could prove to be a game-changer in recruitment and staff retention. Other major operators in the area already offer similar benefits, and SeaWorld’s leadership is exploring this as a way to gain a competitive edge in hiring.
Not only would this improve quality of life for staff, but it would also help reduce reliance on daily commuting and transportation logistics—particularly useful during peak travel seasons when traffic congestion becomes a significant issue.
Though no final blueprints have been made public, the company is actively engaging in early-stage planning, consulting with architects, market analysts, and development firms to determine the optimal use of its land. The current approach favors a modular, scalable strategy—allowing new phases of development to be rolled out incrementally in response to market demand and operational priorities.
There is also strong potential for additional attractions or interactive experiences to be introduced. These could range from eco-friendly rides and immersive exhibits to themed dining environments and family entertainment centers, all designed to encourage extended stays and repeat visits.
This expansion marks a pivotal moment for SeaWorld, signaling its evolution from a theme park-centric model to a multi-dimensional hospitality and lifestyle brand. By capitalizing on its existing land and brand recognition, the company is positioning itself as a major player in the next generation of integrated resort experiences.
Located in the heart of Orlando—already one of the world’s busiest tourist destinations—the newly envisioned projects are expected to complement the region’s booming travel sector. With the right execution, these plans could attract millions of visitors not just for day visits, but for multi-night stays filled with immersive offerings, modern conveniences, and elevated experiences.
Although timelines and project partners have yet to be finalized, interest is already building in the development community. Observers are watching closely as SeaWorld lays the groundwork for a transformation that could redefine the guest experience in Central Florida.
More updates are anticipated in the near future, and as master plans begin to take shape, the area could soon welcome new hotels, vibrant districts, and possibly even a residential community, built on the foundation of SeaWorld’s longstanding presence in the region.
